Line 6B Maintenance and Rehabilitation Program - Frequently Asked Questions
Landowners
What is the physical impact of pipeline construction on my property?
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At various locations along the route, Enbridge will offer compensation in exchange for your granting an additional permanent easement of approximately 25 feet. Enbridge will also be offering compensation in exchange for your granting additional temporary work space required for construction. Subject to regulatory approvals, construction is scheduled to start in spring 2012. While it varies depending on weather or site conditions, typically construction lasts eight to 10 weeks on any given property. In brief, the land is cleared with topsoil being separated on cultivated land. The pipe is brought to the site and welded. A trench is excavated and prepared. The pipe is tested, lowered in and then properly backfilled. Enbridge has informational materials and will post photos on its website later this year so landowners can learn more about the construction process. Restoration will begin in 2012 and will most likely resume in 2013 after shutting down during winter months. We will work individually with each landowner to ensure we have restored their property according to our easement agreement and applicable permit requirements.
Will I be able to farm my land after the pipeline construction is completed? (top)
Yes, after completing pipeline construction and restoration on your property, you will be able to use your property for agricultural purposes.
Will I be compensated for any crop loss or damage or timber loss? (top)
Enbridge will compensate landowners for damage to crops along the right-of-way that are interrupted or impacted as a result of the pipeline construction. Landowers will be compensated after determining the type of crop and area of right-of-way affected as well as yield and value of the crop, based on current market value. You may be asked to supply information on historic crop yield. An Enbridge Right-of-Way agent will negotiate with landowners for market-based compensation for timber when wooded areas need to be cleared for construction. In addition to compensating individual landowners, Enbridge also has an environmental policy that strives for a neutral carbon footprint. We generally look forward to working with a regional conservation group to “plant a tree for a tree” when our projects cannot avoid wooded areas along the route.
What happens if my drain tile system is damaged by pipeline construction? (top)
We will work with landowners to identify drain tile and drain systems as the route is surveyed. We will consult with you so that impacts to drainage systems are avoided or minimized. We also will work with county drain commissions as needed. When feasible, Enbridge generally hires local contractors who will repair or replace drain tile that is broken or removed during pipeline construction. Drain tile damaged by construction will be restored to its pre-construction condition, as practical.
What will happen to my topsoil during and after pipeline construction? (top)
In cultivated areas, Enbridge will separate subsoil and topsoil prior to installation of the new pipeline segments. Soils will be replaced in the proper sequence. Enbridge will provide construction contractors with topsoil and other agricultural impact mitigation measures to utilize. We understand that this topic is important to area farmers. Additional information is available from the Enbridge land representative who will be contacting you.
Construction
When are you planning to begin construction of the pipeline replacement segments? (top)
Construction should begin in spring 2012 and be completed by year end. Construction on any one parcel generally lasts several weeks. The construction schedule may be impacted by weather.
What happens after construction is complete?
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After the new pipeline segment is tested, we will resume transporting crude oil. Enbridge has a comprehensive pipeline integrity management program that includes regular inspection and preventive maintenance on our pipelines. To allow for regular patrol and maintenance access, rights-of-way will be kept clear of structures, trees and brush. As part of its public awareness program, Enbridge sends periodic mailings to those who live and work along the pipeline route as well as public safety officials regarding the “call before you dig” telephone number and the number to call in the event of a pipeline incident.
Will you remove the existing crude oil pipeline once you have installed the new segment? (top)
The plan is to remove the oil from the existing pipe, fill the pipe with nitrogen and leave the pipe in place following federal pipeline safety regulations for inactive and abandoned pipe. This will minimize additional disturbance along the route.
Contacts
Who can I contact directly with my questions? (top)
We welcome your feedback and will respond to your inquiry on a timely basis. Please feel free to contact a member of our project team:
- General inquiries: 866-410-4356
- Right-of-Way: 866-410-4356
- Environment: Paul Meneghini at 715-394-1420
- Community Relations: Joe Martucci at 248-828-8471