Public Information · Tht Coordinator will provide NOAA with pertinent Information (e.g. circumstances of spill, (on-going discharge/discharge ctased), latit'jje and longitude of

l a Popl j Refer Tei PO-2-1 s«rt*ttb«r 1, 19*9

Ko»/ficlo Exploration Conpany Attantlani Mr. rtob*rt V. Walmui 101 U Rw* Prance, Sui to 400 Lafayette, Louisiana 70506

Gantleaem

Reference ia M d i to mm? I n i t i a l Plan of ijcploratior. ard accompany .niumatio: r*c*A\*d juj-.Mat 22, 1969. Tor Laaa* OCW T 7 H , fcJocV 102, Sout.. Harsh leland Area. TMr plan Include* t r * n a t i v i t i e s proposed fo r Wei±a A through D.

I n aocaj.Ui»o« w i t t 30 CTR 250.33, tt.ia plan la hei-eby mmm* eubaiitad aaa . now beln* confide rad Tor -p^ ivvr . l .

Your plea oontrol nuuber l i ) M*340i and .thowic Pa '•ofarenoed i n your oonaainv cation anJ corr«c ,pondecr» oonoe: nirv. th i s »>Jan.

Sincerely yourc.

(Or* Sed ) k Don* Gin*

I . J . t<our . ;#o ia ^f1TCO~«*AMCR Rer»otw Supervisor F i * l f Opera t ion*

bcc: L*h*e OCo-ti 7711 (OP3-3-2) (FIL& ROOH) w/ Public I n f o . Copy of k*e plan

and aceonp. i n f o . (PliELIC RECOUPS)

TTrosc l a i r : cck: 08/25/^9: poecou-bkp.

Office of Program Services

Sf-P 0 D 1989

BEST AVAILABLE COW

Informition Services Section

Newfield Exploration Company 101 U RIM Franc*. Sukc 400

Lafayette. Lewi aea 70508 Phone: (318) 269 1711

"Public Information August 18, 1989

Mr. Daniel J. Bourgeois Regional Suptrvisor O f f i ce of Field Operations U.S. Department of t h t In ter ior Mint ra ls Managenent S t r v i c t 1231 Elmwood Park Boulevard Now Orleans, LA 70123-2394

RE: In i t i a l Plan of Exploration OCS-6 7711, South Marsh Island Arta Block Arta Block 102 Offshore, Louisiana

Gentlemen:

In accordanca with t h t provisions of T i t l e 30 CFR 250.33, Newfield Exploration Company (Newfield), htrtby submits for your r tv i tw and approval nine (9) copies of an I n i t i a l Plan of Exploration for Ltast OCS-G 7711, South Harsh Island Arta Block 102, Offshort, Louisiana, f ive (5) copies a r t "Proprietary Information" and four (4) copies ar t "Public In fomat ion" .

Excludtd from tht Public Infomation copies art ctrtain otologic discus­sions, dtpth of wells and structurt map.

Newfield anticipates coesaenclng act iv i t ies under th is I n i t i a l PUn of Exploration on or about October 1, 1989.

Should additional info mation bt required, please contact me or our regulatory agtnt, Ms. Jodie Connor, J . Connor Consulting at 713/5S8-0607.

Sincerely,

Robert W. Waldrup J Operations Engineer

RWW:JAC:ba Enclosures

poesn.102

NEWFIELO EXPLORATION COMPANY

INITIAL RIAN Of EXPLORATION

SOUTH MARSH ISLAND AREA BLOCK 102

OCS-G 7711

Newfield Exploration Coapany (Newfield) AS designated Operator of the subject lease, submits this Initial Rian of Exploration In accordance with the regulations contained In Title 30 CFR 250.33 and more specifically defined In the Minerals Management Service Letter to Lessees and Operators dated October 12, 1988.

SCHEDULE Qf OPERATIONS Under this Initial Plan of Exploration, Newfield proposes to drill four (4) exploratory wells, A, B, C, and D. Planned commencement date Is approximately October 1, 19S9, subject to approval of this Initial Plan of Exploration and Issuance of the required Permits to Drill. The proposed wells should take approximately 30 days each to drill and coaplete.

In addition to the drilling of these wells, other activities which may be conducted undor this Plan would be the setting of a well protector structure, a ttafloor templet, a velocity survey In a wellbore, and the collection of soil borings.

DESCRIPTION Of DRILL INC UNIT

The proposed wells Mill be drilled with a typical jack-up drilling rig. Oiverter and BOP schematics for a jack-up rig are enclosed as Attachaant A.

Safety features will Include well control and blowout prevention equipment as described In 30 CFR 250.50. The appropriate life rafts, life jackets, rlnq buoys, etc., as prescribed by the U.S. Coast Guard Mill be maintained on the faci l i ty at all times.

•ILL LOCAT I Off The approximate locations of the wells proposed in the Initial Plan of Exploration as well as proposed depths, are shown on the followinq table and a Location Plat Is enclosed as Attachaant I.

IHL. A SL:

PROPOSED LOCATION

2200* FSL 1 200' FVL

TOTAL DEPTH WATER DEPTH

180'

B SL: 4450' FSL ft 1650' FVL 179'

C SL: SOOO' FSL ft 2350' FVL 178'

D SL: 3700' FSL ft 1050' FVL 179'

imam m A structure nap drawn to the top oF each prospective hydrocarbon accumulation showing the surfaca and bottom hole locations of the proposed wells Is enclosed as Attachaent C.

BATHYHEJRY HAP A bathymetry map showing the surface locations of the proposed wells Is enclosed as Attachment D.

SHALLOW HAZARDS

A Geophysical Survey was performed over South Harsh Island Area Block 102. to determine if any shallow hazards are present. This study was performed according to current government specifications by Gulf Ocean Services, Inc. In July, 1989.

A Shallow Hazard Report for the surface locations Is enclosed as Attachment E.

OIL SPILL CONTINCENCY PLAN

All exploratory operations shall be performed In accordance with Industry standards to prevent pollution of the environment. Newfield's Oil Spill Contingency Plan has been submitted to NHS. This plan designates an 011 Spill Team consisting of Newfield's personnel and contract personnel. This team's duties are to eliminate the source of any spi l l , remove all sources of possible Ignition, deploy the most reliable means of available transportation to monitor tht movement of a slick, and contain and remove the slick If possible.

Newfield 1s a member of Clean Gulf Associates (CGA). The CGA stores pollution control equipment at two locations In Texas, at Port Aransas and Galveston, and five locations In Louisiana, at Venice, Grand Isle, Intracoastal City, Ho-jma, and Cameron. Each base Is equipped with fast response units and there Is a barge mounted high volume open sea skimmer based at Grand Isle,

Louisiana. In addition to providing equipment, tht CGA also supplies advisors for clean-up optratlons. Equipment available froa CGA and Its location is 1 isted In tht CGA Manual, Voluao I, Saction I I I .

Pollution oqulpaant located In Intracoastal City, Louisiana would bt utilized f i r s t with additional equipment transported froa tht ntartst equipment basa on-site as required.

Newfield will make avary tffort to saa that a spi l l Is responded to as quickly as possibH. Response equipment and response times will bt suitable for anticipated environmental conditions In the area. In good weather conditions fast response with oil booa, skimmers, puap and storage tanks would require approximately 14 hours. Including preparation tiaa as Indicated below. A heavy equipaent systea response would require approximately 18-24 hours, Including 6 hours preparation time.

Hours

1. Procurement and travel time for marine vessel 3.0 and it necessary, truck to transport pollution containment equipaent to company support base.

2. Load out of Fast Response Unit 2.0

3. Travtl to sp i l l s l t t . _ U l (92 milts at 10 MPH)

Estimated Total Time 14.0

In the tvtnt a spi l l occurs from South Harsh Island Block 102, our company has projected tht probability of a spill impacting a land segment as less than IX; bastd on data as prtstnted in the Environmental Impact Statament for OCS Lease Sales 118 and 122.

The Spill Response Coordinator will be In contiguous contact with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOA/) Gulf of Mexico Scientific Support Coordinator (SSC), Mr. Chris Nelson, Hr assistance In predicting s p i l l movement The Scient i f ic Support Coordinator is located In New Origins, Louisiana (5C4) 589-6901. If unable to reach SSC, our company will contact NOAA In Seattle, Washington at (206) 526-6317. This 1s a 24-hour number.

Tht Coordinator wil l provide NOAA with pertinent Information (e.g. circumstances of s p i l l , (on-going discharge/discharge ctased), latit'jje and longitude of s l ick , wind speed and direction, sea state, size of spill release, slick direction/size, e tc . ) . Private coapanies such as Continental Shelf Associates (409) 696-5493 may bt contracttd to also supply trajtctory analyses. Information wi l l be updated as necessary.

The spi l l will be v is ib ly monitored and tracked by the use of small aircraft flying over tht s l ick at Intervals determined by the Coordinator or his delegate on a case by case basis. Crew boats and supply vessels will also be ut i l ized to track sp i l l movement.

Pollution rtsponst equipment available froa Clean Gulf Associates and Its stockpile base Is listed In the CGA Manual Volume ! , Section I I I . Section V, Vclume II of the CGA Manual Includes equipment containment/cleanup protection response modes for sensitive areas.

• r a « i IMJSUAL mfMamg

No new techniques or unusual technology will be required for this operation.

I CASE STIPULATIONS

Lease Stipulation No. 1 (Cultural Resource) 1s attached to this lease, however MMS did not Invoke this stipulation for South Marsh Island Block 102.

DISCHARGES

The anticipated discharge rate per well for Newfield's drilling operations In South Marsh Island Block 102 1s enclosed as Attachment F.

Cuttings discharges are based on the average hole size for each section of hole. A l i s t of mud additives Is attached as Attachment G.

The permittee Is authorized by the General Permit to discharge the effluents l i s t e d in the following table. Such discharges will be liaited and monitored by the permittee as specified below:

Discharge Monitorino Requirements and Effluent ChincterUtlc

Free 011

Discharge

umutton No Free 011

Measurement FrgQutncY

Once/day \]

Sample Tvoe/Method

Visual/Sheen on receiving water

Recorded ik\\W

Number of Oays Sheen Observed

Toxicity V 96-hour LCSO

30,000 ppm dally mln. V

30,000 ppm mo. average minimum V

Once/month Once/end of wel ly

Grab Grab

Once/month Grab

96-hour LC50 96-hour LC50

96-hour LCSO

Discharge Rate 1000 bbl/hr Once/Mr. y Estimate Maximum Hourly Rate

Discharge Rate (See Figure Once/Hr. ] / Measure Maximum Hourly for Controlled 1) Rate Discharge Rate Areas 5 /

011 Conttnt

Volume (bbls)

Once/day \ J Grab/Report

Once/month Estimate

Percent 011 V

Mnthly Total JJ

1/ When discharging; discharge 1s authorized only during times when visual sheen observation Is possible for muds to which any oil has been added to the mud systea for any reason (unless an alternative test procedure has been approved).

The following effluents must be monitored by observation once/day during daylight hours and If sheen 1s observed It must be noted.

Oeck Drainage Well Treatment Fluids Completion Fluids Workover Fluids DesaiInazatlon Unit Discharge Blowout Preventer Fluid

Uncontaminated Ballast Water Uncontaminated Bilge Water Mud, Cuttings ft Cement f ML Uncontaminated Seawater Boiler Blowdown Source Water and Sand

U Suspended particulate phase with Nysidopsls bahla following approved test method. The sample shall be taken beneath the shale shaker.

y Under certain circumstances an alternative toxicity limitation may be requested from the appropriate Regional Administrator.

KJ Sample shall be taken when maximum well depth Is reached.

3 / No discharge of priority pollutants except in trace amounts. Information on the specific chemical composition shall be recorded, but not reported unless requested by EPA.

£ / Percent oil shall be recorded for the same dri l l ing fluid as monitored for visual sheen.

J J This Information shall requested by EPA.

be recorded, but not reported unless otherwise

ff/ Monitoring shall be accomplished during daylight by visual observation of the surface of the receiving water in the vicinity of sanitary and domestic waste outfalls. Observations shall be made following either the morning or mid-day meals and at a time during daylight and maximum estimated discharge.

Discharges will be free of oi l and will be In compliance with and monitored as required by EPA NPDES General Permit (GMG 280000) In accordance with 40 CFR 122-6. Any oil contaminated mud will be transported to shore for proper d isposal .

. i f . >: nn SULFIDE An eviluation of dr i l l ing reports on South Marsh 102, Exxon 12 and South Marsh 87 Exxon fl wells, Indicates tha absence of hydrogen sulfide.

Therefore, in accordance with 30 CFR 250.67, Newfield hereby requests that a determination be nade that drilling will take place In zones where the absence of hydrogen sulfide has been confirmed.

COASTAL ZONE CERTIFICATE

A certif icate of Coastal Zone Management Consistency for the State of Louisiana is enclosed as Attachment H.

PROJECTED EMISSION

Projected emissions are Included on the enclosed Air Quality Review as Attachment I.

ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT

An Environmentil Report 1s enclosed as Attachment J .

ONSHORE BASE

South Marsh Island Area Block 102 Is located approximately 92 miles south of Intracoastal City, Louisiana. Uater depths range from 170 to 180 feet. A nap showing the location of Block 102 relative to the shoreline and onshore base 1s enclosed as Attachment K.

Newfield will ut i l ize existing onshore fac i l i t ies located In Intracoastal C i ty , Louisiana. This will serve as port of debarkation for supplies and crews. No onshore expansion or construction 1s anticipated with respect to t h i s activity.

This base Is capable of providing the services necessary for the proposed a c t i v i t i e s . It has 24-hour service, a radio tower with a phone patch, dock space, equipnent and supply storage base, drinking and dr i l l water, etc. During explorat ior act iv i t ies cne crew boat will be making six trips per week, one supply boat will be making three trips per week, and helicopters will make s ix tr ips per week.

The onshore activities associated with South Marsh Island Area Block 102 should not result in any Increase In the size and nunber of onshore support and storage faci l i t ies or land and personnel requirements.

rWTrKHUZED REPRESENTATIVE Inquiries regarding this plan may ba mada to tha following authorized representative of Newfield Exploration Coapany.

Ns. Jodie Connor J . Connor Consulting 11767 Katy Freeway, Suite 812 Houston, TX 77079 (713) 558-0607

LIST Qf fflaam A Rig Schematics B Location Plat C Structure Map 0 Bathymetry N*o E Shallow Hazards Analysis F Discharges G Hud Components H Coastal Zone Consistency 1 Projected Emissions J Environmental Report K V ic in i t y Map

ATTACHMENT A

BLOWOUT PREVENTER STACK WITH A

HYDRIL DIVERTEI

20-OCVEPTER 2000 PSl

Well U>cuh.« put ATTACHMENT B

Jiyi sew 102. fii /Oi

«L "Public li ̂ ronton

5SU

2350'

1050'

V

• r

it

. I-,' ioi

ATTACHMENT 0

BATHYMETRY MAP

TiouftTi

ATTACHMENT G

DRILLING Hyp COMPONENTS

COMMON CHEMICAL OR CHEMICAL TRADE NAME

Aluainua Stearate "AXTAFLO-S" Barite Calclua Carbonate Calclua Chloride Calclua Oxide Calclua Sulfate Carbox/nethyl Cellulose Caustic Potash Caustic Soda Chroae Lignite Cnrome Lignosulfonate Dri l l ing Detergent "E-Pal" Ferrochrome Lignosulfonate Gel

Gypsum Lignite Lignosulfonate "Mud Sweep" "MOR-REX" •Shale-Trol" Sapp Sodium Bicarbonate Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose Sodium Chloride Sodium Chromate Starch •TX-9010" •TORQ-Trim" "Black Hagic" •Black Hagic Supermix" Diesel

•Jelflake" MICA "P1pe-Lax" "Wall-Nut" Wood Fibers

DESCRIPTION Of MATERIAL

Aluminum Stearate Nonionic Surfactant Barium Sulfate (BaSo4) Aragonite (CaCo3) Hydrophilite (CaCI2) Lime (Quick) Anhydrite (CaS04) Carboxymethyl Cellulose Potassium Hydrate Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) Chrome Lignite Chrome Lignosulfonate Soap Non-toxic, biodegradable defoamer Derived from wood pulp Sodium Montmorillonite, bentonite, attapulgite CaSo4.2H?0 Lignite Lignosulfonate Ceaent Pre-flush Hydroloyzed Cereal solid Organo-aluminum complex Sodiua Carbonate NaHC03 Sodiua Carboxymethyl Cellulose NaCl NaCr)4.10H20 Corn Starch Biodegradable drilling lubricant Biodegradable drilling lubricant 011 base aud conc. Sacked concentracted oil basa aud Used to aix certain loss-circulation Mi ls Plastic fo i l , shredded cellophane Loss-circulation aatarial Surfactant mixed with diesel Ground walnut shells Loss-circulation material

FRTJ1»*CUFIELD LAF TQ:

A U G - 2 1 - 8 9 H O N H t 2 2 0O3 2 i . 1989 2:48PM p . B l

ATTACHMENT H

C0AJTA1 i m hWStMMl

CONSirTFJCT CUT] Fl CAT 301

mm mt tj»f jfJT](f

SOUTH (MM IStAJD Atf/. MOC Iff

OCS-6 7711

Thr ervpraed actlvltiea eeacHeed fe U U rian ccanly vita Leal I ItM* t morrn^d C ^ U l Zom^ N n̂egeaett Program a % d *11 l*7:£acted in a aanorr

" l » t n t rile srca Prograa.

• Leataleai U . k m eeea aade r l U tat State tlaes It Mtte aa .1 t * • legal aotlce aa Uter Uaa trnWll " " « q

.1 Hiiiiiina Hinmiilitiiui ATTACHMENT I

P.O. Box 218753 Houston. Texas 7721B 713-558-0607

PROJECTED AIR EMISSION. SCHEDULE EM

GENERAL INFORMATION

Location of Block:

Distance Offshore: Name of Rig: Operator:

Contact Person: Well Footage to be Dril led: Date Drilling Will Begin:

EjjlQRATIQN PROJECT H»

South Harsh Island Area Block 102 OCS-G 7711 78 alios Jackup Newfield Exploration Coapany 101 La Rue France, Suite 400 Lafayette, Louisiana 70508 Nr. Robert W. Waldrup

October 1, 1989

MAJOR SOURCE (OfFSHORE1

Power used aboard dr i l l ing vessel; approximate footage to be drilled

Projected Eaissions Ealtted (lbs/diYinons/Yr

Substance 1989-1990

CO (39) 7.12 SO (12) 2.26

2 NOx (183) 33.47 VOC (15) 2.69 TSP (13) 2.37

Based on 60 hphr/ft. froa Table 4-3, "Atmospheric Eaissions froa Offshore 011 and Gas Development and Production", EPA No. 450/3-77-026, June 1977

Eaission factors froa Table 3.3.3-1, "Compilation of Air Pollutant Eaission Factors", Third Edition, EPA Report AP-42, August, 1977

Projected Air Eaissions Newfield Exploration Comoany South Marsh Island Block 102 Page 2

MIMOT SOURCES (OFFSHORE)* Including crew boat (€ trips/week); supply boats (3 trips/week); and helicopter (6 trips/week); loading and unloading operations; and In­cineration of waste paper (average 750 pounds of waste per month).

Projected Emissions fitted CT^ZYjarJ

Sjibsluce 19M-IMP

CO 1.79 SO .05

2 NOx .35 VOC .17 TSP .07

• Tables 3.2.1-3, 3.2.3-1 and 2.1-1, "Compilation of Air Pol­lutant Emission Factors", Third Edition, EPA Report AP-42, August, 1977.

TOTAL ALL SOURCES (toni/vtar)

1999-1990 CO Sfi mi YQC LLP

Major 7.12 2.26 33.47 2.69 2.37 Minor LIS -J23 _JZ -JIZ

Total 8.91 2.31 33.62 2.86 2.44

ONSHORE SOURCES

These should be about the same as minor sources unless new facilities are Installed at the onshore base. No additional facilities are required or planned at thts time.

EMISSION EXEMPTION DETERMINATION

2/1 2/3 For CO: E - 3400(0) - 3400 ( 78) - 62,069 tons/year For NOx, VOC, TSP I SO : E - 33.30 - 33.3 (76) - 2597 tons/year

F INO INCS OF AIR QUALITY REVIEW As per DOI/MMS regulations, this facility Is exempt from further air quality review as It has been determined that Its operations will not have a significant adverse Impact on air quality.

MAIN DECK PLAN

STOREROOM

r

LLS5~ MUO PIT

O o

AuniAAr m o n w ROOM! o

oo

JSX.

° H SACK

O > STORAGE

OUARTERS

AREA

tr JC£m J I T -

PLATFORM LOWER DECK

ATTACHMENT J

ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT

OCS-6 7711

SOUTH HARSH ISLANO AREA BLOCK 102

OFFSHORE, LOUISIANA

Prepared by:

J. Connor Consulting

P. 0. Box 218753

Houston, Texas 77218

August, 1989

TITLE PAGE 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS 11

I. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION 1

A. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED TRAVEL NODES, ROUTES AND FREQUENCY 1

B. ONSHORE SUPPORT BASE 1 C. NEW OR UNUSUAL TECHNOLOGY 1 0. VICINIiY MAP 1

I I . DESCRIPTION OF AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

A. COMMERCIAL FISHING 2 B. SHIPPING 2 C. PLEASURE BOATING, SPORT FISHING ANO RECREATION 3 D. POTENTIAL OR KNOWN CULTURAL RESOURCES 4 E. ECOLOGICALLY SENSITIVE FEATURES 4 F. PIPELINES AND CABLES 6 G. OTHER MINERAL USES 6 H. OCEAN DUMPING 6 I . ENDANGERED ANO THREATENED SPECIES ANO CRITICAL HABITAT 6

I I I . UNAVOIDABLE AOVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

A. WATER QUALITY 7 B. EFFECTS ON MARINE ORGANISMS 7 C. WETLANDS ANO BEACH 8 D. AIR QUALITY 8 E. COMMERCIAL FISHING 8 F. SHIP NAVIGATION 9 G. CULTURAL RESOURCES 9

H. RECREATION ANO AESTHETIC VALUES 9

IV. SUMMARY 10

REFERENCES 11

I. DESCRIPTION OP PROPOSED ACTION

Newfield Exploration Company (Newfield) plans to conduct exploratory a c t i v i t i e s on South Harsh Island Area Block 102, OCS-G 7711.

As proposed, the In i t ia l Plan of Exploration for South Marsh Island Area Block 102 will include dr i l l ing and completing four wells.

At th is time, the planned commencement date for proposed activities Is on or about October 1, 1989.

A. DESCRIPTION Of PROPOSED TRAVEL MOOES. ROUTES ANO FREQUENCY

Supply and crew boats, as well as a helicopter will be dispatched fron a support base located in Intracoastal City, Louisiana. The boats will normally move to the block via the aost direct route fron Intracoastal City, Louisiana, however, boats operating in the field nay travel fron other operations nearby. Following is an estimate of trips to the proposed operation.

B. ONSHORE SUPPORT BASE

The proposed activities wil l utilize a support base located at Intracoastal C i t y , Louisiana. This base provides 24-hour service, a radio tower with phone patch, dock space, office space, parking lot, equipnent and supply storage space, drinking and dri l l water, etc. The proposed exploratory a c t i v i t i e s will help to maintain this base at its present level of activity. No expansion of the physical facil it ies or the creation of new jobs Is expected to result from the work planned in conjunction with this block.

C. HEW QR UNUSUAL TECHNOLOGY

No new or unusual technology will be required for this operation.

D. VICINITY MAP

South Marsh Island Block 102 Is located approximately 78 niles south of the Louisiana coastline. Water depths range froa 170-180 feet.

Pr1l)Inn Operations

Supply Boat Crew Boat Helicopter

6 trips per week 3 trips per week 6 trips per week

1

I I . DESCRIPTION OF AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

A. COMMERCIAL FISHINfi

Tht Gulf of Mexico is tho single most important area for fisheries produc­tion in the United States. Louisiana with Its extensive coastal marshes and nutrient Input from the Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers Is the most productive State In terms of commercial fisheries. Sixty-four per cent (64%) of the tidal marshes along the entire Gulf Coast are found in Louisiana.

Shrimp (primarily brown and white) are by far the most valuable component of the Louisiana landir , * . Production of shrimp depends largely or environmental conditions in the estuaries during postlarval recruitment. Production is good when there is a warm, Jry spring.

Menhaden are the state's largest f shery in terms of pounds landed and ranks second in value. Unlike the shrimp fishery, this fishery operates exclusively offshore. Menhaden are found primarily in shallow waters with about 93% of the fishing effort occurring within 10 miles of shore.

Oysters constitute the third most valuable commercial fishery in Louisiana. The most important areas for oyster production are Terrebonne Parish, Barataria Pay, and the Lake Borgne-Breton Sound System.

Th? blue crab Is Louisiana's fourth most valuable commercial fishery spades. Estuarine waters produce over 90% of this catch.

Other important Louisiana fisheries include the food finfish and those for Industrial purposes, such as pet food. Approximately SO species of food f inf ish are harvested in the Gulf. Some of the more important are croakers, snappers, groupers, black mullet, red and black drums, spotted and silver seatrout, Spanish mackerel, spots, pompano, flounder, crevalles. Gulf kir.gfish, sheepshead, and king mackerel. The majority of food finfish are caught in coastal w?ters with the exception of snappers, groupers, mackerel, tuna, and bi l l f lsh.

In 1986, the commercial fishing lnduSt*y landed Louisiana 1,700 million pounds valued at $322 million. Louisiana ranked f irst in the United States In pc *s landed and second in value.

B. SHIPPING

Fairways play an Important role in the avoidance of collisions on the OCS, particularly In the case of the large oceangoing vessels, but not all vessels stay within the fairways. Many others, such as fishing boats and OCS support vessels, travel through areas witn high concentration of fixed structures. In such cases the most Important mitigation factor is the requirement for adequate marking and lighting of structures. After a

2

structure has been in place for a while, it often becomes a landmark and an aid to navigation for vessels that operate in the area on a regular basis.

South Marsh "sland Area Block 102 is clear of all shipping fairways and anchorage areas. The rig and each of the marine vessels servicing this operation will be equipped with all U.S. Coast Guard required navigational safety aids.

C. PLEASURE BOAT ING i SPORT FISHING, AMP RECREATION The northern Gulf of Mexico coastal zone is one of the major recreational regions of the United States, particularly in connection with marine fishing and beach-related activities. The shorefronts along the Gulf Coasts of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas offer a diversity of natural and developed landscapes and seascapes. The coastal beaches, barrier islands, estuarine bays and sounds, river deltas, and tidal marshes are extensively and intensively utilized for recreational activity by residents of the Gulf South and tourists from throughout the Nation, ai well as from foreign countries. Publicly-owned and administered areas such as National seashores, parks, beaches, and wildlife lands, as well as specially designated preservation areas such as historic and natural sites and landmarks, wilderness are.is, wildlife sanctuaries, and scenic rivers attract residents and visitors throughout the year. Commercial and private recreational facilities and establishments, such as resorts, marinas, amusement parks, and ornamental gardens, also serve as primary interest areas and support services for people who seek enjoyment from the recrea­tional resources associated with the Gulf.

The two major recreational areas most directly associated with the offshore leasing and potentially affected by it are the offshore marine environment and the coastal shorefront of the adjoining states. The only major recreational activity occurring on the OCS is offshore marine recreational flsi-.ing and diving. Studies, reports, and conference proceedings published by MMS and others have documented a substantial recreational fishery including scuba diving, directly associated with oil and gas production platforms The recreational fishing associated with oil and gas structures stems fr n their function as high profile artificial fishing reefs. A report on the 1984 Marine Recreational Fishery Statistics Surveys presented by NMFS at the Sixth Annual Gulf of Mexico Information Transfer Meeting Indicates a majority of the offshore recreational fishing in the Central and Western Gulf of Mexico is directly associated with the oil and gas structures. There are currently about 4,000 offshore oil and gas structures In the Central and Western Gulf of Mexico. Many other studies have demonstrated that when oil and gas structures are accessible to marine recreational fishermen and scuba divers they are a major attraction for marine recreational activities and a positive influence on tourism and coastal economics.

With the exception of Grand Isle and vicinity and a stretch of beach area In Cameron Parish, (Peveto/Constance/Ocean View Beaches, Holly Beach, Hackberry Beach} Louisiana has very limited beach area suitable for recreation. Host

3

of It Is very narrow, of poor recreational quality and generally Inaccessible by automobile. Some of the highest quality beach areas in coastal Louisiana are found along the barrier Islands chain off Terrebonne Parish. Several additional significant recreational resources are found along the Gulf Coast. Louisiana has ornamental gardens, scenic roads, r ivers , and tra i ls .

0. POTENTIAL QR KNOWN CULTURAL Rf SOURCES

Archaeological resources are any objects or features which are man-made or modified by human activi ty. Significant archaeological resources are either historic or prehistoric and, as defined by 36 CFR 60.6, generally include properties greater than 50 years old which are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history; are associated with the l ives of persons significant In the past; embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction; represent the work of a master; possess high art ist ic values; represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components nay lack individual distinction; or have yielded, or may be l ikely to yield, Information Important 1n prehistory or history.

An Archaeological Survey was not required on South Marsh Island Area Block 102.

E. ECOLOGICALLY SENSITIVE FEATURES

Barrier beaches are a common landfom along the Gulf Coast and stretch In an Irregular chain from Florida to Texas. These elongated, narrow landforms are composed of sand and other loose sediments transported by waves, currents, storm surges, and wind. In geologic terms, barrier Islands are a young phenomenon, being formed only in the last 5,000 to 6,000 years. The term "barrier" identifies the structure as one that protects other features, such as bays, estuaries, and marshes, from direct wave attack of the open ocean. The waters 1n these bays and estuaries are a blend of the terrestri* -fresh water systems of the mainland and the saltwater system of the ocean, and among the richest ecosystems known. Many of the species that Inhabit the bays, estuaries, and adjacent marshes use these areas as spawning, nursery, and feed grounds. It Is estimated that two-thirds of the top value Atlantic and Gulf Coast species of fish are oirectly dependent In some stages of l i fe on conditions in these estuaries.

Another benefit of both the islands and their adjacent marshes and bays is that of providing habitats for a large number of birds and other animals. The islands also provide habitat for several thousand threatened or endangered species, for example, the loggerhead turtle, the southern bald eagle, alligators, and brown pelicans.

Louisiana has the most rapidly retreating beaches in the nation. The average retreat for the Fourchon beach over the last 100 years has been In excess of 60 ft /yr. The statewide average accorJIng to Oolan et a l . (1982)

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Is In txctss of 12 f t /y r . Tht consequcncts of barrier Island retreat are observed at Isles Dernlers In Terrebonne Parish and at the Chandeleur Islands In St. Bernard Parish. These barrier Islands once flanked central headlands like the central headland at Fourchon, but both have subsequently become separated from the mainland.

The Importance of the coastal wetlands to fish and wildlife resources Is well-documented. FWS studies Indicate that Louisiana contains 40% of the vegetated coastal wetlands in the conterminous United States and 64% of the t idal marshes along the Gulf of Mexico. The Louisiana coastal wetlands support over two-thirds of the Mississippi Flyway wintering waterfowl population (Including 20-50% of North America's puddle duck population) and the largest fur harvest in North America (froa 40-65% of the Nation's total per year) .

Wetlands in coastal Louisiana are usually established on a substrate of a l luv ia l sediment that 1s subject to high, natural subsidence rates. The effects of natural subsidence are compounded by sea level r ise, which has been occurring during the past several millennia. Under natural conditions, sedimentation encourages vertical accretion of wetland areas and may offset the submergence and inundation that result from subsidence and sea level r i s e . The deterioration of coastal wetlands, particularly in Louisiana, is an Issue of concern; it has been estimated that the state is losing up to 50 square miles of wetlands every year. Wetlands loss In coastal Louisiana is most severe 1n that area of the State that is to the east of the Atchafalaya River and 1s commonly referred to as the Mississippi River Deltaic Plain reg 1 on.

A recent study funded by MMS entitled "Causes of Wetland Loss in the Coastal Central Gulf of Mexico", examined coastal ecosystems of the Northern Gulf of Mexico region and how wetland habitats have changed as a result of natural processes and nan's act iv i t ies thereon. The study's primary focus was on assessing and Quantifying the direct and indirect Impacts of OCS-related act iv i t ies on wetland areas. OCS-related activities began in the Gulf region In the early 1950's and based on the study's findings, of the total direct impacts to the areas wefands (which equate to 74,000ha), OCS-related impacts have contributed to only 4-5% (11,000-14,OOOha) of Louisiana's total wetlands loss during the period 1955/56 to 1978 and some 26% of direct impacts there.

The shelf and shelf edge of the Central an-* Western Gulf are characterized by topographic features which are inhabited by benthic communities. The habitat created by the topographic features Is Important because they support hard-bottom communities of high biomass, high diversity, and high numbers of plant and animal species; they support, either as shelter, food, or both, large numbers of commercially and recreationally Important fishes; they are unique to the extent that they are small isolated areas of communities in the vast Gulf of Hexico; they provide a relatively pristine area suitable for sc ient i f ic research; and they have an aesthetically attractive Intrinsic value.

Tht Central M f of Mexico l i s t s 16 topographic features. Mont of thost l isted art in or near tht vicinity of tht propostd optratlons In South Harsh Island Arta Block 102.

F. PIPELINES AMO CABLES There ara no pipelines or cables in South Harsh Island Arta Block 102.

G. OTHER MI WE RAL USES Tht act iv i t ies proposed for South Harsh Island Area Block 102 will have no direct or indirect impact on other mineral uses.

0 c e n diMr '• *? prohibiten in this arei.

I. ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITAT

Six Federal!/ listed endangered whale species may occur In the Gulf of Hexico--the blue, fin, humpback, right, sie, and spera whales. Generally, these large cetaceans inhabit the continental slope and deep oceanic waters; ocassionally, thay are sighted nearshore.

Endangered red wolf hybrids occur along the Gulf Coast in Cameron Parish, Louisiana.

Federally listed endangered sea turtles (Kemp's ridley, green, hawksbill, and leatherneck turtles, and the threatened loggerhead turtle) occur in the Gulf of Hexico. The green turtle is listed as threatened in Louisiana. The Kemp's ridley turtle inhabits shallow coastal and estuarine waters and commonly occur in shallow water areas from Marsh Island to the Mississippi Delta in Louisiana (Hildebrand, 1982). The green turtle Is found throughout the Gulf, wh*re Its favored habitats are lagoons and shoals providing an abundance of marine grass and algae on which It feeds. No recent green turt le nesting has been reported along Gulf beaches. The hawksbill turtle Inhabits reefs, shallow coastal areas, and passes 1n water depths of less than 20 m deep. Hawksbill nesting has not been reported along the coast of Louisiana. The leatherback turtle may be found near the continental shelf edge. Sightings have been reported along the Gulf Coast, but no recent nesting has been reported. The loggerhead turtle occurs throughout the Gulf and has been observed as far as SOO miles out in the open sea. Infrequent nesting occur: on the Northern Gulf Coast. In addition to their usual habitat area, turtles are sometimes seen around offshore oil/gas platforms.

The American alligator occurs generally throughout the Gulf Coast region In fresh to brackish water areas. The alligator Is listed as "threatened by simi lar i ty of appearance" throughout Its range.

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Tht endangered red-cockaded woodpecker occurs primarily in mature open pint forests throughout tht Easttrn and Central Gulf area and Into eastern Texas.

Endangered American and threatened artic peregrine falcons migrate along tht Gulf Coast, and some peregrine falcons overwinter in Gulf coastal areas. The ar t ic peregrine falcon migration route occurs along the entire Central and Eastern Gulf of Mexico coasts. The end. »gered piping plover's winter range 1 along the Gulf Coast.

Brown pelicans remain listed as endangered In Louisiana. Three brown pelican rookeries (about 2,500 birds) occur at North Island, Northern St. Bernard Parish, and Queen Bess Island In Louisiana. The habitat of these colonial nesters Is small coastal Islands In salt and brackish water areas.

These species aay be affected by the development of coastal lands and/or the occurrence of oil s p i l l s which may affect the species directly or through their food sources. Since the proposed activit ies include no plans for the development of the coastal lands, the Impact on endangered and threatened species U primarily based on the occurrence of oil spi l ls .

Newfle d Exploration Cc-npir.y, as a prudent operator will take all necessary measures to reduce the probability of oil spi l ls . Newfield's proposed exploratory operations on Block 102 should not pose a threat *o any endangered or threatened soecies.

ui. UNAVOIDABLE; ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

A. WATER QUALITY

Exploration activities will temporarily reduce water quality adjacent to the location. This will Increase turbidity In * p'ume down-current from tr.e work site. Released waters and a minor oil spill could also contribute to water quality degradation.

B. EFFECTS QN MARINE ORGANISMS

Some organisms will be killed and some will be temporarily functionally impaired as a result of exploratory operations. The aost affected groups wi l l be plankton and benthos Immediately around the rig. Damage will be both mechanical and toxicologlcal. These Impacts are considered to be localized, short term and reversible at the population level.

An oil spill could affect a broad spectrum of marine organisms. However, most effects would be localized and short term. Any effects or. mammals and turtles would be significant.

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C. WETLAWS AMD BEACH

In t h t unlikely event of e s p i l l occurring and reaching shore, organists In wetland and beach habitats could be k i l led or functional ly impaired. Hunan community disruption could also occur. Although a l l such effects would be l oca l i zed , any effects on endangered species and/or c r i t i c a l habitats would be s ign i f i cant .

0. AIR QUALITY

The a i r quality at the lease site w i l l be degraded temporarily during operat ions, but should return to normal once operations are measurably completed. Offshore a c t i v i t i e s probably w i l l not affect onshore a i r q u a l i t y . Air qual i ty at the onshore base w i l l be only insigni f icant ly reduced by onshore a c t i v i t i e s . Any such effect w i l l be temporary.

E. COMMERCIAL FISHING

The major impact on f i sh ing act iv i t ies from the proposed operations 1s d r i l l i n g r ig placement, o i l s p i l l s , and underwater OCS obstructions such as p ipe l ines and debris. Other impact producing f e t o r s include discharge of d r i l l i n g muds and renoval of structures.

O i l s p i l l s that contact the coastal marshes, bays, estuaries, and open Gult areas with high concentrations of f loating eggs and larva-* h.ve the greatest po ten t ia l for damage to commercial f isher ies. An o i l sp i l l could seriously a f f e c t the shrimp, oyster, and f in f ish catches in Louisiana as these fishes are estuarine dependent.

Underwater OCS obstructions cause gear conf l ic ts whr.ii result in such losses as t rawls, shrimp catch, business downtime, ard vessel damage. Gear c o n f l i c t s caused by underwater OCS obstruct ior s are mitigated by the Fisherman's Contingency Fund.

The insta l la t ion of pipel ines w i l . contribute to fishery habitat loss and, therefore , negatively Impact fishery resources.

D r i l l i n g mud discharges contain chemicals that are toxic to marine fishes; however, only at concentrations four or f ive orders of magnitude higher than those found more than a few meters from the discharge point.

The removal of platforms resul ts In habitat loss and can cause f ish k i l l s when explosives are used.

In conclusion, although these factors Impact the commercial fisheries Indust r ies, the level of Impact Is expected to be very negl ig ible.

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F. SHIP HAYIGATIOH

Very l i t t l e interference can ba expected between tha drilling rig and marine vessels utilized during txploratory operations and ships that use estab­l ished fairways. However, at night and during rough weather, fog, and heavy seas, ships not using established fairways could collide with the rig. Approved aids to navigation will be in accordance with USCG regulations.

6. CULTURAL KSOURCES

There 1s only a saall probability that an unknown cultural resource exists In the lease area.

H. RECREATION AHD AESTHETIC VALUES

The dr i l l ing rig and aarine vessels may represent an obstacle to soae sport fisherman, but such an effect is expected to be negligible and not per­manent.

Even though existing regulations and orders prohibit Indiscriminate l i t t e r ing of the marine environment wtth trash, offshore oil and gas operations Involving men, machines, equipment, and supplies ts bound to resu l t In some littering of the ocean. Human nature and accidents asso­ciated wtth offshore operations will contribute some floatable de!>- Is to ihe ocean environment which wiil eventually come ash-re on aajor rec.eation*. beaches.

The effects that noraal operations or a minor oil spil l would have on any f i s h stocks important to sport fishermen are also considered to be negligi­ble.

A minor oil spill and/or non-petroleum floating debris could foul beaches inshore of the lease area. The fouling of the beaches would be an aesthetic detriment that could adversely affect recreation. Any effects on beach recreation could adversely affact tourism, and consequently, the local economy.

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IV. SUMMARY

The propostd activity wil l ba carried out and completed vith tht guarantee of tht following items.

A. Tht bast available and safest technologies will be utilized throughout the project. This Includes meeting all applicable reguirements for equipment types, general project layout, safety systems, and eguipment and monitoring systems.

B. All operations are covered by a Minerals Management Service approved 011 Spil l Contingency Plan.

C. All applicable Federal, State, and Local requirements regarding air emission and water quality and discharge for the proposed activities, as well as any other permit conditions, will be complied with.

D. The proposed activit ies described in detail in the Plan of Exploration will comply with Louisiana's Coastal Management Program and will be conducted in a manner consistent with such Prograa.

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REFERENCES

1. MM] nivlmn—ntal Impact Statement. Proposed Oil and Gas Lease Seles 110 aSd 112, Gulf of Hexico" OCS Region, OCS EIS, HMS 86-0087.

2. Finil FneirmMxental Impact Stateaent. Proposed Oil ^ 6 a s Lease Sales UO and 112, Culf of Hexico OCS Region, OCS EIS, MMS 86-0087, visuals.

3. flnH EnYlromttnUl l » t t t SUtmtnt, Proposed Oil and Gas Lease Sales 113, 115, and 116, 6u1f of Mexico OCS Region, OCS EIS. MMS 87-0077.

4. Final Environmental Impact Statement. Proposed Oil and Gas Lease Sales 118 and 122, Gulf of Mexico OCS Region, OCS EIS, HHS 88-0044.

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