Proposed Surveys for Cypress Pipeline Project
During the planning
stages and route refinement process for the Cypress Pipeline Project,
three different types of surveys will be conducted. These surveys’s
include a preliminary civil survey to locate the proposed centerline
of the right of way; an environmental survey to locate wetlands
and other sensitive environmental resources; and an archaeological
survey to identify the location of cultural and historic resources.
The land agent that will meet with you about obtaining your permission
to conduct these surveys will answer questions you might have about
the survey process.
Preliminary Civil Survey
A survey crew of approximately five people
will locate the centerline of the proposed route of the pipeline.
This centerline will be used as a guide for all survey activity
on your property. The crew will mark the centerline with stakes
and flagging. In some locations it may be necessary to clear and
cut brush, limbs, and small (not to exceed six inches) trees along
the centerline of the proposed right of way.
Later, usually within a few weeks, another crew will return to
record the survey data along the marked line. Other survey crews
may follow-up to make adjustments to the centerline as a result
of changes to the line at other locations, as well as to avoid
sensitive areas identified by our other survey crews.
Environmental Survey
An environmental survey crew of approximately
four people will survey the proposed right of way and its adjacent
area. The adjacent area to be studied will range from 150 to 200
feet on either side of the centerline, depending on the specific
location. The purpose of the environmental survey is to determine
the size and location of wetlands and streams and to evaluate
the land for potential habitat of endangered plan or animal species.
The environmental survey crew will also locate springs and/or
water wells, erosion prone areas, man-made features such as ponds,
irrigation systems, drain tiles, or other such improvements. Additional
surveys might be required in conjunction with any adjustments made
to the centerline of the proposed right of way.
Archaeological Survey
A survey crew of approximately six to nine people
will study the proposed right of way and adjacent area (extending
approximately 150 to 200 feet) on either side of the centerline.
The purpose of the archaeological survey is to identify the presence,
if any, of cultural or historic resources that need to be protected.
The survey will include shovel tests approximately 18 inches deep
at intervals of roughly 50 meters. The soil from each shovel
test will be sifted through a screen to check for the presence
of historical remains, pot shards, arrowheads, and any other artifacts
with historical significance. The soil will be replaced and tamped.
Professionals will study any objects found. After the survey
process is complete, and all regulatory approvals are either
obtained or denied, any materials taken from your property will
be returned to the landowner upon request, consistent with state
law or other regulations. Additional surveys may be required
in conjunction with any adjustments to the centerline.
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