"Enbridge Anniversary: Profiles From the Frontlines of an Oil Spill"

"The Kalamazoo River near Marshall, Mich. today teems with kayakers paddling amid swimming turtles, buzzing dragonflies and fish that leap from the water—with few visible scars of the environmental disaster that struck the riverside community five years ago.

The 40-mile tainted stretch of river that was closed when more than 1 million gallons of heavy crude oil spilled into it has recovered better than expected, environmental officials say. But even as the river flows clear and wildlife flourish, many of the people who woke to the stench of oil flowing past their homes say their lives will never be the same.

“When your life is turned inside out by something that runs you from your home you never really get over it,” said John La Forge, who had to flee when oil backed up to his patio door."

David Hasemyer reports for InsideClimate News July 25, 2015.

SEE ALSO:

"Enbridge Expects $40 Million Fine, EPA's Stiffest Ever for a Pipeline Spill" (InsideClimate News)

"Five Years After Michigan Oil Spill, Unfinished Business Remains" (InsideClimate News)