Tallgrass and Bridger Announce New Binding Joint Tariff Open Season for Seahorse Pipeline Expansion
Tallgrass Seahorse Pipeline, LLC, operated by Tallgrass, in collaboration with Bridger Pipeline, LLC (“Bridger”), today announced the launch of a new binding joint tariff open season. This open season is specifically designed to provide shippers with the opportunity to access incentive tariff rates for crude oil transportation on expansion capacity from Bridger’s North Dakota Origins to Seahorse’s designated Destinations.
The initiative represents a significant opportunity for producers, refiners, and other stakeholders in the crude oil market to secure preferential transportation rates on one of the key energy corridors in the United States. The total expansion capacity for the Seahorse pipeline will be determined by the volume of commitments received during the open season, providing carriers with flexibility to match market demand with available infrastructure capacity.
This open season will officially run for 35 days, commencing February 24, 2026. Prospective shippers interested in participating in this rate program are encouraged to review the detailed terms and conditions of the open season after executing a confidentiality agreement. Interested parties can obtain the necessary agreement by contacting Matt Hester, the designated point of contact for this initiative.
Strategic Importance of the Seahorse Pipeline Expansion
The Seahorse Pipeline serves as a critical artery in the U.S. crude oil supply chain, connecting production areas in the Northern Plains with refining centers and storage hubs. As global and domestic energy demands continue to fluctuate, efficient and reliable transportation infrastructure becomes increasingly vital to maintaining market stability. By expanding the capacity of the Seahorse pipeline in partnership with Bridger, Tallgrass is addressing both current market needs and anticipated future growth in crude oil production in North Dakota and surrounding regions.
The expansion project is particularly noteworthy for its emphasis on collaboration between two major midstream operators. Bridger Pipeline, with its extensive experience in North Dakota and surrounding states, brings a wealth of operational expertise, while Tallgrass contributes its large-scale infrastructure capabilities and commitment to operational excellence across multiple states. Together, the two companies are positioned to deliver enhanced service reliability and cost efficiencies to shippers that commit to the incentive tariff program.
How the Open Season Works
The open season is structured as a binding commitment opportunity. Interested shippers can submit bids to secure transportation capacity at incentive tariff rates. These rates are designed to provide a financial advantage for early and committed participation, effectively encouraging long-term partnerships and fostering stability in the pipeline system.
The total expansion capacity that will be made available is not fixed at the outset. Instead, it will be determined by the aggregate volume of commitments received during the open season. This approach allows Tallgrass and Bridger to align their expansion strategy with actual market demand, minimizing the risk of underutilized infrastructure while maximizing efficiency and operational effectiveness.
Participants are required to execute a confidentiality agreement before receiving detailed information about the open season, ensuring that sensitive commercial data is protected. Shippers can obtain this agreement by contacting Matt Hester, who will provide guidance on the submission process, timelines, and contractual obligations associated with participation in the program.
Forward-Looking Statements and Cautionary Notes
Tallgrass emphasizes that certain information included in this announcement constitutes “forward-looking statements.” These statements are inherently predictive in nature and address events or developments that the company anticipates, expects, or believes may occur in the future. Examples include statements regarding the feasibility, scope, and capabilities of the pipeline expansion, as well as projections related to the open season and the volume of commitments expected.
Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of Tallgrass. As a result, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Among the factors that could influence outcomes are market volatility, regulatory developments, operational risks, and broader economic conditions affecting the crude oil industry.
Tallgrass expressly disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking statements, except as required by law. These statements are intended solely to inform readers of potential developments and should not be relied upon as guarantees of future performance.
About Tallgrass
Tallgrass is a leading infrastructure company that specializes in the safe, reliable, and sustainable delivery of energy and related services across the United States. With a comprehensive portfolio of pipelines and associated infrastructure, Tallgrass plays a critical role in powering communities and supporting economic growth.
The company operates large-scale, multicommodity infrastructure spanning 14 states, including more than 10,000 miles of pipelines. These assets encompass crude oil, natural gas, and other energy-related commodities, positioning Tallgrass as an established operator in the midstream sector. Tallgrass’ operational philosophy emphasizes safety, efficiency, and sustainability, reflecting the company’s commitment to responsible stewardship of the nation’s energy resources.
More information about Tallgrass’ operations, projects, and initiatives can be found on their website, Tallgrass.com.
About Bridger Pipeline, LLC
Bridger Pipeline LLC is a privately held midstream company headquartered in Casper, Wyoming. The company owns and operates approximately 3,700 miles of crude oil pipelines across North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming. Bridger’s extensive network enables the efficient movement of crude oil from key production regions to market hubs and refineries, supporting both domestic energy supply and broader economic activity in the Northern Plains.
Bridger has built a reputation for operational excellence, reliability, and market responsiveness, attributes that are integral to the success of joint initiatives such as the Seahorse pipeline expansion. By collaborating with Tallgrass, Bridger leverages its regional expertise while participating in a broader, multi-state infrastructure network that enhances flexibility and service capacity for shippers.
Industry Implications and Market Context
The launch of the Seahorse expansion open season comes at a time of heightened interest in pipeline infrastructure. Energy markets continue to grapple with fluctuating crude oil production, evolving regulatory frameworks, and increasing demand for efficient transportation solutions. By offering incentive tariff rates, Tallgrass and Bridger are providing shippers with a financially attractive opportunity to secure reliable capacity in a competitive market.
In addition to the direct benefits for shippers, the expansion supports broader industry objectives. Improved pipeline capacity helps reduce bottlenecks, enhances logistical efficiency, and can mitigate reliance on alternative transportation methods, such as rail or trucking, which are often more costly and less environmentally efficient. By aligning infrastructure expansion with actual market demand, Tallgrass and Bridger demonstrate a commitment to operational sustainability and strategic investment in the energy supply chain.
Participation and Next Steps for Shippers
Shippers interested in participating in the Seahorse open season are encouraged to act promptly, given the 35-day window for submissions. Early engagement can provide advantages in securing incentive tariff rates and ensuring access to the desired transportation capacity.
To participate, prospective shippers should:
- Execute a confidentiality agreement – This ensures access to the full details of the open season while protecting sensitive commercial information.
- Review the open season documentation – Materials will include tariff schedules, terms of service, and other relevant details necessary for making informed participation decisions.
- Submit binding commitments – Shippers will indicate the volumes they intend to transport and the corresponding duration of service under the incentive tariff rates.
Matt Hester serves as the primary point of contact for shippers seeking information, documentation, and guidance throughout the open season process.
