Gowan Station Oil Pipeline Facility, Floodwood, Minnesota

Gowan Station is an oil pipeline facility located at 10914 County Road 841 in Floodwood, St. Louis County, Minnesota. The facility is operational and serves as part of the pipeline infrastructure that transports crude oil and refined petroleum products across the region. Its location in northern Minnesota places it within a network of pipelines connecting production areas to refineries and markets. 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 diameter, length, or capacity are not detailed, typical oil pipeline stations in this region include pump stations, storage tanks, and metering equipment to maintain flow and monitor product quality. The NAICS code 486110 indicates it is classified as crude petroleum pipeline transportation. Gowan Station contributes to the reliable supply of petroleum products to the Upper Midwest. Its operational status ensures continued service for regional energy needs. The facility's presence in St. Louis County supports local economic activity and energy infrastructure resilience.

The facility is situated in a rural area of northern Minnesota, characterized by forests, lakes, and wetlands. Proximity to waterways such as the St. Louis River and numerous small lakes requires careful management to prevent spills. Pipeline age and cathodic protection systems are critical for integrity, and the commodity transported (crude oil or refined products) poses risks of environmental contamination if leaks occur. Regulatory compliance with PHMSA's integrity management programs helps mitigate these risks.