South Dakota landowner resistance stalls Summit Carbon Pipeline

Image courtesy of Summit Carbon Solutions

First proposed in 2021, Summit Carbon Solutions’ $9 billion pipeline project has stalled in South Dakota after filing 156 eminent domain lawsuits against landowners, sparking fierce opposition. The company sued 232 property owners across three states to secure land for its 2,500-mile carbon capture pipeline connecting 57 ethanol plants. Farmer Jared Bossly was served legal papers in 2023 while planting soybeans, one of many confrontational tactics that fueled backlash. The political fallout led to anti-pipeline candidates defeating incumbents in elections and former Governor Noem signing a March law banning eminent domain for carbon dioxide pipelines. While Summit has secured approvals in Iowa and North Dakota, its South Dakota future remains uncertain with its permit application now suspended. The company maintains it prefers voluntary agreements despite its aggressive legal approach.