Ellwood Pipeline Union Marine - Oil Pipeline Facility in Ventura, California

Ellwood Pipeline Union Marine is an oil pipeline facility located at 1200 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura, California, within Ventura County. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS 486110, which covers crude petroleum pipeline transportation. As part of the United States' extensive pipeline infrastructure, it plays a role in moving crude oil from production areas to refineries or marine terminals. 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. Typical oil pipelines in California are subject to state and federal safety standards, including requirements for corrosion control, leak detection, and emergency response plans. The specific technical specifications of this pipeline, such as diameter and capacity, are not publicly detailed, but the facility's coastal location suggests it may connect to marine loading or unloading operations. Environmentally, the facility's proximity to the Pacific Ocean and urban Ventura necessitates robust spill prevention and containment measures. Oil pipelines in this region are critical for supplying refineries in Southern California, but they also pose risks to marine and coastal ecosystems. The facility's role in the regional energy grid underscores its importance, while ongoing monitoring and regulatory compliance aim to minimize environmental impact.

The facility is located near the Ventura coastline, an area with sensitive marine and estuarine habitats. Oil pipelines in coastal zones require stringent cathodic protection and leak detection to prevent spills that could harm local wildlife and water quality. The region's seismic activity adds further risk, necessitating pipeline design that can withstand ground movement. Regulatory oversight by PHMSA and the California State Fire Marshal ensures that operators implement spill response plans and regular integrity assessments.