Keystone Oil Pipeline Ruptures in North Dakota Agricultural Field

FORT RANSOM, N.D. — The Keystone oil pipeline experienced a rupture on Tuesday morning, resulting in a crude oil spill that has been confined to an agricultural field. The incident occurred near Fort Ransom, although the cause of the rupture and the exact volume of oil spilled remain unclear.

According to Bill Suess, the spill investigation program manager with the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality, an employee working at the site reported hearing a “mechanical bang” shortly before shutting down the pipeline within approximately two minutes. Emergency personnel responded promptly to the scene.

“We are still assessing the situation,” Suess said. “We have confirmed oil is surfacing about 300 yards south of the pump station.” The investigation into the cause of the rupture is ongoing, and agency officials are monitoring the situation closely.

The Keystone pipeline system is operated by TC Energy, a Canada-based energy company that specializes in moving and storing energy across North America. The company has not yet commented publicly on the rupture.

Environmental impact assessments will likely be conducted to determine the effects of the spill on the surrounding agricultural land, which is crucial for local farming operations. Though no injuries have been reported, the incident raises concerns regarding the safety and integrity of pipeline systems.