HOC Federal Compressor Station - Gas Pipeline Facility in Carlsbad, New Mexico

HOC Federal Compressor Station is a gas pipeline facility situated in Eddy County, New Mexico, approximately 18 miles west of Carlsbad. As part of the United States' extensive natural gas pipeline network, it plays a role in the transmission of natural gas across the region. The facility is classified under NAICS 486210, which covers pipeline transportation of natural gas. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT), specifically 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. Compressor stations like this one are critical for maintaining pressure and flow in long-distance pipelines, ensuring efficient transport from production areas to distribution networks. The scale of such facilities can vary, but they typically serve as key nodes in regional gas infrastructure. Located in the Permian Basin, one of the most productive oil and gas regions in the United States, this compressor station supports the transportation of natural gas from production fields to end users. Its operational status contributes to the energy supply chain, facilitating the delivery of natural gas for residential, commercial, and industrial use. The facility's location in a semi-arid environment requires careful management of potential environmental impacts, including emissions and land use.

The facility is situated in a semi-arid region of southeastern New Mexico, characterized by low precipitation and sensitive desert ecosystems. Proximity to the Carlsbad area and the Pecos River watershed necessitates careful monitoring of potential leaks or spills to protect water resources and local wildlife. Pipeline compressor stations emit greenhouse gases and other pollutants, so compliance with EPA emissions standards is critical for minimizing environmental impact.