Buffalo Valley Booster Station - Natural Gas Pipeline Facility in Lake Arthur, New Mexico

Buffalo Valley Booster Station is a natural gas pipeline facility located approximately 12 miles northeast of Lake Arthur, New Mexico, in Chaves County. The station is part of the United States' extensive natural gas transmission infrastructure, serving to boost pressure along the pipeline to ensure efficient gas transport. As a booster station, it plays a critical role in maintaining flow rates over long distances. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. The station's NAICS codes (211112 and 486210) indicate involvement in natural gas extraction and pipeline transportation. Booster stations of this type typically include compressor units and associated equipment. Operationally, the Buffalo Valley Booster Station supports the delivery of natural gas to downstream markets, contributing to energy supply reliability in the region. Its location in southeastern New Mexico places it within an area of active oil and gas production, including the Permian Basin. The station's environmental context involves proximity to rural and agricultural lands, with standard safety measures such as cathodic protection and leak detection systems in place.

The facility is situated in a semi-arid region of southeastern New Mexico, characterized by rangelands and agricultural areas. Proximity to populated areas is low, reducing population exposure risk. The transported commodity is natural gas, which poses flammability hazards but is managed through PHMSA-regulated safety protocols including cathodic protection and regular inspections. Local waterways are limited, but the station's design includes spill containment measures.