What type of patrol do maintenance crews rely on for reliable information about the pipeline ROW?

Maintenance crews rely on on-site surveys for reliable information about the pipeline Right-of-Way (ROW) because this method allows for direct, hands-on observation of the pipeline infrastructure and the surrounding area. During an on-site survey, crews can identify potential issues such as erosion, vegetation overgrowth, and any pipeline anomalies or hazards that could affect the integrity of the pipeline.

On-site surveys provide detailed and accurate assessments because they can be conducted at different times throughout the year to account for seasonal changes that might impact the pipeline environment. This level of direct engagement allows crews to gather precise measurements, take notes, and make immediate decisions about maintenance needs.

In contrast, aerial surveys and drone inspections are useful for large-area monitoring and can cover vast stretches of pipeline; however, they may not capture as much detailed information or specific conditions as an on-site survey, especially when it comes to understanding localized issues. Remote sensing can provide valuable data over large areas as well, but like aerial approaches, it may lack the immediate contextual understanding that an on-site presence affords. Therefore, on-site surveys are the preferred method for obtaining the most reliable and actionable information regarding the pipeline ROW.