Did you know we recently updated our briefing papers and added papers on three additional topics? These papers are a great source of 'Pipeline Safety 101' information - they are short and each focused on a single topic. They do not need to be read in order, though some basic understanding is helpful before reading about the more technical issues. Check them out if you haven't already! Here is the … [Read more...] about So much pipeline safety information!
public participation
Pipeline Safety Technical Experts Available
Check out our new listing of Pipeline Safety Technical Experts HERE! The Trust published a Request for Qualifications in 2015, asking those with technical expertise in a whole range of pipeline safety issues to submit their information to us. Community organizations, local governments and individuals frequently ask the Trust for suggestions of independent technical experts with experience … [Read more...] about Pipeline Safety Technical Experts Available
What is the Pipeline Safety Trust, and what do you do there?
I began working in earnest for the Trust two years ago. Recently, I received a phone call from a timid citizen looking for support as he tried to educate himself in the midst of a pipeline construction project coming his way. He asked this question, and it offered me a brief opportunity to reflect on our work. Do you remember 1999? If you lived in Bellingham, you know exactly where you were on … [Read more...] about What is the Pipeline Safety Trust, and what do you do there?
Another pipeline incident anniversary – have things changed since 2009?
Question of the week – I think it was around this time in 2009 that a gas pipeline blew up in Palm City, Florida near a school. What really happened then, and have things gotten safer in the past 6 years? On May 4, 2009, an 18-inch Florida Gas Transmission Company interstate pipeline ruptured about 6 miles south of Palm City, Florida, releasing about 36 million cubic feet of natural gas and … [Read more...] about Another pipeline incident anniversary – have things changed since 2009?
Local options when thinking about new pipelines
Question of the week – There are rumors of a new pipeline coming to my community. I’ve heard of another town with its own pipeline ordinance, but I also hear that it’s not up to the community and we really have no say. Should we pass our own ordinance and will it help? You can pass your own ordinance, but whether it will help or not depends on where you are, what type of pipeline is proposed, … [Read more...] about Local options when thinking about new pipelines
A Call for Transparency in Pipeline Safety Enforcement – Ten Years Later
Question of the week: I've looked at some of the pipeline enforcement data online through PHMSA's website, but don't really understand it, and don't see a lot of information available. Can you tell me how pipeline enforcement works, and what is available to the public when there is an enforcement case against a pipeline operator who has some sort of violation of the … [Read more...] about A Call for Transparency in Pipeline Safety Enforcement – Ten Years Later
Technical Assistance Grant Opportunity – Apply Now
Question of the Week: I heard something about grants being offered to communities for hiring experts and promoting public participation in pipeline safety proceedings. Can you tell me more about how to access these funds? Answer: PHMSA recently announced a grant opportunity for Community Technical Assistance Grants - Applications are Due April 22, 2015. Community groups and local … [Read more...] about Technical Assistance Grant Opportunity – Apply Now