Shell Pipeline Co LP-Los Banos Station - Oil Pipeline Facility in Los Banos, California

Shell Pipeline Co LP-Los Banos Station is an oil pipeline facility located in Los Banos, Merced County, California. The facility is operational and serves as a critical node in the transportation of petroleum products within the region. As part of Shell Pipeline Company's extensive network, it contributes to the efficient movement of crude oil and refined products across the state. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and adheres to 49 CFR Part 195 for hazardous liquid pipelines. Typical infrastructure at such stations includes pumping units, storage tanks, and metering systems to ensure safe and reliable flow. The station's location in California's Central Valley places it within a major agricultural and industrial corridor, supporting local energy demands. Environmentally, the station's proximity to agricultural areas and waterways necessitates robust spill prevention and cathodic protection measures. The facility's role in the regional pipeline grid enhances energy security and supply reliability for downstream consumers. Its operational status underscores ongoing maintenance and compliance with federal safety standards.

The facility is situated in California's Central Valley, a region with intensive agriculture and sensitive water resources. Proximity to irrigation canals and the San Joaquin River requires stringent spill containment and monitoring protocols. Pipeline age and cathodic protection systems are critical to preventing leaks that could impact soil and water quality.