Extensive civil and resource surveys of the proposed route are conducted to determine an acceptable route for the pipeline that provides the least overall impact to the environment and communities.
Resource survey corridors typically range from 200 to 400 feet or wider to provide flexibility in moving the pipeline alignment to avoid sensitive resources.
The path of the pipeline is cleared of all removable impediments, including trees, boulders, brush, and anything else that may prohibit construction.
The pipeline's path is cleared sufficiently to allow construction equipment to gain access.
Grading of the pipeline right-of-way is conducted to provide a relatively safe and level working surface.
A ROW is a defined strip of land in which activities may occur. Construction ROWs typically range from 75 to 100 feet or more in width, depending on the diameter of the pipeline to be installed and topographic conditions. Permanent ROWs are maintained during operation of the pipeline and are typically 50 feet in width.