Plains Pipeline - Salem Station (Crude Stor) - Oil Pipeline Facility in Saint John, Kansas

Plains Pipeline - Salem Station (Crude Stor) is an operational oil pipeline facility located in Saint John, Stafford County, Kansas, United States. The facility is part of the extensive Plains Pipeline network, which handles crude oil transportation and storage across the central United States. The facility's role in crude storage indicates it serves as a key node for gathering or distribution within the regional pipeline system. 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. Kansas is a significant corridor for crude oil pipelines, connecting production areas in the Midcontinent region to refineries and markets. The facility's location in Stafford County places it within an agricultural and energy-producing area, with pipeline infrastructure supporting the movement of crude oil from fields to processing centers. As a crude oil storage and pipeline station, this facility contributes to the stability and efficiency of the regional petroleum supply chain. It helps manage supply fluctuations and ensures reliable delivery to downstream refineries. The operational status and integration into the Plains network underscore its importance in maintaining energy infrastructure resilience in the central United States.

The facility is situated in a rural area of central Kansas, primarily agricultural land with low population density. Proximity to waterways and groundwater resources is a consideration for spill prevention and containment. The pipeline transports crude oil, which poses environmental risks if leaks occur, necessitating robust cathodic protection and leak detection systems. Regulatory compliance with PHMSA's integrity management programs helps mitigate these risks.