Talbot Energy Facility Gas Pipeline
Talbot Co., GA

The life-blood of a power plant that operates on natural gas is the pipeline. The new Talbot Energy facility in Talbot Co., GA is no different.

When an inspection of the five mile gas line showed signs of vandalism, Oglethorpe officials were alarmed. Trespassers on all-terrain and in four-wheel drive vehicles had scarred the land leaving exposed dirt in numerous critical areas.

In January 2002, Southeastern Erosion Control Services, Inc. (SECS) was contacted by Oglethorpe. Concerned that the amount of exposed soil could erode quickly under heavy rains and threaten nearby streams, Oglethorpe wanted to address the issue quickly.

SECS submitted to Oglethorpe an assessment of current conditions and a plan of corrective action designed to restabilize the pipeline and prevent further soil loss.

• Nearly nine acres of the rolling pipeline had been stripped of vegetation.
• Rain had begun to erode the exposed soil.
• Rills in some disturbed areas were threatening a wetland area.
• The banks of gullies channeling excess rainwater were rutted and exposed. In short, the amount of exposed soil was causing problems.

• Nine temporary bridges (gully crossings) to install to aid the mobilization of equipment so all exposed areas on the line could be addressed without causing further damage.
• Install silt fence to temporarily reduce sheet flow from the site.
• Regrade and redress the areas disturbed by the ATV's.
• Apply seed, fertilizer, and lime to all exposed areas.
• Cover and track all areas flatter than 4:1 with straw mulch.
• Cover all areas steeper than 4:1 with blanket.
• Remove the temporary bridges and silt fence as each area is stabilized.

Within ten working days, nine disturbed acres on the five mile pipeline had been regraded and stabilized. The project was completed on time and under budget. Oglethorpe was able to focus its attention on the completion of the plant and put worries of the pipeline to rest.