GRAND FORKS — The Dakota Access Pipeline’s history in North Dakota is marked with controversy, but its contribution to the state coffers has been substantial — perhaps even more than most people realize, according to a member of Gov. Kelly Armstrong’s Cabinet and others.

A decade ago, its construction was blocked during protests that sparked a national conversation about its perceived environmental risks. In the years since it became operational, it continues to be plagued by debate, politics and lawsuits. Pipeline opponents unsuccessfully urged former President Joe Biden to outright shut it down during his four-year term in office.

Supporters maintain the pipeline — known around these parts by its shortened nickname, DAPL (pronounced “dapple”) — has been a boost to the state economy, tr

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