Bough Compressor Station - Gas Pipeline Facility near Tatum, New Mexico

Bough Compressor Station is a gas pipeline facility situated in Lea County, New Mexico, approximately 20 miles north of Tatum. As part of the United States' extensive natural gas transmission network, it plays a role in moving natural gas from production areas to downstream markets. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS code 486210 for pipeline transportation of natural gas. The station operates within the regulatory framework of the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) under 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. This includes requirements for pipeline integrity management, cathodic protection, and leak detection. Compressor stations like this one are critical for maintaining pressure and flow in long-distance gas pipelines, typically spaced every 50 to 100 miles along the route. Located in the Permian Basin region, one of the most productive oil and gas areas in the United States, Bough Compressor Station supports the transportation of natural gas from prolific wells. The facility's proximity to active drilling and production operations underscores its importance in the regional energy infrastructure. Its operational status ensures continued service to the natural gas grid, contributing to energy supply for residential, commercial, and industrial users.

The facility is situated in a semi-arid region of southeastern New Mexico, characterized by rangeland and agricultural use. Proximity to populated areas and waterways is limited, reducing certain environmental risks. However, as a gas pipeline compressor station, potential environmental concerns include methane emissions, noise from compressor engines, and the risk of pipeline leaks or ruptures. Regulatory compliance with PHMSA's integrity management programs helps mitigate these risks through regular inspections and maintenance.