PHMSA issue corrective action order to Belle Fourche Pipeline

A crude oil leak on 5 December 2016 that spilt over 4200 bbls of crude oil has been issued a CAO (Corrective Action Order). The Belle Fourche Pipeline Company now has to take corrective actions to protect the general public, property, and the environment following the spill that impacted the Ash Coulee Creek near Belfield, North Dakota.

PHMSA personnel will continue to be on site during the excavation of the damaged line, and throughout the ongoing investigation. PHMSA may also amends the CAO to address any new information revealed by the investigation, should they determine the operator has violated any federal pipeline safety regulations. If this is the case, the agency may issue an enforcement action, levy civil penalties, and/or refer the case for criminal investigation.