Pipeline Presence/Absence Surveys

Burns & McDonnell obtained permits required for construction of a 64-mile petroleum pipeline extending from Oklahoma City to Wynnewood, Okla.

• Phase I cultural resources survey
• Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)
• Wetland identification 

Early coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) indicated that the project could be authorized under Nationwide Permit No. 12 with a Letter of Permission (LOP) to cross the Canadian River, which is a Corps-designated navigable water.

For the Nationwide Permit to be valid, the project needed clearance from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that it would not impact endangered species. The service indicated the presence of a population of Interior Least Terns near the Canadian River crossing. Before drilling activities began at the Canadian River, a Burns & McDonnell biologist surveyed the crossing area with a service biologist to make sure all least terns had fledged and migrated south.

The Oklahoma State Historic Preservation Officer approved the project for construction because all archaeological and historic sites were avoided and a Burns & McDonnell archaeologist was to be present during construction at locations near the sites. The Corps also issued the wetland permit in time for construction to begin on schedule. All required permits and clearances were obtained before the expedited date of construction.