The Alaska Pipeline

Although conservationists and oil drillers endlessly debate the value of drilling in the Alaska wilderness, few would dismiss the incredible achievement—in construction terms—of creating the Alaska pipeline. Originally broadcast on PBS's American Experience series, Mark Davis' interesting documentary charts the history of the Alaska pipeline from its conception in 1968 (following 10 years of exploratory drilling) through the three years it took for the entire 800-mile conduit to be assembled, with men and women laborers working across the most unforgivably frigid environment in North America (the pipeline needed to withstand subzero temperatures and the threat of earthquakes, as well as blend into diverse landscapes—crossing 34 rivers, 800 streams, and three separate mountain ranges). Even though the finished project successfully conquered the elements, the pipeline also had a significant impact on the Alaskan ecosystem and culture, and even today, environmentalists, Native Alaskans, and longtime residents remain angry over what the pipeline did to the state. While the film studiously avoids taking sides in the crossfire, The Alaska Pipeline nonetheless provides a fascinating look at one of the greatest engineering accomplishments of the late 20th century, made all the more timely given the recent headlines-making shutdown of part of the pipeline and subsequent hike in gas prices. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)