Enbridge Energy - Gowan North Oil Pipeline, Floodwood Township, Minnesota

Enbridge Energy - Gowan North is an oil pipeline facility located at 4837 Hingeley Rd in Floodwood Township, St. Louis County, Minnesota, United States. The facility is part of Enbridge's extensive North American pipeline network, which transports crude oil and refined petroleum products across the continent. As an operational pipeline, it plays a key role in the regional energy infrastructure. 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 the transportation of hazardous liquids. The pipeline's technical specifications, such as length and diameter, are not publicly available, but typical oil pipelines in this region range from medium to large scale, often spanning hundreds of kilometers. The facility's NAICS code 486110 indicates it is classified as a crude petroleum pipeline transportation operation. Environmentally, the pipeline traverses areas near waterways and populated zones in northern Minnesota, requiring robust cathodic protection and leak detection systems to minimize spill risks. The facility contributes to the regional energy supply chain, supporting refineries and distribution networks in the Midwest. Its operational status ensures continued service for crude oil transport, aligning with the broader energy demands of the United States.

The pipeline operates in a region with numerous lakes, rivers, and wetlands, including the St. Louis River watershed. Proximity to these water bodies necessitates stringent spill prevention and response measures. The facility's cathodic protection systems are critical for preventing corrosion-related leaks. The surrounding area includes mixed forest and rural communities, requiring careful monitoring to protect local ecosystems and water quality.