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NORTHERN NATURAL GAS COMPANY - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project REPORT NO. 1 GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Resource Report No. 1

General Project Description

West Leg 2014 Expansion Project

FERC Docket No. PF13-2-000

January 2013


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RESOURCE REPORT 1 – GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION SUMMARY OF FILING INFORMATION

Found in Section

1. Provide a detailed description and location map of the project facilities. (§ 380.12(c)(1))

Include all pipeline and aboveground facilities. Include support areas for construction or operation. Identify facilities to be abandoned.

Section 1.1, Tables 1.1-1 and 1.1-2, Figures 1-1, 1-2, and 1-3

2. Describe any nonjurisdictional facilities that would be built in associationwith the project. (§ 380.12(c)(2))

Include auxiliary facilities (see § 2.55(a)) Describe the relationship to the jurisdictional facilities. Include ownership, land requirements, gas consumption, megawatt

size, construction status, and an update of the latest status of federal, state, and local permits/approvals.

Include the length and diameter of any interconnecting pipeline. Apply the four-factor test to each facility (§ 380.12(c)(2)(ii))

Section 1.8

3. Provide current original U.S. Geological Survey 7.5-minute seriestopographic maps with mileposts showing the project facilities. (§ 380.12(c)(3))

Maps of equivalent detail are acceptable if legible (check with staff). Show locations of all linear project elements, and label them. Show locations of all significant aboveground facilities, and label them.

Figure 1-2

4. Provide aerial images or photographs or alignment sheets based onthese sources with mileposts showing the project facilities.(§ 380.12(c)(3))

No more than 1 year old. Scale no smaller than 1:6,000.

Figure 1-3 and Figure 1.3a

5. Provide plot/site plans of compressor stations showing the location ofthe nearest noise sensitive areas (NSA) within 1 mile. (§ 380.12(c)(3,4))

Scale no smaller than 1:3,600. Show reference to topographic maps and aerial alignments provided

above.

Figure 1-5 and Figure 1-7

6. Describe construction and restoration methods. (§ 380.12(c)(6)) Include this information by milepost. Make sure this is provided for offshore construction as well. For the

offshore this information is needed on a mile-by-mile basis and willrequire completion of geophysical and other surveys before filing.

Sections 1.3.3, 1.3.4 and 1.3.5

7. Identify the permits required for construction across surface waters. (§ 380.12(c)(9))

Include the status of all permits. For construction in the federal offshore area be sure to include

consultation with the MMS. File with MMS for rights of way grants atthe same time or before you file with the Federal Energy RegulatoryCommission.

Table 1.6-1

8. Provide the names and addresses of all affected landowners and certify that all affected landowners will be notified as required in § 157.6(d).(§ 380.12(c)(10)).

Affected landowners are defined in § 157.6(d). Provide an electronic copy directly to the environmental staff.

Appendix 1-C Filed as Privileged and Confidential

Additional Information Often Missing and Resulting in Data Requests Describe all authorizations required to complete the Proposed Action

and the status of applications for such authorizations.Section 1.6 and Table 1.6-1


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Found in Section

Provide plot/site plans of all other aboveground facilities that are not completely within the right of way (ROW).

Figures 1-4, 1-6, and 1-8 Filed as Critical Energy Infrastructure Information

Provide detailed typical construction ROW cross-section diagrams showing information such as widths and relative locations of existing rights of way, new permanent ROW, and temporary construction ROW.

Section 1.2.1 and Figure 1-10

Summarize the total acreage of land affected by construction and operation of the project.

Tables 1.2-1 and 1.2-2

If Resource Report 5, Socioeconomics, is not provided, provide the startand end dates of construction, the number of pipeline spreads that would be used, and the work force per spread.

Section 1.3.1 and Resource Report 5

Send two (2) additional copies of topographic maps and aerial images/photographs directly to the environmental staff of the Office ofEnergy Projects.

Attached


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Contents

1.0 GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION .............................................................................. 1

1.1 PROPOSED FACILITIES .................................................................................................... 1 1.1.1 Purpose and Need ..................................................................................................... 1 1.1.2 Location and Description of Facilities ..................................................................... 2 1.1.3 Location Maps, Detailed Route Maps, and Plot, Site Plans .................................... 5

1.2 LAND REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................... 5 1.2.1 Pipeline Facilities ..................................................................................................... 6 1.2.2 Aboveground Facilities ............................................................................................ 7

1.3 CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE AND PROCEDURES .................................................... 7 1.3.1 Construction Schedule and Workforce .................................................................... 8 1.3.2 Training, Inspection, and Environmental Compliance ............................................ 9 1.3.3 Pipeline Construction Procedures .......................................................................... 10 1.3.4 Special Construction Techniques ........................................................................... 16 1.3.5 Aboveground Facility Construction Procedures ................................................... 20

1.4 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE ........................................................................... 21

1.5 FUTURE PLANS AND ABANDONMENT .................................................................... 22

1.6 PERMITS AND APPROVALS ......................................................................................... 22

1.7 AFFECTED LANDOWNERS/STAKEHOLDERS .......................................................... 26 1.7.1 Public Outreach Program ....................................................................................... 27

1.8 NON-JURISDICTIONAL FACILITIES ........................................................................... 27

List of Tables

Table 1.1-1 Pipeline Facilities Table 1.1-2 Aboveground Facilities Table 1.2-1 Land Requirements for the Pipeline Facilities, Storage/Contractor Yards and Staging Areas Table 1.2-2 Land Requirements for the Aboveground Facilities Table 1.3-1 Hydrostatic Test Water Segments, Volumes, Sources and Discharge Locations Table 1.3-2 Public Road and Railroad Crossings Table 1.6-1 Required Permits and Clearances

List of Figures

Figure 1-1 Project Overview Map Figure 1-2 Project Location and Topographic Mapbook Figure 1-3 Alignment Sheets with Aerial Photograph (Filed as P&C) Figure 1-3a Alignment Sheets with Aerial Photograph (Public) Figure 1-4 Fremont Compressor Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII) Figure 1-5 NSAs for Fremont Compressor Station Figure 1-6 Homer Compressor Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII) Figure 1-7 NSAs for Homer Compressor Station Figure 1-8 Meter Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII) Figure 1-9 Cross-sectional HDD Bore Diagram


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Figure 1-10 Typical Right of Way Cross-sectional Diagram

List of Appendices

Appendix 1A - Northern’s Construction Procedures Appendix 1B - Federal and State Agency Contact List Appendix 1C – Landowner List (Filed as P&C) Appendix 1D - Stakeholder List


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Abbreviations and Acronyms

API American Petroleum Institute

BIA Bureau of Indian Affairs

BMPs Best Management Practice

C-line NEM50103 24-inch-diameter C-line

CEII Critical Energy Infrastructure Information

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

CWA Clean Water Act

Dth/d Dekatherms per day

DOT Department of Transportation

EI Environmental Inspector

EPA Environmental Protection Agency

FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

HDD Horizontal directional drill

HP Horsepower

IDNR Iowa Department of Natural Resources

IOS International Organization for Standardization

MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act

MDQ Maximum daily quantity

MP Milepost

Northern Northern Natural Gas Company

N/A Not applicable

NDEQ Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality

NDNR Nebraska Department of Natural Resources


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NEPA National Environmental Policy Act

NHI Natural Heritage Inventory

NHPA National Historic Preservation Act

NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

NSHS Nebraska State Historical Society

NRCS Natural Resources Conversation Service

NSAs Noise sensitive areas

OCC Northern’s Operations Communication Center

P&C Privileged and Confidential

Plan Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation and Maintenance Plan

Procedures Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures

Project West Leg 2014 Expansion Project

ROW Right of way

SHPO State Historic Preservation Office

SWPPP Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan

T&E Threatened and Endangered

Terra branch line IAB77301 12-inch-diameter Terra branch line

USACE U.S. Army Corp of Engineers

USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

NORTHERN NATURAL GAS - West Leg 2014 Expansion Project RESOURCE REPORT NO. 1 GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

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1.0 GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This resource report presents a description of the proposed facilities and summarizes the purpose, need, and land requirements for Northern’s proposed Project. The text and tables detail the location and land requirements for the entire Project. The permits and clearances required for the Project are summarized in Table 1.6-1.

1.1 PROPOSED FACILITIES

Northern proposes to construct and operate: (1) approximately 6.09 miles of 20-inch-diameter greenfield pipeline in Dakota County, Nebraska, and Woodbury County, Iowa; (2) approximately 0.41 mile of 20-inch-diameter greenfield pipeline tie-over in Woodbury County, Iowa (3) an approximately 4,700-HP ISO-rated greenfield compressor station to be located in Dodge County, Nebraska; (4) an approximately 9,500-HP ISO-rated greenfield compressor station to be located in Dakota County, Nebraska; and (5) a new meter station to be located in Woodbury County, Iowa. The Section 7 facilities are more fully described below. An overview map showing the Project facilities is included in Figure 1-1.

The proposed facilities will be installed as a greenfield project. Northern will acquire new easement rights for the pipeline and meter station. The compressor station properties will be purchased in fee.

In addition to the Section 7 facilities listed above, Northern will also construct and/or modify facilities under Section 2.55(a) of the FERC’s regulations. These facilities include:

A regulator setting on Northern’s D-C pipeline north of Bushton, Ellsworth County, Kansas Header modifications at Northern’s Tescott compressor station, Ottawa County, Kansas Header modifications at Northern’s Palmyra compressor station, Otoe County, Nebraska Installation of a regulator setting and modification of a branch line tie-over on Northern’s

Paullina B-line, Woodbury County, Iowa Replacement of a control valve on Northern’s Paullina C-line, Cherokee County, Iowa

Additional information on the auxiliary installations is not included in this application since they will be completed in accordance with Section 2.55(a).

1.1.1 Purpose and Need

This Project is a discrete stand-alone project. From October 18, 2012, through November 7, 2012, Northern held an open season to identify and quantify market growth opportunities, to solicit interest for firm transportation service, and to identify the need to construct facilities necessary to deliver firm transportation service for deliveries to Northern’s West Leg system. Northern stated in the open season that construction is required to expand the firm transportation capacity for service on or after November 1, 2014; however, service may commence earlier if capacity is available.

The proposed Project facilities are being constructed to meet customer requests received during the open season. As a result of the open season, two customers signed precedent agreements requesting incremental annual entitlement totaling 90,430 Dth/d. The proposed facilities are required to serve increased markets for industrial, commercial, and residential use which cannot be met by Northern’s existing infrastructure. The Project, as proposed, will allow Northern to transport the incremental load through the addition of greenfield compression and greenfield pipeline to Northern’s existing system.


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For this Project, approximately 99.5% or 90,000 Dth/d will be used by Northern’s customer, CF Industries Inc., to meet energy and raw material demand for an ammonia and granular urea production plant expansion. The remaining 0.5% of MDQ, or 430 Dth/d, will be used by another Northern customer to meet growing energy demands for residential and commercial uses. This includes the delivery of natural gas to heat homes and businesses and supplying natural gas for appliance and machinery operation. The Project is designed to optimize the placement of facilities to meet customer needs. This Project achieves expansion efficiencies and minimizes environmental impacts in comparison to other pipeline route options as more fully discussed in Resource Report 10.

1.1.2 Location and Description of Facilities

Pipeline Facilities

A description of facilities and length of surface disturbance associated with the pipeline segments is detailed in Table 1.1-1. All facility locations, staging areas, storage/contractor yards, temporary workspace, extra temporary workspace, and access roads are illustrated on Figures 1-2 and 1-3 topographic quadrangle maps and aerial alignment sheets, respectively.

Table 1.1-1 Pipeline Facilities

Facility Pipeline Diameter and Type

Approximate Length

MP County State

Greenfield branch line

20-inch-diameter lateral

4.27 miles 0.00 to 4.27 Dakota Nebraska



1.82 miles 4.27 to 6.09 Woodbury Iowa

Greenfield tie-over branch line


0.41 mile 0.00 to 0.411 Woodbury Iowa

1 Tie-over branch line begins at MP 6.09 of the branch line and extends 0.41 mile east to Northern’s existing Terra branch line.

Northern proposes to construct and operate approximately 6.09 miles of a 20-inch-diameter greenfield branch line. The branch line will commence at the discharge side of the proposed Homer compressor station in Section 2, Township 27 North, Range 8 East (Section 2, T27N, R8E), Dakota County, Nebraska, and extend to the proposed meter station in Section 24, T87N, R48W, Woodbury County, Iowa. The branch line will cross eastern parts of Nebraska (Dakota County) from approximately MP 0.00 through MP 4.27 and western parts of Iowa (Woodbury County) from approximately MP 4.27 through MP 6.09 Northern is also proposing to construct and operate approximately 0.41 mile of a 20-inch-diameter greenfield tie-over branch line that will commence at the meter station and extend to Northern’s existing Terra branch line. The pipeline will be installed within a 100-foot-wide nominal1 construction corridor. In addition to the construction corridor, Northern will be utilizing extra temporary workspace, staging areas, and new and/or to-be-improved temporary access roads during construction. Northern is coordinating with landowners to acquire easements.

1 Nominal is an industry term that indicates the width of the construction ROW without additional construction workspaces.


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Four storage/contractor yards will be located in the northeast quarter of Section 5 and the north half of Section 4, T28N, R9E, Dakota County, Nebraska. The yards will be used for storage of pipe, construction job trailers and other contractor equipment. In addition to the storage/contractor yards, seven staging areas are proposed along the pipeline route. All proposed staging areas are located on level land currently used for agricultural purposes. Five staging areas are located in Nebraska and two are located in Iowa.

In Nebraska, the first staging area is located near approximately MP 0.10 on the south side of 225th Street (Alignment Sheet P3-1). This area will be used for storage of contractor trailers and equipment, pipe fabrication and short-term storage of pipe. The second and third staging areas are located east and west of F Avenue (Alignment Sheet P3-2) near MP 1.45. These areas are located where the proposed line stops paralleling the road ROW and continues through agricultural land. These two areas will be used for equipment storage, pipe fabrication and short-term pipe storage. The fourth staging area is located west of a proposed access road (Alignment Sheet P3-4) near MP 3.60. This area will be used to stage equipment for the west side of the HDD of the Missouri River and Pigeon Creek Ditch. The fifth staging area is located at the terminus of a proposed access road (Alignment Sheet P3-5) near MP 4.50. This area will be used for staging equipment for the east side of the HDD of the Missouri River.

The sixth and seventh staging areas are located in Iowa adjacent to proposed access roads (Alignment Sheet P3-5 and P3-6) at MPs 4.90 and 5.50, respectively. Due to lack of public roads, access to construction ROW east of the Missouri River HDD is very limited. These two staging areas will be used for equipment storage, fabrication and short-term pipe storage.

Aboveground Facilities

A description of the activities and surface disturbance associated with the aboveground facilities is detailed in Table 1.1-2. The design for the Project requires two compressor stations, a meter station, and one valve site.

Table 1.1-2 Aboveground Facilities

Facility New/ Modified

HP - New

HP - Added

Approximate MP

County State

Fremont compressor station

New 4,700 N/A N/A Dodge Nebraska

Homer compressor station

New 9,500 N/A 0.00 Dakota

Nebraska

Meter station New N/A N/A 6.09 Woodbury Iowa

Tie-over terminus valve site

New N/A N/A 0.411 Woodbury Iowa

1 Tie-over branch line begins at MP 6.09 of the branch line and extends 0.41 mile east to Northern’s existing Terra branch line.


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Fremont Compressor Station

Northern proposes to construct and operate a compressor station to be located in Section 12, T17N, R7E, Dodge County, Nebraska. Plans include installation of a Solar Centaur 40S turbine driving a C40 series compressor with an ISO rating of 4,700 HP. The station will be connected to Northern’s existing C-line.

The proposed installation includes a mainline block valve and actuators, suction and discharge side valves and actuators, a station suction scrubber, a station recycle valve, a lube oil cooler, a blowdown silencer, an exhaust system, a backup generator, an inlet air filter, a fuel gas conditioning skid, a fire/gas detection system, an air compressor and air dryer, a station transformer, electrical pole(s), compressor and auxiliary buildings, and associated above-grade and below-grade piping and valves. The compressor building will contain noise attenuating panels, insulation, and inlet/exhaust hoods. A new permanent driveway will be constructed to access the compressor station. Standard fencing will surround the entire perimeter of the station.

Northern will acquire an approximately 627-foot by 300-foot site for the new compressor station. A site plan of the compressor station is included as Figure 1-4. An aerial photograph of the compressor station reflecting the NSAs within a one-mile buffer is included as Figure 1-5. Due to the engineering specifics and building identification, the site plan has been labeled CEII and segregated in Volume II.

Homer Compressor Station

Northern proposes to construct and operate a compressor station to be located in Section 2, T27N, R8E, Dakota County, Nebraska. Plans include installation of four Caterpillar model 3608 engines driving reciprocating compressors. The combined units have a site rating of 9,500-HP. The suction side of the compressor station will be connected to Northern’s existing 24-inch-diamter C-line and will discharge to the proposed 20-inch-diameter branch line and to the existing C-line.

The proposed scope of work includes the installation of a mainline block valve and actuators, suction and discharge side valves and actuators, discharge coalescing filters, station recycle valves, lube oil coolers, multiple blowdown silencers, exhaust systems, a backup generator, inlet air filters, a fuel gas conditioning skid, a fire/gas detection system, an air compressor and air dryer, a station transformer, electrical pole(s), compressor and auxiliary buildings, storage tanks, and associated above-grade and below-grade piping and valves. The compressor buildings will contain noise attenuating panels, insulation, and inlet/exhaust hoods. A permanent drive-way will be installed to allow access to the compressor station site. Standard fencing will surround the entire perimeter of the station.

Northern will acquire an approximately 675-foot by 505-foot site for the new compressor station. A site plan of the compressor station is included as Figure 1-6. An aerial photograph of the compressor station reflecting the NSAs within a one-mile buffer is included as Figure1-7. Due to the engineering specifics and building identification, the site plan has been labeled CEII and segregated in Volume II.

Meter Station

Northern proposes to construct and operate a meter station to be located at the terminus of the proposed branch line in Section 24, T87N, R48W, Woodbury County, Iowa. The new meter station will include a meter, flow control valve and associated piping, fittings and valves and buildings. Northern proposes to acquire an approximately 100-foot by 100-foot easement in order to accommodate the operation and maintenance of the new meter station. Extra temporary workspace of approximately 0.46 acre will be required for construction of the meter station. The meter station will be accessed by a new permanent driveway which will connect the station to the customer’s roads.


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Standard fencing will surround the entire perimeter of the station. The meter station plot plan is included as Figure 1-8.

Valve Site

Northern proposes to construct and operate one valve site to be located in Section 24, T87N, R48W, Woodbury County, Iowa. The valve site will be located at the terminus (located at MP 0.41 of the tie-over branch line). The valve will be enclosed by a fence and located within the limits of the permanent easement. The valve site will measure approximately 20 by 20 feet and have a gravel surface. A second valve site will be located inside the proposed meter station.

1.1.3 Location Maps, Detailed Route Maps, and Plot, Site Plans

The Project overview map (Figure 1-1) illustrates the location of the Project facilities. Figure 1-2 is a mapbook of the Project components on topographic quadrangles at 1:24,000 scale. Figures 1-3 and 1-3a contain Project alignment sheets on recent aerial images at 1:2,400 scale. Figure 1-3 contains sensitive resources information and is filed as P&C. Figure 1-3a is filed as public information. The alignment sheets include aerial photographs for the Fremont and Homer compressor stations and storage/contractor yards. Mileposts for the Project are also detailed on Figures1-3 and 1-3a. The remaining figures are as follows:

Figure 1-4 Fremont Compressor Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII) Figure 1-5 NSAs for Fremont Compressor Station Figure 1-6 Homer Compressor Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII) Figure 1-7 NSAs for Homer Compressor Station Figure 1-8 Meter Station Plot Plan (Filed as CEII) Figure 1-9 Cross-sectional HDD Bore Diagram Figure 1-10 Typical Right of Way Cross-sectional Diagram

Tables 1.1-1 and 1.1-2 provide descriptions of the Project facility’s locations.

1.2 LAND REQUIREMENTS

Northern proposes to utilize a 100-foot-wide nominal construction ROW for installation of the 20-inch-diameter pipeline lateral and tie-over branch line. This ROW width will accommodate large equipment traveling, pipe stringing, welding, trenching, and the storing of topsoil and trench spoil. The construction area for this Project includes the 100-foot nominal construction ROW and acreages associated with aboveground facilities, including access roads and extra temporary workspaces.

The Project will result in a total of 49.17 acres of permanent (operational) disturbance and an additional 165.71 acres of temporary (construction) disturbance. Temporary disturbances include the pipeline construction corridor, temporary workspaces, temporary access roads, short-term storage/contractor yards and seven staging areas. Permanent disturbances include the permanently maintained ROW centered on the greenfield pipelines and the operational footprints of the Homer compressor station, Fremont compressor station, valve site and new meter station. Pursuant to DOT requirements, the pipeline will have a minimum of 30 inches of cover from the top of the pipe to the natural ground surface in normal soil conditions. Additional depth of cover to address landowner concerns (for agricultural lands, e.g.) will be determined during the ROW


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negotiation process. The amount of spoil generated from a trench of this size typically requires 15 to 25 feet of the ROW width for storage on the spoil side. Depending on topsoil segregation requirements, the amount of topsoil generated will typically require an additional 10 to 20 feet of ROW or extra temporary workspace for storage.

As proposed, this Project will also require extra temporary workspace to facilitate construction adjacent to waterbody, road, and railroad crossings and crossing of other buried utilities. Extra workspaces for staging areas will also be used to place pipe in reasonable proximity to the construction ROW prior to stringing it along the ROW. Extra workspaces may also be required for staging of large mechanical equipment.

1.2.1 Pipeline Facilities

A summary of the land requirements for construction and operation of the pipeline facilities, including the storage/contractor yard and staging areas is provided in Table 1.2-1. A detailed typical ROW cross-sectional diagram is provided in Figure 1-10. A discussion of the proposed land requirements by land use type will be presented in Resource Report 8.

Table 1.2-1 Land Requirements for the Pipeline Facilities, Storage/Contractor Yards and Staging Areas

Project Component Proposed Activity

Length/ Number of

Sites

Land Required for Construction

(acres)

Land Required for Operation

(acres)

Greenfield branch line (corridor)

New facilities– opencut construction

method 5.66 miles 68.601 34.302

Greenfield branch line (corridor)

New facilities– HDD bores at waterways, roads and railroad

crossing

0.43 mile 0.00 0.00

Greenfield tie-over branch line (corridor)

New facilities – open cut construction

method 0.41 mile 5.081 2.482

Extra Temporary Workspace

Additional workspace at HDD

locations, public roads and points of

inflection

0.74 mile 9.22 0.00

Access Roads Access roads to

pipeline construction and workspaces

2.35 miles 8.553 0.00

Travel Lanes Access between bore

pits and Missouri River

0.18 mile 0.534 0.00

Storage/Contractor Yards

Equipment and pipeline storage;

contractor construction trailers

4 sites 36.65 0.00


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Project Component Proposed Activity

Length/ Number of

Sites

Land Required for Construction

(acres)


(acres)

Construction Staging Areas

Temporary storage and staging of construction equipment

7 sites 46.94 0.00

1Temporary workspace based on 100-foot-wide construction corridor2Permanent impact based on 50-foot-wide maintenance corridor in upland areas3Temporary impact based on 30-foot-wide access road 4Temporary workspace based on 25-foot-wide access area

1.2.2 Aboveground Facilities

A summary of the land requirements for construction and operation of the aboveground facilities is provided in Table 1.2-2. A detailed discussion of the proposed land requirements by land use type will be presented in Resource Report 8.

Table 1.2-2 Land Requirements for the Aboveground Facilities

Project Component Proposed Activity Property Size

(acres)

Land to be used During

Construction (acres)


(acres)


New facilityconstruction 4.321 10.01 4.32


New facilityconstruction 7.831 28.84 7.83

New meter station New facility construction 0.23 0.46 0.23

New valve site New facility construction 0.012 0.003 0.01

1Includes land Northern will own in fee 2Assumes 20 by 20-foot permanent easement 3Land included in temporary workspace for the tie over branch line

1.3 CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE AND PROCEDURES

All facilities described in this Environmental Resource Report will be designed, constructed, tested, operated, and maintained in accordance with the DOT regulations in Title 49 CFR Part 192, Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety Standards, and other applicable federal and state regulations. During all phases of this Project, the applicable requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act will be followed. The requirements set forth in the aforementioned acts have been or will be provided to Northern’s employees engaged in the planning, construction, maintenance, and operation of the Project and will be provided to Northern’s construction contractors and third-party inspectors. These employees and contractors


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have been or will be instructed to follow these requirements, as applicable, when planning, installing, and operating the facilities. Northern has adopted the FERC’s Plan and Procedures as its own for the Project. Northern’s construction methods include but are not limited to the following and are included in Appendix 1A:

Plan Procedures Plan for Inadvertent Release of Drilling Mud

Throughout the permitting process, various regulatory agencies, including the FERC, USACE, USFWS, and various state agencies may require additional resource protection measures. These additional measures will be finalized prior to construction and detailed in the construction procedures or applicable federal and state permits. Unless otherwise specified by the landowner or land managing agency, specifications in the construction procedures will be implemented along the length of the Project as a general construction document.

Construction activities, storage of construction materials and equipment, and construction access will be limited to the Project areas shown on the Project figures and described previously.

1.3.1 Construction Schedule and Workforce

Pipeline construction will consist of one or two spreads and is scheduled to begin May 2014 for an in-service date of November 1, 20142. Areas disturbed during construction will be restored, weather permitting, by December 2014. In the event final restoration is not completed by December, Northern will abide by section V.A.1. of the Plan and file a winterization plan with the FERC at that time. Temporary erosion control measures will remain in-place until restoration is successful.

Pipeline construction will generally take place Monday through Saturday during daylight hours. Tie-ins, testing, waterbody crossings and other time sensitive construction activities may be required to extend beyond daylight hours to maintain the Project schedule. The average workforce will consist of approximately 100 to 250 construction workers, including inspection personnel.

Construction of the Homer and Fremont compressor stations are scheduled to begin April 2014. Both stations have an in-service date of November 1, 2014. Northern plans to commence construction on the meter station May 2014 to meet a November 1, 2014, in-service date. The average workforce at each compressor station will consist of approximately 50 to 150 construction workers. The average workforce at the meter station will consist of approximately 10 to 25 construction workers.

No new permanent staff beyond that already working for Northern will be required to operate the new pipeline facilities after completion of construction. Northern anticipates adding four full-time positions to accommodate the additional workload associated with the operation of the Fremont and Homer compressor stations. The Fremont and Homer compressor stations will be remotely-operated facilities.

2 Based on contractor availability, FERC approval and in accordance with any applicable permits, construction of the Pigeon Creek Ditch-Missouri River HDD could begin as early as February 2014.


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1.3.2 Training, Inspection, and Environmental Compliance

Construction drawings and specifications will include implementation details of mitigation measures identified by Northern, FERC and other applicable agencies. Northern’s selected contractor will receive copies of specifications and a construction drawing package including drawings issued for construction. For those mitigation measures that address permit conditions from federal, state, or local agencies, Northern will include copies of the permits in the construction package. Post-construction mitigation requirements will also be provided.

The inspectors for the Project will be drawn from Northern’s inspector pool or from qualified contractors. Northern will conduct training for its field construction personnel and contractor’s personnel before and during installation of the proposed facilities. The training will focus on Project permit requirements, SWPPP implementation, the Plan and Procedures, and conditions of the FERC certificate.

To ensure that construction of the proposed facilities will comply with mitigation measures identified in these Resource Reports, the analysis by the FERC of this project, and the requirements of other federal and state permitting agencies, Northern will include, whenever possible, implementation details in its construction drawings and specifications. Northern’s selected contractors will receive copies of specifications and a construction drawing package containing, among other things, pipeline, compressor station, meter station, and equipment drawings designated as being approved for construction. In order to solicit accurate bids for construction, Northern will provide specifications and advance versions of the construction drawing package to prospective contractors.

For those mitigation measures that address pre-construction surveys and clearances, Northern will include reference to pertinent correspondence and documentation in the construction drawing packages. For those mitigation measures that address permit conditions from federal, state and local agencies, Northern will include copies of permits and related drawings in the construction drawing packages. For those mitigation measures that, in part, address post-construction requirements, Northern will provide instructions and documentation to operating personnel following the completion of construction. Northern will require selected contractors to install facilities according to Northern’s specifications, the construction drawing package and the terms of the negotiated contract.

For purposes of quality assurance and compliance with mitigation measures, other applicable regulatory requirements, and specifications, Northern will be represented on the construction spread by a chief inspector. The chief inspector will be assisted by a team of craft inspectors and at least one EI. The EI position is a full-time position with stop work authority and will report directly to Northern’s environmental department. The EI’s duties are consistent with those contained in section II.B (Responsibilities of the Environmental Inspector) of the Plan, and will include ensuring compliance with environmental conditions attached to the FERC certificate, Northern’s environmental designs and specifications, and environmental conditions attached to other permits or authorizations. An appropriate number of copies of the construction drawing package will be distributed to Northern’s inspectors and to contractors’ supervisory personnel. If a contractor’s performance is unsatisfactory, the terms of the contract allow Northern to stop work in progress and cause a contractor to begin remedial work.

Northern’s engineering and construction department is responsible for designing and constructing certificated facilities in compliance with regulatory and non-regulatory requirements and agreements. Any issues of non-compliance with mitigation measures or other regulatory requirements that cannot


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be solved in the field will be addressed by Northern’s project manager. Northern’s operations department will be responsible for long-term project maintenance and regulatory compliance.

1.3.3 Pipeline Construction Procedures

Construction of the proposed pipeline facilities will incorporate conventional overland construction techniques for large diameter pipelines. The construction of the proposed pipeline will follow a set of sequential operations, unique to the pipeline industry, as further described below.

The construction spread(s) will proceed along the pipeline ROW in one continuous operation. As the spread moves along, construction at any single point along the pipeline, from initial surveying and clearing to backfilling and final grading, will last approximately six to 12 weeks. The entire process will be coordinated to minimize the total time a tract of land is disturbed, and subsequently exposed to potential erosion and temporarily taken out of normal use.

Surveying and Staking

The initial step in the preparation of the ROW for construction is the preconstruction survey. Affected landowners are notified prior to conducting the preconstruction survey. Civil survey crews survey and stake the outside limits of the ROW, the centerline of the pipeline trench and temporary workspaces, highway and railroad crossings, sensitive environmental feature boundaries, access roads and all known underground facilities. Northern will ensure the local One Call notification systems (Diggers Hotline of Nebraska and Iowa One Call) are contacted to allow utilities with facilities in the project area to locate and mark any existing utility lines to prevent accidental damage during pipeline construction. Northern’s contractors are responsible to abide by each state’s One Call system.

Clearing and Grading

The ROW will be cleared and graded as needed to provide a safe and efficient working space for construction equipment. Large obstacles, such as trees, rocks, brush, and logs, will be removed. Timber will be removed only when absolutely necessary for construction purposes. Timber and other vegetative debris will be disposed of in accordance with applicable local regulations and landowner requests. The construction corridor boundaries will be the limits of the temporary workspace as shown on the alignment sheets and will be clearly staked or flagged. No disturbance will be allowed beyond the ROW limits unless previously approved.

Northern will conduct full-ROW topsoil removal in agricultural land. Topsoil will not be removed from existing improved (i.e., graveled) farm roads. Topsoil will be removed to a maximum depth of 12 inches or the actual depth of the existing topsoil horizon. Where topsoil horizon is less than 12 inches, topsoil will be removed to such depth as can be removed without mixing topsoil with subsoil. In agricultural areas, conserved topsoil will be stockpiled along one side of the ROW allowing the other side to be used for access, material transport, and pipe assembly. Construction equipment will not be permitted to travel over the topsoil piles. Construction in agricultural areas is further addressed in the special construction techniques (Section 1.3.4).

The ROW will then be graded where necessary to create a reasonably level working surface and allow safe passage of equipment. The terrain along the Project is relatively flat. If rutting occurs on privately-owned agricultural land, Northern will restore the affected areas concurrent with other restoration activities.


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Where the ROW crosses a fence, the fence will be cut, braced, and temporarily fitted with a gate to permit passage of construction equipment while maintaining current livestock barriers. The temporary gates will also limit public access to the ROW. Fences will be repaired following construction.

Erosion and Sedimentation Control

Following clearing and grading activities, soil erosion and sedimentation control measures will be installed along the ROW, access roads, and extra temporary workspace in accordance with the Project SWPPP. The SWPPP will incorporate the Plan and Procedures requirements and site-specific erosion control information. The SWPPP will be completed in conjunction with Northern’s application for construction storm water permits to be submitted to the applicable regulatory agencies prior to the commencement of construction activities.

The SWPPP describes general measures that will be implemented during the Project to minimize erosion during construction. These measures will include:

Minimizing the quantity and duration of soil exposure Implementing a dust mitigation plan Reducing the velocity of run-off water and redirecting run off as appropriate Installing and maintaining erosion and sediment control measures during construction Establishing vegetation following final grading in non-agricultural areas Inspecting the ROW and maintaining erosion and sediment control as needed until final

stabilization is achieved in non-agricultural land.

Trenching

Trench excavation is necessary to bury the pipeline underground. Excavation of the pipeline trench will follow clearing and grading of the ROW. The trench will be excavated with a rotary trenching machine, a track-mounted backhoe, or similar equipment. Northern does not anticipate that explosives will be required; however, in the unlikely event that rock substrates are encountered at depths that interfere with conventional excavation or rock-trenching methods, explosives may be used as necessary. Additional information on blasting is provided in the Special Construction Techniques sections. The bottom of the trench will be excavated at least 12 inches wider than the diameter of the pipe (i.e., 32 inches for a 20-inch-diameter pipe). The sides of the trench may be sloped for safety with the top of the trench approximately 12 to 15 feet wide at tie-in locations. The trench will be excavated to a sufficient depth to allow a minimum of three feet of soil cover in accordance with Title 49 CFR Part 192.327 which establishes a minimum 30-inches depth of cover for most pipelines in Class 1, 2 and 3 locations. The proposed pipeline will typically be installed with a minimum of three feet of top cover. Crossovers for livestock and wildlife will be located along the Project corridor. Crossovers consist of gaps in the spoil piles and pre-welded pipe, and areas of unexcavated trench spoils. Excavated subsoil will be stockpiled along the ROW on the side of the trench away from the construction traffic and pipe assembly area. In agricultural areas, subsoil will be stockpiled separately from topsoil. This segregation of topsoil and subsoil will be maintained throughout the construction of the Project.


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At certain crossing locations (e.g., roads, railroads and waterbodies) the pipeline will be installed in accordance with permit or easement conditions. In the unlikely event rock is encountered during construction, the pipeline will be installed with at least 2 feet of cover.

During trenching, previously unidentified or unknown drain tile may be located. Northern will restore the functionality of the drain tile through the relocation, reconfiguration, or replacement of the existing tile. Specific details on drain tile location, identification, and restoration are included in Section 1.3.4 (special construction techniques) under active croplands.

Stringing

Steel pipe for the pipeline will be procured in nominal 40-foot and 80-foot lengths or joints, protected with an epoxy coating applied at the factory (the beveled ends will be left uncoated for welding), and shipped to the storage/contractor yard or construction ROW. The individual joints will be transported to the ROW by stringing trucks, observing load restrictions on local roads and state and federal highways. The stringing trucks will travel along the ROW and place the pipeline joints on temporary supports in a single, continuous line. Stringing pipe will allow for easy access for the construction personnel on the working side of the proposed pipeline centerline, opposite the spoil side. This will allow the subsequent lineup and welding operations to proceed efficiently. At the waterbody crossing, the amount of pipe that will be required for the HDD will be stockpiled within the ROW and in the designated pull-back area.

Pipe Bending

The pipe will be delivered to the project site in straight sections. Some bending of the pipe will be required to allow the pipeline to follow natural grade changes and directional changes of the ROW. Selected joints will be field-bent by hydraulic bending machines, as necessary, prior to line-up and welding.

Pipe Assembly and Welding

Following stringing and bending, the joints of pipe will be placed on temporary supports adjacent to the trench. The ends will be carefully aligned and welded together using multiple passes for a full penetration weld. Only welders qualified according to Northern’s welder qualification procedures and API Standards will be permitted to perform the welding.

X-Ray and Weld Repair

To ensure that the assembled pipe will meet or exceed the design strength requirements, a percentage of the welds will be visually inspected and non-destructively tested using radiographic (x-ray) or other approved test methods in accordance with API Standards and Northern’s procedures. Welds displaying inclusions (void spaces) or other defects will be repaired or cut out as specified in Northern’s welding procedures.

Coating Field Welds, Inspection, and Repair

Following welding, the previously uncoated ends of the pipe will be coated at the joints. Prior to lowering the pipe into the trench, the coating on the entire pipe section will be inspected and any damaged areas repaired.


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Pipe Lowering

The welded and coated sections of pipe will be lifted from the temporary supports and lowered into the trench by side-boom tractors. Before lowering the pipe, the trench will be inspected to ensure that it is free of rocks and other debris that could damage the pipe or the coating and that the pipe and trench configurations are compatible. Inspection will also verify that minimum cover requirements are met.

Trench dewatering may be necessary at certain times during the lowering-in process. Trench dewatering will be accomplished per the Plan and Procedures and in accordance with applicable permit conditions using appropriate BMPs. The methods implemented to minimize erosion and sedimentation associated with dewatering activities will be further detailed in the Project SWPPP.

Padding and Backfilling

After the pipe is lowered into the trench, the trench will be backfilled. Previously excavated materials will be pushed back into the trench using bladed equipment or backhoes. Backfill material typically consists of the subsoil excavated from the trench. Where the previously excavated material contains large rocks or other materials that could damage the pipe or coating, clean fill and/or protective coating will be placed around the pipe prior to backfilling (i.e., padding material). Rock excavated from the pipeline trench may be used to backfill the trench only to the depth of the existing bedrock profile. Rock that is not returned to the trench will be disposed of on-site per the landowner request or off-site as construction waste.

Where topsoil and subsoil piles are segregated, subsoil will be used for backfilling and padding. Northern will require its contractor to use a proven compaction method to minimize trench settling. Following backfilling, a small crown of material may be left over the trench to account for any potential soil settling.

Pressure Testing

Hydrostatic testing or air testing will be conducted in accordance with DOT regulations Title 49 CFR Part 192 to verify the integrity of the pipeline and the piping components of the compressor stations and meter station before being placed into service.

The pipe segments will be capped with manifolds, filled with water or air, pressurized and held for either four or eight hours.3 Any significant loss of pressure will indicate that a leak may have occurred and warrant further inspection and, where necessary, repair. Water may be re-used for hydrostatic testing between the new pipeline segments.

Hydrostatic test water will be obtained in compliance with state regulations and existing water rights. Northern will seek approval to appropriate water from the Missouri River to hydrostatically test the pipeline. The water will be discharged back to the river or to a well-vegetated upland area in accordance with the applicable state and local permit requirements. Dependent on availability, Northern may also appropriate water from an existing well or municipal source to test the pipeline and discharge the water to a well vegetated upland area in accordance with the applicable permit requirements.

3 The duration of hydrostatic tests (four hours versus eight hours) will be determined by Northern’s operating procedures and engineering standards and in compliance with DOT regulations.


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For the Fremont compressor station, Northern will seek approval to appropriate water from an existing well or municipal source to perform hydrostatic testing of the Project components. The water will be discharged to a well-vegetated upland area in accordance with the applicable permit requirements.

The potential water sources proposed for the hydrostatic testing of the various pipeline segments, by milepost, and the aboveground facilities, as well as the number of test sections, approximate volume of water to be used and discharge locations are listed in Table 1.3-1.

Table 1.3-1 Hydrostatic Test Water Segments, Volumes, Sources and Discharge Locations

Project Component

Number of Test

Sections

Reference MPs for Sections Volume

(gallons, approx.)

Potential Source and Discharge Location

Begin MP

End MP


3 0.00 6.09 526,000 (1) Missouri River with discharge back to Missouri River or well-vegetated upland area, (2) existing well with discharge back to well-vegetated upland area (3) or municipal source with discharge to well-vegetated upland area.

(HDD) 1.03 1.10 6,350 (1) Missouri River with discharge back to Missouri River or well-vegetated upland area, (2) existing well with discharge back to well-vegetated upland area (3) or municipal source with discharge to well-vegetated upland area.

(HDD) 4.06 4.43 30,700 (1) Missouri River with discharge back to Missouri River or well-vegetated upland area, (2) existing well with discharge back to well-vegetated upland area (3) or municipal source with discharge to well-vegetated upland area.

Greenfield tie-over branch line

1 0.00 0.41 36,000 (1) Missouri River with discharge back to Missouri River or well-vegetated upland area, (2) existing well with discharge back to well-vegetated upland area (3) or municipal source with discharge to well-vegetated upland area.


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Table 1.3-1 Hydrostatic Test Water Segments, Volumes, Sources and Discharge Locations

Project Component

Number of Test

Sections

Reference MPs for Sections Volume

(gallons, approx.)

Potential Source and Discharge Location

Begin MP

End MP

Meter station 1 N/A N/A 400 (1) Missouri River with discharge back to Missouri River or well-vegetated upland area, (2) existing well with discharge back to well-vegetated upland area (3) or municipal source with discharge to well-vegetated upland area.


1 N/A N/A 10,000 Existing well or municipal source and discharge within well-vegetated upland area.


1 N/A N/A 20,000 Existing well or municipal source and discharge within well-vegetated upland area.

Cleanup and Restoration

After each segment of pipeline has been installed and backfilled; the areas disturbed by construction will be final graded. Original land contours will be restored, as near as practicable, to conform to adjacent areas. Non-cultivated land will be reseeded in accordance with individual landowner requirements, land management agency requirements, or NRCS recommendations. Construction debris will be removed for proper disposal. All construction equipment will be removed following final clean-up activities.

On agricultural land, heavy equipment traffic may compact the subsoil. Northern will decompact subsoil using appropriate deep-tillage equipment such as a paraplow or chisel plow and per landowner requirements. Compaction testing will be conducted to verify compaction is relieved to a level equal to or better than adjacent undisturbed areas. Once decompaction of the subsoil is complete, the segregated topsoil will be returned. Decompaction will be completed on the restored topsoil using shallow-ripping tools. Rock that is greater than four inches in diameter and not native will be removed from the top 12 inches of soil on agricultural land.

On agricultural land, cleanup will include restoring the slope, contour, grade, and drainage of the ROW as nearly as practical to preconstruction conditions. The trench may be crowned to allow for anticipated settlement of the backfill. The final surface will be examined to verify that rocks visible on the surface are similar in size, density, and distribution to undisturbed areas adjacent to the ROW. Soil conservation practices such as terraces will also be restored to their pre-construction condition.

Temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control measures, which may include silt fencing and/or diversion terraces, will be installed at this time. Final erosion and sediment control measures will be installed in accordance with the Plan and Procedures and the Project SWPPP.


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Private and public property, such as fences, gates, driveways, and roads, disturbed by pipeline construction will be restored to original condition. Unless otherwise required by the landowner, Northern will restore all areas as close as practicable to their pre-construction condition with the exception of the aboveground facilities.

1.3.4 Special Construction Techniques

Construction across special features including roads, railroads, waterbodies, active cropland, residential areas, and commercial areas will involve special construction techniques as described below.

Access Road Improvements/ Road Approaches

Prior to the commencement of construction activities, existing roads or drives that will be used to access the pipeline construction ROW may require modifications for heavy equipment access. Existing road approaches and corners will be expanded to a minimum width of 20 feet with approximately six inches of 3-inch-diameter or greater aggregate. The rock will be underlain by a geotextile fabric. The road approaches will be a minimum of 50 feet in length. The existing private driveway to be used for access of the HDD pull-back area will be improved through the application of gravel.

A majority of the existing local roads and access roads are constructed with a gravel surface. To abate dust resulting from construction activities, Northern will design and implement a Fugitive Dust Control Plan. Additional information on dust control will be provided in Resource Report 2.

Wetland Crossings

One wetland was identified and delineated within the environmental survey area but is located outside of the Project workspace. The wetland is located in the Missouri River floodplain in Woodbury County, Iowa.

The Project has been designed to avoid impacts to the wetland. The project’s temporary construction workspace will maintain a 50-foot buffer from Wetland 1. Construction will follow the Plan and Procedures. The Plan and Procedures contain BMPs intended to reduce ground disturbance, minimize erosion and sediment run off, and promote revegetation within the construction area.

HDD Bores (Waterbody Crossings)

HDD is a method to install pipelines beneath obstacles or sensitive areas. Use of the HDD method is designed to minimize planned disturbance to the ground surface between the entry and exit points of the crossing. Specifically, HDD allows for trenchless construction across a waterbody and is used to eliminate impacts to water quality from construction activities within a waterbody.

The HDD method consists of drilling a small diameter pilot hole under the waterbody and enlarging the hole through successive reamings until it is large enough to accommodate a prefabricated segment of pipe. In the process of drilling and/or reaming the hole, a slurry of drilling mud will be circulated through the drilling tools to lubricate the drill bit, remove drill cuttings, and promote bore hole stability. Drilling mud primarily consists of bentonite, a non-toxic, naturally occurring sedimentary clay. Enlarging the pilot hole may take one or more reaming passes. The position of the drill head is electronically monitored and directional corrections are made if needed to maintain the desired alignment.


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Pipe sections long enough to span the entire crossing will be staged and welded along the construction work area on the opposite side of the waterbody and then pulled through the drilled hole. The successful use of the HDD method results in no impact on the banks, bed, or water quality of the waterbody being crossed. However, the probability exists for drilling mud to reach the surface. In the event of the inadvertent release of drilling mud, Northern will implement measures to minimize impacts to sensitive resources according to its plan for the inadvertent release of drilling mud. The inadvertent release of drilling fluid plan is included in Appendix 1A.

While all HDD installations have the potential to be unsuccessful, the determining factors are location dependent and include: encountering soil conditions not conducive to boring; caving of the borehole; loss of the drill string in the borehole; loss of drilling mud circulation, and pullback refusal. Many of these potential failures can be avoided or mitigated by making appropriate adjustments to the operation of the HDD equipment. In the event the adjustments do not correct the problem the borehole may be moved to an adjacent location. If the HDD bore method is determined to be unsuccessful, it may be necessary to install the pipe by an alternate method. Northern will include an HDD contingency plan in Resource Report 2 to address the alternate method(s).

Northern proposes to cross the two jurisdictional waterbodies via the HDD method. An approximate 1,638-foot HDD crossing is planned to install the pipeline under the Missouri River and Pigeon Creek Ditch The crossing will include an entry pit approximately 544 feet east of the Missouri River and an exit pit approximately 465 feet west of Pigeon Creek Ditch. The HDD crossing will extend to an approximate depth of 25 feet below the river bed. Temporary impacts from the HDD crossing consist of two travel lanes: (1) an approximate 3-foot lane used to install the HDD tracking wire (hand clearing only) and monitor for inadvertent mud releases and (2) an approximate 25-foot wide travel lane to provide access for small equipment in the event of an inadvertent release of drilling fluid. The travel lanes will be field determined by the EI to select existing open areas and minimize clearing. The lanes will also serve to install pumps and associated equipment required to withdraw water from the Missouri River. Figure 1-9 illustrates the cross-sectional diagram of the proposed HDD. The Project waterbody crossings will be discussed in further detail in Resource Report 2.

Road and Railroad Crossings

Construction of the pipeline at public roads and railroads may be accomplished by conventional boring techniques, pneumatic boring or HDD, as applicable. The HDD crossing methods have been described above. Highway and railroad crossings will be uncased, unless otherwise required by permits. The pipeline will be buried to a depth of at least four feet below the road or railroad surface, or in accordance with permit requirements, and will be designed to withstand anticipated external loading.

The Project crosses four public roads and one railroad. Table 1.3-2 summarizes the crossing locations by milepost along with the surface type and anticipated construction crossing methods.


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Table 1.3-2 Public Road and Railroad Crossings

Road/ Railroad

Name

Approximate MP

Surface Type

Estimated Bore Length

Bore Depth

Primary Crossing Method

Secondary Crossing Method

225th Street 0.12 Gravel

66 feet 4 feet below ditch line

Conventional bore

Pneumatic bore

Highway 75/77 and Burlington Northern Railroad 1.05

Paved and gravel


HDD bore Conventional bore

F Avenue 1.50 Gravel


Conventional bore

Pneumatic bore

Elma Road 2.24 Gravel


Conventional bore

Pneumatic bore

Residential Areas

Currently, no residences, buildings or structures are located within 50 feet of the proposed pipeline, aboveground facilities or temporary construction areas.

Residences are located adjacent to the temporary access road to be used for access to the HDD pull back area. The road will be restored to preconstruction conditions or better as part of final clean up.

Active Croplands

Construction in agricultural areas will be conducted in accordance with the Plan and Procedures. To conserve topsoil, Northern will conduct full ROW topsoil removal in all actively cultivated and rotated cropland and improved pasture. A maximum of 12 inches of topsoil will be segregated. The topsoil and subsoil will be stored in separate windrows on the construction ROW and will not be allowed to mix. Where the existing topsoil is less than 12 inches, the actual depth of the topsoil will be removed and segregated. Soil fertility and other characteristics will be further discussed in Resource Report 7. Agricultural areas crossed by the project will be identified in Resource Report 8 along with proposed mitigation measures.

Northern will consult with landowners prior to construction in an effort to identify any known drain tiles. The known drain tile will be noted on the alignment sheets. Survey crews will mark the drain tile locations with highly visible flagging at each ROW edge and the centerline of the pipe, where applicable. Previously undocumented drain tile discovered during grading or trenching will also be flagged at each ROW edge. Survey data will be collected at the location of the broken tile. If a


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damaged drain tile is flowing at the time of discovery, temporary repairs and screen installation will be completed prior to the end of the workday. If a damaged drain tile is not flowing at the time of discovery, the drain tile will be screened and temporarily repaired within 24 hours. Temporary repairs may be removed to accommodate pipe lowering and backfilling.

Permanent drain tile repairs will be made by a qualified drain tile specialist, the landowner, or a landowner’s representative. In general, drain tile will be scoped or snaked to determine if existing tile within the ROW is damaged. The existing drain tile will be inspected within the entire width of the ROW (i.e., to both edges of the ROW). All damaged, broken, or cracked drain tile will be replaced with new tile. The quality, size, and flow of replacement tile will equal or exceed that of the damaged tile. The drain tile will be permanently repaired so that its original gradient and alignment are restored. Replacement tile will be supported with a secondary method, such as perforated corrugated steel pipe. All repairs will be inspected prior to backfilling the trench area. Variations to these methods may be employed if requested by the landowner.

During ROW negotiations, Northern will determine if any specialty crops, such as orchards, are present or if any organic farms exist within the Project area. If present, Northern will work with the landowners to determine appropriate mitigation and protection measures for these properties.

If construction requires the removal of private property features, such as gates or fences, the landowner or tenant will be notified prior to the action. If construction requires the removal of trees, the landowner or tenant will be notified prior to the action. Following completion of major construction, the grade will be restored, as close as practicable, to the original contours.

Temporary access roads located within agricultural fields will be restored, as near as practicable, to preconstruction conditions in adherence with the Plan and Procedures. Specific construction procedures for access roads within agricultural areas include topsoil removal in conjunction with grading activities and subsoil decompaction prior to topsoil replacement.

Commercial and Industrial Areas

The valve, meter station, and storage/contractor yards are located on or near commercial or industrial properties. The meter station and valve locations will be constructed on the customer’s property, which is an existing chemical fertilizer facility. The existing land at the meter station and valve site is industrial; therefore, no special construction techniques will be required at these sites.

The storage/contractor yards are located within a commercial/industrial area near South Sioux City, Nebraska. The contractor will be using these areas for storage of equipment and construction job trailers. Since minimal ground disturbance will be occurring, no special construction techniques will be required in these locations.

Blasting

Although blasting is not anticipated to be required for the proposed project, in the unlikely event that unrippable subsurface rock is encountered, blasting for trench excavation could be necessary. In these areas, care will be taken to prevent damage to above and underground structures (e.g., cables, conduits and pipelines) or to springs, water wells, or other water sources. Blasting mats or soil cover will be used as necessary to prevent the scattering of loose rock. All blasting will be conducted during daylight hours and will not begin until occupants of nearby buildings, stores, residences, places of business, and farms are notified. Prior to initiation of blasting activities, Northern’s


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contractor will submit written safety precautions and blasting procedures to Northern. Northern’s contractor will monitor vibrations and ensure that peak particle velocity at the pipeline did not exceed five inches per second.

1.3.5 Aboveground Facility Construction Procedures

Typical construction activities associated with the new compressor stations and meter station construction are summarized below. Construction activity and storage of construction material will be limited to the Project area. Waste materials will be disposed of in a manner consistent with state and local regulations. Disturbed areas will be restored in a timely manner. Construction will include general activities such as clearing and grading, access road installation, foundation installation, erection of aboveground facilities, installation of piping equipment, testing of equipment, clean up and restoration of the Project area. These activities described below are typical and actual construction may vary.

Clearing and Grading – The site will be partially cleared of existing vegetation, graded as described in the SWPPP and prepared for construction. Construction activities including temporary storage of equipment, materials, and waste will be limited to the temporary workspace. Excess soil removed during construction activities will be stored on-site for future restoration or disposed of in an approved manner.

Access Road Installation – Access roads to each of the aboveground facilities will be constructed. Backfilling and compaction will be completed where necessary. Excess soil removed during access road installation will be stored on-site for future restoration or disposed of in an approved manner. Silt fencing and other BMPs will be installed and inspected at required intervals in accordance with applicable state and federal permits.

Foundation Installation – After site preparation is complete, excavation will be performed, as necessary, to accommodate the new concrete foundations. Forms will be set, rebar installed, and the concrete poured and cured in accordance with minimum strength requirements. Backfill will be compacted in-place and excess soil will be evenly spread within the station yard or hauled off for proper disposal.

Erection of Aboveground Facilities – Aboveground facilities will be installed after foundations are completed. The proposed aboveground facilities include but are not limited to: compressor and auxiliary buildings, and associated above-grade piping and valves, mainline block valve and actuators, suction and discharge side valves and actuators, a station suction scrubber, station recycle valves, lube oil coolers, multiple blowdown silencers, exhaust systems, a backup generator, inlet air filters, a fuel gas conditioning skid, a fire/gas detection system, an air compressor and air dryer, a station transformer, and electrical pole(s).

Piping Equipment – All non-screwed piping associated with the facilities will be welded, except where connected to flanged components. All welders and welding procedures will be qualified in accordance with API Standards. Equipment and structures will be installed in compliance with applicable local, state and federal code requirements. Aboveground piping will be cleaned and painted according to Northern’s specifications and in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Testing – Prior to placing in service, all controls and safety equipment and systems, such as emergency shutdown systems, relief valves, gas and fire detection, and other protection equipment will be tested. Pressure testing will be conducted on piping, in accordance with the requirements of DOT pipeline safety regulations, Title 49 CFR Part 192, Northern’s testing specifications, and applicable permits. Testing will follow all applicable federal, state, and local requirements.


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Methodology and impacts of the pressure testing procedure are discussed further in Resource Report 2.

Cleanup and Restoration – The Project area will be cleaned and restored in accordance with applicable state and federal permits and plans. Final grading will be completed, gravel surfaces refreshed (as needed), and grass or appropriate vegetation seeded per specifications. Compliance with the SWPPP and other permanent mitigation measures according to state and federal permits will be verified.

1.4 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

Northern will operate and maintain the proposed facilities in compliance with DOT regulations provided in Title 49 CFR Part 193, the FERC’s directives in 18 CFR § 380.15, and maintenance provisions of the Plan and Procedures. These standards are in accordance with the National Pipeline Safety Act of 1968, as amended.

Greenfield Branch Line and Greenfield Tie-Over Lateral: Operational activity on the pipeline will be limited primarily to maintenance of the ROW and inspection, repair, and cleaning of the pipeline itself. Periodic aerial and ground inspections by pipeline personnel will identify soil erosion that may expose the pipe; dead vegetation that may indicate a leak in the line; conditions of the vegetative cover and erosion control measures; unauthorized encroachment on the ROW, such as building and other substantial structures; and other conditions that could present a safety hazard or require preventative maintenance or repairs. The pipeline cathodic protection system also will be monitored and inspected periodically to ensure proper and adequate corrosion protection. Northern will use public roads to gain access to the ROW for maintenance and inspection activities. Northern will work with landowners to obtain temporary access if such access is deemed necessary. Appropriate actions to address conditions observed during inspection will be taken as necessary.

The ROW will be allowed to revegetate; however, large brush and trees will be periodically removed. Trees or deep-rooted shrubs could damage the pipeline’s protective coating, obscure periodic surveillance, or interfere with potential repairs. Therefore, the frequency of the vegetation maintenance will depend upon the vegetation growth rate. In upland areas, routine vegetation maintenance will be conducted on a 50-foot-wide strip centered over the pipeline with a frequency of not more than once every three years. In addition, a 10-foot-wide strip over the pipeline may be maintained in an herbaceous state by mowing, cutting, and trimming on an annual basis. Vegetation maintenance will not normally be required in agricultural cropland or grazing areas. In addition, trees within 15 feet of the pipeline that are greater than 15 feet in height will be selectively cut to allow for required monitoring and inspection of the pipeline.

Routine vegetation maintenance will occur outside of the April 15 to August 1 avoidance window. Use of herbicides will be in accordance with applicable agency requirements and with landowner approval. Northern will only use chemicals approved for such use by the EPA. Northern will follow the vegetation maintenance methods and timelines described in Appendix 1A (Plan and Procedures).

The pipeline facilities will be clearly marked at line-of-sight intervals and at road crossings, railroads, and other key points. The markers will clearly indicate the presence of the pipeline and provide a telephone number and address where a company representative may be reached in the event of an emergency or before any excavation by a third party. Northern participates in all state One Call


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systems, including the Diggers Hotline of Nebraska and Iowa One Call, and makes all requisite locate requests.

No new permanent staff beyond that already working for Northern will be required to operate the new pipeline facilities after construction is completed.

Aboveground Facilities:

Upon completion of construction, the aboveground components of the pipeline facilities (i.e., block valves, blow down valves) will be painted to be visible from the surrounding area for purposes of security and the Homeland Security Act. Northern personnel will perform routine checks of aboveground facilities, including calibration of equipment and instrumentation.

Northern anticipates adding four full-time field operations staff to accommodate the additional workload associated with the operation of the Fremont and Homer compressor stations. The Fremont and Homer compressor stations will be remotely-operated facilities.

Additional details regarding the operation and maintenance of the Project will be described in Resource Report 11.

1.5 FUTURE PLANS AND ABANDONMENT

Northern has no current plans for the expansion or abandonment of the facilities described in this report. Northern’s pipeline system comprises an integrated network of transmission facilities in the Midwestern United States. Future expansion will be dependent on additional demands for natural gas in the service area.

1.6 PERMITS AND APPROVALS

Northern will obtain all permits and approvals required to construct the proposed facilities. Table 1.6-1 lists the federal, state, and local permits and consultations required, and the status of each permit. Agency contact information is provided in Appendix 1B – Federal and State Agency Contact List. Northern is not aware of any special permit conditions at this time.

Table 1.6-1 Required Permits and Clearances

Responsible Agency Permit or Clearance Required Status of Permit/Clearance

Federal

FERC Certificate for construction and operation of interstate natural gas transmission pipeline facilities.

Submitted application to use pre-filing process December 2012.

EPA Clean Air Act permits and approvals

Delegated to the states.

CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification


CWA Section 402 permits for wastewater or stormwater discharges



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BIA and Native American Tribes

NHPA Section 106 consultation to determine if the project will have impact on receptors of Native American cultural importance.

FERC will consult with Native American entities with historic ties to the Project area; Native American consultation letters will be sent in early January 2013. Responses will be provided in a subsequent filing.

NRCS No permit required-consultation for protection of sensitive soil and prime farmland.

NEPA process will provide guidance on weed control, erosion control, and ROW restoration.

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation - NSHS

Section 106 consultation, NHPA Request letter for additional consultation with NSHS will be sent in early January 2013. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation - Iowa SHPO

Section 106 consultation, NHPA Request letter for concurrence with a determination of no effect on cultural or historic properties will be sent to the Iowa SHPO in early January 2013. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

USACE - Omaha District Section 404 permit - nationwide CWA and Section 10 Rivers and Harbors Act.

Wetlands and waterways are not expected to be dredged or filled due to avoidance and HDD. Concurrence request letter will be submitted in early January 2013. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

USFWS - Rock Island Field Office

Endangered Species Act -consultation clearance request for Iowa

Request letter for concurrence with a determination of no adverse effect on federally threatened or endangered species December 14, 2012. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

MBTA protective measures FERC consultation with USFWS during NEPA process

USFWS - Nebraska Field Office

Endangered Species Act -consultation clearance request for Nebraska

Request letter for concurrence with a determination of no adverse effect on federally threatened or endangered species December 14, 2012. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

MBTA protective measures FERC consultation with USFWS during NEPA process


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State – Iowa

IDNR - NHI consultation Potential impacts to sensitive species (e.g., state-listed and species of special concern), game species, and important habitats.

Request letter for concurrence with a determination of no adverse effect on state threatened or endangered species December 14, 2012. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

IDNR Water Quality Certification (CWA, Section 401).

Wetlands and waterways are not expected to be dredged or filled due to avoidance and HDD. Concurrence request letter will be submitted in early January 2013. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

IDNR Wildlife Management Area Permit or agency approval to be obtained prior to construction as applicable.

IDNR Flood Plain and Sovereign Lands Section

Sovereign Land Joint Application for Iowa

A permit to HDD bore the Missouri River will be submitted in early January 2013. Response will be provided in subsequent filing.

IDNR - Water Use and Allocation Program

Water use permit for hydrostatic test water uptake and dust abatement during construction

Will be submitted prior to uptake if more than 25,000 gallons are required in any 24-hour period for hydrostatic testing or dust abatement.

IDNR - NPDES Section, Storm water Program

State-issued NPDES general permit for construction and pit trench dewatering.

To be obtained prior to construction.

IDNR - NPDES Section, Wastewater Permitting

Hydrostatic Test Water Discharge Authorization

To be obtained prior to construction, if necessary.

IDNR Temporary construction equipment emissions

Northern will consult with the IDNR to confirm that a construction equipment/vehicle emissions permit is not required.

Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs - Iowa SHPO

Section 106 clearance for cultural resources.

Request letter for concurrence with a determination of no effect on cultural or historic properties will be submitted to the Iowa SHPO in early January 2013.


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State – Nebraska

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission - NHI Consultation

Potential impacts to sensitive species (e.g., state-listed and species of special concern), game species, and important habitats.

Request letter for concurrence with a determination of no adverse effect on state threatened or endangered species December 14, 2012. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

NDEQ Water Quality Certification (CWA, Section 401).

Wetlands and waters are not expected to be dredged, filled, or impacted by the Project. Concurrence that no permit is required for wetland water quality or HDD bore under Missouri River will be submitted in early January 2013. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

NDNR - Surface Water and Groundwater Sections

Permits for Appropriation of Surface Water or Groundwater


NDEQ -NPDES Section, Storm Water Program

State issued NPDES permit (CWA, Section 402).


NDEQ –NPDES Wastewater Section

State Issued General Permit Authorizing Dewatering Discharges


NDEQ – NPDES Wastewater Section

Hydrostatic Test Discharges from Pipeline and Storage Tank Permit

To be obtained prior to construction, if necessary.

NDEQ – Air Quality Division

Permit to Construct (Air Emissions) Permit to Operate (Air Emissions)

Northern will consult with the NDEQ to confirm that a construction will be required but not an operating permit.

NSHS Section 106 Consultation, NHPA

Request letter for additional consultation with NSHS will be sent in early January 2013. Response will be provided in a subsequent filing.

Local – Dakota County, Nebraska

Dakota County Highway Department

County Road Permit Permit to be obtained prior to construction.

Nebraska Department of Roads

State Road Crossing Permit Permit to be obtained prior to construction.


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Dakota County Planning and Zoning Department

Building Permit and Floodplain Permit

Permit to be obtained prior to construction.

Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District

Waterbody crossing approval (Pigeon Creek/Missouri River)

Waterbody crossing approval (Pigeon Creek/Missouri River)

Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Company

Railway crossing permit Permits to be obtained prior to construction.

Local - City of Fremont, Nebraska

City of Fremont Building Department

Building Permit, Electrical Permit and Mechanical Permit

Permits to be obtained prior to construction.

Local - Dodge County, Nebraska

Dodge County Highway Superintendent

County Road or Driveway Permits

Permit to be obtained prior to construction, if needed.

Local - Woodbury County, Iowa

Woodbury County Engineering Office

County Road Permit

Permit to be obtained prior to construction.

Woodbury County Planning and Zoning Department

Building Permit, Conditional Use Permit, and Floodplain Development Permit

Permits to be obtained prior to construction.

1.7 AFFECTED LANDOWNERS/STAKEHOLDERS

A list of the landowners affected by the Project, including landowners whose property is crossed or used by the project, abuts either side of an existing ROW or facility site, contains a residence within 50 feet of property to be crossed or used by the project, and landowners within 0.5 mile of the proposed compressor stations is being provided as Appendix 1C (filed as P&C in Volume III). Pursuant to section 157.6(d)(1) of the FERC’s regulations, Northern will notify these parties within three business days following the date that the FERC issues a notice of the Section 7 application.

Northern will, to the best of its ability, publish notice of the filing of the Section 7 application twice, no later than 14 days after the FERC assigns a docket number to the Section 7 application, in the newspapers. Pursuant to Section 157.10(c) of the FERC’s regulations, a copy of the application will be placed in public libraries within three business days of the date a docket number is issued to the Section 7 application.

A listing of other stakeholders interested in the Project is included as Appendix 1D. In addition, the applicable libraries and newspapers are included in Appendix 1D.


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1.7.1 Public Outreach Program

Public outreach for the Project includes but is not limited to the following:

Landowner Contact: Northern has identified approximately 46 landowners that may be affected by the proposed project. This number includes landowners directly affected by and/or abutting the pipeline route; landowners that may be affected by access roads, and extra work spaces; and landowners within one-half mile of the proposed compressor stations.

Stakeholder Outreach: Between February 4 and 6, 2013, Northern will conduct three open houses for the Project to be held in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa; South Sioux City, and Fremont, Nebraska. Northern has confirmed the final dates and sites with FERC staff. All identified stakeholders will be invited and encouraged to attend these information-sharing open houses. Each open house will be publicized via the local newspapers and through direct mail invitation to property owners, customers, regulatory agencies and public officials of political subdivisions along the proposed route corridor and compressor station sites.

A website (www.northernnaturalgas.com/expansionprojects) was developed and made available to the public July 29, 2005. The website was added for previously approved FERC projects. Northern has added a drop-down link for the Project. The website address will be noted on all outreach materials and other communications. The information on the website will include background information on Northern; a description of the scope of the Project; a general project schedule; a preliminary project map; a set of initial potential inquiries that Northern has labeled, “Frequently Asked Questions”; a brief summary of the role of federal review; Project updates; Project contact information; and regulatory developments and announcements. Northern will add information on the Project to a website developed by Northern for its expansion projects (www.northernnaturalgas.com/expansionprojects). The website will list the single-source-of-contact information for landowners, a description of the Project scope, maps, and timelines.

Northern has designated its existing OCC as its single point of contact. The OCC’s toll-free number (1-888-367-6671) will be included in all communications with property owners and other identified stakeholders. The OCC is staffed year round 24 hours per day. When a call is received regarding the Project, trained OCC personnel will record the information and notify the West Leg Expansion project manager, who will either address the concern or contact the appropriate company subject matter expert to provide a timely response.

Agency Consultations: On November 19, 2012, Northern began contacting permitting agencies to provide Project information and inform them that Northern will be utilizing the pre-filing process and to request their participation in this process.

1.8 NON-JURISDICTIONAL FACILITIES

CF Industries, Inc. will be expanding the fertilizer manufacturing facility at Port Neal, Iowa, and developing a new rail spur and access road. The expansion includes construction of a second ammonia plant which will be built just north of the existing plant on a 120-acre site of land that CF Industries, Inc. currently owns. CF Industries, Inc. will install a 14-inch-diameter pipeline that will run from the outlet of the new meter station to the inlet of the new plant. The plant will require up to 90,000 Dth/d of natural gas and produce up to 2,425 tons per day of ammonia and 3,850 tons per day


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of urea. The plant will begin construction in 2013 with requirements for gas flow as early as November 2014. Auxiliary electric transmission facilities will be required. Applicable permits have not yet been acquired.

FERC has adopted a four-factor procedure to determine whether there is sufficient federal control and responsibility over related nonjurisdictional facilities to require a full environmental analysis. These factors include:

i) Whether the regulated activity comprises “merely a link” in a corridor-type project (such as atransportation or utility transmission project);

ii) Whether there are aspects of the nonjurisdictional facilities in the immediate vicinity of theregulated activity which affect the location and configuration of the regulated activity;

iii) The extent to which the entire Project would be within FERC’s jurisdiction; and

iv) The extent of cumulative federal control and responsibility.

Pursuant to its review of the four factors as set forth in section 380.12(c)(2(ii) of the Commission's regulations, Northern has evaluated whether there is sufficient federal control and responsibility over the project to warrant an environmental analysis of the non-jurisdictional facilities to be constructed in conjunction with the facilities proposed in the Project.

With respect to factor (i), the Project does not comprise “merely a link” in a corridor-type project (e.g., transportation or utility transmission project). The Project would include greenfield pipeline compression, and a meter station addition to Northern’s pipeline system.

With respect to factor (ii), there are no aspects of nonjurisdictional facilities in the immediate vicinity of Northern’s pipeline system which have uniquely influenced the location and configuration of Northern’s proposed facilities.

With respect to factor (iii), CF Industries will secure the necessary permits for the construction and operation of its nonjurisdictional facilities. The construction of these non-jurisdictional facilities is outside of the Commission's jurisdiction.

Finally, with respect to factor (iv), the extent of cumulative federal control and responsibility over the related nonjurisdictional facilities is minimal given that the CF Industry facilities are privately-owned and CF Industries’ plant expansion will be constructed without federal financing, assistance or direction.

Based on these factors, Northern does not believe a need exists for the commission to do an environmental review of the project-related non-jurisdictional facilities. Additionally, the related nonjurisdictional facilities appear to be subject to sufficient project review, analysis and approval by other regulatory agencies. Consequently, Northern does not believe the nonjurisdictional facilities are subject to the environmental review.

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