Ohio Updates Best Management Practices for Pipeline Installation and Soil Health

COLUMBUS, OH – With increasing oil and gas activity in Ohio, including pipeline construction, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) recently updated its Pipeline Standard and Construction Specifications.

Last updated in 2009, the standards provide guidelines and recommended best management practices to help rural landowners and farmers restore soil productivity and agricultural drainage after the installation of a pipeline. The standards are not a mandatory requirement, but instead are a technical resource that can be utilized by pipeline companies, landowners, agricultural producers, local soil and water conservation districts and others to minimize the impacts of pipeline construction on Ohio’s soil and water resources.

The standards can be found online at: http://bit.ly/pipelinestandards.

Various state and federal authorities regulate the installation of transmission pipelines, and these guidelines can be a helpful tool for landowners when negotiating private agreements between themselves and a pipeline company. The standards have been developed with input from both soil scientists and engineers. Landowners are encouraged to contact their local soil and water conservation district for more information about the standards and how they may be used.

The ODNR Division of Soil and Water Resources provides leadership and services that enable Ohioans to conserve, protect and enhance soil, water and land resources.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.