ONEOK Rockies Midstream - Fort Buford Compressor Station, Cartwright, North Dakota | Gas Pipeline Infrastructure

ONEOK Rockies Midstream - Fort Buford Compressor Station is a gas pipeline facility located in Cartwright, McKenzie County, North Dakota. The station plays a key role in the midstream natural gas sector, supporting the transportation of natural gas from production areas to downstream markets. As part of ONEOK's Rockies Midstream system, it contributes to the regional energy infrastructure. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 192 for gas pipeline safety. Compressor stations like this one are essential for maintaining pressure and flow in long-distance pipelines. The station's location in the Bakken shale region aligns with significant natural gas production activity. Environmentally, the station's operations are subject to emissions regulations and safety protocols to minimize risks. Its proximity to the Missouri River and rural communities necessitates careful monitoring and cathodic protection to prevent leaks. The facility supports energy delivery while adhering to federal and state environmental standards.

The station is situated in a region with cold winters and sensitive ecosystems near the Missouri River. Pipeline infrastructure in this area requires robust cathodic protection and leak detection systems to prevent soil and water contamination. The surrounding rural population and wildlife habitats benefit from rigorous PHMSA safety regulations and emergency response planning.