Projects

Our gas line routes are designed according to industry best practices. This includes the consideration of information we gather through engagement with landowners, Indigenous groups and stakeholders.

We take several key factors into consideration when proposing gas line routes and siting, including: 

• The ability to provide safe and reliable natural gas.
• Landowner, Indigenous and stakeholder feedback and impacts.
• Current and future land use, including development potential.
• Environmental, archaeological and cultural impacts.

TransGas works to corridor existing features, where feasible. These include gas lines and other pipelines, utilities, roads and property lines. We strive to minimize disturbances and impacts to current and future land uses. 
 

Does project construction have an impact on local landowners and residents? 
There is minimal impact to area residents during construction. However, some farming operations may experience temporary inconveniences during construction. TransGas will work to minimize any adverse impacts. We are committed to fair negotiations with any landowners affected by our activities. 

How does compensation work for affected landowners?
We provide fair and reasonable compensation packages to landowners affected by our projects. Compensation is given to landowners for damages incurred during the installation, operation and maintenance of our infrastructure. 

What are the next steps after you propose a new gas line? 
As part of our stakeholder engagement activities, TransGas shares information about proposed gas lines with landowners and welcomes questions or feedback. If required, we will then refine the gas line route and facility design. This information is included in submissions to project regulators. 

Where can I get more information? 
We engage with landowners, stakeholders and communities through various means, such as newspaper ads, direct mail-outs, in-person meetings and open houses. Landowners can also contact us directly with any questions they may have.
 

Various regulatory agencies review our projects, including: 

• Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment
• Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources 
• Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure 
• Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture, and Sport
• Saskatchewan Municipal Relations: Community Planning, Land Use and Subdivision Branch
• Rural Municipalities

Other provincial/federal agencies may also review projects. For example, Transport Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada might review watercourse or waterbody crossings depending on impacts to fish habitat and the navigability of waterways. 

We conduct heritage/archaeological and environmental assessments once a route is selected. Documents for regulatory review and approvals are then finalized.

The environment is a key consideration when we select gas line routes and facility sites. Where practical, we avoid or mitigate environmental sensitivities. 
 
We engage affected Indigenous and Métis groups early to gain knowledge of traditional land use. These groups also identify any culturally-sensitive areas near the proposed route or facility site. 

Once a route is selected, and heritage/archaeological and environmental screenings occur, we conduct field surveys. These surveys collect data on key environmental considerations such as: 

•    soils and topography
•    wildlife and invasive species/biosecurity risks
•    wetlands and vegetation

Siting or routing changes may be considered to avoid heritage resources or other significant environmental sensitivities. If changes are not practical, we put measures in place to mitigate impacts to the sensitive areas and features. These measures may include construction timing restrictions or alternative construction methods and materials (i.e. directional drilling). 
 
We are committed to protecting the environment throughout the life cycle of our gas lines and facilities, including after abandonment. In addition to our reclamation process, we monitor the land and address any issues such as trench settlement, weeds, and impacts to crop or vegetation yield. Landowners are welcome to contact us at any time to ask questions or discuss concerns. 

Safety is our number one priority. We take specific measures before, during and after construction to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our gas lines and facilities. TransGas has programs in place to monitor and inspect transmission lines to ensure they operate safely.

We adhere to best practices that meet and exceed industry standards. We also have an industry leading gas line integrity program to monitor and protect our natural gas system. ​

What do I need to be aware of if I am working near a gas line?
Planning ahead is the first step in making sure your project is successful. Whether you’re installing fence posts, digging a trench or working near a gas line, you need to be aware of the location of underground utilities. For any projects involving ground disturbance, please contact Sask 1st Call to have underground infrastructure marked. You must also obtain crossing and/or encroachment permits from TransGas to perform work over, near or across natural gas lines.