Alliance Pipeline, North Dakota State University cultivate unique partnership Eden Prairie, MN – November 15, 2013 – Alliance Pipeline and North Dakota State University (NDSU) are partnering in an evaluation of native grassland reclamation methods. Launched this month, the $70,000 Alliance-funded study is being conducted along the Tioga Lateral natural gas pipeline right-of-way. Owned and operated by Alliance, the new 80-mile Tioga line runs between Tioga and Sherwood in North Dakota. The project will research the most effective way to reestablish native vegetation using different application methods for seed mixes. The research findings will be published to help support future land reclamation related to the state’s energy boom. “Alliance recognizes the importance of restoring the land following new pipeline construction”, said Troy Meinke, Alliance Pipeline’s Director of Health, Safety and Environment. “With all the energy activity in the state, we hope this unique partnership with NDSU advances not just our land reclamation work, but also land reclamation carried out by other industry in North Dakota”. The research uses a method called spike seeding, where a high density seed mix that includes a greater proportion of flowering native species is applied. The flowering native species helps reduce weed establishment and covers the ground to reduce erosion. A control mix will also be applied. Over the next five years the different seed mixes will be monitored and compared to determine re-vegetation success. Each site will be visited in the spring, summer and fall to document progress. The research goal is to provide industry with data that facilitates informed decisions on the best methods to revegetate post-construction rights-of-way and other affected lands. Dr. Jack Norland, Assistant Professor of Natural Resources at NDSU and study lead, commented, “As industrial growth continues in North Dakota, it is important for all companies to do their part in restoring impacted lands. As environmental researchers, we see the value in this approach and believe that the study results will have long-term benefits”.
Posted on: Fri, 15 Nov 2013 18:34:08 +0000