Magellan Pipeline Company, L.P. Albert Lea - Refined Product Pipeline in Glenville, Minnesota

Magellan Pipeline Company, L.P. Albert Lea is a refined product pipeline facility located at 11406 755th Ave, Glenville, Minnesota, in Freeborn County. This operational pipeline is part of the extensive Magellan Pipeline network, which transports refined petroleum products across the United States. The facility serves as a key node in the regional distribution system, connecting supply sources to markets in the Midwest. The pipeline operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with DOT 49 CFR Part 195, which governs the transportation of hazardous liquids. As a refined product pipeline, it handles commodities such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The facility's infrastructure includes pumping stations, storage tanks, and monitoring systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. Typical pipeline diameters in this network range from 6 to 20 inches, with operating pressures varying based on product and terrain. Environmentally, the pipeline's location in rural Minnesota reduces immediate population density risks, but its proximity to waterways and agricultural land requires robust spill prevention and cathodic protection systems. The facility plays a critical role in maintaining fuel supply stability for the region, supporting local economies and transportation networks. Regular integrity assessments and emergency response plans are mandated by federal regulations to mitigate environmental and community risks.

The pipeline traverses agricultural and rural areas in Freeborn County, Minnesota, with potential environmental sensitivities including nearby waterways and groundwater resources. The transport of refined products like gasoline and diesel poses spill risks that could affect soil and water quality. Regulatory requirements under PHMSA mandate leak detection, cathodic protection, and regular integrity testing to minimize environmental impact. The facility's location away from dense urban centers reduces population exposure, but agricultural land use requires careful monitoring to prevent contamination of crops and aquifers.