Enbridge Energy - Park Rapids: Oil Pipeline Facility in Minnesota, United States

Enbridge Energy - Park Rapids is an oil pipeline facility located at 2018 Commerce Ave S, Park Rapids, Minnesota, in Hubbard County. The facility is operational and serves as part of Enbridge's extensive pipeline network in the United States, primarily transporting crude oil and petroleum products. As a key component of regional energy infrastructure, it connects supply sources to downstream markets. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with DOT 49 CFR Part 195, which governs hazardous liquid pipelines. This regulatory framework mandates strict safety standards, including corrosion control, leak detection, and emergency response protocols. The pipeline's age and maintenance practices are critical to ensuring safe operations, with cathodic protection systems typically employed to prevent corrosion. Enbridge Energy - Park Rapids plays a significant role in the regional energy grid, supporting the transportation of crude oil from production areas to refineries and distribution hubs. Its location in Minnesota places it within a network that serves the broader Midwest and Great Lakes regions. The facility's operational status contributes to energy security and economic activity in the area, while adherence to federal safety regulations helps mitigate environmental risks.

The facility is situated in Park Rapids, a city in north-central Minnesota near several lakes and waterways. Proximity to water bodies necessitates robust spill prevention and containment measures to protect local aquatic ecosystems. The region's cold climate and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles can affect pipeline integrity, requiring regular inspections and maintenance. Enbridge's operations are subject to environmental regulations that mandate leak detection and response plans to minimize impact on surrounding natural habitats.