South Coles Levee Gas Plant - Gas Extraction Facility in Tupman, California

South Coles Levee Gas Plant is a gas extraction facility located at 25761 Highway 119 in Tupman, California, within Kern County. The plant is operational and serves the natural gas sector in the San Joaquin Valley, a region with significant oil and gas infrastructure. Its NAICS codes (211112 and 211130) indicate involvement in natural gas liquid extraction and natural gas extraction activities. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and DOT 49 CFR Part 192, which govern pipeline safety and gas transmission. In California, additional state-level regulations apply, including those from the California Public Utilities Commission and the California Air Resources Board. Typical gas extraction plants in this region process natural gas from the nearby oil fields, with capacities varying from small to medium scale. This plant contributes to the regional gas supply chain, supporting local energy needs and industrial operations in Kern County. Its location in a seismically active area necessitates adherence to strict safety standards for earthquake resilience. The facility's role in the gas grid helps maintain energy reliability for communities and industries in central California.

The plant is situated in Kern County, a region with active oil and gas production, which can lead to localized air quality concerns from volatile organic compounds and methane emissions. The area is also seismically active, requiring infrastructure designed to withstand earthquakes. Proximity to agricultural lands and communities necessitates careful management of potential leaks or accidents to protect public health and the environment.