Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2021
Byhalia Connection controversy
The proposed Byhalia Connection pipeline faced strong opposition over potential impacts to the Memphis Sand aquifer and predominantly Black neighborhoods. Environmental and social justice advocates challenged the project, which Plains ultimately abandoned after placing it on hold.
2015
Refugio oil spill
A pipeline rupture northwest of Santa Barbara released approximately 105,000 U.S. gallons of oil, including about 20,000 gallons that reached the Pacific Ocean. Investigations examined corrosion, emergency reporting, environmental damage, and response practices; in 2020 Plains agreed to pay more than $60 million in penalties related to the incident.
2012
Rangeland Pipeline incident
Heavy rain contributed to a leak from a 46-year-old Plains Midstream Canada pipeline near Jackson Creek, releasing an estimated 1,000 to 3,000 barrels of light sour crude into the Red Deer River system.
2011
Little Buffalo oil spill
The Rainbow Pipeline ruptured in northern Alberta and released approximately 28,000 barrels of oil. The incident affected boreal forest, led to the closure of a nearby school because of fumes, and resulted in regulatory reprimand and later charges.
2010
Clean Water Act settlement
Plains agreed to pay a $3.25 million civil penalty and spend $41 million upgrading more than 10,000 miles of crude oil pipelines after enforcement concerning ten spills in four U.S. states between 2004 and 2007.