The proposed Keystone XL pipeline for shipping Canadian tar-sands crude to Gulf-Coast terminals and refineries is likely to be a 2012 election issue. But some ranchers see it as an unwelcome invasion of their property.
"Gas prices are spiking once again; the cost of a gallon of regular unleaded is about 12 percent higher than it was a year ago. But winter typically isn't the time for a rise in gas prices. Demand for gasoline is at a 14-year low and domestic oil production is at an eight-year high.
Some analysts link the increase in gas prices to the tensions in Iran and speculators on Wall Street. Others point to policy decisions limiting drilling in environmentally sensitive areas, as well as President Obama's decision to deny a permit for a massive oil pipeline called Keystone XL.
The proposed pipeline would travel 1,800 miles from Alberta, Canada, all the way down to the Gulf Coast. The controversy over its impact — environmentally, politically and economically — makes it prime election issue."
Guy Raz and Brent Baughman report for NPR's All Things Considered February 25, 2012, in the first of two parts.
SEE ALSO:
"What Happens If The Keystone XL Pipeline Isn't Built?" (NPR: Part Two)
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