Spectra Energy Prepares the Easement

Cleared easement.

The first step in building a pipeline is clearing the easement.

Graded easement.

Pipeline personnel then grade the easement to level the surface before excavating a trench where the pipe will lay.

Clearing

Clearing is the removal of all trees and brush from the construction work area. Stumps are removed over the trench line and other areas where necessary. Specialized heavy equipment is often used to assist in this process. The stumps are disposed of by burning, chipping and spreading, hauling to approved disposal areas, stored along the right of way with landowner approval or other approved methods.

Grading

Grading is required to provide a relatively level surface to allow safe operation of the heavy equipment required to dig the trench and install the pipe.

Trenching

A trench is excavated that is wide enough to lower in the pipe without damage to the coating. In some rocky areas, blasting will be required. The excavated material is placed alongside the trench for replacement after the pipe is installed.

Waterbody Crossings

A variety of methods may be used to cross streams and rivers. These are described in How We Cross Steams and Rivers.