With continued growth in population and industry in Oregon, a greater degree of cooperation, standardization and coordination of underground utilities must be obtained so utility installations are done at maximum efficiency, minimum cost and least environmental impact.

Joint trenching has become a very viable means of installing buried utilities to maximize trench efficiency and minimize cost when the area for trenching is at a minimum or the type of soil (rock) is at a premium cost to excavate.

Due to the long term benefits, it is recommended that conduit be used whenever possible. The use of conduit increases protection, decreases repair cost, and minimizes disruption to the general public.

The following are actual joint trench examples used by various operators within Oregon. In all cases excavations must meet the requirements of applicable codes and standards within Oregon.