CRIMSON CALIFORNIA PIPELINE, LLC - Oil Pipeline in Kettleman City, California

CRIMSON CALIFORNIA PIPELINE, LLC is an operational oil pipeline facility located at the intersection of Interstate 5 and Highway 41 in Kettleman City, Kings County, California. The pipeline serves as a key link in the regional crude oil transportation network, connecting production areas to refineries and storage terminals. As part of the United States' extensive pipeline infrastructure, it operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with DOT 49 CFR Part 195 for hazardous liquid pipelines. The facility's technical specifications are not publicly detailed, but typical oil pipelines in California range from 6 to 36 inches in diameter and operate at pressures up to 1,440 psi. The pipeline likely includes cathodic protection systems to prevent corrosion and is subject to regular integrity management programs. California's pipeline network is one of the most densely regulated in the world, with additional state-level requirements from the California Public Utilities Commission and the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services. Environmentally, the pipeline traverses the San Joaquin Valley, a region with significant agricultural activity and groundwater resources. Proximity to Interstate 5 and Highway 41 raises considerations for spill response and community safety. The facility's role in transporting crude oil contributes to the state's energy supply but also requires rigorous safety protocols to protect nearby populations and ecosystems. Regular inspections and emergency response plans are mandated to mitigate risks associated with pipeline operations.

The pipeline operates in the San Joaquin Valley, a region with intensive agriculture and sensitive groundwater aquifers. Proximity to major highways and the community of Kettleman City necessitates robust spill prevention and emergency response measures. The transport of crude oil poses risks of soil and water contamination, requiring cathodic protection and leak detection systems. Regulatory compliance with PHMSA and state agencies ensures environmental safeguards are in place.