Compressor Station 195 - Natural Gas Pipeline Facility in Farmington, New Mexico

Compressor Station 195 is a natural gas pipeline compressor station located approximately 8.66 miles northwest of Farmington, San Juan County, New Mexico, United States. The facility is operational and plays a role in maintaining pressure and flow within the regional natural gas transmission network. As part of the U.S. pipeline infrastructure, it falls under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with DOT 49 CFR Part 192 for gas pipelines. The facility operates within the broader natural gas transmission sector, which is critical for transporting gas from production areas in the San Juan Basin to markets. The U.S. regulatory framework mandates rigorous safety standards, including pipeline integrity management, cathodic protection, and emergency response plans. Environmentally, the station's location in the arid high desert of northwestern New Mexico places it in a region with sensitive ecosystems and nearby communities. The facility's operations are subject to air quality permits and noise regulations. Its role in the natural gas grid supports energy delivery but also involves potential risks such as methane leaks, which are mitigated through regular inspections and compliance with PHMSA's leak detection and repair requirements.

The facility is situated in the San Juan Basin, a major natural gas producing region with semi-arid climate and sparse vegetation. Proximity to populated areas and waterways requires careful management of potential leaks or ruptures. The station's operations are subject to environmental regulations including air emissions controls and spill prevention measures. Cathodic protection systems are typically employed to prevent pipeline corrosion, reducing the risk of environmental contamination.