Overview
Northern Natural Gas - Mankat is an operational gas pipeline facility in Alton Township, Minnesota, United States. It is part of the Northern Natural Gas pipeline system, a major natural gas transporter in the Midwest.
Northern Natural Gas - Mankat is an operational gas pipeline facility located at 37175 50th Street in Alton Township, Waseca County, Minnesota. This facility is part of the extensive Northern Natural Gas pipeline network, which spans over 16,000 miles and serves multiple states in the Midwest and Great Plains regions. The pipeline system plays a critical role in transporting natural gas from supply basins to local distribution companies and industrial end-users. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. As part of a major interstate pipeline system, it adheres to rigorous standards for design, construction, operation, and maintenance, including cathodic protection and leak detection protocols. The pipeline infrastructure in Minnesota is integral to the state's energy supply, connecting to regional storage fields and distribution networks. Environmentally, the pipeline's location in a rural area of southern Minnesota reduces immediate population density risks, but proximity to agricultural lands and waterways requires careful monitoring. The facility contributes to the reliable delivery of natural gas for heating, electricity generation, and industrial processes, supporting the regional economy and energy security. Its operational status ensures continued service to communities and businesses in the region.
Environmental context
The pipeline traverses agricultural and rural landscapes in southern Minnesota, with potential environmental considerations including soil disturbance during construction and maintenance, and the risk of leaks affecting nearby waterways or farmland. The facility's cathodic protection systems and regular inspections mitigate corrosion risks. The region's flat terrain and cold climate influence pipeline design and operation, with measures to prevent frost heave and ensure integrity during temperature extremes.
Frequently asked questions
Northern Natural Gas - Mankat is located at 37175 50th Street in Alton Township, Waseca County, Minnesota, United States.
It is an operational gas pipeline facility that is part of the Northern Natural Gas pipeline system, transporting natural gas across the Midwest.
The facility is regulated by the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) under 49 CFR Part 192 for gas pipeline safety.
Gas pipelines in Minnesota must comply with PHMSA regulations, including cathodic protection, leak detection, regular inspections, and emergency response plans.
The facility provides reliable natural gas supply for heating and industrial use in southern Minnesota, supporting the local economy while operating under strict safety standards.
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