Baker Pump Station - Oil Pipeline Facility in Baker, Montana

Baker Pump Station is an operational oil pipeline facility located at 7437 HWY 12 in Baker, Fallon County, Montana, United States. As a pump station along a crude oil pipeline, it plays a key role in maintaining flow pressure and ensuring efficient transport of petroleum products across the region. The facility is part of the broader US pipeline network, which is one of the largest in the world. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with DOT 49 CFR Part 195, which governs hazardous liquid pipelines. The NAICS code 486110 indicates it is classified as crude petroleum pipeline transportation. Typical pump stations in this region handle moderate to high volumes of crude oil, often connecting production areas in the Bakken formation to refineries and distribution hubs. Environmental and operational significance includes its role in the regional energy supply chain, supporting crude oil transport from Montana's oil fields. The facility's location in a rural area with low population density reduces some risk factors, but proximity to waterways and the nature of the commodity transported necessitate robust safety and leak detection systems. The station contributes to the reliability of the US pipeline grid, which is critical for domestic energy security.

The facility is situated in a semi-arid region of eastern Montana, characterized by grasslands and agricultural land. The area has low population density, which reduces potential exposure to populated areas. However, the transport of crude oil poses inherent risks of spills or leaks, which could impact local soil and water resources. The facility's proximity to the Little Missouri River and other waterways requires adherence to strict environmental safeguards under PHMSA regulations, including cathodic protection and regular inspections to prevent corrosion-related failures.