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A feature article from APWA-MN Gold Sponsor Gopher State One Call

In response to evolving legal requirements and the needs of the excavation industry, Gopher State One Call has introduced several new tools to help excavators, locators, and facility operators work and communicate more efficiently.  These tools include Automated Marking Instructions, Electronic White Lining, and Ticket Talk.

Understanding Minnesota’s White Lining Requirements
Minnesota law requires excavators to provide white markings on all excavations, without exception. These marks must clearly identify the area of work for facility operators and locators. These markings are critical to ensuring accurate locates and preventing damage to underground infrastructure. Beginning January 1, 2026, excavators may provide electronic (digital) white markings in place of physical markings, provided the electronic markings convey the same level of detail as physical marks. Even with this option, facility operators may still require physical markings on any one call ticket. If electronic information provided is unclear or insufficient, facility operators are more likely to require physical marks, which could delay the locating process.

Automated Marking Instructions: Consistent Language, Better Results
Automated Marking Instructions (AMI) are designed to bring consistency, clarity, and accuracy to locate requests. By using standardized language and defined mapping tools, AMI provides locators with clearer, more actionable information about the excavation area. Within ITIC, excavators can use the Radius, Street, Property Excavation, and Route tools to visually define their area of excavation. Once selected, these tools automatically generate marking instructions that populate directly into the one-call ticket based on the defined work area. By improving the quality of excavation descriptions, Automated Marking Instructions help increase locator efficiency, reduce damage to underground infrastructure, and improve overall jobsite safety. Electronic markings must always be reviewed and adjusted by the person submitting the ticket to ensure accuracy. Facility operators may still request physical markings, and are likely to do so if electronic instructions do not provide sufficient detail.

To further support excavators, the Minnesota Common Ground Alliance (MNCGA) has released suggested practices for electronic white lining that may help ensure that automated marking instructions provide sufficient information to facility operators and locators.  Read more here: https://www.mncga.com/suggested-practices-for-electronic-white-lining/

Ticket Talk: Clear, Documented Communication
In addition to improving how excavation areas are defined, GSOC has introduced Ticket Talk, a built-in communication tool that keeps all ticket-related conversations in one place. Ticket Talk simplifies communication by eliminating the need to search for phone numbers or email addresses. Messages are tied directly to the locate ticket and reach the appropriate parties quickly and accurately. Selected users receive email notifications whenever a new message is added, ensuring timely awareness of updates or questions. All conversations are stored as part of the ticket record, creating a clear and transparent history of communication. With real-time updates and organized message threads, Ticket Talk provides dependable, efficient communication between excavators, locators, and facility operators.

For questions or additional support, please contact GSOC Customer Support at 651-681-7326, or email us at customersupport@gopherstateonecall.org.