Installing hundreds of kilometres of pipeline through wetlands, steep coulees, and established right-of-ways requires precisely mapping of every stake, easement, and crossing. Meridian Surveys has taken part in pipeline surveying throughout Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia. The process is extensive, and the deadlines are tight. You can’t afford surprises along the way. Pipeline surveying is the key to staying on track. Accurate data, regulation compliance and giving your crew and stakeholders the peace of mind they need.
Pipeline surveying makes a huge difference, and the CLX4 pipeline project is a real-world example of how Meridian can handle everything from start to finish. Keep reading to learn how our team completed the project from the early routing to the final as-built. Our pipeline surveying reduced delays, maintained safety, and ensured accurate data collection.
CLX4 Pipeline Project
The Christina Lake expansion 4 (CLX4) spans 44 kilometres, including 34 kilometres of 24-inch pipe and another 10 kilometres of 10-inch pipe. This section of pipeline connects the Christina Lake facility to the rest of the IPL pipeline corridor. Jarrett Hollman, the project field supervisor on this project has worked with IPL since 2013, reflects on the seamless collaboration we have with them: “They trust us to keep things consistent, and that’s why they keep coming back.”
The CLX4 project spans five years, from preliminary surveying to construction. There were minimal delays, and the Meridian team handled everything, including the final as-built stages and legal paperwork. Our early survey data collection and diligence helped keep the construction on track even under pressure.
The Complex Environment
The CLX4 route had its complications. The terrain was rough, with creeks and beaver dams to consider along the route. We required extra time during the preliminary design phase to plan accordingly. Each crossing requires a permit, and drilling areas need to be precise in order not to damage existing ecosystems and habitats.
Aside from the physical challenges of the terrain, budget and time also presented difficulties. Jeff Edwards, the drafting manager, points out a common industry issue regarding the cost of a pipeline survey: “Some firms seem cheap upfront, but then they hit you with change orders and extra cost later.” Meridian’s approach is different. We do all the difficult planning early on to minimize surprises mid-project and give you real cost predictions.
Meridians Pipeline Surveying Solutions
Meridian supported CLX4 throughout the entire five-year project. Our surveyors have years of pipeline surveying experience and combine it with the latest innovations of surveying technology. Each step provides detailed data used to ensure safe and compliant pipeline construction:
Preliminary survey: UAV drone surveying and LiDAR helped map the terrain, water crossings and elevation long before construction.
360 video flyovers: Captured detailed visuals for environmental teams, project engineers and stakeholders. Everyone got to see the site before setting foot on it.
Engineering support: Meridian provided access to maps and application-ready permit drawings to make the process easier.
Construction and As-Builts: The design layout is monitored during construction and compared to the final as-built with minimal error.
“Honestly, the only mistake was a misspelled word that was fixed immediately” – Jarrett.
We delivered consistent data from the start, and our team accomplished this project with no reworks and clear communication.
A Smooth Process And Peace Of Mind
It’s an ideal situation when everything in a project stays on track. The CLX4 pipeline project is one of those rare ideal projects. There were no surprise change orders and no last-minute complicated reroutes. Meridian’s team gave the contractors everything they needed to build with confidence. With the success of this pipeline survey project and the relationship between Meridian and IPL we look forward to working together on future projects. As Jarrett puts it, “When the client’s biggest complaint is a typo, you know you’ve done the job right.”
The confidence in our ability to get the job done right is why IPL trusts our results and keeps coming back. Pipeline surveying isn’t just about putting a pipe in the ground. It requires trust, precision, commitment to safety, and clear communication from day one.
Talk to Meridian Surveys about how our team can keep your next pipeline project safe and on track.