Alright, let’s talk about something that doesn’t usually come up at dinner parties, namely pipeline mowing. Sounds a little niche, right? But hear me out, because it’s actually way more important (and interesting) than it sounds. Whether you’re someone working in the industry, own property near a right-of-way, or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes of infrastructure, pipeline mowing plays a pretty vital role.

We are Keith’s Tractor Mowing, serving the Greater Fort Worth area with affordable and professional acreage mowing. Call us today when the job is too large for your mower to handle.

So, what is pipeline mowing, exactly?

In the simplest terms, pipeline mowing contracts include maintaining the land above and around pipelines—those underground lifelines that transport oil, gas, water, and other resources across the country. These pipelines often run through what’s called a right-of-way (ROW)—a cleared corridor that gives access to the line for inspection, maintenance, and safety checks. Keeping this area mowed and clear is crucial for a few reasons.

First off: Safety.

You can’t fix a problem if you can’t see it. Overgrown grass, brush, or small trees can hide potential issues like erosion, sinkholes, or unauthorized digging. And if there’s ever a leak? Time is of the essence. A well-maintained ROW lets crews access the area fast—no fighting through thickets or getting equipment tangled in brush.

Mowing the pipeline ROW also helps with aerial inspections. Helicopters and drones are often used to monitor these corridors from above. If vegetation is too tall or dense, it blocks the view. Keeping the path clear gives those eyes in the sky a better shot at catching issues early.

Then there’s compliance.

Yeah, no one wants to deal with regulatory headaches, but this part matters. Pipeline operators have to follow strict federal and state guidelines. Regular mowing is usually part of that. If you let your ROW turn into a jungle, you’re not just risking safety—you’re risking fines and legal trouble.

Environmentally speaking, it’s a balancing act.

Some people hear “lot mowing” and picture bulldozers tearing through wildlife habitat. But responsible mowing isn’t about destroying everything in sight. In fact, a lot of operators work with environmental consultants to time mowing schedules around things like bird nesting seasons or rare plant growth.

There’s even something called selective mowing—where only certain areas or types of vegetation are cut back, leaving the rest undisturbed. That way, you can manage the ROW without completely wiping out the local ecosystem. It’s kind of like giving nature a haircut instead of a buzz cut.

It’s not a one-and-done job, either.

Pipeline mowing is an ongoing task—sometimes several times a year, depending on the region. In places with fast-growing vegetation (looking at you, Southeast), crews might be out there more often. And it’s not just riding mowers on grass. They’re dealing with thorny brush, uneven terrain, wet ground, and sometimes even noxious weeds that need special handling.

Let’s not forget about property owners, too.

Many pipeline ROWs run through private land. That can get a little tricky when it comes to coordination. Ideally, operators and landowners work together—clear communication, shared understanding, mutual respect. Some landowners appreciate the help keeping things tidy; others might not be thrilled about folks mowing through their pasture. Either way, it’s all about maintaining that trust and keeping the lines of communication open.

In the end, it’s about visibility, accessibility, and reliability.

Pipeline mowing might not be glamorous, but it keeps the whole operation running smoothly. It’s like changing the oil in your car—routine, a bit dull maybe, but 100% necessary. Skipping it isn’t an option.

So next time you see a wide, grassy strip cutting through a field or forest, know this: there’s a lot going on beneath your feet. And someone’s out there mowing that strip to make sure it all stays safe, efficient, and compliant.

Not so boring after all, huh?

A final word about Keith’s Tractor Mowing

Keith’s Tractor Mowing is locally owned and operated.  We take on the tough jobs, one acre or more, including ranch mowing, cemetery mowing, HOA services, et al. Call us today.

Pipeline mowing contracts only go to the most experienced commercial tractor mowing companies. They are simply too important to do otherwise.  When billions of dollars are at stake, as they are in all pipeline undertakings involving vast acreage mowing, only the best mowing companies will ever sign a pipeline mowing contract.

Pipeline construction is increasing in the United States.  It is difficult to go for a drive without seeing oil and gas transportation infrastructure for pipelines as companies rush to keep up with the demand for fuel and the developments in North America (most recently in shale) and in Canada (oil sand deposits).

Large pipeline projects require the necessity to clear a path for those pipelines, clearing unwanted trees, knocking down heavy brush, and eliminating intrusive vegetation along the pipeline route.

In the mowing business it is called Right-of-way (R.O.W.) vegetation clearing.  It enables access to all of the pipeline (miles and miles of pipeline), and it allows enables visibility for proper pipeline management. It is also a safety issue, keeping growth off the top of the pipeline and causing damage to the pipeline.

On paper, R.O.W. projects are fairly simple:  remove unwanted trees and brush to allow the pipeline to become visible, accessible, and visually attractive.  The reality of such pipeline mowing, however, is anything but simple.  This type of mowing requires traversing uneven ground, swampy ground, and stubborn growth on uneven ground.  It is not for the weak-of-heart and it is not for the inexperienced.

Keith’s Tractor Mowing Services understands the complexity of pipeline mowing.

Owner Keith Sturgeon explains:  “You have to be able to adjust to the needs of the job.  You have to have the right equipment, equipment which is efficient, safe, and easily maneuverable over rough land, bush hog mowing for heavy jobs.  In our line of work, safety is the number one concern, so using the right equipment is of utmost importance.  There are pipeline jobs where the equipment operator is all by himself, out of sight, and if an accident were to occur in a situation like that, it could be life-threatening.  So we cross all of our t’s and dot all of our I’s before we even begin a job.  We walk the property in question, we decide on equipment, we map out a plan, and then we execute.”

And execute, and execute, and execute . . . success breeds success in the pipeline mowing business, and word-of-mouth advertising is vitally important.  Pipeline managers learn early on which mowing company can be trusted to deliver time and time again, and in Tarrant County, Texas, that company is Keith’s Tractor Mowing Services.

ABOUT KEITH’S TRACTOR MOWING SERVICES

Keith’s Tractor and Mowing Service is owned and operated by Keith Sturgeon, a life-long resident of Dallas Fort Worth. He has been a successful business person in Fort Worth for more than 20 years. Customers enjoy working with Keith because of his friendly customer service and his outstanding quality of work. Specializing in large acreage mowing, government contracts, vacant lot mowing and channel mowing in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex.