Q: Is there a pipeline being proposed near me?
A: Landowners with property along a proposed pipeline route will be individually contacted by an Enbridge representative via mail and in person. Obtaining input and addressing questions early in our process is a priority for Enbridge.
Q: What is a right-of-way or easement?
A: A pipeline right-of-way is a strip of land that is usually between 30 to120 feet wide (depending on the proposed project) and may contain one or more pipelines. Right-of-way is acquired from landowners, other utilities or government entities by obtaining an easement, permit, or license.
For easements, the landowner retains ownership of the right-of-way and grants the right for Enbridge to construct, operate, and maintain the pipeline along this strip of land in return for compensation. An easement agreement restricts the building of structures and planting of tees within the permanent right-of-way to protect the safety of landowners/residents, their families and neighbors, and the Enbridge facility or pipeline. Underground energy pipeline routes exist in many kinds of ecosystems including under rivers, roads, parks, farmland, neighborhoods and urban areas. There are no restrictions against operating normal farming equipment on the easement. We will make every effort to accommodate your request to cross the pipeline easement, dig post holes or excavate, and to do so in a safe manner.
Q: Why is it necessary that the right-of-way be so wide?
A: The pipeline construction area consists of both temporary work space needed for equipment during pipeline construction and the permanent right-of-way required to operate and maintain the pipeline safely. During construction, additional temporary work space is required beyond the width of permanent right-of-way to provide room for soil, pipe welding and two lanes of construction equipment traffic. Landowners are compensated for the use of temporary workspace in addition to the permanent right-of-way.
The amount of temporary work space and permanent right-of-way will vary depending on the size and type of pipeline, location, community development plans, soil conditions and regulatory requirements. An Enbridge right-of-way representative will provide more specific information during discussions with the landowner.
Q: How will construction crews gain access to the temporary work space and right-of-way?
A: Construction crews will use existing access roads as much as possible. If additional routes are needed, Enbridge right-of-way representatives will negotiate access options with landowners and regulatory agencies as necessary.
Q: What environmental and safety measures does Enbridge take during pipeline design, construction and operation?
A: Enbridge is committed to protecting the public and the environment, and we build safety into every step of pipeline construction and operation. The design of the pipeline meets or exceeds industry standards and federal pipeline safety regulations. Enbridge conducts studies and assessments, and seeks permits from several state and federal agencies. We use modern construction and land restoration techniques to prevent soil erosion, protect agricultural topsoil, repair agricultural drain tiles and irrigation systems and alleviate soil erosion.
Q: Will my land be restored to its original condition?
A: Enbridge’s objective following construction will be to restore the land as close to its pre-construction condition as feasible and follow the agreements entered into with the landowner and regulatory agencies. To permit pipeline surveillance and maintenance, the pipeline right-of-way is kept clear of trees. Some areas are unique and may require special restoration methods. In farmed areas with drain tile, Enbridge will have a plan to restore the drain tile system to its pre-construction function. An Enbridge right-of-way representative will contact you to confirm that the restoration was completed and/or that you are compensated according to your agreement with Enbridge.
Q: Will I be compensated for crop or timber damages?
A: Enbridge will compensate landowners for damage to crops along the right-of-way. Compensation is determined by inspecting the type of crop, area of right-of-way affected, yield and value based on current market value of the crop. Landowners will be compensated for crop losses using a formula that assumes 100 percent loss during the year of construction and a gradual improvement of yields over a specified period of time. The Enbridge right-of-way representative will negotiate with the landowner for market-based compensation for timber.
Q: What happens after construction is complete?
A: After the pipeline is tested, we begin transporting petroleum or natural gas. Enbridge has a comprehensive pipeline integrity management program that includes regular inspection and preventive maintenance on our pipelines. To allow for regular patrol and maintenance access, rights-of-way will be kept clear of structures, trees and brush. Enbridge will also send periodic mailings to those who live and work along the pipeline route regarding the “call before you dig” telephone number and the number to call in the event of a pipeline emergency.
Q: Will work be completed within an existing right-of-way?
A:In some cases the project will use existing rights-of-way; however, in some locations, we may need to widen or obtain new right-of-way. Typically, Enbridge will negotiate and acquire landowner consent through agreements for any new permanent right-of-way and the additional temporary workspace needed to stockpile excavated soil, lay and weld pipe and store large construction equipment.
Q: What safety precautions will you take during construction?
A:The health and safety of property owners and guests, contractors and our employees are paramount in the conduct of our business. This is why all employees, contractors and visitors are expected to follow basic safety guidelines in the field.
Enbridge’s pipelines are built by companies experienced in the field of pipeline construction, transportation and distribution. Safety and environmental inspections are conducted throughout the entire construction process. We use advanced technology and operate under strict regulatory oversight. All on-site employees and guests will be required to check in with the safety inspector, attend a safety orientation and wear proper safety gear.
We understand that many people are interested in watching pipeline construction. For safety reasons, we ask that visitors stay clear of activity, equipment and trenches unless accompanied by an Enbridge representative. Usually, you can see plenty of construction activity from a safe distance.
Q: What are the hours of construction? How long does construction take?
A:Construction typically will occur during daylight hours. Average construction time on each right-of-way section is six to 10 weeks, depending on its size and weather conditions. Land restoration activities will then begin and may extend for months depending on seasonal constraints.
Q: How will you protect my land and crops during construction?
A:We instruct our construction contractors to think of themselves as guests on your land. Enbridge uses modern construction and land restoration techniques to prevent soil erosion, protect agricultural topsoil, repair agricultural drain tiles and irrigation systems and alleviate soil compaction.
Q: How does Enbridge handle special crossings?
A:Site-specific construction techniques are implemented according to permits to protect cultural and biological resources and special areas such as river, wetland and road crossings.
Q: Can you guarantee that my land will look the same after the pipeline is built?
A:Enbridge’s objective following construction will be to restore the land to as close to its pre-construction condition as feasible. However, trees or building structures that are permanently removed from the easement will not be replaced on the right-of-way. Enbridge’s inspectors and right-of-way representatives will follow up to verify that site restoration is completed and/or that you are compensated according to your agreement with us.