Burton Flat Facility - Gas Pipeline Station near Carlsbad, New Mexico

Burton Flat Facility is a gas pipeline station situated in Eddy County, New Mexico, approximately 8 miles north of Carlsbad. The facility is part of the extensive natural gas pipeline infrastructure in the Permian Basin region, a major hub for oil and gas production. As a gas pipeline facility, it plays a role in transporting natural gas from production areas to processing plants or distribution networks. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) 49 CFR Part 192, which governs the safe transportation of natural gas. These regulations cover design, construction, testing, operation, and maintenance of pipeline facilities. The NAICS code 486210 indicates it is a natural gas pipeline facility, typically involving compressor stations, metering, and pigging operations. Located in the arid climate of southeastern New Mexico, the facility is in a region with significant oil and gas activity. Its proximity to Carlsbad, a city of about 30,000 residents, requires careful safety measures to protect populated areas. The facility contributes to the energy supply chain, supporting local and regional natural gas distribution.

The facility is located in the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem, characterized by arid conditions and sensitive habitats. Proximity to the Pecos River and Carlsbad Caverns National Park requires careful management to prevent leaks or spills that could impact water resources and wildlife. The region's oil and gas infrastructure poses risks of groundwater contamination and air emissions, necessitating robust cathodic protection and leak detection systems.