“We want an environment that is not only a low risk to human health, but also one that allows us to enjoy the same outdoor activities as our neighbors,” Rolfes wrote.

“It is for these reasons that we have designed Big Stone II to strike a balance between reliable, affordable electricity and clean surroundings.”

The Big Stone project has faced serious obstacles from Minnesota regulators recently, but not because of water issues. Instead, administrative law judges have recommended the power plant not be given permission to construct power lines across southwestern Minnesota. The judges said the companies have not shown that electricity demand couldn’t be better and more cost-effectively met with renewable energy and efficiency.

Last month, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission failed to come to a decision on the transmission lines. After a 2-2 deadlock vote, the PUC moved to gather more evidence.

Moore said even if Minnesota rejects the power lines, he believes the companies will try to build Big Stone II, routing lines across northern Iowa and into the power-hungry Chicago and Milwaukee areas.

“They just want to sell power wherever they can sell it, and they’re going to grab our water and pollute our valley to do it.”