Land, Energy, and the Engineers

Public and personal values of land and energy often disagree—especially when one’s interests threaten those of the others. The two articles, “A Pipeline Threatens Our Family Land” and “Natural Gas Pipeline Plan Creates Rift in Massachusetts,” are told from landowners’ perspectives in response to natural gas pipelines potentially dissecting their land. Introducing the pipelines would involve tearing up the land and requiring the landowners to maintain a clear path along the pipeline. Should a landowner refuse to comply, the pipeline companies would invoke the federal right of eminent domain.

The disagreement between the public and personal values may stem from a lack of understanding and negotiation. From the companies’ perspective, the pipelines serve the interest of the public and the private landowners will also benefit. Therefore, the disagreement from one landowner should not be enough to compromise a $3 billion project that could benefit many people. From the landowner’s perspective, the companies lack respect for their private ownership, alternative energy solutions may exist, and the “negotiations” are a façade because landowners will be strong-armed into compliance if they don’t comply willingly. Neither the corporations nor the landowners approach the disagreement with an earnest appreciation for the other’s interests, which is often the first step to a peaceful negotiation.

Engineers have the power to bridge the disconnect between corporations and people. Engineers understand the practical implications of introducing new pipelines. They could respond to the concerns of land-owners with critical analyses. They could validate alternative solutions and discuss them with corporations. Engineers bring evidence, and the potential to find the best solution for all involved.