Right of Way Management

We own and operate an extensive network of electric transmission and distribution lines to deliver the power we generate to you. We also own and operate natural gas pipelines which deliver natural gas to customers in residential and business areas and to local gas distribution companies.

Providing safe and reliable electricity and natural gas requires quick access to maintain or repair power lines, pipelines, related facilities and rights of way. We trim trees that are in or near our rights of way to protect our electric lines, prevent outages and keep you and your children safe.

Gas Pipeline Markers

Pipeline markers are typically found in the pipeline right of way to identify that a pipeline is buried nearby. Pipeline markers rarely are placed directly above the buried pipeline, but will typically follow the pipeline’s general (but not direct) route. Markers identify the product carried in the pipeline such as natural gas, the name of the pipeline operator and its 24-hour emergency contact number and the area’s one-call center number.

High Consequence Areas

In accordance with federal regulations some areas near pipelines have been designated as High Consequence Areas, or an HCA. An HCA is an area or building near a gas transmission pipeline where more than 20 people can gather, work or live. An HCA can include parks, schools, churches, apartment buildings, business or condo complexes, football fields, etc.

Be observant and take notice of pipeline markers placed throughout communities—near your home, work or even while vacationing. Knowing in advance how to safely respond to a pipeline incident will help ensure your safety and the safety of the community. While catastrophic pipeline incidents are rare, pipelines are too frequently damaged by excavation. When a pipeline near an HCA is damaged, expect the area to be evacuated for a period of time. The pipeline operator, with help from local emergency response agencies, will need to respond to and repair the damaged pipeline.