What criteria were used to determine use of an open canal vs. a pipeline?
Considerations used to determine whether an open canal or a pipeline would be used included: • Topography – Flat topography prohibits the use of pipelines over long distances without pumping, which significantly increases cost • Right of way restrictions • Relocation of facilities – The project was designed to minimize major alternations to existing infrastructure and utilities • Development – Existing or proposed future commercial, industrial and residential development • Flow volumes – Large flows made the use of pipelines prohibitive both in terms of engineering and cost • Economic – Analysis show the use of canals as the most cost-effective alternative for conveying large flows A reanalysis of all canals with smaller flows (less than 30 cubic feet per second) is scheduled to be completed in mid-February 2001. Unless there are other overriding factors the majority of these canals are expected to be converted to pipelines. Ownership was not a consideration in the location of canals a
