October 4, 2022

Michels wins 2022 Trenchless Technology Project of the Year Award

Aerial photo of a horizontal directional drilling project showing cranes ready to assist in placement of the HDD.

Michels is honored to win the 2022 Project of the Year New Installation Award from Trenchless Technology for construction of a dramatic 15,426-foot, 24-inch horizontal directional drill (HDD) crossing under Lake Sakakawea in Watford City, ND.

The HDD was a critical piece of the North Bakken Expansion natural gas pipeline to reduce natural gas flaring in the area by connecting WBI Energy’s Tioga Compressor Station near Tioga, ND, with the Northern Border Pipeline Co.’s mainline at a new interconnection point south of Watford City.

The 15,426-foot HDD included more than 13,000 feet under water, adding to the challenge.

Michels shared the Project of the Year Award with CCI & Associates, an engineering firm enlisted by WBI to create a design for the project. Michels and CCI worked jointly throughout the planning process to minimize risk and maximize the potential for success.

Read more here.

Related Accomplishments