MERIT ENERGY - SMITH STATION Gas Pipeline, Grant County, Kansas

MERIT ENERGY - SMITH STATION is a gas pipeline facility located in Grant County, Kansas, United States. The facility is situated near Smith Compressor Station and operates within the broader natural gas transportation network of the region. As a gas pipeline, it plays a key role in the midstream sector, connecting gas production areas to processing and distribution systems. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with DOT 49 CFR Part 192, which governs the safe transportation of natural gas. The NAICS code 486210 indicates it is classified as a pipeline transportation of natural gas operation. Typical gas pipelines in Kansas range from small gathering lines to large interstate transmission systems. This facility contributes to the energy infrastructure of the region, supporting the transport of natural gas from the Hugoton Basin and other producing areas. Its operational status ensures continued service to downstream markets, including residential, commercial, and industrial users. The environmental context involves potential risks related to proximity to agricultural land and rural communities, with standard safety measures such as cathodic protection and regular inspections in place.

The facility is located in a rural area of Grant County, Kansas, characterized by agricultural land and sparse population. Gas pipelines in this region typically traverse open terrain, with potential environmental considerations including soil disturbance during construction and the risk of leaks affecting groundwater or air quality. Regulatory requirements under PHMSA mandate leak detection, corrosion control, and emergency response plans to mitigate these risks.