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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 65 (1981)

Issue: 9. (September)

First Page: 1668

Last Page: 1668

Title: Pre-Lease Geohazard Evaluation of Mid-Atlantic Slump Features, Sale 49 Area: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Michael P. E. Perlow, Jr., Julius A. Koczan, Constantine I. Tsentas

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

A detailed review and analysis of published and unpublished geologic, geophysical, and geotechnical data, including regional bottom and subbottom conditions was conducted prior to Lease Sale 49 to evaluate potential geohazards within the 109 blocks located within the lease sale area. A preliminary slope-stability analysis was developed considering gravity, storm wave, and earthquake loading to aid in determining the stability of soils near exploratory well sites. Guidelines for estimating slope stability in areas of potential sea-floor instability were developed for those blocks in which areas have been, and may still be, subject to mass sediment movement. Also, recommendations have been provided for supplemental geotechnical studies intended to satisfy U.S. Geological Su vey (USGS) regulatory stipulations which require a lessee to demonstrate that mass movement of sediment is unlikely, or that exploratory operations can be safely designed to protect the environment if mass movement should occur.

A detailed summary of potential geohazards (slope instability, slump deposits, gas-charged sediments), for the 49 lease blocks in the USGS Stipulation Categories 2, 3, and 4 has been prepared, with a series of interpretive maps detailing the generalized sea-floor slope, potential geohazards, subsurface reflectors, and buried slump masses. A generalized stratigraphic soils model for the shelf-slope break area was developed and summarized together with key engineering properties of Holocene, Pleistocene, Pliocene, and Miocene strata.

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Copyright 1997 American Association of Petroleum Geologists