Pickett Draw Federal Well No1 - Gas Pipeline Facility in Eddy County, New Mexico

Pickett Draw Federal Well No1 is a gas pipeline facility situated in Eddy County, New Mexico, approximately 9 miles east of Carlsbad. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS 486210, which covers pipeline transportation of natural gas. As part of the extensive natural gas infrastructure in the Permian Basin region, this facility contributes to the movement of natural gas from production areas to processing and distribution networks. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 192, which governs the safety of natural gas pipelines. Typical gas pipeline facilities in the United States are subject to rigorous safety standards, including requirements for cathodic protection, leak detection, and periodic inspections. The scale of such facilities can vary widely, but they are integral to the nation's energy supply chain. Located in the arid landscape of southeastern New Mexico, the facility is part of a region rich in oil and natural gas production. The pipeline infrastructure here supports the delivery of natural gas to markets across the country, playing a key role in energy security and economic activity. The facility's proximity to Carlsbad and the surrounding communities underscores the importance of safe and reliable pipeline operations in populated areas.

The facility is situated in the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem, characterized by arid conditions and sensitive habitats. Proximity to populated areas and waterways requires careful management to prevent leaks or ruptures. The transport of natural gas, while less hazardous than some commodities, still poses risks of methane emissions and potential fire hazards. Cathodic protection systems and regular inspections are critical to maintaining pipeline integrity in this environment.