Determining the Effects 

 of Petroleum Development 



A complete description of typical industry oil and gas practices was 



developed by observation and literature review. Differences in practices 



resulting from stipulated methods and standards on refuges were compiled from 

 refuge records. 



Probable effects of typical industry practices were analyzed for each 

 phase of oil and gas development (preexploration, site access, site prepara- 

 tion and operation, placement and operation of production facilities, instal- 

 lation and maintenance of lines, spills and cleanup, and site shutdown and 

 restoration). The analysis was made by using the ecosystems diagram for each 

 ecosystem (coastal grasslands, brush-grass complex, maritime forest, salt marsh, 

 brackish marsh, fresh marsh, delta marsh, and levee and spoil bank). Based on 

 known relationships within ecosystems and the type of activity, its magnitude 

 and duration, impacts were qualitatively predicted. 



Analysis of Protective Measures 



The protective measures used on refuges were assessed by contrasting them 

 with potential impacts identified by the impact analysis. Protective measures 

 were judged adequate or inadequate. In the latter case, modifications of the 

 protective measures were suggested where necessary. In a few instances, no 

 protective measures were utilized where a significant impact was potentially 

 possible. Here proposed stipulations were suggested to alleviate the problem. 



RESULTS OF THE STUDY 



A wide variety of measures have been used to protect national wildlife 

 refuge lands. Most of these methods have resulted from observation and experi- 

 mentation by refuge managers. Particular site-specific conditions often dictated 

 the necessary protective measures. However, legal circumstances often have 

 determined the actual degree of compliance that may be required, and thus the 

 success in protecting fish and wildlife habitat. 



Refuge (land) managers must make their management decisions on a case-by- 

 case basis, without overall development plans for an area. However, the most 

 severe impacts are the result of incremental change on a scale larger than the 

 individual site or project. These impacts may be independent of refuge oil 

 and gas activities. 



VI 



