The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) Office of Energy Projects (OEP) has developed draft Guidance for Horizontal Directional Drill Monitoring, Inadvertent Return Response, and Contingency Plans (HDD Plan Guidance), dated October 2018, to help industry professionals improve the quality and consistency of their HDD Plans and, as a result, increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the Commission’s environmental review. FERC is asking for public input and suggestions for modifications to the draft HDD Plan Guidance from federal and state agencies, environmental consultants, inspectors, the natural gas industry, construction contractors, and other interested parties with special expertise in regards to preparation of HDD monitoring and contingency plans associated with natural gas projects. Please note that this comment period will close on December 28, 2018.

The OEP staff anticipates issuing its final version of the HDD Plan Guidance in February 2019, and will consider all timely comments on the draft before issuing the final version. The draft HDD Plan Guidance can be found in Docket Number AD19-6-000, or click on this link.