More Massive Cargo Trucks Headed for Montana, via the Clearwater

Another proposal to use Highway 12, through Idaho and Montana, for transportation of enormous heavy equipment for fossil fuel mining has reared its ugly head.  The first proposal was made by ExxonMobil to ship over two hundred Tar Sands oil processing modules.  Now, ConocoPhillips is proposing to use the same route for four equally large pieces of mining equipment, this time destined for Billings, Montana.

Our allies, Friends of the Clearwater, just sent out an e-alert with a link to a great video that puts the sheer size of this equipment and its impacts on the businesses and recreational users of Highway 12 into perspective.  

Highway 12, which follows two Wild and Scenic Rivers, the Lochsa and the north fork of the Clearwater, is also designated as a national scenic byway.  Turning this beautiful two-lane, meandering highway into a major industrial traffic corridor would have lasting impacts on residents (of both the human and critter varieties) and visitors alike.

If you live in Montana or Idaho, or if you just care about this special place, please watch the video and speak out.