Willie Nelson And Neil Young Join Forces To Protest Keystone XL Pipeline

Willie Nelson and Neil Young have joined forces to protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline. Nelson and Young will headline a benefit concert, titled “Harvest of Hope,” on September 27 near Neligh, Nebraska. Although the tickets are $50 each, all proceeds will be donated to environmental groups — who are dedicated to halting construction of the proposed pipeline.

If approved, the 1,179-mile Keystone XL pipeline would transport crude oil from Hardisty, Canada, to Nebraska and Illinois. TransCanada describes the proposed pipeline as “a critical infrastructure project.”

Supporters of the project believe the pipeline will allow the United States to increase crude oil production, which will facilitate “long-term energy independence.” Additionally, the proposed pipeline will likely boost the economy by providing numerous jobs.

Those opposed to Keystone XL pipeline, including Willie Nelson and Neil Young, argue that the negative impact will far outweigh any benefit.

As reported by Rolling Stone, the proposed pipeline would extend through historic tribal land — including a portion of the Ponca Trail of Tears.

The proposed line will also cross through hundreds of miles of privately owned land. Although TransCanada offered to purchase the land from the owners — many are unwilling to sell and relocate.

Opponents are further concerned that the Keystone XL pipeline will have a negative impact on the environment.

Willie Nelson and Neil Young have committed to donate all “Harvest of Hope” proceeds to Bold Nebraska, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, and the Indigenous Environmental Network.

Bold Nebraska director Jane Kleeb hopes the concert will bring much-needed attention to an important cause:

“Farmers, ranchers and tribes… have been standing up to TransCanada… Now we will have the honor to have music legends Neil Young and Willie Nelson stand with us against this risky pipeline that threatens our water and our livelihoods. It is our hope that President Obama in the end stands with us… “

As the Keystone XL pipeline is an international project, it cannot proceed without approval from President Barack Obama.

The “Harvest of Hope” will be the second benefit concert that Nelson and Young have performed in Nebraska. In 1987, the legends joined forces to raise money for Farm Aid in Lincoln.

Both Willie Nelson and Neil Young have been strong supporters of human rights and environmental causes. Their latest collaboration is expected to draw up to 10,000 supporters from across the nation.

[Image via Animal Welfare Approved]