NORTHERN NATURAL GAS COMPANY - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
REPORT NO. 1
Resource Report No. 1
General Project Description
West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
FERC Docket No. PF13-2-000
January 2013
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS COMPANY - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
RESOURCE REPORT 1 – GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
SUMMARY OF FILING INFORMATION
Found in Section
1.



2.





3.
Provide a detailed description and location map of the project facilities.
(§ 380.12(c)(1))
Include all pipeline and aboveground facilities.
Include support areas for construction or operation.
Identify facilities to be abandoned.
Describe any nonjurisdictional facilities that would be built in association
with the project. (§ 380.12(c)(2))
Include auxiliary facilities (see § 2.55(a))
Describe the relationship to the jurisdictional facilities.
Include ownership, land requirements, gas consumption, megawatt
size, construction status, and an update of the latest status of federal,
state, and local permits/approvals.
Include the length and diameter of any interconnecting pipeline.
Apply the four-factor test to each facility (§ 380.12(c)(2)(ii))
Section 1.1, Tables 1.1-1 and
1.1-2, Figures 1-1, 1-2,
and 1-3
Section 1.8
Provide current original U.S. Geological Survey 7.5-minute series
topographic maps with mileposts showing the project facilities.
(§ 380.12(c)(3))
Maps of equivalent detail are acceptable if legible (check with staff).
Show locations of all linear project elements, and label them.
Show locations of all significant aboveground facilities, and label them.
Figure 1-2
Provide aerial images or photographs or alignment sheets based on
these sources with mileposts showing the project facilities.
(§ 380.12(c)(3))
No more than 1 year old.
Scale no smaller than 1:6,000.
Figure 1-3 and Figure 1.3a
Provide plot/site plans of compressor stations showing the location of
the nearest noise sensitive areas (NSA) within 1 mile. (§ 380.12(c)(3,4))
Scale no smaller than 1:3,600.
Show reference to topographic maps and aerial alignments provided
above.
Figure 1-5 and Figure 1-7
6.


Describe construction and restoration methods. (§ 380.12(c)(6))
Include this information by milepost.
Make sure this is provided for offshore construction as well. For the
offshore this information is needed on a mile-by-mile basis and will
require completion of geophysical and other surveys before filing.
Sections 1.3.3, 1.3.4 and
1.3.5
7.
Identify the permits required for construction across surface waters.
(§ 380.12(c)(9))
Include the status of all permits.
For construction in the federal offshore area be sure to include
consultation with the MMS. File with MMS for rights of way grants at
the same time or before you file with the Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission.
Table 1.6-1
Provide the names and addresses of all affected landowners and certify
that all affected landowners will be notified as required in § 157.6(d).
(§ 380.12(c)(10)).
Affected landowners are defined in § 157.6(d).
Provide an electronic copy directly to the environmental staff.
Appendix 1-C Filed as
Privileged and Confidential



4.


5.




8.


Additional Information Often Missing and Resulting in Data Requests

Describe all authorizations required to complete the Proposed Action
and the status of applications for such authorizations.
ii
Section 1.6 and Table 1.6-1
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS COMPANY - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
REPORT NO. 1

Provide plot/site plans of all other aboveground facilities that are not
completely within the right of way (ROW).

Provide detailed typical construction ROW cross-section diagrams
showing information such as widths and relative locations of existing
rights of way, new permanent ROW, and temporary construction ROW.
Summarize the total acreage of land affected by construction and
operation of the project.
If Resource Report 5, Socioeconomics, is not provided, provide the start
and end dates of construction, the number of pipeline spreads that
would be used, and the work force per spread.
Send two (2) additional copies of topographic maps and aerial
images/photographs directly to the environmental staff of the Office of
Energy Projects.



iii
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Found in Section
Figures 1-4, 1-6, and 1-8 Filed
as Critical Energy Infrastructure
Information
Section 1.2.1 and Figure 1-10
Tables 1.2-1 and 1.2-2
Section 1.3.1 and Resource
Report 5
Attached
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS COMPANY - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Contents
1.0 GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION .............................................................................. 1
1.1 PROPOSED FACILITIES.................................................................................................... 1
1.1.1 Purpose and Need ..................................................................................................... 1
1.1.2 Location and Description of Facilities ..................................................................... 2
1.1.3 Location Maps, Detailed Route Maps, and Plot, Site Plans.................................... 5
1.2 LAND REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................... 5
1.2.1 Pipeline Facilities ..................................................................................................... 6
1.2.2 Aboveground Facilities ............................................................................................ 7
1.3 CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE AND PROCEDURES.................................................... 7
1.3.1 Construction Schedule and Workforce .................................................................... 8
1.3.2 Training, Inspection, and Environmental Compliance............................................ 9
1.3.3 Pipeline Construction Procedures .......................................................................... 10
1.3.4 Special Construction Techniques ........................................................................... 16
1.3.5 Aboveground Facility Construction Procedures ................................................... 20
1.4 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE ........................................................................... 21
1.5 FUTURE PLANS AND ABANDONMENT .................................................................... 22
1.6 PERMITS AND APPROVALS ......................................................................................... 22
1.7 AFFECTED LANDOWNERS/STAKEHOLDERS.......................................................... 26
1.7.1 Public Outreach Program ....................................................................................... 27
1.8 NON-JURISDICTIONAL FACILITIES ........................................................................... 27
List of Tables
Table 1.1-1 Pipeline Facilities
Table 1.1-2 Aboveground Facilities
Table 1.2-1 Land Requirements for the Pipeline Facilities, Storage/Contractor Yards and Staging
Areas
Table 1.2-2 Land Requirements for the Aboveground Facilities
Table 1.3-1 Hydrostatic Test Water Segments, Volumes, Sources and Discharge Locations
Table 1.3-2 Public Road and Railroad Crossings
Table 1.6-1 Required Permits and Clearances
List of Figures
Figure 1-1 Project Overview Map
Figure 1-2 Project Location and Topographic Mapbook
Figure 1-3 Alignment Sheets with Aerial Photograph (Filed as P&C)
Figure 1-3a Alignment Sheets with Aerial Photograph (Public)
Figure 1-4 Fremont Compressor Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII)
Figure 1-5 NSAs for Fremont Compressor Station
Figure 1-6 Homer Compressor Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII)
Figure 1-7 NSAs for Homer Compressor Station
Figure 1-8 Meter Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII)
Figure 1-9 Cross-sectional HDD Bore Diagram
iv
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS COMPANY - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
REPORT NO. 1
Figure 1-10 Typical Right of Way Cross-sectional Diagram
List of Appendices
Appendix 1A - Northern’s Construction Procedures
Appendix 1B - Federal and State Agency Contact List
Appendix 1C – Landowner List (Filed as P&C)
Appendix 1D - Stakeholder List
v
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS COMPANY - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
REPORT NO. 1
Abbreviations and Acronyms
API
American Petroleum Institute
BIA
Bureau of Indian Affairs
BMPs
Best Management Practice
C-line
NEM50103 24-inch-diameter C-line
CEII
Critical Energy Infrastructure Information
CFR
Code of Federal Regulations
CWA
Clean Water Act
Dth/d
Dekatherms per day
DOT
Department of Transportation
EI
Environmental Inspector
EPA
Environmental Protection Agency
FERC
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
HDD
Horizontal directional drill
HP
Horsepower
IDNR
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
IOS
International Organization for Standardization
MBTA
Migratory Bird Treaty Act
MDQ
Maximum daily quantity
MP
Milepost
Northern
Northern Natural Gas Company
N/A
Not applicable
NDEQ
Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality
NDNR
Nebraska Department of Natural Resources
vi
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS COMPANY - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
NEPA
National Environmental Policy Act
NHI
Natural Heritage Inventory
NHPA
National Historic Preservation Act
NPDES
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NSHS
Nebraska State Historical Society
NRCS
Natural Resources Conversation Service
NSAs
Noise sensitive areas
OCC
Northern’s Operations Communication Center
P&C
Privileged and Confidential
Plan
Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation and Maintenance Plan
Procedures
Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures
Project
West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
ROW
Right of way
SHPO
State Historic Preservation Office
SWPPP
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan
T&E
Threatened and Endangered
Terra branch line
IAB77301 12-inch-diameter Terra branch line
USACE
U.S. Army Corp of Engineers
USFWS
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
vii
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
1.0
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This resource report presents a description of the proposed facilities and summarizes the purpose,
need, and land requirements for Northern’s proposed Project. The text and tables detail the location
and land requirements for the entire Project. The permits and clearances required for the Project are
summarized in Table 1.6-1.
1.1
PROPOSED FACILITIES
Northern proposes to construct and operate: (1) approximately 6.09 miles of 20-inch-diameter
greenfield pipeline in Dakota County, Nebraska, and Woodbury County, Iowa; (2) approximately
0.41 mile of 20-inch-diameter greenfield pipeline tie-over in Woodbury County, Iowa (3) an
approximately 4,700-HP ISO-rated greenfield compressor station to be located in Dodge County,
Nebraska; (4) an approximately 9,500-HP ISO-rated greenfield compressor station to be located in
Dakota County, Nebraska; and (5) a new meter station to be located in Woodbury County, Iowa. The
Section 7 facilities are more fully described below. An overview map showing the Project facilities is
included in Figure 1-1.
The proposed facilities will be installed as a greenfield project. Northern will acquire new easement
rights for the pipeline and meter station. The compressor station properties will be purchased in fee.
In addition to the Section 7 facilities listed above, Northern will also construct and/or modify
facilities under Section 2.55(a) of the FERC’s regulations. These facilities include:





A regulator setting on Northern’s D-C pipeline north of Bushton, Ellsworth County, Kansas
Header modifications at Northern’s Tescott compressor station, Ottawa County, Kansas
Header modifications at Northern’s Palmyra compressor station, Otoe County, Nebraska
Installation of a regulator setting and modification of a branch line tie-over on Northern’s
Paullina B-line, Woodbury County, Iowa
Replacement of a control valve on Northern’s Paullina C-line, Cherokee County, Iowa
Additional information on the auxiliary installations is not included in this application since they will
be completed in accordance with Section 2.55(a).
1.1.1
Purpose and Need
This Project is a discrete stand-alone project. From October 18, 2012, through November 7, 2012,
Northern held an open season to identify and quantify market growth opportunities, to solicit interest
for firm transportation service, and to identify the need to construct facilities necessary to deliver firm
transportation service for deliveries to Northern’s West Leg system. Northern stated in the open
season that construction is required to expand the firm transportation capacity for service on or after
November 1, 2014; however, service may commence earlier if capacity is available.
The proposed Project facilities are being constructed to meet customer requests received during the
open season. As a result of the open season, two customers signed precedent agreements requesting
incremental annual entitlement totaling 90,430 Dth/d. The proposed facilities are required to serve
increased markets for industrial, commercial, and residential use which cannot be met by Northern’s
existing infrastructure. The Project, as proposed, will allow Northern to transport the incremental load
through the addition of greenfield compression and greenfield pipeline to Northern’s existing system.
1
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
For this Project, approximately 99.5% or 90,000 Dth/d will be used by Northern’s customer, CF
Industries Inc., to meet energy and raw material demand for an ammonia and granular urea
production plant expansion. The remaining 0.5% of MDQ, or 430 Dth/d, will be used by another
Northern customer to meet growing energy demands for residential and commercial uses. This
includes the delivery of natural gas to heat homes and businesses and supplying natural gas for
appliance and machinery operation. The Project is designed to optimize the placement of facilities to
meet customer needs. This Project achieves expansion efficiencies and minimizes environmental
impacts in comparison to other pipeline route options as more fully discussed in Resource Report 10.
1.1.2 Location and Description of Facilities
Pipeline Facilities
A description of facilities and length of surface disturbance associated with the pipeline segments is
detailed in Table 1.1-1. All facility locations, staging areas, storage/contractor yards, temporary
workspace, extra temporary workspace, and access roads are illustrated on Figures 1-2 and 1-3
topographic quadrangle maps and aerial alignment sheets, respectively.
Table 1.1-1 Pipeline Facilities
Facility
Pipeline Diameter
and Type
Approximate
Length
MP
County
State
Greenfield
branch line
20-inch-diameter
lateral
4.27 miles
0.00 to 4.27
Dakota
Nebraska
Greenfield
branch line
20-inch-diameter
lateral
1.82 miles
4.27 to 6.09
Woodbury
Iowa
Greenfield
tie-over
branch line
20-inch-diameter
lateral
0.41 mile
0.00 to 0.411
Woodbury
Iowa
1
Tie-over branch line begins at MP 6.09 of the branch line and extends 0.41 mile east to Northern’s
existing Terra branch line.
Northern proposes to construct and operate approximately 6.09 miles of a 20-inch-diameter
greenfield branch line. The branch line will commence at the discharge side of the proposed Homer
compressor station in Section 2, Township 27 North, Range 8 East (Section 2, T27N, R8E), Dakota
County, Nebraska, and extend to the proposed meter station in Section 24, T87N, R48W, Woodbury
County, Iowa. The branch line will cross eastern parts of Nebraska (Dakota County) from
approximately MP 0.00 through MP 4.27 and western parts of Iowa (Woodbury County) from
approximately MP 4.27 through MP 6.09 Northern is also proposing to construct and operate
approximately 0.41 mile of a 20-inch-diameter greenfield tie-over branch line that will commence at
the meter station and extend to Northern’s existing Terra branch line. The pipeline will be installed
within a 100-foot-wide nominal1 construction corridor. In addition to the construction corridor,
Northern will be utilizing extra temporary workspace, staging areas, and new and/or to-be-improved
temporary access roads during construction. Northern is coordinating with landowners to acquire
easements.
1
Nominal is an industry term that indicates the width of the construction ROW without additional construction
workspaces.
2
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Four storage/contractor yards will be located in the northeast quarter of Section 5 and the north half
of Section 4, T28N, R9E, Dakota County, Nebraska. The yards will be used for storage of pipe,
construction job trailers and other contractor equipment. In addition to the storage/contractor yards,
seven staging areas are proposed along the pipeline route. All proposed staging areas are located on
level land currently used for agricultural purposes. Five staging areas are located in Nebraska and
two are located in Iowa.
In Nebraska, the first staging area is located near approximately MP 0.10 on the south side of 225th
Street (Alignment Sheet P3-1). This area will be used for storage of contractor trailers and
equipment, pipe fabrication and short-term storage of pipe. The second and third staging areas are
located east and west of F Avenue (Alignment Sheet P3-2) near MP 1.45. These areas are located
where the proposed line stops paralleling the road ROW and continues through agricultural land.
These two areas will be used for equipment storage, pipe fabrication and short-term pipe storage. The
fourth staging area is located west of a proposed access road (Alignment Sheet P3-4) near MP 3.60.
This area will be used to stage equipment for the west side of the HDD of the Missouri River and
Pigeon Creek Ditch. The fifth staging area is located at the terminus of a proposed access road
(Alignment Sheet P3-5) near MP 4.50. This area will be used for staging equipment for the east side
of the HDD of the Missouri River.
The sixth and seventh staging areas are located in Iowa adjacent to proposed access roads (Alignment
Sheet P3-5 and P3-6) at MPs 4.90 and 5.50, respectively. Due to lack of public roads, access to
construction ROW east of the Missouri River HDD is very limited. These two staging areas will be
used for equipment storage, fabrication and short-term pipe storage.
Aboveground Facilities
A description of the activities and surface disturbance associated with the aboveground facilities is
detailed in Table 1.1-2. The design for the Project requires two compressor stations, a meter station,
and one valve site.
Table 1.1-2 Aboveground Facilities
Facility
New/
Modified
HP New
HP Added
Approximate
MP
County
State
Fremont
compressor station
New
4,700
N/A
N/A
Dodge
Nebraska
Homer compressor
station
New
9,500
N/A
0.00
Dakota
Nebraska
Meter station
New
N/A
N/A
6.09
Woodbury Iowa
Tie-over terminus
valve site
New
N/A
N/A
0.411
Woodbury Iowa
1
Tie-over branch line begins at MP 6.09 of the branch line and extends 0.41 mile east to Northern’s
existing Terra branch line.
3
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Fremont Compressor Station
Northern proposes to construct and operate a compressor station to be located in Section 12, T17N,
R7E, Dodge County, Nebraska. Plans include installation of a Solar Centaur 40S turbine driving a
C40 series compressor with an ISO rating of 4,700 HP. The station will be connected to Northern’s
existing C-line.
The proposed installation includes a mainline block valve and actuators, suction and discharge side
valves and actuators, a station suction scrubber, a station recycle valve, a lube oil cooler, a blowdown
silencer, an exhaust system, a backup generator, an inlet air filter, a fuel gas conditioning skid, a
fire/gas detection system, an air compressor and air dryer, a station transformer, electrical pole(s),
compressor and auxiliary buildings, and associated above-grade and below-grade piping and valves.
The compressor building will contain noise attenuating panels, insulation, and inlet/exhaust hoods. A
new permanent driveway will be constructed to access the compressor station. Standard fencing will
surround the entire perimeter of the station.
Northern will acquire an approximately 627-foot by 300-foot site for the new compressor station. A
site plan of the compressor station is included as Figure 1-4. An aerial photograph of the compressor
station reflecting the NSAs within a one-mile buffer is included as Figure 1-5. Due to the engineering
specifics and building identification, the site plan has been labeled CEII and segregated in Volume II.
Homer Compressor Station
Northern proposes to construct and operate a compressor station to be located in Section 2, T27N,
R8E, Dakota County, Nebraska. Plans include installation of four Caterpillar model 3608 engines
driving reciprocating compressors. The combined units have a site rating of 9,500-HP. The suction
side of the compressor station will be connected to Northern’s existing 24-inch-diamter C-line and
will discharge to the proposed 20-inch-diameter branch line and to the existing C-line.
The proposed scope of work includes the installation of a mainline block valve and actuators, suction
and discharge side valves and actuators, discharge coalescing filters, station recycle valves, lube oil
coolers, multiple blowdown silencers, exhaust systems, a backup generator, inlet air filters, a fuel gas
conditioning skid, a fire/gas detection system, an air compressor and air dryer, a station transformer,
electrical pole(s), compressor and auxiliary buildings, storage tanks, and associated above-grade and
below-grade piping and valves. The compressor buildings will contain noise attenuating panels,
insulation, and inlet/exhaust hoods. A permanent drive-way will be installed to allow access to the
compressor station site. Standard fencing will surround the entire perimeter of the station.
Northern will acquire an approximately 675-foot by 505-foot site for the new compressor station. A
site plan of the compressor station is included as Figure 1-6. An aerial photograph of the compressor
station reflecting the NSAs within a one-mile buffer is included as Figure1-7. Due to the engineering
specifics and building identification, the site plan has been labeled CEII and segregated in Volume II.
Meter Station
Northern proposes to construct and operate a meter station to be located at the terminus of the
proposed branch line in Section 24, T87N, R48W, Woodbury County, Iowa. The new meter station
will include a meter, flow control valve and associated piping, fittings and valves and buildings.
Northern proposes to acquire an approximately 100-foot by 100-foot easement in order to
accommodate the operation and maintenance of the new meter station. Extra temporary workspace of
approximately 0.46 acre will be required for construction of the meter station. The meter station will
be accessed by a new permanent driveway which will connect the station to the customer’s roads.
4
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Standard fencing will surround the entire perimeter of the station. The meter station plot plan is
included as Figure 1-8.
Valve Site
Northern proposes to construct and operate one valve site to be located in Section 24, T87N, R48W,
Woodbury County, Iowa. The valve site will be located at the terminus (located at MP 0.41 of the tieover branch line). The valve will be enclosed by a fence and located within the limits of the
permanent easement. The valve site will measure approximately 20 by 20 feet and have a gravel
surface. A second valve site will be located inside the proposed meter station.
1.1.3
Location Maps, Detailed Route Maps, and Plot, Site Plans
The Project overview map (Figure 1-1) illustrates the location of the Project facilities. Figure 1-2 is a
mapbook of the Project components on topographic quadrangles at 1:24,000 scale. Figures 1-3 and
1-3a contain Project alignment sheets on recent aerial images at 1:2,400 scale. Figure 1-3 contains
sensitive resources information and is filed as P&C. Figure 1-3a is filed as public information. The
alignment sheets include aerial photographs for the Fremont and Homer compressor stations and
storage/contractor yards. Mileposts for the Project are also detailed on Figures1-3 and 1-3a. The
remaining figures are as follows:







Figure 1-4 Fremont Compressor Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII)
Figure 1-5 NSAs for Fremont Compressor Station
Figure 1-6 Homer Compressor Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII)
Figure 1-7 NSAs for Homer Compressor Station
Figure 1-8 Meter Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII)
Figure 1-9 Cross-sectional HDD Bore Diagram
Figure 1-10 Typical Right of Way Cross-sectional Diagram
Tables 1.1-1 and 1.1-2 provide descriptions of the Project facility’s locations.
1.2
LAND REQUIREMENTS
Northern proposes to utilize a 100-foot-wide nominal construction ROW for installation of the 20inch-diameter pipeline lateral and tie-over branch line. This ROW width will accommodate large
equipment traveling, pipe stringing, welding, trenching, and the storing of topsoil and trench spoil.
The construction area for this Project includes the 100-foot nominal construction ROW and
acreages associated with aboveground facilities, including access roads and extra temporary
workspaces.
The Project will result in a total of 49.17 acres of permanent (operational) disturbance and an
additional 165.71 acres of temporary (construction) disturbance. Temporary disturbances include
the pipeline construction corridor, temporary workspaces, temporary access roads, short-term
storage/contractor yards and seven staging areas. Permanent disturbances include the permanently
maintained ROW centered on the greenfield pipelines and the operational footprints of the Homer
compressor station, Fremont compressor station, valve site and new meter station.
Pursuant to DOT requirements, the pipeline will have a minimum of 30 inches of cover from the
top of the pipe to the natural ground surface in normal soil conditions. Additional depth of cover to
address landowner concerns (for agricultural lands, e.g.) will be determined during the ROW
5
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
negotiation process. The amount of spoil generated from a trench of this size typically requires 15
to 25 feet of the ROW width for storage on the spoil side. Depending on topsoil segregation
requirements, the amount of topsoil generated will typically require an additional 10 to 20 feet of
ROW or extra temporary workspace for storage.
As proposed, this Project will also require extra temporary workspace to facilitate construction
adjacent to waterbody, road, and railroad crossings and crossing of other buried utilities. Extra
workspaces for staging areas will also be used to place pipe in reasonable proximity to the
construction ROW prior to stringing it along the ROW. Extra workspaces may also be required for
staging of large mechanical equipment.
1.2.1
Pipeline Facilities
A summary of the land requirements for construction and operation of the pipeline facilities,
including the storage/contractor yard and staging areas is provided in Table 1.2-1. A detailed typical
ROW cross-sectional diagram is provided in Figure 1-10. A discussion of the proposed land
requirements by land use type will be presented in Resource Report 8.
Table 1.2-1 Land Requirements for the Pipeline Facilities, Storage/Contractor Yards and
Staging Areas
Project
Component
Proposed Activity
Greenfield branch
line (corridor)
New facilities– open
cut construction
method
New facilities– HDD
bores at waterways,
roads and railroad
crossing
New facilities – open
cut construction
method
Additional
workspace at HDD
locations, public
roads and points of
inflection
Access roads to
pipeline construction
and workspaces
Access between bore
pits and Missouri
River
Equipment and
pipeline storage;
contractor
construction trailers
Greenfield branch
line (corridor)
Greenfield tie-over
branch line
(corridor)
Extra Temporary
Workspace
Access Roads
Travel Lanes
Storage/Contractor
Yards
Length/
Number of
Sites
Land Required
for Construction
(acres)
Land Required
for Operation
(acres)
5.66 miles
68.601
34.302
0.43 mile
0.00
0.00
0.41 mile
5.081
2.482
0.74 mile
9.22
0.00
2.35 miles
8.553
0.00
0.18 mile
0.534
0.00
4 sites
36.65
0.00
6
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
Project
Component
Proposed Activity
Construction
Staging Areas
Temporary storage
and staging of
construction
equipment
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
Length/
Number of
Sites
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Land Required
for Construction
(acres)
Land Required
for Operation
(acres)
46.94
0.00
7 sites
1
Temporary workspace based on 100-foot-wide construction corridor
Permanent impact based on 50-foot-wide maintenance corridor in upland areas
3
Temporary impact based on 30-foot-wide access road
4
Temporary workspace based on 25-foot-wide access area
2
1.2.2
Aboveground Facilities
A summary of the land requirements for construction and operation of the aboveground facilities is
provided in Table 1.2-2. A detailed discussion of the proposed land requirements by land use type
will be presented in Resource Report 8.
Table 1.2-2 Land Requirements for the Aboveground Facilities
Land to be used
During
Construction
(acres)
Land Required
for Operation
(acres)
4.321
10.01
4.32
New facility
construction
7.831
28.84
7.83
New meter station
New facility
construction
0.23
0.46
0.23
New valve site
New facility
construction
0.012
0.003
0.01
Project
Component
Proposed Activity
Fremont
compressor station
New facility
construction
Homer compressor
station
Property Size
(acres)
1
Includes land Northern will own in fee
Assumes 20 by 20-foot permanent easement
3
Land included in temporary workspace for the tie over branch line
2
1.3
CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE AND PROCEDURES
All facilities described in this Environmental Resource Report will be designed, constructed, tested,
operated, and maintained in accordance with the DOT regulations in Title 49 CFR Part 192,
Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety Standards, and other
applicable federal and state regulations. During all phases of this Project, the applicable
requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act will be followed. The requirements set
forth in the aforementioned acts have been or will be provided to Northern’s employees engaged in
the planning, construction, maintenance, and operation of the Project and will be provided to
Northern’s construction contractors and third-party inspectors. These employees and contractors
7
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
have been or will be instructed to follow these requirements, as applicable, when planning,
installing, and operating the facilities.
Northern has adopted the FERC’s Plan and Procedures as its own for the Project. Northern’s
construction methods include but are not limited to the following and are included in Appendix 1A:



Plan
Procedures
Plan for Inadvertent Release of Drilling Mud
Throughout the permitting process, various regulatory agencies, including the FERC, USACE,
USFWS, and various state agencies may require additional resource protection measures. These
additional measures will be finalized prior to construction and detailed in the construction
procedures or applicable federal and state permits. Unless otherwise specified by the landowner or
land managing agency, specifications in the construction procedures will be implemented along the
length of the Project as a general construction document.
Construction activities, storage of construction materials and equipment, and construction access will
be limited to the Project areas shown on the Project figures and described previously.
1.3.1
Construction Schedule and Workforce
Pipeline construction will consist of one or two spreads and is scheduled to begin May 2014 for an
in-service date of November 1, 20142. Areas disturbed during construction will be restored, weather
permitting, by December 2014. In the event final restoration is not completed by December, Northern
will abide by section V.A.1. of the Plan and file a winterization plan with the FERC at that time.
Temporary erosion control measures will remain in-place until restoration is successful.
Pipeline construction will generally take place Monday through Saturday during daylight hours. Tieins, testing, waterbody crossings and other time sensitive construction activities may be required to
extend beyond daylight hours to maintain the Project schedule. The average workforce will consist of
approximately 100 to 250 construction workers, including inspection personnel.
Construction of the Homer and Fremont compressor stations are scheduled to begin April 2014. Both
stations have an in-service date of November 1, 2014. Northern plans to commence construction on
the meter station May 2014 to meet a November 1, 2014, in-service date. The average workforce at
each compressor station will consist of approximately 50 to 150 construction workers. The average
workforce at the meter station will consist of approximately 10 to 25 construction workers.
No new permanent staff beyond that already working for Northern will be required to operate the
new pipeline facilities after completion of construction. Northern anticipates adding four full-time
positions to accommodate the additional workload associated with the operation of the Fremont and
Homer compressor stations. The Fremont and Homer compressor stations will be remotely-operated
facilities.
2
Based on contractor availability, FERC approval and in accordance with any applicable permits, construction of the
Pigeon Creek Ditch-Missouri River HDD could begin as early as February 2014.
8
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
1.3.2
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Training, Inspection, and Environmental Compliance
Construction drawings and specifications will include implementation details of mitigation measures
identified by Northern, FERC and other applicable agencies. Northern’s selected contractor will
receive copies of specifications and a construction drawing package including drawings issued for
construction. For those mitigation measures that address permit conditions from federal, state, or
local agencies, Northern will include copies of the permits in the construction package. Postconstruction mitigation requirements will also be provided.
The inspectors for the Project will be drawn from Northern’s inspector pool or from qualified
contractors. Northern will conduct training for its field construction personnel and contractor’s
personnel before and during installation of the proposed facilities. The training will focus on Project
permit requirements, SWPPP implementation, the Plan and Procedures, and conditions of the FERC
certificate.
To ensure that construction of the proposed facilities will comply with mitigation measures identified
in these Resource Reports, the analysis by the FERC of this project, and the requirements of other
federal and state permitting agencies, Northern will include, whenever possible, implementation
details in its construction drawings and specifications. Northern’s selected contractors will receive
copies of specifications and a construction drawing package containing, among other things, pipeline,
compressor station, meter station, and equipment drawings designated as being approved for
construction. In order to solicit accurate bids for construction, Northern will provide specifications
and advance versions of the construction drawing package to prospective contractors.
For those mitigation measures that address pre-construction surveys and clearances, Northern will
include reference to pertinent correspondence and documentation in the construction drawing
packages. For those mitigation measures that address permit conditions from federal, state and local
agencies, Northern will include copies of permits and related drawings in the construction drawing
packages. For those mitigation measures that, in part, address post-construction requirements,
Northern will provide instructions and documentation to operating personnel following the
completion of construction. Northern will require selected contractors to install facilities according to
Northern’s specifications, the construction drawing package and the terms of the negotiated contract.
For purposes of quality assurance and compliance with mitigation measures, other applicable
regulatory requirements, and specifications, Northern will be represented on the construction spread
by a chief inspector. The chief inspector will be assisted by a team of craft inspectors and at least one
EI. The EI position is a full-time position with stop work authority and will report directly to
Northern’s environmental department. The EI’s duties are consistent with those contained in section
II.B (Responsibilities of the Environmental Inspector) of the Plan, and will include ensuring
compliance with environmental conditions attached to the FERC certificate, Northern’s
environmental designs and specifications, and environmental conditions attached to other permits or
authorizations. An appropriate number of copies of the construction drawing package will be
distributed to Northern’s inspectors and to contractors’ supervisory personnel. If a contractor’s
performance is unsatisfactory, the terms of the contract allow Northern to stop work in progress and
cause a contractor to begin remedial work.
Northern’s engineering and construction department is responsible for designing and constructing
certificated facilities in compliance with regulatory and non-regulatory requirements and agreements.
Any issues of non-compliance with mitigation measures or other regulatory requirements that cannot
9
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
be solved in the field will be addressed by Northern’s project manager. Northern’s operations
department will be responsible for long-term project maintenance and regulatory compliance.
1.3.3
Pipeline Construction Procedures
Construction of the proposed pipeline facilities will incorporate conventional overland construction
techniques for large diameter pipelines. The construction of the proposed pipeline will follow a set of
sequential operations, unique to the pipeline industry, as further described below.
The construction spread(s) will proceed along the pipeline ROW in one continuous operation. As the
spread moves along, construction at any single point along the pipeline, from initial surveying and
clearing to backfilling and final grading, will last approximately six to 12 weeks. The entire process
will be coordinated to minimize the total time a tract of land is disturbed, and subsequently exposed
to potential erosion and temporarily taken out of normal use.
Surveying and Staking
The initial step in the preparation of the ROW for construction is the preconstruction survey.
Affected landowners are notified prior to conducting the preconstruction survey. Civil survey crews
survey and stake the outside limits of the ROW, the centerline of the pipeline trench and temporary
workspaces, highway and railroad crossings, sensitive environmental feature boundaries, access
roads and all known underground facilities. Northern will ensure the local One Call notification
systems (Diggers Hotline of Nebraska and Iowa One Call) are contacted to allow utilities with
facilities in the project area to locate and mark any existing utility lines to prevent accidental damage
during pipeline construction. Northern’s contractors are responsible to abide by each state’s One Call
system.
Clearing and Grading
The ROW will be cleared and graded as needed to provide a safe and efficient working space for
construction equipment. Large obstacles, such as trees, rocks, brush, and logs, will be removed.
Timber will be removed only when absolutely necessary for construction purposes. Timber and other
vegetative debris will be disposed of in accordance with applicable local regulations and landowner
requests. The construction corridor boundaries will be the limits of the temporary workspace as
shown on the alignment sheets and will be clearly staked or flagged. No disturbance will be allowed
beyond the ROW limits unless previously approved.
Northern will conduct full-ROW topsoil removal in agricultural land. Topsoil will not be removed
from existing improved (i.e., graveled) farm roads. Topsoil will be removed to a maximum depth of
12 inches or the actual depth of the existing topsoil horizon. Where topsoil horizon is less than 12
inches, topsoil will be removed to such depth as can be removed without mixing topsoil with subsoil.
In agricultural areas, conserved topsoil will be stockpiled along one side of the ROW allowing the
other side to be used for access, material transport, and pipe assembly. Construction equipment will
not be permitted to travel over the topsoil piles. Construction in agricultural areas is further
addressed in the special construction techniques (Section 1.3.4).
The ROW will then be graded where necessary to create a reasonably level working surface and
allow safe passage of equipment. The terrain along the Project is relatively flat. If rutting occurs on
privately-owned agricultural land, Northern will restore the affected areas concurrent with other
restoration activities.
10
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Where the ROW crosses a fence, the fence will be cut, braced, and temporarily fitted with a gate to
permit passage of construction equipment while maintaining current livestock barriers. The
temporary gates will also limit public access to the ROW. Fences will be repaired following
construction.
Erosion and Sedimentation Control
Following clearing and grading activities, soil erosion and sedimentation control measures will be
installed along the ROW, access roads, and extra temporary workspace in accordance with the
Project SWPPP. The SWPPP will incorporate the Plan and Procedures requirements and site-specific
erosion control information. The SWPPP will be completed in conjunction with Northern’s
application for construction storm water permits to be submitted to the applicable regulatory agencies
prior to the commencement of construction activities.
The SWPPP describes general measures that will be implemented during the Project to minimize
erosion during construction. These measures will include:






Minimizing the quantity and duration of soil exposure
Implementing a dust mitigation plan
Reducing the velocity of run-off water and redirecting run off as appropriate
Installing and maintaining erosion and sediment control measures during construction
Establishing vegetation following final grading in non-agricultural areas
Inspecting the ROW and maintaining erosion and sediment control as needed until final
stabilization is achieved in non-agricultural land.
Trenching
Trench excavation is necessary to bury the pipeline underground. Excavation of the pipeline trench
will follow clearing and grading of the ROW. The trench will be excavated with a rotary trenching
machine, a track-mounted backhoe, or similar equipment. Northern does not anticipate that
explosives will be required; however, in the unlikely event that rock substrates are encountered at
depths that interfere with conventional excavation or rock-trenching methods, explosives may be
used as necessary. Additional information on blasting is provided in the Special Construction
Techniques sections.
The bottom of the trench will be excavated at least 12 inches wider than the diameter of the pipe
(i.e., 32 inches for a 20-inch-diameter pipe). The sides of the trench may be sloped for safety with
the top of the trench approximately 12 to 15 feet wide at tie-in locations. The trench will be
excavated to a sufficient depth to allow a minimum of three feet of soil cover in accordance with
Title 49 CFR Part 192.327 which establishes a minimum 30-inches depth of cover for most
pipelines in Class 1, 2 and 3 locations. The proposed pipeline will typically be installed with a
minimum of three feet of top cover. Crossovers for livestock and wildlife will be located along the
Project corridor. Crossovers consist of gaps in the spoil piles and pre-welded pipe, and areas of
unexcavated trench spoils.
Excavated subsoil will be stockpiled along the ROW on the side of the trench away from the
construction traffic and pipe assembly area. In agricultural areas, subsoil will be stockpiled
separately from topsoil. This segregation of topsoil and subsoil will be maintained throughout the
construction of the Project.
11
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
At certain crossing locations (e.g., roads, railroads and waterbodies) the pipeline will be installed in
accordance with permit or easement conditions. In the unlikely event rock is encountered during
construction, the pipeline will be installed with at least 2 feet of cover.
During trenching, previously unidentified or unknown drain tile may be located. Northern will
restore the functionality of the drain tile through the relocation, reconfiguration, or replacement of
the existing tile. Specific details on drain tile location, identification, and restoration are included in
Section 1.3.4 (special construction techniques) under active croplands.
Stringing
Steel pipe for the pipeline will be procured in nominal 40-foot and 80-foot lengths or joints, protected
with an epoxy coating applied at the factory (the beveled ends will be left uncoated for welding), and
shipped to the storage/contractor yard or construction ROW. The individual joints will be transported
to the ROW by stringing trucks, observing load restrictions on local roads and state and federal
highways. The stringing trucks will travel along the ROW and place the pipeline joints on temporary
supports in a single, continuous line. Stringing pipe will allow for easy access for the construction
personnel on the working side of the proposed pipeline centerline, opposite the spoil side. This will
allow the subsequent lineup and welding operations to proceed efficiently. At the waterbody
crossing, the amount of pipe that will be required for the HDD will be stockpiled within the ROW
and in the designated pull-back area.
Pipe Bending
The pipe will be delivered to the project site in straight sections. Some bending of the pipe will be
required to allow the pipeline to follow natural grade changes and directional changes of the ROW.
Selected joints will be field-bent by hydraulic bending machines, as necessary, prior to line-up and
welding.
Pipe Assembly and Welding
Following stringing and bending, the joints of pipe will be placed on temporary supports adjacent to
the trench. The ends will be carefully aligned and welded together using multiple passes for a full
penetration weld. Only welders qualified according to Northern’s welder qualification procedures
and API Standards will be permitted to perform the welding.
X-Ray and Weld Repair
To ensure that the assembled pipe will meet or exceed the design strength requirements, a percentage
of the welds will be visually inspected and non-destructively tested using radiographic (x-ray) or
other approved test methods in accordance with API Standards and Northern’s procedures. Welds
displaying inclusions (void spaces) or other defects will be repaired or cut out as specified in
Northern’s welding procedures.
Coating Field Welds, Inspection, and Repair
Following welding, the previously uncoated ends of the pipe will be coated at the joints. Prior to
lowering the pipe into the trench, the coating on the entire pipe section will be inspected and any
damaged areas repaired.
12
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Pipe Lowering
The welded and coated sections of pipe will be lifted from the temporary supports and lowered into
the trench by side-boom tractors. Before lowering the pipe, the trench will be inspected to ensure that
it is free of rocks and other debris that could damage the pipe or the coating and that the pipe and
trench configurations are compatible. Inspection will also verify that minimum cover requirements
are met.
Trench dewatering may be necessary at certain times during the lowering-in process. Trench
dewatering will be accomplished per the Plan and Procedures and in accordance with applicable
permit conditions using appropriate BMPs. The methods implemented to minimize erosion and
sedimentation associated with dewatering activities will be further detailed in the Project SWPPP.
Padding and Backfilling
After the pipe is lowered into the trench, the trench will be backfilled. Previously excavated materials
will be pushed back into the trench using bladed equipment or backhoes. Backfill material typically
consists of the subsoil excavated from the trench. Where the previously excavated material contains
large rocks or other materials that could damage the pipe or coating, clean fill and/or protective
coating will be placed around the pipe prior to backfilling (i.e., padding material). Rock excavated
from the pipeline trench may be used to backfill the trench only to the depth of the existing bedrock
profile. Rock that is not returned to the trench will be disposed of on-site per the landowner request
or off-site as construction waste.
Where topsoil and subsoil piles are segregated, subsoil will be used for backfilling and padding.
Northern will require its contractor to use a proven compaction method to minimize trench settling.
Following backfilling, a small crown of material may be left over the trench to account for any
potential soil settling.
Pressure Testing
Hydrostatic testing or air testing will be conducted in accordance with DOT regulations Title 49 CFR
Part 192 to verify the integrity of the pipeline and the piping components of the compressor stations
and meter station before being placed into service.
The pipe segments will be capped with manifolds, filled with water or air, pressurized and held for
either four or eight hours.3 Any significant loss of pressure will indicate that a leak may have
occurred and warrant further inspection and, where necessary, repair. Water may be re-used for
hydrostatic testing between the new pipeline segments.
Hydrostatic test water will be obtained in compliance with state regulations and existing water rights.
Northern will seek approval to appropriate water from the Missouri River to hydrostatically test the
pipeline. The water will be discharged back to the river or to a well-vegetated upland area in
accordance with the applicable state and local permit requirements. Dependent on availability,
Northern may also appropriate water from an existing well or municipal source to test the pipeline
and discharge the water to a well vegetated upland area in accordance with the applicable permit
requirements.
3
The duration of hydrostatic tests (four hours versus eight hours) will be determined by Northern’s operating procedures
and engineering standards and in compliance with DOT regulations.
13
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
For the Fremont compressor station, Northern will seek approval to appropriate water from an
existing well or municipal source to perform hydrostatic testing of the Project components. The water
will be discharged to a well-vegetated upland area in accordance with the applicable permit
requirements.
The potential water sources proposed for the hydrostatic testing of the various pipeline segments,
by milepost, and the aboveground facilities, as well as the number of test sections, approximate
volume of water to be used and discharge locations are listed in Table 1.3-1.
Table 1.3-1 Hydrostatic Test Water Segments, Volumes, Sources and Discharge
Locations
Reference MPs
Number for Sections
Volume
Project
of Test Begin End (gallons,
Potential Source and
MP
Component Sections MP
approx.)
Discharge Location
Greenfield
3
0.00
6.09
526,000 (1) Missouri River with discharge back
branch line
to Missouri River or well-vegetated
upland area, (2) existing well with
discharge back to well-vegetated
upland area (3) or municipal source
with discharge to well-vegetated
upland area.
Greenfield
tie-over
branch line
(HDD)
1.03
1.10
6,350 (1) Missouri River with discharge back
to Missouri River or well-vegetated
upland area, (2) existing well with
discharge back to well-vegetated
upland area (3) or municipal source
with discharge to well-vegetated
upland area.
(HDD)
4.06
4.43
30,700 (1) Missouri River with discharge back
to Missouri River or well-vegetated
upland area, (2) existing well with
discharge back to well-vegetated
upland area (3) or municipal source
with discharge to well-vegetated
upland area.
1
0.00
0.41
36,000 (1) Missouri River with discharge back
to Missouri River or well-vegetated
upland area, (2) existing well with
discharge back to well-vegetated
upland area (3) or municipal source
with discharge to well-vegetated
upland area.
14
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Table 1.3-1 Hydrostatic Test Water Segments, Volumes, Sources and Discharge
Locations
Reference MPs
Number for Sections
Volume
Project
of Test Begin End (gallons,
Potential Source and
MP
Component Sections MP
approx.)
Discharge Location
Meter station
1
N/A
N/A
400 (1) Missouri River with discharge back
to Missouri River or well-vegetated
upland area, (2) existing well with
discharge back to well-vegetated
upland area (3) or municipal source
with discharge to well-vegetated
upland area.
Fremont
compressor
station
1
N/A
N/A
10,000 Existing well or municipal source and
discharge within well-vegetated upland
area.
Homer
compressor
station
1
N/A
N/A
20,000 Existing well or municipal source and
discharge within well-vegetated upland
area.
Cleanup and Restoration
After each segment of pipeline has been installed and backfilled; the areas disturbed by construction
will be final graded. Original land contours will be restored, as near as practicable, to conform to
adjacent areas. Non-cultivated land will be reseeded in accordance with individual landowner
requirements, land management agency requirements, or NRCS recommendations. Construction
debris will be removed for proper disposal. All construction equipment will be removed following
final clean-up activities.
On agricultural land, heavy equipment traffic may compact the subsoil. Northern will decompact
subsoil using appropriate deep-tillage equipment such as a paraplow or chisel plow and per
landowner requirements. Compaction testing will be conducted to verify compaction is relieved to a
level equal to or better than adjacent undisturbed areas. Once decompaction of the subsoil is
complete, the segregated topsoil will be returned. Decompaction will be completed on the restored
topsoil using shallow-ripping tools. Rock that is greater than four inches in diameter and not native
will be removed from the top 12 inches of soil on agricultural land.
On agricultural land, cleanup will include restoring the slope, contour, grade, and drainage of the
ROW as nearly as practical to preconstruction conditions. The trench may be crowned to allow for
anticipated settlement of the backfill. The final surface will be examined to verify that rocks visible
on the surface are similar in size, density, and distribution to undisturbed areas adjacent to the ROW.
Soil conservation practices such as terraces will also be restored to their pre-construction condition.
Temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control measures, which may include silt fencing
and/or diversion terraces, will be installed at this time. Final erosion and sediment control measures
will be installed in accordance with the Plan and Procedures and the Project SWPPP.
15
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Private and public property, such as fences, gates, driveways, and roads, disturbed by pipeline
construction will be restored to original condition. Unless otherwise required by the landowner,
Northern will restore all areas as close as practicable to their pre-construction condition with the
exception of the aboveground facilities.
1.3.4
Special Construction Techniques
Construction across special features including roads, railroads, waterbodies, active cropland,
residential areas, and commercial areas will involve special construction techniques as described
below.
Access Road Improvements/ Road Approaches
Prior to the commencement of construction activities, existing roads or drives that will be used to
access the pipeline construction ROW may require modifications for heavy equipment access.
Existing road approaches and corners will be expanded to a minimum width of 20 feet with
approximately six inches of 3-inch-diameter or greater aggregate. The rock will be underlain by a
geotextile fabric. The road approaches will be a minimum of 50 feet in length. The existing private
driveway to be used for access of the HDD pull-back area will be improved through the application
of gravel.
A majority of the existing local roads and access roads are constructed with a gravel surface. To
abate dust resulting from construction activities, Northern will design and implement a Fugitive Dust
Control Plan. Additional information on dust control will be provided in Resource Report 2.
Wetland Crossings
One wetland was identified and delineated within the environmental survey area but is located
outside of the Project workspace. The wetland is located in the Missouri River floodplain in
Woodbury County, Iowa.
The Project has been designed to avoid impacts to the wetland. The project’s temporary construction
workspace will maintain a 50-foot buffer from Wetland 1. Construction will follow the Plan and
Procedures. The Plan and Procedures contain BMPs intended to reduce ground disturbance,
minimize erosion and sediment run off, and promote revegetation within the construction area.
HDD Bores (Waterbody Crossings)
HDD is a method to install pipelines beneath obstacles or sensitive areas. Use of the HDD method is
designed to minimize planned disturbance to the ground surface between the entry and exit points of
the crossing. Specifically, HDD allows for trenchless construction across a waterbody and is used to
eliminate impacts to water quality from construction activities within a waterbody.
The HDD method consists of drilling a small diameter pilot hole under the waterbody and enlarging
the hole through successive reamings until it is large enough to accommodate a prefabricated
segment of pipe. In the process of drilling and/or reaming the hole, a slurry of drilling mud will be
circulated through the drilling tools to lubricate the drill bit, remove drill cuttings, and promote bore
hole stability. Drilling mud primarily consists of bentonite, a non-toxic, naturally occurring
sedimentary clay. Enlarging the pilot hole may take one or more reaming passes. The position of the
drill head is electronically monitored and directional corrections are made if needed to maintain the
desired alignment.
16
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Pipe sections long enough to span the entire crossing will be staged and welded along the
construction work area on the opposite side of the waterbody and then pulled through the drilled hole.
The successful use of the HDD method results in no impact on the banks, bed, or water quality of the
waterbody being crossed. However, the probability exists for drilling mud to reach the surface. In the
event of the inadvertent release of drilling mud, Northern will implement measures to minimize
impacts to sensitive resources according to its plan for the inadvertent release of drilling mud. The
inadvertent release of drilling fluid plan is included in Appendix 1A.
While all HDD installations have the potential to be unsuccessful, the determining factors are
location dependent and include: encountering soil conditions not conducive to boring; caving of the
borehole; loss of the drill string in the borehole; loss of drilling mud circulation, and pullback refusal.
Many of these potential failures can be avoided or mitigated by making appropriate adjustments to
the operation of the HDD equipment. In the event the adjustments do not correct the problem the
borehole may be moved to an adjacent location. If the HDD bore method is determined to be
unsuccessful, it may be necessary to install the pipe by an alternate method. Northern will include an
HDD contingency plan in Resource Report 2 to address the alternate method(s).
Northern proposes to cross the two jurisdictional waterbodies via the HDD method. An approximate
1,638-foot HDD crossing is planned to install the pipeline under the Missouri River and Pigeon
Creek Ditch The crossing will include an entry pit approximately 544 feet east of the Missouri River
and an exit pit approximately 465 feet west of Pigeon Creek Ditch. The HDD crossing will extend to
an approximate depth of 25 feet below the river bed. Temporary impacts from the HDD crossing
consist of two travel lanes: (1) an approximate 3-foot lane used to install the HDD tracking wire
(hand clearing only) and monitor for inadvertent mud releases and (2) an approximate 25-foot wide
travel lane to provide access for small equipment in the event of an inadvertent release of drilling
fluid. The travel lanes will be field determined by the EI to select existing open areas and minimize
clearing. The lanes will also serve to install pumps and associated equipment required to withdraw
water from the Missouri River. Figure 1-9 illustrates the cross-sectional diagram of the proposed
HDD. The Project waterbody crossings will be discussed in further detail in Resource Report 2.
Road and Railroad Crossings
Construction of the pipeline at public roads and railroads may be accomplished by conventional
boring techniques, pneumatic boring or HDD, as applicable. The HDD crossing methods have been
described above. Highway and railroad crossings will be uncased, unless otherwise required by
permits. The pipeline will be buried to a depth of at least four feet below the road or railroad surface,
or in accordance with permit requirements, and will be designed to withstand anticipated external
loading.
The Project crosses four public roads and one railroad. Table 1.3-2 summarizes the crossing locations
by milepost along with the surface type and anticipated construction crossing methods.
17
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Table 1.3-2 Public Road and Railroad Crossings
Road/
Railroad
Name
225th Street
Highway
75/77 and
Burlington
Northern
Railroad
F Avenue
Elma Road
Approxim
ate MP
0.12
1.05
1.50
2.24
Surface
Type
Estimated
Bore Length
Bore
Depth
Primary
Crossing
Method
Secondary
Crossing
Method
66 feet
4 feet
below
ditch
line
Conventional
bore
Pneumatic bore
410 feet
4 feet
below
ditch
line
HDD bore
Conventional
bore
66 feet
4 feet
below
ditch
line
Conventional
bore
Pneumatic bore
66 feet
4 feet
below
ditch
line
Conventional
bore
Pneumatic bore
Gravel
Paved
and
gravel
Gravel
Gravel
Residential Areas
Currently, no residences, buildings or structures are located within 50 feet of the proposed pipeline,
aboveground facilities or temporary construction areas.
Residences are located adjacent to the temporary access road to be used for access to the HDD pull
back area. The road will be restored to preconstruction conditions or better as part of final clean up.
Active Croplands
Construction in agricultural areas will be conducted in accordance with the Plan and Procedures. To
conserve topsoil, Northern will conduct full ROW topsoil removal in all actively cultivated and
rotated cropland and improved pasture. A maximum of 12 inches of topsoil will be segregated. The
topsoil and subsoil will be stored in separate windrows on the construction ROW and will not be
allowed to mix. Where the existing topsoil is less than 12 inches, the actual depth of the topsoil will
be removed and segregated. Soil fertility and other characteristics will be further discussed in
Resource Report 7. Agricultural areas crossed by the project will be identified in Resource Report 8
along with proposed mitigation measures.
Northern will consult with landowners prior to construction in an effort to identify any known drain
tiles. The known drain tile will be noted on the alignment sheets. Survey crews will mark the drain
tile locations with highly visible flagging at each ROW edge and the centerline of the pipe, where
applicable. Previously undocumented drain tile discovered during grading or trenching will also be
flagged at each ROW edge. Survey data will be collected at the location of the broken tile. If a
18
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
damaged drain tile is flowing at the time of discovery, temporary repairs and screen installation will
be completed prior to the end of the workday. If a damaged drain tile is not flowing at the time of
discovery, the drain tile will be screened and temporarily repaired within 24 hours. Temporary repairs
may be removed to accommodate pipe lowering and backfilling.
Permanent drain tile repairs will be made by a qualified drain tile specialist, the landowner, or a
landowner’s representative. In general, drain tile will be scoped or snaked to determine if existing tile
within the ROW is damaged. The existing drain tile will be inspected within the entire width of the
ROW (i.e., to both edges of the ROW). All damaged, broken, or cracked drain tile will be replaced
with new tile. The quality, size, and flow of replacement tile will equal or exceed that of the damaged
tile. The drain tile will be permanently repaired so that its original gradient and alignment are
restored. Replacement tile will be supported with a secondary method, such as perforated corrugated
steel pipe. All repairs will be inspected prior to backfilling the trench area. Variations to these
methods may be employed if requested by the landowner.
During ROW negotiations, Northern will determine if any specialty crops, such as orchards, are
present or if any organic farms exist within the Project area. If present, Northern will work with the
landowners to determine appropriate mitigation and protection measures for these properties.
If construction requires the removal of private property features, such as gates or fences, the
landowner or tenant will be notified prior to the action. If construction requires the removal of trees,
the landowner or tenant will be notified prior to the action. Following completion of major
construction, the grade will be restored, as close as practicable, to the original contours.
Temporary access roads located within agricultural fields will be restored, as near as practicable, to
preconstruction conditions in adherence with the Plan and Procedures. Specific construction
procedures for access roads within agricultural areas include topsoil removal in conjunction with
grading activities and subsoil decompaction prior to topsoil replacement.
Commercial and Industrial Areas
The valve, meter station, and storage/contractor yards are located on or near commercial or industrial
properties. The meter station and valve locations will be constructed on the customer’s property,
which is an existing chemical fertilizer facility. The existing land at the meter station and valve site is
industrial; therefore, no special construction techniques will be required at these sites.
The storage/contractor yards are located within a commercial/industrial area near South Sioux City,
Nebraska. The contractor will be using these areas for storage of equipment and construction job
trailers. Since minimal ground disturbance will be occurring, no special construction techniques will
be required in these locations.
Blasting
Although blasting is not anticipated to be required for the proposed project, in the unlikely event that
unrippable subsurface rock is encountered, blasting for trench excavation could be necessary. In these
areas, care will be taken to prevent damage to above and underground structures (e.g., cables,
conduits and pipelines) or to springs, water wells, or other water sources. Blasting mats or soil cover
will be used as necessary to prevent the scattering of loose rock. All blasting will be conducted
during daylight hours and will not begin until occupants of nearby buildings, stores, residences,
places of business, and farms are notified. Prior to initiation of blasting activities, Northern’s
19
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
contractor will submit written safety precautions and blasting procedures to Northern. Northern’s
contractor will monitor vibrations and ensure that peak particle velocity at the pipeline did not exceed
five inches per second.
1.3.5
Aboveground Facility Construction Procedures
Typical construction activities associated with the new compressor stations and meter station
construction are summarized below. Construction activity and storage of construction material will
be limited to the Project area. Waste materials will be disposed of in a manner consistent with state
and local regulations. Disturbed areas will be restored in a timely manner. Construction will
include general activities such as clearing and grading, access road installation, foundation
installation, erection of aboveground facilities, installation of piping equipment, testing of
equipment, clean up and restoration of the Project area. These activities described below are typical
and actual construction may vary.
Clearing and Grading – The site will be partially cleared of existing vegetation, graded as described
in the SWPPP and prepared for construction. Construction activities including temporary storage of
equipment, materials, and waste will be limited to the temporary workspace. Excess soil removed
during construction activities will be stored on-site for future restoration or disposed of in an
approved manner.
Access Road Installation – Access roads to each of the aboveground facilities will be constructed.
Backfilling and compaction will be completed where necessary. Excess soil removed during access
road installation will be stored on-site for future restoration or disposed of in an approved manner.
Silt fencing and other BMPs will be installed and inspected at required intervals in accordance with
applicable state and federal permits.
Foundation Installation – After site preparation is complete, excavation will be performed, as
necessary, to accommodate the new concrete foundations. Forms will be set, rebar installed, and
the concrete poured and cured in accordance with minimum strength requirements. Backfill will be
compacted in-place and excess soil will be evenly spread within the station yard or hauled off for
proper disposal.
Erection of Aboveground Facilities – Aboveground facilities will be installed after foundations are
completed. The proposed aboveground facilities include but are not limited to: compressor and
auxiliary buildings, and associated above-grade piping and valves, mainline block valve and
actuators, suction and discharge side valves and actuators, a station suction scrubber, station recycle
valves, lube oil coolers, multiple blowdown silencers, exhaust systems, a backup generator, inlet air
filters, a fuel gas conditioning skid, a fire/gas detection system, an air compressor and air dryer, a
station transformer, and electrical pole(s).
Piping Equipment – All non-screwed piping associated with the facilities will be welded, except
where connected to flanged components. All welders and welding procedures will be qualified in
accordance with API Standards. Equipment and structures will be installed in compliance with
applicable local, state and federal code requirements. Aboveground piping will be cleaned and
painted according to Northern’s specifications and in accordance with regulatory requirements.
Testing – Prior to placing in service, all controls and safety equipment and systems, such as
emergency shutdown systems, relief valves, gas and fire detection, and other protection equipment
will be tested. Pressure testing will be conducted on piping, in accordance with the requirements of
DOT pipeline safety regulations, Title 49 CFR Part 192, Northern’s testing specifications, and
applicable permits. Testing will follow all applicable federal, state, and local requirements.
20
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Methodology and impacts of the pressure testing procedure are discussed further in Resource Report
2.
Cleanup and Restoration – The Project area will be cleaned and restored in accordance with
applicable state and federal permits and plans. Final grading will be completed, gravel surfaces
refreshed (as needed), and grass or appropriate vegetation seeded per specifications. Compliance
with the SWPPP and other permanent mitigation measures according to state and federal permits
will be verified.
1.4
OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
Northern will operate and maintain the proposed facilities in compliance with DOT regulations
provided in Title 49 CFR Part 193, the FERC’s directives in 18 CFR § 380.15, and maintenance
provisions of the Plan and Procedures. These standards are in accordance with the National Pipeline
Safety Act of 1968, as amended.
Greenfield Branch Line and Greenfield Tie-Over Lateral: Operational activity on the pipeline
will be limited primarily to maintenance of the ROW and inspection, repair, and cleaning of the
pipeline itself. Periodic aerial and ground inspections by pipeline personnel will identify soil erosion
that may expose the pipe; dead vegetation that may indicate a leak in the line; conditions of the
vegetative cover and erosion control measures; unauthorized encroachment on the ROW, such as
building and other substantial structures; and other conditions that could present a safety hazard or
require preventative maintenance or repairs. The pipeline cathodic protection system also will be
monitored and inspected periodically to ensure proper and adequate corrosion protection. Northern
will use public roads to gain access to the ROW for maintenance and inspection activities. Northern
will work with landowners to obtain temporary access if such access is deemed necessary.
Appropriate actions to address conditions observed during inspection will be taken as necessary.
The ROW will be allowed to revegetate; however, large brush and trees will be periodically
removed. Trees or deep-rooted shrubs could damage the pipeline’s protective coating, obscure
periodic surveillance, or interfere with potential repairs. Therefore, the frequency of the vegetation
maintenance will depend upon the vegetation growth rate. In upland areas, routine vegetation
maintenance will be conducted on a 50-foot-wide strip centered over the pipeline with a frequency of
not more than once every three years. In addition, a 10-foot-wide strip over the pipeline may be
maintained in an herbaceous state by mowing, cutting, and trimming on an annual basis. Vegetation
maintenance will not normally be required in agricultural cropland or grazing areas. In addition, trees
within 15 feet of the pipeline that are greater than 15 feet in height will be selectively cut to allow for
required monitoring and inspection of the pipeline.
Routine vegetation maintenance will occur outside of the April 15 to August 1 avoidance window.
Use of herbicides will be in accordance with applicable agency requirements and with landowner
approval. Northern will only use chemicals approved for such use by the EPA. Northern will follow
the vegetation maintenance methods and timelines described in Appendix 1A (Plan and Procedures).
The pipeline facilities will be clearly marked at line-of-sight intervals and at road crossings, railroads,
and other key points. The markers will clearly indicate the presence of the pipeline and provide a
telephone number and address where a company representative may be reached in the event of an
emergency or before any excavation by a third party. Northern participates in all state One Call
21
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
systems, including the Diggers Hotline of Nebraska and Iowa One Call, and makes all requisite
locate requests.
No new permanent staff beyond that already working for Northern will be required to operate the
new pipeline facilities after construction is completed.
Aboveground Facilities:
Upon completion of construction, the aboveground components of the pipeline facilities (i.e., block
valves, blow down valves) will be painted to be visible from the surrounding area for purposes of
security and the Homeland Security Act. Northern personnel will perform routine checks of
aboveground facilities, including calibration of equipment and instrumentation.
Northern anticipates adding four full-time field operations staff to accommodate the additional
workload associated with the operation of the Fremont and Homer compressor stations. The Fremont
and Homer compressor stations will be remotely-operated facilities.
Additional details regarding the operation and maintenance of the Project will be described in
Resource Report 11.
1.5
FUTURE PLANS AND ABANDONMENT
Northern has no current plans for the expansion or abandonment of the facilities described in this
report. Northern’s pipeline system comprises an integrated network of transmission facilities in the
Midwestern United States. Future expansion will be dependent on additional demands for natural gas
in the service area.
1.6
PERMITS AND APPROVALS
Northern will obtain all permits and approvals required to construct the proposed facilities. Table 1.61 lists the federal, state, and local permits and consultations required, and the status of each permit.
Agency contact information is provided in Appendix 1B – Federal and State Agency Contact List.
Northern is not aware of any special permit conditions at this time.
Table 1.6-1 Required Permits and Clearances
Responsible Agency
Permit or Clearance Required
Status of Permit/Clearance
Federal
FERC
Certificate for construction and
operation of interstate natural
gas transmission pipeline
facilities.
Submitted application to use prefiling process December 2012.
EPA
Clean Air Act permits and
approvals
Delegated to the states.
CWA Section 401 Water
Quality Certification
Delegated to the states.
CWA Section 402 permits for
wastewater or stormwater
discharges
Delegated to the states.
22
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Table 1.6-1 Required Permits and Clearances
Responsible Agency
Permit or Clearance Required
Status of Permit/Clearance
BIA and Native
American Tribes
NHPA Section 106 consultation
to determine if the project will
have impact on receptors of
Native American cultural
importance.
FERC will consult with Native
American entities with historic ties
to the Project area; Native American
consultation letters will be sent in
early January 2013. Responses will
be provided in a subsequent filing.
NRCS
No permit required-consultation
for protection of sensitive soil
and prime farmland.
NEPA process will provide guidance
on weed control, erosion control,
and ROW restoration.
Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation NSHS
Section 106 consultation, NHPA
Request letter for additional
consultation with NSHS will be sent
in early January 2013. Response will
be provided in a subsequent filing.
Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation Iowa SHPO
Section 106 consultation, NHPA
Request letter for concurrence with a
determination of no effect on
cultural or historic properties will be
sent to the Iowa SHPO in early
January 2013. Response will be
provided in a subsequent filing.
USACE - Omaha District Section 404 permit - nationwide
CWA and Section 10 Rivers and
Harbors Act.
Wetlands and waterways are not
expected to be dredged or filled due
to avoidance and HDD. Concurrence
request letter will be submitted in
early January 2013. Response will
be provided in a subsequent filing.
USFWS - Rock Island
Field Office
Endangered Species Act consultation clearance request
for Iowa
Request letter for concurrence with a
determination of no adverse effect
on federally threatened or
endangered species December 14,
2012. Response will be provided in
a subsequent filing.
MBTA protective measures
FERC consultation with USFWS
during NEPA process
USFWS - Nebraska Field Endangered Species Act Office
consultation clearance request
for Nebraska
MBTA protective measures
23
Request letter for concurrence with a
determination of no adverse effect
on federally threatened or
endangered species December 14,
2012. Response will be provided in
a subsequent filing.
FERC consultation with USFWS
during NEPA process
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Table 1.6-1 Required Permits and Clearances
Responsible Agency
Permit or Clearance Required
Status of Permit/Clearance
State – Iowa
IDNR - NHI consultation Potential impacts to sensitive
species (e.g., state-listed and
species of special concern),
game species, and important
habitats.
Request letter for concurrence with a
determination of no adverse effect
on state threatened or endangered
species December 14, 2012.
Response will be provided in a
subsequent filing.
IDNR
Water Quality Certification
(CWA, Section 401).
Wetlands and waterways are not
expected to be dredged or filled due
to avoidance and HDD. Concurrence
request letter will be submitted in
early January 2013. Response will
be provided in a subsequent filing.
IDNR
Wildlife Management Area
Permit or agency approval to be
obtained prior to construction as
applicable.
IDNR Flood Plain and
Sovereign Lands Section
Sovereign Land Joint
Application for Iowa
A permit to HDD bore the Missouri
River will be submitted in early
January 2013. Response will be
provided in subsequent filing.
IDNR - Water Use and
Allocation Program
Water use permit for hydrostatic
test water uptake and dust
abatement during construction
Will be submitted prior to uptake if
more than 25,000 gallons are
required in any 24-hour period for
hydrostatic testing or dust
abatement.
IDNR - NPDES Section,
Storm water Program
State-issued NPDES general
permit for construction and pit
trench dewatering.
To be obtained prior to construction.
IDNR - NPDES Section,
Wastewater Permitting
Hydrostatic Test Water
Discharge Authorization
To be obtained prior to construction,
if necessary.
IDNR
Temporary construction
equipment emissions
Northern will consult with the IDNR
to confirm that a construction
equipment/vehicle emissions permit
is not required.
Iowa Department of
Cultural Affairs - Iowa
SHPO
Section 106 clearance for
cultural resources.
Request letter for concurrence with a
determination of no effect on
cultural or historic properties will be
submitted to the Iowa SHPO in early
January 2013.
24
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Table 1.6-1 Required Permits and Clearances
Responsible Agency
Permit or Clearance Required
Status of Permit/Clearance
State – Nebraska
Nebraska Game and
Potential impacts to sensitive
Parks Commission - NHI species (e.g., state-listed and
Consultation
species of special concern),
game species, and important
habitats.
Request letter for concurrence with a
determination of no adverse effect
on state threatened or endangered
species December 14, 2012.
Response will be provided in a
subsequent filing.
NDEQ
Water Quality Certification
(CWA, Section 401).
Wetlands and waters are not
expected to be dredged, filled, or
impacted by the Project.
Concurrence that no permit is
required for wetland water quality or
HDD bore under Missouri River will
be submitted in early January 2013.
Response will be provided in a
subsequent filing.
NDNR - Surface Water
and Groundwater
Sections
Permits for Appropriation of
Surface Water or Groundwater
To be obtained prior to construction.
NDEQ -NPDES Section,
Storm Water Program
State issued NPDES permit
(CWA, Section 402).
To be obtained prior to construction.
NDEQ –NPDES
Wastewater Section
State Issued General Permit
Authorizing Dewatering
Discharges
To be obtained prior to construction.
NDEQ – NPDES
Wastewater Section
Hydrostatic Test Discharges
from Pipeline and Storage Tank
Permit
To be obtained prior to construction,
if necessary.
NDEQ – Air Quality
Division
Permit to Construct (Air
Emissions)
Permit to Operate (Air
Emissions)
Northern will consult with the
NDEQ to confirm that a
construction will be required but not
an operating permit.
NSHS
Section 106 Consultation,
NHPA
Request letter for additional
consultation with NSHS will be sent
in early January 2013. Response will
be provided in a subsequent filing.
Local – Dakota County, Nebraska
Dakota County Highway
Department
County Road Permit
Permit to be obtained prior to
construction.
Nebraska Department of
Roads
State Road Crossing Permit
Permit to be obtained prior to
construction.
25
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Table 1.6-1 Required Permits and Clearances
Responsible Agency
Permit or Clearance Required
Status of Permit/Clearance
Dakota County Planning
and Zoning Department
Building Permit and Floodplain
Permit
Permit to be obtained prior to
construction.
Papio-Missouri River
Natural Resources
District
Waterbody crossing approval
(Pigeon Creek/Missouri River)
Waterbody crossing approval
(Pigeon Creek/Missouri River)
Burlington Northern
Santa Fe Railway
Company
Railway crossing permit
Permits to be obtained prior to
construction.
Local - City of Fremont, Nebraska
City of Fremont Building Building Permit, Electrical
Department
Permit and Mechanical Permit
Permits to be obtained prior to
construction.
Local - Dodge County, Nebraska
Dodge County Highway
Superintendent
County Road or Driveway
Permits
Permit to be obtained prior to
construction, if needed.
Local - Woodbury County, Iowa
Woodbury County
Engineering Office
County Road Permit
Permit to be obtained prior to
construction.
Woodbury County
Planning and Zoning
Department
Building Permit, Conditional
Use Permit, and Floodplain
Development Permit
Permits to be obtained prior to
construction.
1.7
AFFECTED LANDOWNERS/STAKEHOLDERS
A list of the landowners affected by the Project, including landowners whose property is crossed or
used by the project, abuts either side of an existing ROW or facility site, contains a residence within
50 feet of property to be crossed or used by the project, and landowners within 0.5 mile of the
proposed compressor stations is being provided as Appendix 1C (filed as P&C in Volume III).
Pursuant to section 157.6(d)(1) of the FERC’s regulations, Northern will notify these parties within
three business days following the date that the FERC issues a notice of the Section 7 application.
Northern will, to the best of its ability, publish notice of the filing of the Section 7 application twice,
no later than 14 days after the FERC assigns a docket number to the Section 7 application, in the
newspapers. Pursuant to Section 157.10(c) of the FERC’s regulations, a copy of the application will
be placed in public libraries within three business days of the date a docket number is issued to the
Section 7 application.
A listing of other stakeholders interested in the Project is included as Appendix 1D. In addition, the
applicable libraries and newspapers are included in Appendix 1D.
26
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
1.7.1
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Public Outreach Program
Public outreach for the Project includes but is not limited to the following:
Landowner Contact: Northern has identified approximately 46 landowners that may be affected
by the proposed project. This number includes landowners directly affected by and/or abutting the
pipeline route; landowners that may be affected by access roads, and extra work spaces; and
landowners within one-half mile of the proposed compressor stations.
Stakeholder Outreach: Between February 4 and 6, 2013, Northern will conduct three open houses
for the Project to be held in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa; South Sioux City, and Fremont, Nebraska.
Northern has confirmed the final dates and sites with FERC staff. All identified stakeholders will
be invited and encouraged to attend these information-sharing open houses. Each open house will
be publicized via the local newspapers and through direct mail invitation to property owners,
customers, regulatory agencies and public officials of political subdivisions along the proposed
route corridor and compressor station sites.
A website (www.northernnaturalgas.com/expansionprojects) was developed and made available to
the public July 29, 2005. The website was added for previously approved FERC projects. Northern
has added a drop-down link for the Project. The website address will be noted on all outreach
materials and other communications. The information on the website will include background
information on Northern; a description of the scope of the Project; a general project schedule; a
preliminary project map; a set of initial potential inquiries that Northern has labeled, “Frequently
Asked Questions”; a brief summary of the role of federal review; Project updates; Project contact
information; and regulatory developments and announcements. Northern will add information on
the Project to a website developed by Northern for its expansion projects
(www.northernnaturalgas.com/expansionprojects). The website will list the single-source-ofcontact information for landowners, a description of the Project scope, maps, and timelines.
Northern has designated its existing OCC as its single point of contact. The OCC’s toll-free
number (1-888-367-6671) will be included in all communications with property owners and other
identified stakeholders. The OCC is staffed year round 24 hours per day. When a call is received
regarding the Project, trained OCC personnel will record the information and notify the West Leg
Expansion project manager, who will either address the concern or contact the appropriate
company subject matter expert to provide a timely response.
Agency Consultations: On November 19, 2012, Northern began contacting permitting agencies to
provide Project information and inform them that Northern will be utilizing the pre-filing process
and to request their participation in this process.
1.8
NON-JURISDICTIONAL FACILITIES
CF Industries, Inc. will be expanding the fertilizer manufacturing facility at Port Neal, Iowa, and
developing a new rail spur and access road. The expansion includes construction of a second
ammonia plant which will be built just north of the existing plant on a 120-acre site of land that CF
Industries, Inc. currently owns. CF Industries, Inc. will install a 14-inch-diameter pipeline that will
run from the outlet of the new meter station to the inlet of the new plant. The plant will require up to
90,000 Dth/d of natural gas and produce up to 2,425 tons per day of ammonia and 3,850 tons per day
27
NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project
RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1
GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION
of urea. The plant will begin construction in 2013 with requirements for gas flow as early as
November 2014. Auxiliary electric transmission facilities will be required. Applicable permits have
not yet been acquired.
FERC has adopted a four-factor procedure to determine whether there is sufficient federal control
and responsibility over related nonjurisdictional facilities to require a full environmental analysis.
These factors include:
i) Whether the regulated activity comprises “merely a link” in a corridor-type project (such as a
transportation or utility transmission project);
ii) Whether there are aspects of the nonjurisdictional facilities in the immediate vicinity of the
regulated activity which affect the location and configuration of the regulated activity;
iii) The extent to which the entire Project would be within FERC’s jurisdiction; and
iv) The extent of cumulative federal control and responsibility.
Pursuant to its review of the four factors as set forth in section 380.12(c)(2(ii) of the Commission's
regulations, Northern has evaluated whether there is sufficient federal control and responsibility over
the project to warrant an environmental analysis of the non-jurisdictional facilities to be constructed
in conjunction with the facilities proposed in the Project.
With respect to factor (i), the Project does not comprise “merely a link” in a corridor-type project
(e.g., transportation or utility transmission project). The Project would include greenfield pipeline
compression, and a meter station addition to Northern’s pipeline system.
With respect to factor (ii), there are no aspects of nonjurisdictional facilities in the immediate vicinity
of Northern’s pipeline system which have uniquely influenced the location and configuration of
Northern’s proposed facilities.
With respect to factor (iii), CF Industries will secure the necessary permits for the construction and
operation of its nonjurisdictional facilities. The construction of these non-jurisdictional facilities is
outside of the Commission's jurisdiction.
Finally, with respect to factor (iv), the extent of cumulative federal control and responsibility over the
related nonjurisdictional facilities is minimal given that the CF Industry facilities are privately-owned
and CF Industries’ plant expansion will be constructed without federal financing, assistance or
direction.
Based on these factors, Northern does not believe a need exists for the commission to do an
environmental review of the project-related non-jurisdictional facilities. Additionally, the related
nonjurisdictional facilities appear to be subject to sufficient project review, analysis and approval by
other regulatory agencies. Consequently, Northern does not believe the nonjurisdictional facilities are
subject to the environmental review.
28