The four hearings will take place in O'Neill, Neligh, Albion and Central City -- all along the proposed new corridor for the pipeline that steers away Nebraska's Sandhills. Opponents say the new corridor still crosses through fragile, sandy soil and poses an environmental threat.
Nebraska Farmers Union president John Hansen says his group maintains a good relationship with the department. But Hansen says he and other pipeline opponents will keep close watch on the information sessions for any signs of pressure on landowners.
The state's review of the project has resumed, although a federal permit for the Keystone XL was denied.