“If you listen to the news stories, you’d think that pipeline right-of-way clearing is all about trees. But in reality, it's all about safety,” said Joe Baker, president of Marathon Pipe Line LLC (MPL).
“A cleared right-of-way assists in conducting aerial surveillance, prevents third party damage, provids access for routine maintenance or emergency response and prevents tree roots from damaging the protective coating on the pipeline,” according to Baker. “At MPL, right-of-way clearing is performed for one reason – public safety.”
MPL will clear approximately 5,500 miles of pipeline right-of-way in 15 states by 2007 as a part of a multi-year initiative to safeguard the public, the environment and its pipeline assets. Higher expectations by regulators and the public have combined to make MPL more assertive in managing its right-of-way assets.
At MPL, right-of-way clearing encompasses three separate activities:
- Ground Clearing – Typically trees and shrubs within twenty-five feet of the pipeline are removed.
- Mowing – In northern states, the right of way is mowed every three years. In southern states, mowing occurs twice a year.
- Canopy Tree Trimming – Canopy trimming occurs on a six year cycle.
MPL has contracts with multiple clearing service vendors. At any given time, 13-15 clearing crews could be operating in several states. Contractors are selected based on their level of experience, the presence of a successful company safety program, and having proper clearing equipment. Prior to beginning work, contractors are required to complete MPL-sponsored contractor safety training.
“Our clearing activities could affect nearly 65,000 landowners. For our program to be successful, we need to educate landowners about the necessity for clearing and the importance of maintaining a cleared right-of-way,” states Right-of-Way Relations Supervisor Ed May.
After clearing activities are performed, landowners are given a brochure that outlines MPL’s landscaping guidelines. Landowners are also directed to the company Web site where they can e-mail their right-of-way questions to MPL. Inquiries are assigned to right-of-way specialists, who then make contact with the landowners.
