Panther Run

An 8-inch diameter propane pipeline that crosses Panther Run in Pennsylvania was exposed for approximately 12.5 linear feet due to several factors: all-terrain vehicle (ATV) traffic had created several small streams over the pipeline, the channel bed of Panther Run had degraded, and the banks had begun to migrate. If left uncovered and unprotected, the site risked potential damage due to continued pipeline exposure.

Submar addressed the pipeline exposure by restoring cover and protection to the pipeline while also remediating the pipeline right-of-way (ROW) through various pipeline erosion control methods. Waterbars (or earthen berms) were created on the banks to redirect flow from the pipeline to a stable discharge point, and rock-lined swales were constructed to prevent further erosive scour. Upon completion of the final grading, an erosion control blanket was placed on the banks. In the stream, rock shield was wrapped around the exposed section of the pipeline to protect it from abrasion. A series of rock cross vanes was constructed to provide a means to step down to the eroded existing bed elevation while decreasing stream velocity near the banks and increasing the energy in the center of the channel. Cross vanes also improve stream habitats. All remaining disturbed stream banks were stabilized with seed and boulders were placed in the project area to deter ATV traffic and further protect against pipeline exposure.