With Nebraska route cleared, TransCanada takes steps to acquire land for Keystone XL pipeline

The developer of the Keystone XL oil pipeline has taken its first steps in Nebraska since the state's high court cleared the way for the planned route.

Officials with TransCanada said Tuesday they've filed paperwork in nine counties to acquire access to land that's needed for the construction and operation of the pipeline. The two-year window for TransCanada to invoke eminent domain closes Thursday.

The route still faces challenges as opponents have filed lawsuits to try to prevent the Calgary, Alberta-based company from using eminent domain and to overturn the state law that allowed ex-Gov. Dave Heineman to approve the route.

The pipeline will carry an estimated 800,000 barrels of crude oil a day from Canada to Nebraska.

TransCanada spokesman Andrew Craig says it will work to acquire easements voluntarily.