Notional Field Development Final Report - EBN

EBN Notional Field Development Plan
Figure 4-67. Restoration of pipeline right-of-way
The restoration crew carefully grades the right-of-way. In hilly areas, the crew installs erosion
prevention measures such as interceptor dikes, which are small earthen mounds constructed across the
right-of-way to divert water.
The restoration crew also installs riprap, consisting of stones or timbers, along streams and wetlands to
stabilize soils. As a final measure, the crew may plant seed and mulch the construction right-of-way, to
ensure the foliage and grassland is restored as close as possible to its original condition. The pipeline
operator maintains an obligation to maintain the right-of-way in as long as the pipeline is in-service.
4.6.10 Pipeline Inspection
In order to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the extensive network of natural gas pipelines,
pipeline companies routinely inspect their pipelines for corrosion and defects. This is done through the
use of sophisticated pieces of equipment known as ‘smart pigs.’ Smart pigs are intelligent robotic
devices that are propelled down pipelines to evaluate the interior of the pipe. Smart pigs can test pipe
thickness, and roundness, check for signs of corrosion, detect minute leaks, and any other defect along
the interior of the pipeline that may either impede the flow of gas, or pose a potential safety risk to the
operation of the pipeline. Sending a smart pig down a pipeline is fittingly known as 'pigging' the
pipeline.
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