Pipeline Safety

Natural gas pipelines are the nation’s safest method of transporting energy, quietly delivering large volumes of the clean-burning fuel across the country, as well as to homes and businesses.

Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. operates approximately 7,500 miles of natural gas pipeline. The gas is delivered for household, commercial and industrial use. Montana-Dakota operates a safe and efficient pipeline distribution network of stations, mains, valves, services and meters.

Natural gas energy is the most popular home heating fuel in America, and natural gas pipelines are among the safest and most secure methods of transporting energy. In addition, pipeline operators are extensively regulated by federal and state regulations with regard to design, construction, operation and maintenance. The natural gas industry works hard to stay abreast of new security methods and technologies to ensure the highest levels of security.

Montana-Dakota maintains memberships in numerous industry associations and we evaluate our security procedures on a regular basis for continual enhancement. At Montana-Dakota, our main goal is to deliver natural gas reliably and safely to you, our customer.

The number one cause of pipeline accidents or problems is third party damage caused by digging. Even minor damage such as a dent, scrape, crease or gouge to a pipeline coating may cause a leak or failure.

Call before you dig. No matter the size of the job – big or small – call before you dig. It’s the law. Place just one call to locate all underground utilities. Call 811 before you dig.

The law requires that all persons planning excavations to notify the Center at least 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) before digging so underground utilities can be located. Calling 811 is free. You can also call these toll-free numbers: