Iowa Supreme Court Hears Carbon Pipeline Case

The Iowa Supreme Court heard arguments regarding the legality of Summit Carbon Solutions' access to private land for surveying as part of its proposed carbon capture pipeline project. Landowner Kent Kasischke's attorney, Brian Jorde, contended that allowing a private company to survey his property without eminent domain approval violates constitutional rights, specifically the Fifth Amendment's protection against property seizure without compensation. Conversely, Summit's attorney, Ryan Koopmans, argued that survey access is a longstanding legal right under Iowa law, essential for planning infrastructure projects. The court's decision could have significant implications for future utility projects and property rights in Iowa. The Iowa Utilities Commission has already granted Summit the necessary permits for a portion of the pipeline, but the constitutional debate centers on the survey process prior to such approvals. Public opposition to the pipeline has been vocal, with community members rallying in support of landowner rights.