DEERFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Town of Deerfield has issued a warning to Kinder Morgan pipeline employees that they can be arrested. Citing health and safety violations, the Town issued an order for Kinder Morgan to stop all their natural gas pipeline activities.

Kinder Morgan has been surveying land in the town. They have asked the state permission to go on private properties, but the Town is saying no.

They issued a warning that Kinder Morgan workers will be arrested for trespassing on private property unless they have permission from the land owner.

Leigh Wicks of neighboring Montague said that she supports the action of Deerfield’s government. “It’s the right thing to do. First of all, existing laws should cover that. But if they need a sterner message, then it’s up to those of us who oppose the pipeline to let them know how we feel,” Wicks said.

Kinder Morgan released the following statement to 22News:

We are respectful of private property and landowners’ rights, and do not conduct surveys or other activities without first obtaining advance permission from landowners or an order from an appropriate authority, including the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities. In issuing its order, Deerfield has exceeded its authority under the applicable federal and state laws.”

Kinder Morgan’s proposed natural gas pipeline would affect towns in Berkshire, Franklin, and Hampshire Counties.