Andrews v. Columbia Gas Transmission Corp.

OPINION

McKEAGUE, Circuit Judge.

This diversity case involves what some consider to be a “[ljocal David” standing up to an “out-of-state corporate Goliath.” 1 Plaintiffs Donald S. Andrews and Jill Beeler Andrews appeal the district court’s determination that defendant Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation (“Columbia Gas”) is entitled to clear a fifty-foot right of way around each of its natural gas pipelines running through plaintiffs’ property. For the reasons stated below, we AFFIRM.

I

A. Factual Background

The basic facts underlying this litigation are largely undisputed. In 1947, Ruby W.…