The addition of drones to a water infrastructure project provides a company with the ability to easily conduct detailed site assessments, provide in depth updates on construction progress, and efficiently monitor water infrastructure once construction is complete. During the design phase, utilization of drones provides up to date aerial imaging and the ability to access areas for assessment that would otherwise be dangerous or inaccessible to field workers. The addition of accurate and easily accessible imagery allows for more efficient site assessment for pipelines, streams, wetlands, and other potentially existing infrastructure that could impede construction. During the construction phase of a water infrastructure project, one of the most dangerous aspects of oversight, is working within close proximity to large equipment. Through the utilization of drones, inspectors are able to eliminate themselves from a dangerous zone within the work area, while continuing to capture high quality imagery. Once construction is complete, drones allow for a safer and more efficient way to conduct water infrastructure’s required maintenance inspections. Additionally, the flight capabilities of drones deliver an inexpensive aerial perspective that would otherwise be cost prohibited. Within a water infrastructure project drones provide a level of detail and efficiency that would otherwise be unmatched.

Primary Author / Conference Presenter:
Daniel Arthur
Environmental Consultant
ALL Consulting
Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
www.all-llc.com

Co-Author:
Oliver Seekins, ALL Consulting, Tulsa, OK