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Permalink Reply by Big Daddy, bcnr on March 24, 2009 at 11:23

JM, Can't say why they would need 50 ft. for a pair of 12" pipes, but I can say from experience, most pipelines of that size and pressure need lots of cathodic protection. This is normally done by a series of anodes and rectifiers. The rectified pipes need seperation so the DC current does not bleed off causing areas to be under protected. Here in Illinois, we don't want anything within 3-4' of our rectified pipes. Try to negotiate a smaller servitude if your uncomfortable with a 50' servitude.

As far as compensation, everything is negotiable. I have been told gathering lines are not subject to expropriation (comdemnation, eminent domain) as interstate pipelines are. You have a bit more leverage to negotiate a fair compensation package. From personal experience, I would contact a good ROW attorney to do your bidding. This is a lifetime agreement and you want to get it right. If it were me and they want 2 pipes, negotiate the 2 pipe deal only. Do not agree to any clauses or language that allows them to add more pipes later for a reduced rate. Additional pipes can be negotiated later. Just curious, where are these gathering lines going to be constructed?

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Permalink Reply by JM on March 24, 2009 at 11:56

Canine, Thanks for your input. Desoto parish. Encana. Gathering lines from a well not in my section. The ROW is only about 100ft in length. Just passes through the corner of my property and they plan to directionally bore and not disturb the surface. I think I will push for a smaller servitude.

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Permalink Reply by Big Daddy, bcnr on March 24, 2009 at 12:50

Good call. Ask for a bunch, it's a small servitude and it's easier to cross your property than go around it. Same story for me. The gathering line is for a well in another section. As for an attorney, I HIGHLY recommend The Pesnell Law Firm in Shreveport. I was very happy with their work. Good luck.

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