PLAINS - JAL STATION: Oil Pipeline Facility in Jal, New Mexico

PLAINS - JAL STATION is an oil pipeline facility situated in Lea County, New Mexico, approximately 1.5 miles south-southeast of Jal. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS code 486110 for crude petroleum pipeline transportation. As part of the extensive pipeline network in the Permian Basin region, it plays a role in transporting crude oil from production areas to refineries and distribution hubs. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) 49 CFR Part 195, which governs hazardous liquid pipelines. This includes requirements for corrosion control, leak detection, and emergency response planning. The Permian Basin is one of the most active oil-producing regions in the United States, and pipeline infrastructure like this station is critical for moving crude efficiently. Environmental considerations for oil pipelines include proximity to sensitive areas and water bodies. The Jal area is semi-arid with sparse population, reducing some risk factors. However, pipeline integrity management, including cathodic protection and regular inspections, is essential to prevent leaks that could impact soil and groundwater. The facility's role in the regional energy supply chain underscores its operational significance.

The Jal area in southeastern New Mexico is characterized by arid rangeland and limited surface water. Oil pipeline operations here must manage risks related to soil contamination from potential leaks, especially given the shallow groundwater in some parts of the Permian Basin. Cathodic protection systems and regular right-of-way inspections are standard practices to mitigate corrosion and third-party damage. The sparse population reduces exposure, but wildlife and livestock grazing areas require careful monitoring.