Are special construction methods required to enable heavy logging equipment, including logging trucks, to safely cross the pipeline?
A. Natural gas pipelines are typically buried three feet below the ground level. This amount of cover provides adequate protection of the pipe from most surface activities. It is not adequate, however, to protect the pipe from equipment such as logging trucks, and if it is contemplated that heavy equipment will need to have access across the right of way, special crossings must be constructed during pipeline installation. This is often accomplished by burying the pipeline deeper than normal, but additional cover can also be provided by constructing a dirt ramp where site conditions require it. Southern’s rights of way agents will work with landowners to identify the location of heavy equipment crossings. Q. How do landowner plans to develop property affect the pipeline project? A. To the extent the development of the land has increased its value, that fact will be recognized in the amount of compensation Southern offers the landowner for the easement. In addition, Southern always attem
