The National Energy Board in Canada on Monday approved TransCanada’s Keystone XL pipeline project to begin winter clearing work on its North Spread, according to a news release from the board.

Keystone has now satisfied regulatory requirements for clearing of trees and shrubs along the pipeline route, starting at Hardisty, Alberta. Approval is for only the North Spread of the project.

Clearing activities in other areas of the project, other construction activities and any activity during the restricted activity periods for migratory birds are excluded from the approval. Further pipeline construction would be subject to board approval.

The board will continue to provide regulatory oversight throughout all stages of this project to protect the public and the environment, the board’s statement said. For more information on Canada oversight, visit the board website.

The Keystone XL would cross through South Dakota, from near the Montana border in the northwestern corner, to central Nebraska. Shortly after taking office earlier this month, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem said she “absolutely” supports its construction.

Noem told reporters: “It is something we have coming through our state and now my job is to make sure we do it efficiently, and we do it in a way that protects people, water and our environment.”

The pipeline has a permit to build through South Dakota from the state Public Utilities Commission.