Red Tank Compressor Station - Natural Gas Pipeline Facility in Eunice, New Mexico

Red Tank Compressor Station is a natural gas pipeline facility situated approximately 43 kilometers west of Eunice, New Mexico, in Lea County. The station is part of the extensive pipeline network that transports natural gas across the United States, serving the energy needs of the region and beyond. As a compressor station, it plays a critical role in maintaining pressure and flow within the pipeline system, ensuring efficient and reliable gas delivery. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. In New Mexico, pipeline infrastructure is subject to state-level regulations that align with federal standards, focusing on integrity management, corrosion control, and emergency response. The station's NAICS code 486210 indicates it is classified as a natural gas pipeline transportation facility. Red Tank Compressor Station contributes to the regional energy grid by facilitating the movement of natural gas from production areas to distribution networks. Its location in Lea County places it within a significant oil and gas producing region, supporting local economic activity and energy supply. The station's operational status underscores its ongoing role in maintaining the reliability of natural gas transportation infrastructure in the southwestern United States.

The facility is located in a semi-arid region of southeastern New Mexico, characterized by sparse vegetation and low annual rainfall. Pipeline infrastructure in this area must consider potential impacts on local wildlife and habitats, including the lesser prairie-chicken and other species. Proximity to populated areas and waterways is a key environmental consideration, as is the need for effective cathodic protection systems to prevent corrosion and leaks. The station's operations are subject to environmental regulations that require monitoring and mitigation of any potential risks to soil and water resources.