APACHE COMPRESSOR STATION - Gas Pipeline Facility in Loving, New Mexico

APACHE COMPRESSOR STATION is a gas pipeline facility situated approximately 28.5 km northeast of Loving, in Eddy County, New Mexico, United States. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS code 486210, which covers pipeline transportation of natural gas. As a compressor station, it plays a key role in maintaining pressure and flow within the natural gas pipeline network in the region. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and DOT 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. Compressor stations like this one are critical for long-distance gas transmission, ensuring efficient transport from production areas to distribution networks. The station's location in Eddy County places it within the Permian Basin, a major oil and gas producing region. This compressor station contributes to the reliability of natural gas supply in the southwestern United States. Its operation supports downstream consumers, including residential, commercial, and industrial users. The facility's presence in a region with significant hydrocarbon activity underscores its importance in the energy infrastructure landscape.

The facility is located in a semi-arid region of southeastern New Mexico, characterized by low precipitation and sparse vegetation. Proximity to populated areas and waterways is a consideration for pipeline infrastructure. The age of the pipeline and cathodic protection systems are key factors in preventing leaks and ensuring environmental safety. The commodity transported, natural gas, poses risks of methane emissions and potential explosion hazards, requiring rigorous safety protocols.