Pipeline replacement projects undergo floodplain review in Woodward County

Two pipeline replacement projects are going through Woodward County’s floodplain review process, with portions of the work crossing waterways and designated floodplain areas.

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South Carolina Senate debate The Woodward News Pipeline replacement projects undergo floodplain review in Woodward County Amanda Parks, The Woodward News, Okla.

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Two pipeline replacement projects in Woodward County are undergoing floodplain review due to portions crossing waterways and designated floodplain areas.

The projects involve replacing sections of an existing pipeline system that is decades old, with one project extending about 33 miles toward Arnett in Ellis County and the other covering approximately 47 miles.

The pipeline company submitted maps, engineering documents, and "no-rise" certifications for the projects, with the county's floodplain administrator reviewing the proposed work to assess potential impacts on floodplain areas and waterways.

See more Two pipeline replacement projects are going through Woodward County's floodplain review process, with portions of the work crossing waterways and designated floodplain areas.

Kelly Witchey, Woodward County emergency management director and floodplain administrator, explained the projects and the county's role in the review process during the Woodward County Commissioners' Sept.

The projects involve replacing portions of existing pipeline rather than constructing an entirely new pipeline system.

One project is about 33 miles long and extends toward Arnett in Ellis County.

The second project covers about 47 miles, according to information presented during the meeting.

It is the same pipeline just sectioned off for paperwork processes.

Witchey said the pipeline is already established in the area and Navigator is replacing sections of the existing line.

The work is needed in part because the existing pipeline is decades old, she said.

Because portions of the pipeline cross floodplain areas and waterways, the projects must go through the required floodplain review process.

Witchey said the pipeline company submitted information for the projects, including maps and engineering documents.

Her job is to review the proposed work and determine what floodplain areas could be affected.

"They have to do that," Witchey said during the meeting, referring to the required floodplain review for work crossing floodplain areas.

Witchey said she had already visited one of the project areas after receiving information about the location.

She described the area as containing several creeks and waterways, including Persimmon Creek, which has floodplain areas.

According to Witchey, the certifications state that engineers reviewed the projects and determined replacing the existing pipeline would not significantly change flood conditions.

The work is not expected to create additional flooding because the pipeline is being replaced along an existing route rather than being rerouted, Witchey explained.

Witchey said the county's review is part of the process required for projects that cross floodplain areas.

After completing the county's review, she planned to send the information to the appropriate federal agency for further review.

The pipeline work was discussed as part of the county's regular business during the Sept.

Witchey said she would continue reviewing the project information and complete the necessary floodplain assessment.