- Overview
This
study addresses the issue of seafloor stability and the impact on
pipelines and other oil and gas infrastructure in the Gulf of Mexico
as a result of projected dredging activities and the potential removal
of large volumes of sand from Ship Shoal and other areas offshore
Louisiana. Study results will be used to establish setback distances
and buffer zones to protect pipelines and other oil and gas facilities
in the GOM that lie within the vicinity of proposed sand dredging
operations. The setback distances and buffer zones will be conditions
stipulated in official lease documents for the use of Federal sand.
For more specifics on this study contact Barry Drucker at
703-787-1300.
- Potential Impact
The
study to address the issue of seafloor stability and the impact on oil
and gas infrastructure in the Gulf of Mexico seafloor stability study
is likely to result in influential scientific information.
- Time Frame
Review
of the final report includes a 30 day period for review by MMS subject
experts and an additional review by two outside experts with relevant
expertise discussed below. Depending on the complexity of the
comments, reviewers and the Program Manager may engage in further
discussion before a final version is prepared.
- Manner of Review
The MMS
has solicited by letter two independent technical reviewers from
academia in related technical fields. Comments and suggestions on the
draft report from the reviewers will be evaluated and included in the
final report. Peer review of manuscripts will be chosen by the
publisher.
- Opportunity for Public Comment
MMS will
not solicit public comments for the study to address the issue of
seafloor stability and the impact on oil and gas infrastructure in the
Gulf of Mexico.
- Peer Reviewer Access to Comments
Public
comments are not incorporated in the peer review process for this
study.
- Expected Number of Reviewers
The
outside peer review is being conducted by 2 outside experts from
academia with relevant expertise.
- Requisite Expertise
Expertise need for a complete for a complete review includes physical
oceanography, modeling, geology, geo-technical engineering, sediment
transport and dredging operations.
- Selection of Reviewers
Outside
reviewers were selected by MMS.
- Nomination Process
MMS
informally discussed peer reviewers with scientific societies and
selections were influenced by external recommendations, but no formal
nomination process was used.
