NuStar Energy says a new pipeline extension in Kansas will significantly improve the flow of motor fuels into the northern Midwest states.

But the operations manager of Petroleum Partners in Britton says he's doubtful that the project will help the fuel supply to the Dakotas.

Petroleum Partners' Brent Thayer says NuStar would have to act two or three weeks "before we have a problem in the Dakotas" for the extension to make a difference.

NuStar built a 12½-mile extension of its East Pipeline system from El Dorado, Kan., to Potwin, Kan. The company says it increases the capacity and operational flexibility of its larger pipeline system in the region.

Thayer says fuel comes into Aberdeen in a 6- or 8-inch pipe at a speed of 2 mph, which is basically the pace of walking.