IMPACT OF THE ALASKA GAS CONDITIONING FACILITIES PROJECT ON THE PRUDHOE BAY ENVIRONMENT (NATURAL, OIL, ARCTIC)

The ANGTS has been proposed as a means to begin production of natural gas reserves in the Prudhoe Bay oil field. This system would consist of natural gas conditioning facilities (AGCF) located at Prudhoe Bay and 4800 miles of pipeline running from the Prudhoe Bay to the continental United States. The AGCF could potentially have a significant impact on this arctic region despite the fact that the facilities would be located in an area currently zoned for industrial use. The purpose of this study is to (1) assemble project data into a current project description, (2) assemble data currently available on the Prudhoe Bay environment, and (3) to evaluate these data to identify potential project-related environmental impacts so that appropriate mitigation/protection programs can be developed.; Project data represent current design and operation specifications. However, these specifications are not final; substantial changes in the project may occur before construction begins. Data on the Prudhoe Bay environment were collected from the literature, government documents, and studies conducted by environmental consultants. Despite the extensive amount of development that has occurred in this area, relatively little environmental data are available.; Environmental parameters discussed in this study include meteorology, geology, hydrology/water quality, air quality, noise, terrestrial flora and fauna, aquatic flora and fauna, land use, socioeconomic conditions, recreational potential and aesthetics, and cultural resources. All of these parameters at Prudhoe Bay are currently being impacted by construction and operation of oil production facilities. The potential exists for the AGCF project to significantly enhance these impacts. Prevention of enhancement of impacts will require further identification of baseline environmental conditions at Prudhoe Bay and establishment of a monitoring program designed to detect changes in baseline parameters both during construction and operation of the AGCF. Data from these programs are needed to develop impact mitigation programs. The data will also be useful in determining incremental costs associated with future expansions of oil and gas production facilities.