Pipeline Right of Way & Construction

What is an easement and what rights does it give your company?
An easement is a right-of-way agreement between a property owner and a pipeline company that is usually filed in the public records with property deeds. It gives a pipeline company a permanent limited interest in the portion of land covered by the right-of-way agreement. This enables the company to install, operate, inspect, repair, maintain or replace one or more pipelines on the landowner’s property. Other rights may be included, but are a part of the negotiation between the property owner and the company.

Who pays taxes on the right of way?
The landowner continues to pay taxes on the right of way unless the taxing authority grants relief. The pipeline simply has an easement across a portion of the property.

If an easement is granted, will you be able to place more than one pipeline in the right of way?
Negotiated easement agreements with individual property owners can allow one or more pipelines, depending on the specific language in the agreement. This project includes the installation of only one pipeline.

Can other utilities use the easement in the future?
No.

Can I build over the easement?
The easement agreement will require that the right of way always be kept free of certain structures and other physical obstructions. Homes, buildings and other permanent structures typically should be at least 50 feet from the pipeline. Driveways, parking lots and other surface uses may be allowed but must be designed in accordance with company guidelines to protect the pipeline.

Can I plant over the easement?
The pipeline is typically buried at a depth of 3-4 feet to the top of the pipe, depending on site-specific conditions. Therefore, it will not interfere with standard farming practices.

However, trees and shrubs taller than 3 feet are not allowed within 25 feet on either side of the pipeline. If trees are planted near the pipeline, the base of the tree should be planted at least 30 feet from the pipeline.

Will I be compensated for use of my land?
Yes. When we acquire an easement, a one-time payment is made to the property owner for the right to use the land. We will also compensate the property owner for any damages to the property.

How will the compensation be determined?
Fair compensation will be negotiated one-on-one with individual property owners and based on fair-market value.

How will compensation for damages be calculated?
The property owner will be involved in determining the value of damages. For crop damage, their input on values will be obtained. For yard damages, an estimate can be obtained by a local contractor of the property owner’s choice.

How long will construction take, if the project goes forward?
Many steps remain in the approval and design process for the pipeline. When these steps have been completed, the actual construction of the pipeline will likely be completed in a four-to-six-month timeframe.
      
How will you address the unique characteristics on each person’s property?
Our land agents will work with each property owner to discuss their individual needs and concerns.

How will the topsoil be handled?
The topsoil will be restored to the condition existing prior to construction as reasonably practical. The subsoil will be replaced first, followed by the topsoil in residential and agricultural areas.

How will drain tiles be handled?
The new pipeline will typically be installed below existing drain tiles. We will repair any drain tile damaged during the construction, restoring it to the condition existing prior to construction as reasonably practical.

Who is responsible for restoring my property once the pipeline has been installed?
Marathon Pipe Line LLC will restore the construction site and the land to the condition existing prior to construction as reasonably practical. Our land agents will work with individual property owners to ensure that the all work is completed in a thorough and timely manner.

What is the pipeline made of?
The pipeline is made of high-strength steel, .375 inches thick, that has an external epoxy coating for corrosion protection.

How large will the pipeline be?
The new pipeline will be 24-inches in diameter.

How deep will the pipeline be buried?
A pipeline is typically buried at a depth of 3-4 feet to the top of the pipe, depending on site-specific conditions. The pipeline depth will not interfere with standard farming practices.

How long will the pipeline last?
Pipelines are built to last. A pipeline that is well constructed and well maintained may be operated safely for many decades. Assuring the integrity of pipelines is an ongoing process. Our Pipeline Integrity organization analyzes symptoms of potential pipeline problems; runs tests (hydrotests or “smart pig” inspections); employs preventative measures (such as best construction practices, cathodic protection and repair technologies); and determines the best course of action based on historical and test data.