Right-of-Way (ROW) Monitoring

Right-of-way (ROW) monitoring refers to the inspection of land corridors where pipelines are installed. The primary purpose of this monitoring is to ensure the ROW remains clear of encroachments, unauthorized activity, and other risks to the safety and integrity of the pipeline

While generally separate from methane detection, ROW monitoring is sometimes conducted in conjunction with aerial emissions scans, depending on operator needs.

Why ROW Monitoring Matters

ROW monitoring plays a critical role in pipeline safety and integrity. These inspections focus on spotting any signs of leaks, damage, land disturbance, or unauthorized activity that could threaten the pipeline’s safety or integrity. This includes evidence of spills, exposed pipe, construction or excavation near the ROW, erosion at water crossings, debris accumulation, fires, vandalism, damaged markers, excessive vegetation, or any other abnormal conditions that warrant attention. 

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as well as some states require compliance with ROW monitoring to observe and document the conditions on the pipeline and adjacent ROW. These requirements typically apply to gas transmission, distribution, and some gathering pipelines. ROW monitoring helps operators:

• Detect unauthorized third-party activity (e.g., digging or construction), including activities that may cause external loading and may affect pipeline integrity
• Assess the pipeline and ROW for new crossings such as roads, other pipelines, construction activity, or other factors that could affect the pipeline’s operational safety
• Prevent physical damage to buried pipelines that can result in leakage or affect pipeline safety
• Detect pipeline leaks through observing surface conditions including vegetation discoloration
• Document conditions for compliance and internal audit purposes

How ROW Monitoring Works (Brief Technical)

ROW monitoring is typically performed on a scheduled basis using one or more of the following methods:

• Aerial Imagery: Aerial methods are used in some cases depending on the accessibility of the pipeline ROW and other factors
• Ground Patrols:  Field crews drive or walk the ROW to conduct inspections
• Integrated Aerial Surveys: In some cases, methane detection flights (such as those using Bridger’s aerial LiDAR) may be used to capture imagery and visually assess ROW conditions as a secondary benefit

These monitoring methods are often documented with photos or video footage, GPS-tagged notes, and digital mapping for ongoing review and compliance tracking. In some cases, one or more methods might be used to complete the monitoring.

Key Applications in Oil and Gas

By using an emission rate detection sensitivity with an accompanying probability of detection, oil and gas operators can: 

• Complying with federal and state-level monitoring requirements
• Identifying any abnormal conditions or activities that could impact the safe operation of pipelines
• Preventing damage to pipelines to ensure safety
• Detecting encroachments or unauthorized activities on ROWs
• Supporting internal safety audits and documentation

Related: PHMSA Methane Detection

*Disclaimer: The information provided by Bridger Photonics, Inc. is intended for informational purposes only and is not official guidance or legal advice. We recommend consulting the appropriate agency or your legal team before making any decisions based on this information. Bridger Photonics, Inc. makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the information provided. 

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