Planting for Wells and Pipelines

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After installation, maintenance and repair of wells or pipelines have disturbed natural areas, many companies seek to restore the landscape. Planting high quality seed mixes can significantly reduce the impacts of disturbance on the landscape.

Many companies are seeking ways to go beyond basic restoration methods in order to replenish and reinvigorate natural sites after installation, maintenance and well and pipeline repair. These activities can disrupt the local ecosystem, but high-quality conservation seed mixes can significantly reduce the impact on the natural habitat. Cultivating native plants supports ecosystem health by creating pollinator-friendly sites, reduce run-off, sequester carbon and promoting soil health.

Rethinking Design for Oil and Gas Utility Cover

Our native seed mixes have been specifically designed to provide the maximum environmental benefit while providing equivalent performance to traditional non-native seed mixes. There are mixes available for rights-of-ways and stormwater basins. Expert insight and planning tools are necessary when it comes to planting native crops for your project.

Using native seed mixes gives engineers, installers and project managers the opportunity to improve the biodiversity of a site. This mitigates the environmental impact caused by their project. These mixes reduce erosion and sedimentation associated with control oil and gas site projects. Other key benefits of planting regionally appropriate native species include increased soil health and water quality.

This former well pad is bringing ecological value back to the landscape.

Seed mixes are formulated for different sites, pH levels, soil conditions and amount of sun. Utility cover mixes include the ERNMX-122 (FACW), ERNMX – 131 (OBL), ERNMX-178 (riparian), pipeline mix with switchgrass, quick erosion control mix, native steep slope mix with annual ryegrass and a mix for strip mines and gas production sites.

Installers, landscape architects and regulators need to consider the intended use of land near a gas well or pipeline and the site’s environmental conditions when selecting the right conservation seed mix. For example, a pipeline mix is useful for reintroducing pollinators and wildlife to a habitat and building a resilient ecosystem. Research studies have shown that a carefully designed seed mix promotes biodiversity.

Considerations for Beautification With Oil and Gas Utility Cover

A site can be made more beautiful by selecting the appropriate native wildflower meadow mix. The mix selected should take into consideration the site’s slope, hydrology, light conditions and climate. Consideration should also be given for whether there will be walking paths through or along the site for the public to interact with the landscape. A properly selected mix will be attractive to pollinators, beneficial insects and songbirds.

Sometimes these sites have little or no topsoil. Measures may need to be taken to improve the soil. An option can be to incorporate 1” to 2” of compost into the soil prior to planting.

Working With Companies for Planting Success

Ernst Seeds supports customer success and satisfaction by providing advice and resources. Our Seed Finder Tool can assist you with identifying potential seed mixes for your oil and gas project. Should you need assistance with mix selection or custom formulation, our sales team is ready to assist you.

For greatest success with your plantings, visit our online resource center where you will find our establishment guides and seedling gallery. Our establishment guides contain tips on site preparation, planting, and maintenance. To help you confirm that your meadow is growing, see our seedling gallery.