Northern Natural Gas - Willow: Gas Pipeline Facility in Willow River, Minnesota

Northern Natural Gas - Willow is a gas pipeline facility located at 2930 County Rd 41 in Willow River, Pine County, Minnesota. The facility is part of the Northern Natural Gas pipeline system, which is a major natural gas transportation network in the United States. The plant is operational and serves the region's natural gas distribution needs. 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 gas pipeline safety. As a gas pipeline facility, it is designed to transport natural gas efficiently and safely. The specific length of the pipeline at this location is not detailed, but typical gas pipeline facilities in Minnesota range from small local lines to large interstate systems. This facility plays a key role in the regional energy infrastructure, supporting natural gas supply to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the area. Its location in Pine County places it within a network that connects to broader gas transmission systems, contributing to energy reliability and economic activity in the region.

The facility is situated in a rural area of Pine County, near the Willow River. Proximity to waterways and populated areas requires careful monitoring of pipeline integrity and cathodic protection to prevent leaks. The transport of natural gas, a fossil fuel, carries inherent risks of methane emissions and potential environmental impact in case of rupture. Regulatory compliance under PHMSA ensures regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate these risks.