CHS MCPHERSON - FREES STATION (CRUDE STOR) - Oil Pipeline Facility in Frees Station, Kansas

CHS MCPHERSON - FREES STATION (CRUDE STOR) is an operational oil pipeline facility located in Frees Station, Barton County, Kansas. The facility is part of the CHS McPherson network, which handles crude oil storage and pipeline transportation. As a crude oil storage station, it plays a key role in the regional midstream infrastructure, supporting the movement of crude oil from production areas to refineries. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 195 for hazardous liquid pipelines. While specific technical specifications such as pipeline length or storage capacity are not detailed, the facility's NAICS code 486110 indicates it is classified as crude petroleum pipeline transportation. In Kansas, pipeline infrastructure is critical for connecting oil fields in the Mid-Continent region to major refining centers. Environmental considerations for this facility include its location in a rural agricultural area of central Kansas. The facility's proximity to waterways and populated areas is a factor in its risk profile. Crude oil storage and pipeline operations require robust spill prevention and cathodic protection systems to mitigate environmental risks. The facility contributes to the regional energy supply chain, supporting local economies and energy security.

The facility is situated in a rural agricultural region of Barton County, Kansas, characterized by flat terrain and intermittent waterways. The primary environmental concern for crude oil pipeline and storage facilities is the potential for spills that could impact soil and water resources. Regulatory requirements under PHMSA mandate spill prevention plans, cathodic protection, and regular integrity testing to minimize risks. The facility's location away from densely populated areas reduces but does not eliminate the need for rigorous environmental safeguards.