There are two basic ways to construct a natural gas pipeline, the bore method and the trench method.
The trench method of pipeline construction involves digging a trench into which the pipeline is laid and covered with excavated soil. Typically, pipelines are buried 36 inches or more beneath the soil. During trenching, a temporary construction workspace may be needed alongside the pipeline easement. Excavated soil is piled on one side of the trench and used for backfilling after the pipe is installed in the trench. The trench method is often used in areas where construction space is less restrictive.
The bore method is commonly used when there is a need to cross underneath a surface, such as a road, with minimal impact. A guided boring machine creates an underground pathway for the pipeline by drilling a bore from one side to the other. After reaching the opposite side, the machine pulls the string of pipe back through the hole it just created. Typical depths range between 3 - 60 feet underground.
Site Restoration
Mockingbird Midstream Gas Services (MMGS) makes every effort to work with landowners to reclaim the easement and repair any damages which might have occurred due to pipeline construction. Depending upon negotiations with the landowner or permitting entity, MMGS will restore the land to its original or improved condition, or the property owner will receive compensation for the surface damages, allowing them to complete the restoration of their own property.
When boring is used, restoration will occur at each end of the bore. Site restoration is performed on the entire length of the easement above the pipeline when trenching is used.