When replacing portions of an existing pipeline system that intersected sensitive environmental and cultural resources, steep terrain and a national forest, our team saw an opportunity to innovate within a congested utility corridor.
The project consisted of two components: abandonment of an existing pipeline and construction of a new one. With our forward-thinking approach, we managed both components concurrently, successfully navigating approvals from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS).
Managing the two portions of this project at overlapping locations required precision in data management to avoid duplicating impact assessments. This precision enabled us to swiftly adapt to changes, which was crucial for providing comprehensive environmental documentation to streamline what could have been a lengthy permitting process.
Navigating complex jurisdictions
Our expertise in communication and negotiation with FERC and USFS coordination received high praise from the respective agencies as we submitted documentation for surface waters, wetlands, protected species and cultural resources and achieved interagency consensus on resource protection measures.
We ensured compliance across multiple jurisdictions — local, state and federal — while respecting cultural heritage by including Native American consultation.
Championing biodiversity
We also led efforts to conduct detailed habitat assessments for over 80 plant and wildlife species. Our commitment ensured that sensitive species like the running buffalo clover, pink mucket mussel and timber rattlesnake were protected by conducting species-specific surveys and developing avoidance and mitigation measures to be implemented during construction.
Our impact
Our team helped our client safely abandon 61 miles of natural gas pipeline while constructing 66 miles of replacement pipeline; modified regulator stations, valve sites and compressor stations; executed four horizontal directional drills, 280 stream crossings and 220 wetland crossings; and obtained an individual section 401 water quality certification, FERC 7c/7b authorization and USFS special-use permit and easement agreement.
We also provided a full spectrum of services including Clean Water Act permitting, construction monitoring, erosion and sediment control planning, floodplain analyses, habitat mapping assessments, historical and archaeology surveys, mitigation development planning, stakeholder communication and outreach, stormwater permitting, soil sampling, wetland delineation and other critical support services to ensure this project’s success.
