Plains Pipeline - Johnson Corner Station: Oil Pipeline Facility in Watford City, North Dakota

Plains Pipeline - Johnson Corner Station is an operational oil pipeline facility located at 10758 Hwy 73 in Watford City, McKenzie County, North Dakota. The facility is part of the extensive Plains Pipeline network, which transports crude oil across the United States. As a key node in the region's pipeline infrastructure, it supports the movement of oil from the Bakken shale formation to downstream 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 and capacity are not publicly detailed, the station likely includes pump stations, storage tanks, and metering equipment typical of midstream oil pipeline facilities. The Bakken region is known for its high-density pipeline network, and Johnson Corner Station is strategically located to serve local production. Environmental and operational significance includes the facility's role in ensuring reliable crude oil transport, which supports energy security and economic activity in North Dakota. The station's proximity to the Missouri River and other waterways necessitates robust spill prevention and cathodic protection measures. Plains Pipeline's infrastructure is integral to the regional energy grid, connecting producers to refineries and export terminals.

The facility is situated in the Bakken oil fields of western North Dakota, a region characterized by semi-arid grasslands and proximity to the Missouri River. Pipeline operations in this area require careful management of cathodic protection to prevent corrosion, especially given the age of some infrastructure. Spill prevention and leak detection systems are critical due to the potential impact on local waterways and wildlife habitats. The region's cold winters also pose challenges for pipeline integrity and maintenance.