Fall tourism bolstered by Enbridge, Line 5
Pipeline essential to region’s farming, shops and activities
Oct. 6, 2021
Few things can compete with Michigan’s beaches and lakeshores in the summer—except when the State dresses in its most vibrant colors that attract thousands eager to enjoy fall in its glory.
The bold red, yellow and orange leaves provide backdrops for pictures, breathtaking views and lifelong memories along Michigan’s hiking trails, farms and roadways.
While the picturesque beauty attracts those seeking to enjoy the fall, Michigan also offers a host of activities, food and fun. At pumpkin patches, vineyards and apple-picking farms, Michigan welcomes residents and tourists alike for day trips or long weekends.
“Fall is another season where Michigan shines,” said Emma Cook, Enbridge community engagement advisor. “Whether someone wants to enjoy a scenic hike, take a drive through the lakeshores or visit Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in the U.P., Michigan offers it all, and we are proud to play a role in it.”
In addition to sponsoring community events, including the St. Ignace Annual Fall Fest & Great Pumpkin Roll on Oct. 2, Enbridge plays a significant role in the practicality of Michigan’s tourism industry with its operation of Line 5 in the Straits.
Tourism in Michigan generates approximately $25.5 billion, and the crude oil and natural gas liquids that Line 5 transports each day are pivotal to the region and tourism.
More than half the State relies on Line 5 for propane, which includes 65% of those in the Upper Peninsula. In addition to propane for heat and cooking, Line 5 is critical to the production of fuel for vehicles and air travel. It also helps in the manufacture of 6,000 items most people use every day, including those synonymous with tourism and the fall.
“Line 5 provides the energy that helps tourism in Michigan throughout the year,” said Cook. “It provides the fuel that keeps farming equipment moving for our food supply and the ferry boats that transport guests across the lakes. It also helps in the manufacture of cameras, as well as the boats, jet skis, bicycles, and tents that dot Michigan in the spring and summer.”
She added: “In the fall, though, the ciders, apple dumplings and Oktoberfest treats also rely on propane for cooking, as well as generating heat, particularly in outdoor event settings and fire pits, even at home.”
Cook also notes that Line 5 is essential in the manufacturing of the hats, sweaters, jackets, boots, strollers, and bikes many will use this fall—along with the antihistamines to combat seasonal allergies.
To help ensure the region continues to benefit from Line 5, Enbridge is planning to construct the Great Lakes Tunnel. Placed deep below the lakebed in the Straits, the Great Lakes Tunnel will encase in concrete a replacement section of Line 5, eliminating the risk of an anchor strike to the pipeline or a leak from it into the Straits. Enbridge is financing the Tunnel, which also will be able to house other utilities, such as fiber optic cables to strengthen the 9-1-1 system in northern Michigan.
