BEAUMONT — The Keystone XL southern leg has delivered its first barrels of Canadian oil to the Texas coast, even though the project still lacks its planned northern leg into Canada, TransCanada CEO Russell Girling said in an interview Wednesday.
The crude moved through TransCanada’s existing pipelines, including the original Keystone pipeline that began operation in 2010.
The oil then made its way from Cushing, Okla., to Nederland, Texas, on the recently completed $2.3 billion southern portion of Keystone XL, also called the Gulf Coast Project, he said. It arrived at the end of the line last week. TransCanada began moving oil into the pipeline on Jan. 2 and made its first deliveries to refiners on Jan. 22.
The movement of Canadian crude illustrates the capabilities of TransCanada’s Keystone pipeline system, even without the controversial northern leg that would extend from Hardesty, Alberta, and traverse the Bakken Shale region of North Dakota and Montana before connecting with other lines, Girling said.
“We just moved the first batch of Canadian oil right through the whole system from Canada right through the Gulf Coast,” Girling said. “So (refiners) know they can do that. And they know they can do that on an ongoing basis and a reliable basis, so their buying patterns will switch to being more reliant on North American supply.”
Girling spoke with FuelFix ahead of a ceremony Wednesday in Beaumont to celebrate the start of service of Keystone XL’s southern leg.
He posed for pictures with a ceremonial tap, turning a fake valve to mark the successful service of the line.
‘Bump in the road’
Girling also said a Nebraska court ruling last week that called into question the pipeline’s authority to acquire land through eminent domain was the latest “bump in the road” for Keystone XL’s northern leg.
“It’s very frustrating, the continuous sort of barrage of these things that pop up,” Girling said. The Gulf Coast Project “had its share of issues that we needed to deal with and we just dealt with them in the best, most straightforward, honest way that we could.”
Up to 700,000 barrels a day will be able to move through the Keystone XL southern leg. That increase in supply will be a benefit to refiners and consumers, even without the northern leg of the pipeline, Girling said.
Moving Canadian crude through the system will help refiners shift away from imports of heavy crude oil from overseas, he said.
“If you can get that oil to the Gulf Coast, which we can now through a conduit like this, the Gulf Coast refiners end up paying less for their oil, which means consumers pay less for their gasoline,” he said.
Northern leg
Without the northern leg, oil from Canada and the Bakken Shale in North Dakota still will move through the pipeline, he said. But it will travel by rail, a system he called inefficient.
Rail and barge shipments of oil have been rising in the absence of pipelines to move oil to refineries nationwide.
“As soon as you have a pipeline conduit, people will switch back to pipelines very quickly,” Girling said. “It’s cheaper, first of all. A lot cheaper. But probably more importantly is it’s safer and it’s less emissions.”
Rail shipments of oil can cost several dollars more per barrel than pipeline shipments.
On environmental skepticism surrounding the project, Girling referenced studies by the U.S. State Department that found that Keystone XL would not increase greenhouse gas emissions.
“We should get away from these directionless debates around infrastructure to where we should really be pouring our energy: Adjusting our systems to migrate to a less carbon intensive energy future over time,” Girling said. “But holding up these pipelines, my view is the result has been more rail traffic, more (greenhouse gas) emissions, and greater risks to public safety.”
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Protests or not, they have a pipeline to build
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, ride horses past the U.S. Capitol during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg less
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, ride horses past the U.S. Capitol during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in ... more
Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Native Americans from various tribes work together to erect a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Native Americans from various tribes work together to erect a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
Tom Genung from Nebraska, and a member of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance sets up camp on the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT) less
Tom Genung from Nebraska, and a member of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance sets up camp on the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. ... more
Photo: Olivier Douliery / McClatchy-Tribune News Service
A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT) less
A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the ... more
Photo: Olivier Douliery / McClatchy-Tribune News Service
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders hold signs during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. less
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders hold signs during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, ... more
Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders hold signs during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. less
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders hold signs during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, ... more
Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg
Amy Ray (left) and Emily Saliers of the Indigo Girls, perform on the National Mall during a protest against the Keystone XL Pipeline by the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. less
Amy Ray (left) and Emily Saliers of the Indigo Girls, perform on the National Mall during a protest against the Keystone XL Pipeline by the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and ... more
Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg
A "Reject and Protect" sign hangs at an encampment set up by the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg less
A "Reject and Protect" sign hangs at an encampment set up by the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the ... more
Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, march outside the U.S. Capitol during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg less
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, march outside the U.S. Capitol during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in ... more
Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg
Gianna Strong, 19, of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribe in Morton, Minnesota, pours water into the Reflecting Pool in front of the U.S. Capitol during a traditional water ceremony, as part of a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg *** Local Caption *** Gianna Strong less
Gianna Strong, 19, of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribe in Morton, Minnesota, pours water into the Reflecting Pool in front of the U.S. Capitol during a traditional water ceremony, as part of a protest against the ... more
Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, march during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg less
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, march during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, ... more
Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, are escorted by police as they march down Independence Avenue while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, are escorted by police as they march down Independence ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: (L-R) Farhad Ebrahimi of Boston, Virgina Leavell of the District of Columbia and David Turnbull of San Francisco scoop horse manure up from the middle of Independence Avenue after members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance rode horseback while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: (L-R) Farhad Ebrahimi of Boston, Virgina Leavell of the District of Columbia and David Turnbull of San Francisco scoop horse manure up from the middle of Independence Avenue after ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, ride horseback down Independence Avenue as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, ride horseback down Independence Avenue as part of a ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Casey Camp of the Ponca Nation (L) shakes hands with Piscataway Indian Nation Chief Billy Redwing Tayac during a traditional opening ceremony to begin a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline at the U.S. Capitol Reflecting Pool on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Casey Camp of the Ponca Nation (L) shakes hands with Piscataway Indian Nation Chief Billy Redwing Tayac during a traditional opening ceremony to begin a demonstration against the ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Native Americans from various tribes work to erect a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Native Americans from various tribes work to erect a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, prepare for a horseback ride as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, prepare for a horseback ride as part of a demonstration ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: (L-R) Samantha Jones (L) of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota and Brandie Molina help raise a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: (L-R) Samantha Jones (L) of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota and Brandie Molina help raise a large tepee as part of a demonstration ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Shane Red Hawk of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota, joins other members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance for a horseback ride on Independence Avenue while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Shane Red Hawk of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota, joins other members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance for a horseback ride on ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, march past the U.S. Captiol while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, march past the U.S. Captiol ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, march down Independence Avenue while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, march down Independence Avenue ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Shane Red Hawk (R) of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota, joins other members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance for a horseback ride on Independence Avenue while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Shane Red Hawk (R) of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota, joins other members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance for a horseback ride on ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, prepare for a horseback ride to demonstrate against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline in front of the U.S. Capitol April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, prepare for a horseback ride to demonstrate against the ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, erect a large tepee while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, erect a large tepee while ... more
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 23: Bryan Brewer (R), president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota walks up to Indian teepees that are on the National Mall as part of a protest against the Keystone pipeline, April 23, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its 'Reject and Protect' protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 23: Bryan Brewer (R), president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota walks up to Indian teepees that are on the National Mall as part of a protest against the Keystone pipeline, ... more
Photo: Mark Wilson / Getty Images
Paula-May Belous, left, and her husband Michael Belous, both from Brisbane, Australia, pose in the door of a teepee on the National Mall in Washington, Monday, April 21, 2014, with the Washington Monument in the background. The Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, will host an encampment on the National Mall for a weeks worth of Reject and Protect actions against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) less
Paula-May Belous, left, and her husband Michael Belous, both from Brisbane, Australia, pose in the door of a teepee on the National Mall in Washington, Monday, April 21, 2014, with the Washington Monument in ... more
Photo: Alex Brandon / Associated Press
Matt Buban, right, and Ben Thompson, both from from Charles Town, W.Va., with One Heart One Mind, set up teepee poles on the National Mall in Washington, Monday, April 21, 2014. The Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, will host an encampment on the National Mall for a weeks worth of Reject and Protect actions against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) less
Matt Buban, right, and Ben Thompson, both from from Charles Town, W.Va., with One Heart One Mind, set up teepee poles on the National Mall in Washington, Monday, April 21, 2014. The Cowboy and Indian Alliance ... more
Photo: Alex Brandon / Associated Press
A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT) less
A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the ... more
Photo: Olivier Douliery / McClatchy-Tribune News Service
A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT) less
A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the ... more
Photo: Olivier Douliery / McClatchy-Tribune News Service
Native Americans, farmers and ranchers hold a ceremony in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as the Cowboy and Indian Alliance protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes against the tar sands oil pipeline from Canada to the US. AFP PHOTO/Nicholas KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images less
Native Americans, farmers and ranchers hold a ceremony in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as the Cowboy and Indian Alliance protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject ... more
Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM / AFP/Getty Images
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance hold signs in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as they protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes against the tar sands oil pipeline from Canada to the US. AFP PHOTO/Nicholas KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images less
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance hold signs in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as they protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong ... more
Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM / AFP/Getty Images
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance march in Washington on April 22, 2014 as they protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes against the tar sands oil pipeline from Canada to the US. AFP PHOTO/Nicholas KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images less
Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance march in Washington on April 22, 2014 as they protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ... more
Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM / AFP/Getty Images
TOPSHOTS
A Native American tribal leader sits on his horse in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as the Cowboy and Indian Alliance protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes against the tar sands oil pipeline from Canada to the US. AFP PHOTO/Nicholas KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images less
TOPSHOTS
A Native American tribal leader sits on his horse in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as the Cowboy and Indian Alliance protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of ... more
Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM / AFP/Getty Images
Demonstrators protest against the Keystone XL pipeline, in Washington, D.C., on March 7, 2014.
Demonstrators protest against the Keystone XL pipeline, in Washington, D.C., on March 7, 2014.
Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images
A huge crop art image protesting the proposed Keystone XL pipline covers an 80-acre cornfield outside of Neligh, Neb. Farmer Art Tanderup, who owns the land, drove the tractor that carved the image into dirt. It was based on a design created by artists John Quigley and Richard Vollaire. less
A huge crop art image protesting the proposed Keystone XL pipline covers an 80-acre cornfield outside of Neligh, Neb. Farmer Art Tanderup, who owns the land, drove the tractor that carved the image into dirt. ... more
Photo: Courtesy of Lou Dematteis / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
Protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, wait to be detained for blocking a door to a federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
Protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, wait to be detained for blocking a door to a federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
Protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, block the door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
Protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, block the door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
Police detain a protester demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
Police detain a protester demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
Police detain a protester demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
Police detain a protester demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
Police detain protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
Police detain protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
A man tries, in blue, to get past protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, in front of the entrance to the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
A man tries, in blue, to get past protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, in front of the entrance to the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
Protesters demonstrated in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less
Protesters demonstrated in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global ... more
Photo: Matt Rourke / AP
Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline are arrested outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) less
Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline are arrested outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP ... more
Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Alex Smiley, from left, and Katy Hellman, who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) less
Alex Smiley, from left, and Katy Hellman, who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later ... more
Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / ASSOCIATED PRESS
People protest against the XL Pipeline outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
People protest against the XL Pipeline outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Protestors are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
Protestors are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline tied themselves to the fence outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. Many of those protesting were arrested. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) less
Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline tied themselves to the fence outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, ... more
Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline tied themselves to the fence outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. Many of those protesting were arrested. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) less
Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline tied themselves to the fence outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, ... more
Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Protestors who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) less
Protestors who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce ... more
Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Demonstrators who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) less
Demonstrators who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel ... more
Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline are arrested outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) less
Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline are arrested outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP ... more
Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
A sign reading "Stop the Transcanada Pipeline" stands in a field near Bradshaw, Neb. The proposed Keystone XL pipeline will run through this field. In a move that disappointed environmental groups and cheered the oil industry, the Obama administration on Jan. 31, 2014, said it had no major environmental objections to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline from Canada. less
A sign reading "Stop the Transcanada Pipeline" stands in a field near Bradshaw, Neb. The proposed Keystone XL pipeline will run through this field. In a move that disappointed environmental groups and cheered ... more
Photo: NH / AP
Crews work on construction of the TransCanada Keystone XL Pipeline near County Road 363 and County Road 357, east of Winona, Texas. In a move that disappointed environmental groups and cheered the oil industry, the Obama administration on Jan. 31, 2014, said it had no major environmental objections to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline from Canada. less
Crews work on construction of the TransCanada Keystone XL Pipeline near County Road 363 and County Road 357, east of Winona, Texas. In a move that disappointed environmental groups and cheered the oil ... more
Photo: Sarah A. Miller / AP
Atkinson, Neb., rancher Bruce Boettcher, who opposes the Keystone XL pipeline, kicks up sand on his land, to demonstrate the fragility of the sand hills near the planned route of the pipeline. The long-delayed Keystone XL oil pipeline cleared a major hurdle Friday, Jan. 31, 2014 as the U.S.State Department raised no major environmental objections to the controversial pipeline from Canada through the heart of the U.S. Republicans and some oil- and gas-producing states cheered, but the report further rankled environmentalists already at odds with President Barack Obama. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik, File) less
Atkinson, Neb., rancher Bruce Boettcher, who opposes the Keystone XL pipeline, kicks up sand on his land, to demonstrate the fragility of the sand hills near the planned route of the pipeline. The long-delayed ... more
Photo: Nati Harnik / AP
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of TransCanada offices in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of TransCanada offices in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada office in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada office in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada office in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada office in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada office in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada office in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)
Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle
Protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline demonstrate in downtown Houston on Monday, September 16, 2013. (Zain Shauk/Houston Chronicle)
Protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline demonstrate in downtown Houston on Monday, September 16, 2013. (Zain Shauk/Houston Chronicle)
Photo: Zain Shauk / Houston Chronicle
Protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline demonstrate in downtown Houston on Monday, September 16, 2013. (Zain Shauk/Houston Chronicle)
Protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline demonstrate in downtown Houston on Monday, September 16, 2013. (Zain Shauk/Houston Chronicle)
Photo: Zain Shauk / Houston Chronicle
Police line up near the intersection of Texas Avenue and Milam Street, where protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline were arrested while demonstrating outside of TransCanada offices.
Police line up near the intersection of Texas Avenue and Milam Street, where protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline were arrested while demonstrating outside of TransCanada offices.
Photo: Dane Schiller / Houston Chronicle
Protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline demonstrate in downtown Houston on Monday, September 16, 2013.
Protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline demonstrate in downtown Houston on Monday, September 16, 2013.
Photo: Zain Shauk / Houston Chronicle
About 200 activists stage a sit-in outside the US State Department in opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline in an attempt to maintain pressure on President Obama to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline, August 12, 2013, in Washington, DC. less
About 200 activists stage a sit-in outside the US State Department in opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline in an attempt to maintain pressure on President Obama to keep his promise to fight climate change by ... more
Photo: PAUL J. RICHARDS / AFP/Getty Images
About 200 activists march on the US State Department in opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline August 12, 2013, at the US Department of State in Washington, DC. Activists staged a sit-in and a protest at the State Department building Monday,as part of a planned act of civil disobedience that CREDO, Rainforest Action Network and the Other 98% have staged this summer to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline. less
About 200 activists march on the US State Department in opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline August 12, 2013, at the US Department of State in Washington, DC. Activists staged a sit-in and a protest at the ... more
Photo: PAUL J. RICHARDS / AFP/Getty Images
An activist holds up a sign during a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less
An activist holds up a sign during a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO ... more
Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images
An activist holds a sign as he participates in a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less
An activist holds a sign as he participates in a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action ... more
Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images
Activists stage a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less
Activists stage a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups ... more
Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images
Activists stage a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less
Activists stage a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups ... more
Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images
Activists march to the U.S. State Department to protest against the Keystone XL pipeline August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less
Activists march to the U.S. State Department to protest against the Keystone XL pipeline August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their ... more
Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images
Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Cat Bell (middle) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013.
Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Cat Bell (middle) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013.
Photo: Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle
Stephen Malagodi holds a sign expressing his opinion about the proposed Keystone pipeline during a climate change rally on August 9, 2013 in Miami, Florida. The rally featured Bill Richardson, former Governor of New Mexico, and was joined by local elected officials and community advocates to highlight the impacts of extreme weather and climate change in South Florida and call for bold federal action on climate solutions. less
Stephen Malagodi holds a sign expressing his opinion about the proposed Keystone pipeline during a climate change rally on August 9, 2013 in Miami, Florida. The rally featured Bill Richardson, former Governor ... more
Photo: Joe Raedle / Getty Images
Protesters zig zag their way up to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less
Protesters zig zag their way up to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the ... more
Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle
John Hauf of Fairfax, (center) joins hundreds of protesters as they make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less
John Hauf of Fairfax, (center) joins hundreds of protesters as they make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists ... more
Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle
Hundreds of protesters make their way up to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less
Hundreds of protesters make their way up to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest ... more
Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle
HUndreds of protesters make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less
HUndreds of protesters make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest ... more
Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle
Hundreds of protesters make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less
Hundreds of protesters make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest ... more
Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle
Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Molly Helfend (left) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013. less
Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Molly Helfend (left) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, ... more
Photo: Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle
Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013.
Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013.
Photo: Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle
Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Laura Waters (middle, left) and Christy Hurlburt (middle, right) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013. less
Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Laura Waters (middle, left) and Christy Hurlburt (middle, right) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in ... more
Photo: Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle
A protester prepares for a pre-march rally as protesters gathered to make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less
A protester prepares for a pre-march rally as protesters gathered to make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and ... more
Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle
Gail Graham of Stinson Beach joined hundreds of protesters for a pre-march rally as the prepared to cross the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less
Gail Graham of Stinson Beach joined hundreds of protesters for a pre-march rally as the prepared to cross the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and ... more
Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle
A mock oil pipeline is carried during a Keystone XL tar sands oil pipeline demonstration near the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. Pipeline opponents say extracting crude from sand emits three times more carbon than conventional oil production, contributing to global warming that Obama pledged to fight. They say their protest in Washington reflects public anger at corporate greed. less
A mock oil pipeline is carried during a Keystone XL tar sands oil pipeline demonstration near the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. Pipeline opponents say extracting crude from ... more
Photo: Andrew Harrer / Bloomberg
Scores of Keystone XL Pipeline protesters, led by the Tar Sands Blockade, protested oustide one of TransCanada's Houston offices.
Scores of Keystone XL Pipeline protesters, led by the Tar Sands Blockade, protested oustide one of TransCanada's Houston offices.
Photo: Cody Duty / Houston Chronicle
Michael Bishop poses Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, with a pair of flags flying in protest of the planned Keystone XL pipeline, near the entrance to his property south of Douglass, Texas, which is directly in the path of the project. less
Michael Bishop poses Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, with a pair of flags flying in protest of the planned Keystone XL pipeline, near the entrance to his property south of Douglass, Texas, which is directly in the ... more
Photo: Andrew D. Brosig / AP
Eddy Radillo of Yantis, sings and holds a Texas flag and a sign opposing the Transcanada Keystone Pipeline on Feb. 17, 2012 outside of the Lamar County Courthouse in Paris, Texas.
Eddy Radillo of Yantis, sings and holds a Texas flag and a sign opposing the Transcanada Keystone Pipeline on Feb. 17, 2012 outside of the Lamar County Courthouse in Paris, Texas.
Photo: Sam Craft / AP
A member of the Tar Sands Blockade is arrested after protesting in front of a Houston building, in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., where TransCanada has offices. TransCanada is owner of the Keystone XL pipeline. less
A member of the Tar Sands Blockade is arrested after protesting in front of a Houston building, in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., where TransCanada has offices. TransCanada is owner of the Keystone XL ... more
Photo: Cody Duty / Houston Chronicle / © 2012 Houston Chronicle
A protester identified as Peter Graham displays a banner from the flagpole at the downtown offices of LyondellBasell, opposing a refinery expansion that would process Canadian crude transported in the Keystone XL Pipeline. less
A protester identified as Peter Graham displays a banner from the flagpole at the downtown offices of LyondellBasell, opposing a refinery expansion that would process Canadian crude transported in the Keystone ... more
Photo: Nick de la Torre / Houston Chronicle
Perry Graham is arrested for trespassing after climbing a flag pole at LyondellBasell tower to protest a pipeline through Tar Springs.
Perry Graham is arrested for trespassing after climbing a flag pole at LyondellBasell tower to protest a pipeline through Tar Springs.
Photo: Nick de la Torre / Houston Chronicle
Protesters, costumed as a papier-mache dragon, march near Houston's Galleria mall to oppose the Keystone XL Pipeline.
Protesters, costumed as a papier-mache dragon, march near Houston's Galleria mall to oppose the Keystone XL Pipeline.
Photo: Zain Shauk / Houston Chronicle
Protesters distributed a flier to shoppers and other passers by detailing their arguments against the Keystone XL pipeline.
Protesters distributed a flier to shoppers and other passers by detailing their arguments against the Keystone XL pipeline.
Photo: Zain Shauk/Houston Chronicle
A member of the Tar Sands Blockade addresses police in front of a Houston building where a TransCanada office is located.
A member of the Tar Sands Blockade addresses police in front of a Houston building where a TransCanada office is located.
Photo: Cody Duty/Houston Chronicle / © 2012 Houston Chronicle
Members of the Tar Sands Blockade are arrested after protesting in front of a building containing an office for TransCanada, owner of the controversial Keystone XL pipeline.
Members of the Tar Sands Blockade are arrested after protesting in front of a building containing an office for TransCanada, owner of the controversial Keystone XL pipeline.
Photo: Cody Duty/Houston Chronicle / © 2012 Houston Chronicle
Members of the Tar Sands Blockade protest TransCanada and its controversial Keystone XL Pipeline near one of the company's offices on Post Oak Boulevard near the Galleria mall.
Members of the Tar Sands Blockade protest TransCanada and its controversial Keystone XL Pipeline near one of the company's offices on Post Oak Boulevard near the Galleria mall.
Photo: Cody Duty/Houston Chronicle / © 2012 Houston Chronicle
Police stand in front of an office building in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., whose lobby protesters occupied to oppose the Keystone XL Pipeline.
Police stand in front of an office building in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., whose lobby protesters occupied to oppose the Keystone XL Pipeline.
Photo: Cody Duty/Houston Chronicle / © 2012 Houston Chronicle
Protestors sit in the lobby of a building in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., containing an office for Transcanada, owner of the Keystone XL Pipeline.
Protestors sit in the lobby of a building in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., containing an office for Transcanada, owner of the Keystone XL Pipeline.
Photo: Cody Duty/Houston Chronicle / Houston Chronicle
Protestors sit in the lobby of a Houston building containing offices for TransCanada, owner of the Keystone XL Pipeline.
Protestors sit in the lobby of a Houston building containing offices for TransCanada, owner of the Keystone XL Pipeline.
Photo: Cody Duty/Houston Chronicle / Houston Chronicle
Eight people climbed 80 feet into trees in the path of Keystone XL construction, and pledged not to come down until the pipeline is stopped for good.
Eight people climbed 80 feet into trees in the path of Keystone XL construction, and pledged not to come down until the pipeline is stopped for good.
Photo: Tar Sands Blockade
On Sept. 11, 2011, demonstrators for and against the Keystone XL pipeline gathered near the state Capitol in Lincoln, Neb., as public hearings took place about the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline, which would carry tar sands oil from Canada to Texas through the sandhills of Nebraska. Supporters of the pipeline, which include labor unions and business groups, spoke of jobs and development and energy security. less
On Sept. 11, 2011, demonstrators for and against the Keystone XL pipeline gathered near the state Capitol in Lincoln, Neb., as public hearings took place about the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline, which would ... more
Photo: Nati Harnik / AP
Demonstrators hold signs next to the Treasury building during a Keystone XL tar sands oil pipeline demonstration in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. Pipeline opponents say extracting crude from sand emits three times more carbon than conventional oil production, contributing to global warming that Obama pledged to fight. They say their protest in Washington reflects public anger at corporate greed. less
Demonstrators hold signs next to the Treasury building during a Keystone XL tar sands oil pipeline demonstration in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. Pipeline opponents say extracting crude from sand ... more
Photo: Andrew Harrer / Bloomberg
Actress Daryl Hannah is arrested outside the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2013, as prominent environmental leaders tied themselves to the White House gate to protest the Keystone XL oil pipeline. less
Actress Daryl Hannah is arrested outside the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2013, as prominent environmental leaders tied themselves to the White House gate to protest the Keystone XL oil ... more
Photo: Ann Heisenfelt / AP
Activists engage in civil disobedience Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at the White House in Washington, D.C., in hopes of pressuring President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil sands pipeline.
Activists engage in civil disobedience Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at the White House in Washington, D.C., in hopes of pressuring President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil sands pipeline.
Photo: Olivier Douliery / Abaca Press
Activists engage in civil disobedience Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at the White House in Washington, D.C., in hopes of pressuring President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil sands pipeline.
Activists engage in civil disobedience Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at the White House in Washington, D.C., in hopes of pressuring President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil sands pipeline.
Photo: Olivier Douliery / Abaca Press
Thousands of protestors gather at the National Mall in Washington calling on President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil pipeline from Canada, as well as act to limit carbon pollution from power plants. less
Thousands of protestors gather at the National Mall in Washington calling on President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil pipeline from Canada, as well as act to limit carbon pollution from power ... more
Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / AP
A demonstrator dressed as an oil-soaked bird in Lafayette Park across from the White House in Washington D.C. on November 6, 2011.
A demonstrator dressed as an oil-soaked bird in Lafayette Park across from the White House in Washington D.C. on November 6, 2011.
Photo: KAREN BLEIER / AFP/Getty Images
Protestors gathered in San Francisco on Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 to voice their opposition to the Keystone XL Pipeline during a visit by President Obama.
Protestors gathered in San Francisco on Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 to voice their opposition to the Keystone XL Pipeline during a visit by President Obama.
Photo: Michael Short / San Francisco Chronicle
A protestor briefly climbed a tree as he and others gathered at the intersection of Divisadero and Broadway. Protestors gathered in San Francisco, CA Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 to voice their opposition to the Keystone XL Pipeline during a visit by President Obama. less
A protestor briefly climbed a tree as he and others gathered at the intersection of Divisadero and Broadway. Protestors gathered in San Francisco, CA Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 to voice their opposition to the ... more
Photo: Michael Short / San Francisco Chronicle
Protestors against the Keystone XL pipeline dressed as referees throw red penalty flags during a rally on Capitol Hill in Washington. President Barack Obama faces mounting pressure on a decision he put off during his re-election campaign: whether to approve the $7 billion proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline between the U.S. and Canada. less
Protestors against the Keystone XL pipeline dressed as referees throw red penalty flags during a rally on Capitol Hill in Washington. President Barack Obama faces mounting pressure on a decision he put off ... more
Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / AP
