Red Bluff No3 Compressor Station - Gas Pipeline Facility near Roswell, New Mexico

Red Bluff No3 Compressor Station is a gas pipeline facility located in Chaves County, New Mexico, approximately 25.4 miles northeast of Roswell. As part of the United States' extensive natural gas pipeline network, this compressor station plays a critical role in maintaining pressure and flow for gas transmission. 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. The station is situated in a region with significant oil and gas activity, reflecting New Mexico's position as a major energy producer. While specific technical specifications such as pipeline length or capacity are not detailed, compressor stations of this type typically include gas-fired turbines or electric motors to compress natural gas, along with associated piping, valves, and control systems. The facility's NAICS codes (325120 and 486210) indicate involvement in industrial gas manufacturing and natural gas pipeline transportation. Environmentally, the compressor station's operations are subject to emissions regulations under the Clean Air Act, including requirements for monitoring and controlling volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides. The facility's location in a semi-arid region with low population density reduces some community exposure risks, but proximity to sensitive ecosystems or waterways would require careful management of potential leaks or spills. Overall, the station contributes to the reliability of natural gas supply for residential, commercial, and industrial users in the southwestern United States.

The Red Bluff No3 Compressor Station operates in a semi-arid environment in southeastern New Mexico, an area characterized by sparse vegetation and low annual rainfall. The facility's operations involve combustion emissions from compressors, which are regulated under the Clean Air Act. Potential environmental risks include natural gas leaks, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and pose explosion hazards. The station's distance from major waterways reduces the risk of water contamination, but any pipeline rupture could affect local soils and wildlife. Cathodic protection systems are typically employed to prevent corrosion, a key factor in pipeline integrity.