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Seneca Nation owned and operated Natural Gas Distribution System

By Megan Torres, Reporter

Natural gas is coming to the Cattaraugus Territory. Seneca Energy’s Natural Gas Distribution System Project is set to begin in the spring of 2020. This system will be completely owned and operated by the Seneca Nation furthermore providing the Nation with “energy sovereignty” which is another step in the right direction. This project will allow the Nation to assume control and authority over its energy production, purchase and consumption. The system will be constructed in three phases titled: the Western Pipeline, Central Pipeline and the Eastern Pipeline.

The term “pipeline” is often viewed in a negative aspect and with good reason. However, this particular pipeline will not be transporting crude oil, liquid or compressed gas. Natural gas is a safe energy source. In regards to the dangers of rupture and line failure resulting in property damage and loss of life, reports published by the US DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration indicate from 1999 through 2018 that there has not been a transmission line failure in NYS. There have been reports of distribution and service line failures but most if not all were associated with third party impacts such as lines being hit, cut, punctured, etc. by someone or something causing damage to the line resulting in the line failing or corrosion. The new lines will be constructed of high density polyethylene pipe which are unaffected by corrosive action. Also the interconnection where the Seneca Nation will tap into the National Fuel Gas transmission line is not a compression station. It would mimic the way your water service line is interconnected to the distribution line by way of a tap, supplying water to your home. Lastly, the construction will be performed by certified installers who have undergone rigorous training and testing.

Where exactly will the natural gas pipelines be installed?

The pipelines will be installed along the edge of the road. This will limit any disturbance to residential and commercial properties. You can be assured that all property will be restored back to the condition it was in prior to installation.

The Western Pipeline will be from the top of South Sulphur Springs Rd. intersecting Route 438. The pipeline will continue east along Route 438 to the William Seneca Building government complex, including the Eleven Acres residential area.

The Central Pipeline will continue east along Route 438 to the intersection of Versailles Plank Rd. The pipeline will turn north onto Versailles Plank Rd. continuing to Snow Rd. where it will connect to the existing National Fuel Gas distribution system.

The Eastern Pipeline will proceed east from the intersection of Versailles Plank Rd. and Route 438, along Route 438 traversing Four Mile Level, Sand Hill to the exterior boundary of the Cattaraugus Territory in the Village of Gowanda.

There will be no charge for the pipeline to be installed to residences within 200 feet of the road. However, there will be a per foot charge (approximately $7-$10 per foot) for residences that are further than 200 feet from the road.

Advantages of Natural Gas

Natural gas provides many advantages that will benefit residents on the Cattaraugus Territory. The cost of natural gas is much more economical for homeowners. Propane can be quite costly especially in the cold, winter months. On top of lower costs, you don’t have to ever worry about running out of natural gas unlike propane which has to be scheduled for delivery to your home. Natural gas is also better for the environment as it is the cleanest burning fossil fuel.

How to Sign-Up

If you live along the route of the proposed pipeline, you must sign a consent form in order to convert to natural gas. Please contact Seneca Energy/Utilities Office at (716) 932-9221 or stop in a visit them at 219 Thomas Indian School Dr., You can also visit their website at www.senecaenergy.com to learn more about the project and to download a consent form.

See forms below: