Abstract
Managing pipeline integrity with respect to natural threats requires geoprofessionals to consider how the earth may behave into the future. Predicting morphological change involves a deep understanding of geology, geological processes, climate change, and knowledge of physical changes that have happened in the past or may occur in the future. One of the most capable techniques for mapping changing terrain through time across spatially extensive regions is lidar change detection (LCD) with airborne lidar scanning (ALS) data.
LCD has typically been performed on a site-specific basis at known geohazard locations. However, with recent developments in data acquisition and processing, LCD is now a cost-effective tool that can be used on a systemwide scale to aid in the identification of potential geologic hazards and monitor known geohazard sites for active ground displacements that may be impactful to pipeline infrastructure. It enables monitoring of hazards directly impacting the right of way, as well as peripheral hazards that could encroach on the right of way. This proactive method of identifying and monitoring geohazards significantly enhances the ability of pipeline operators to make informed decisions and design resilient infrastructure. The work presented demonstrates how over 40,000 linear kilometers of LCD analysis was executed and integrated with a geohazard management program to support proactive decision-making across the eastern US.
