But the larger northern portion of the project, the link from the oil sands of Alberta, Canada to Cushing, continues to await approval by President Barack Obama’s administration. (See related, “Keystone XL Pipeline Marks New Battle Line in Oklahoma.“) The project plan was re-routed through Nebraska to avoid the sensitive Sandhills ecosystem. But concern over the greenhouse gas emissions impact of providing a route to market for more carbon-intensive crude from the oil sands has invigorated an international network of climate activists.  (See related: Pictures: Animals That Blocked thePath of the Keystone XL.“)

Observers expect a decision early this year.  The tea leaves so far provide conflicting evidence as to which way the president is leaning. A former national