Fact: Underground pipeline and utility line depth varies. Lines can be less than 12 inches below the surface.

Pipeline and utility line depth can change over time due to erosion, land use, sub-soil activities, land contouring and other factors.

Pipeline and utility operators monitor the depth of their lines. Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to consult with pipeline operators and utility companies before tilling, tiling, ripping, fencing or digging near lines.

Partnering with pipeline operators helps farmers and ranchers conduct their work safely and without damages.

Fact: Pipeline and utility companies will locate the lines they own and maintain for free for farmers, ranchers and private landowners.

When you call 811, the three-digit number to request an underground line locate, pipeline operators and local utilities will come mark the location of lines free of charge. Consulting with farmers and ranchers who work near their lines is all in a day’s work for pipeline operators.

Fact: Hitting, nicking and scraping an underground pipeline or utility line always results in damage.

When agricultural equipment, pole diggers, backhoes and even hand tools come into contact with an underground pipeline or utility line, they puncture, crack, nick or scratch the line, impacting the protective coating and the plastic or steel pipe designed to protect what is inside.

Always notify the pipeline or utility line operator if you come in contact with an underground line, even if you don’t think you’ve damaged it. Damage may not result in an immediate leak but if it isn’t fixed, it can lead to corrosion and will become a safety risk at a later time.

Fact: Underground pipelines and utility lines transport natural gas, electricity, crude oil and other petroleum products that are considered hazardous materials by the federal government.

Hitting an underground line can result in serious injuries, including burns, asphyxiation and electrocution.

Fact: Some pipelines transport products that can contaminate soil and water.  Clean up activities will delay planting and other land use during and after clean up, particularly for certified farms or specialty crops.

Fact: Underground pipeline and utility line depth varies and can be less than 12 inches below the surface.

The depth of the line can change over time due to erosion, land use, sub-soil activities, land contouring and other factors.

Pipeline and utility operators monitor the depth of their lines. Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to always call 811 and to consult with pipeline and utility line operators before tilling, tiling, ripping, fencing or digging near lines, even if they are only digging 12 inches.

Partnering with pipeline operators helps farmers and ranchers conduct their work safely and without damages.

Fact: Driving heavy equipment over pipelines and underground utility lines can impact the line.

Consult with pipeline or utility line operators regarding the weight of the equipment and frequency of crossings to ensure worker safety.