Plains Pipeline, L.P. - Manitou Rail Terminal: Fuel Terminal in Ross, North Dakota

Plains Pipeline, L.P. - Manitou Rail Terminal is a fuel terminal located in Ross, Mountrail County, North Dakota, United States. The facility is operational and plays a significant role in the regional fuel supply chain, handling the storage and transfer of petroleum products. As a rail-served terminal, it connects to major pipeline networks, facilitating efficient distribution across the Upper Midwest. The terminal operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Underground Storage Tank (UST) regulations and the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) rules. These regulations mandate secondary containment, leak detection, and spill response plans to mitigate environmental risks. The facility's NAICS code 424710 indicates it is a petroleum bulk station and terminal, typically involving large storage capacities and high throughput. The Manitou Rail Terminal is strategically located in the Bakken oil-producing region, supporting the transportation of crude oil and refined products. Its rail access provides flexibility for distribution to refineries and end-users. The terminal's operations are integral to the energy infrastructure of North Dakota, contributing to the state's economic activity and energy security.

The terminal is situated in a semi-arid region of North Dakota, characterized by cold winters and low precipitation. The surrounding area includes agricultural land and sensitive ecosystems such as wetlands and prairie potholes. Spill risks are managed through secondary containment systems and SPCC plans, while vapor recovery units may be employed to control emissions. Proximity to groundwater resources necessitates careful monitoring to prevent contamination from petroleum releases.