MERIT ENERGY COMPANY, LLC - BREEDEN 1-13 Gas Pipeline Facility in Van Buren, Arkansas

MERIT ENERGY COMPANY, LLC - BREEDEN 1-13 is a gas pipeline facility located on Ada Bell Circle in Van Buren, Crawford County, Arkansas, United States. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS code 486210, which covers pipeline transportation of natural gas. As part of the broader U.S. natural gas pipeline network, it contributes to the transportation of natural gas from production areas to distribution systems. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) pursuant to 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. This regulatory framework includes requirements for pipeline design, construction, testing, operation, and maintenance, as well as integrity management programs to ensure safe and reliable service. The facility's location in Arkansas places it within a region with significant natural gas infrastructure, including pipelines serving both local and interstate markets. The environmental and operational significance of this facility lies in its role within the natural gas supply chain. Natural gas pipelines are critical for delivering energy to residential, commercial, and industrial consumers. The facility's proximity to Van Buren and the Arkansas River corridor may involve considerations related to waterway crossings and populated areas, which are typical factors in pipeline risk management. Overall, the facility supports regional energy needs while adhering to federal safety standards.

The facility is situated in Crawford County, Arkansas, near the Arkansas River, which is a major waterway in the region. Pipeline operations in such areas require careful management to prevent potential impacts on water quality and aquatic habitats. The surrounding terrain includes both rural and developed areas, with the city of Van Buren nearby. Standard environmental considerations for gas pipelines include monitoring for leaks, maintaining cathodic protection systems to prevent corrosion, and implementing spill response plans. The facility's compliance with PHMSA regulations helps mitigate environmental risks associated with natural gas transportation.