More than 1,000 people have gathered in Grand Island, Neb., to support or oppose a Canada-to-Texas oil pipeline that would snake through six states.

Anti-pipeline activists say they’re hopeful President Barack Obama will reject the project after getting Secretary of State John Kerry’s recommendation.

But some, including Nebraska rancher Bruce Boettcher, told State Department representatives at Thursday’s hearing that opponents would stop the project regardless of the government’s decision.

Opponents argue the pipeline, which would carry 800,000 barrels of oil daily, would threaten the region’s water supply if it ruptured. They note the pipeline runs above part of a huge aquifer that provides water to much of the Midwest.

Supporters say pipelines are the safest way to transport oil and that the pipeline company agreed to safeguards exceeding federal regulations.