Mid-Kern Energy in Crude Oil Venture

A Williams Cos. unit said it teamed with Mid-Kern Energy Marketing Co. in a joint venture that will sell crude oil in California. The venture, named Rio Bravo Energy Marketing, will gather, blend, distribute and market crude oil primarily in Kern and Los Angeles counties. Mid-Kern Energy, a petroleum marketing company based in Bakersfield, will manage operations and marketing. Williams Energy Service Co. will provide financial, administrative and risk management support for the venture, Tulsa, Okla.-based Williams said. Rio Bravo will also provide transportation services to oil producers and develop crude supplies for California refiners.