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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

GCAGS Transactions

Abstract


Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies Transactions
Vol. 49 (1999), Pages 3-3

ABSTRACT: Geologic Review: Reducing Oil and Gas Environmental Impacts

John E. Johnston, III

Louisiana Geological Survey, Baton Rouge, LA.

ABSTRACT

In 1982 the Coastal Management Division of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources requested that the Louisiana Geological Survey (LGS) develop a program to reduce the environmental impact of permits involving oil and gas drilling in the Louisiana Coastal Zone. LGS responded with the Geologic Review program, designed to significantly reduce environmental impacts from oil and gas operations while not placing undue restrictions upon them. Geologic Review was successful, and in 1984 the New Orleans District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers joined the program.

Since 1984, oil and gas permit applications made to these two agencies which involved environmental impact to wetlands or other environmentally sensitive areas have had their geologic, engineering, lease, and site-specific data reviewed and evaluated to determine if there were any less-damaging feasible alternatives available. These alternatives have involved such concepts as the use of directional drilling and/or alternate, less-damaging access routes or methods while still allowing the well to be drilled and while also avoiding or minimizing any environmental impact involved. Geologic Review has been an outstanding success; the average length of board roads and canals permitted in the combined area of operations has been reduced by approximately three-fourths since the program began.

During 1997-1998, based on available data from issued permits, Geologic Review was once again successful in significantly reducing the environmental impacts of proposed oil and gas canals, slips, board roads, and ring levees permitted in the area of operations.

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Copyright © 1999 by The Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies