Western Compressor Station - Gas Pipeline Facility in Fairview, Montana

Western Compressor Station is a natural gas pipeline facility located in Fairview, Richland County, Montana. It operates as a compressor station, which is essential for maintaining pressure and flow in the natural gas transmission system. The facility is part of the extensive U.S. pipeline infrastructure that connects production areas in the Rocky Mountain region to markets across the country. The station operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. Compressor stations like this one use turbine or electric compressors to boost gas pressure, enabling efficient long-distance transport. The facility's NAICS codes (211130 and 486210) indicate involvement in natural gas extraction and pipeline transportation. This compressor station plays a critical role in the regional energy grid, supporting the delivery of natural gas for heating, power generation, and industrial use. Its location in eastern Montana places it near the Bakken shale formation, a major source of natural gas. The facility contributes to energy security and economic activity in the region.

The facility is situated in a rural area of eastern Montana, near the Yellowstone River. Natural gas compressor stations can have localized environmental impacts, including noise from compressors and potential emissions from engines. Pipeline infrastructure in this region must consider proximity to waterways and agricultural land. Cathodic protection systems are used to prevent corrosion, and regular inspections ensure integrity. The station's operations are subject to environmental regulations under the Clean Air Act and state-level oversight.