Stephens Production/Massard Gas Pipeline Facility in Fort Smith, Arkansas

Stephens Production/Massard is a gas pipeline facility located in Fort Smith, Sebastian County, Arkansas, United States. The facility is operational and serves as part of the natural gas transportation infrastructure in the region. The facility is classified under NAICS code 486210, which covers pipeline transportation of natural gas. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. These regulations mandate standards for design, construction, testing, operation, and maintenance, including cathodic protection and leak detection. The facility's location in a suburban area near Fort Smith requires adherence to additional safety protocols for populated areas. This pipeline facility contributes to the natural gas supply chain in western Arkansas, supporting residential, commercial, and industrial consumers. Its proximity to the Arkansas River and local waterways necessitates environmental monitoring to prevent leaks and protect water resources. The facility plays a role in the regional energy grid, ensuring reliable gas distribution.

The facility is situated near the Arkansas River and several tributaries, making waterway protection a key environmental consideration. Pipeline infrastructure in this region must manage risks related to soil erosion, floodplain impacts, and potential leaks affecting aquatic ecosystems. The surrounding area includes mixed residential and industrial zones, requiring careful land-use planning and emergency response protocols.