Noem reacts to news Keystone XL pipeline construction ramping up in midst of global pandemic  (Audio)

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A Canadian company says it plans to start construction of the disputed Keystone XL oil sands pipeline in April after lining up customers and money for a project bitterly opposed by environmentalists and some American Indian tribes.

Calgary-based TC Energy says the provincial Alberta government in Canada will invest $1.1 billion to cover construction costs through 2020.

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem was asked about pipeline construction starting in the midst of a global pandemic….

The company plans to begin at northern Montana’s border with Canada.

Climate activists who oppose the pipeline say fossil fuel usage must be curbed to combat global warming.