UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT MEMORANDUM

To: Public Information (MS 5030)

Plans Section, Office of Field 

Operations (MS 5231)

Public Information copy of Exploration Plan

Control # - N-09665

Type - Initial Exploration Plan

Lease(s) - OCS-G24066 Block - 258 Mississippi Canyon Area

Operator - LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Wells A, B, C, and D

SEMISUBMERSIBLE

Attached is a copy of the subject plan for public comments on issues that 

should be addressed in an Environmental Assessment.

It has been deemed submitted as of this date and is under review for approval.

Chiquita Hill

Plan Coordinator

Description -

Rig Type -

Subject:

From:

October 18, 2012
LLOG EXPLORATION OFFSHORE, L.L.C. 

1001 Ochsner Boulevard, Suite 200 

Covington, Louisiana 70433 

INITIAL EXPLORATION PLAN 

OCS-G-24066 

MISSISSIPPI CANYON BLOCK 258 

PREPARED BY: 

Kathy Gowland 

Regulatory Specialist 

985-801-4300 (Main) 

985-801-4317 (Direct) 

kathygo@llog.com

September 10, 2012 
LLOG EXPLORATION OFFSHORE, L.L.C.

INITIAL EXPLORATION PLAN 

OCS-G-24066 

MISSISSIPPI CANYON BLOCK 258 

APPENDIX A Plan Contents 

APPENDIX B General Information 

APPENDIX C Geological, Geophysical Information 

 

APPENDIX D H2S Information 

APPENDIX E Biological, Physical and Socioeconomic Information 

APPENDIX F Waste and Discharge Information 

APPENDIX G Air Emissions Information 

 

APPENDIX H Oil Spill Information 

APPENDIX I Environmental Monitoring Information 

APPENDIX J Lease Stipulation Information 

APPENDIX K Environmental Mitigation Measures Information 

APPENDIX L Related Facilities and Operations Information 

APPENDIX M Support Vessels and Aircraft Information 

APPENDIX N Onshore Support Facilities Information 

APPENDIX O Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) Information 

APPENDIX P Environmental Impact Analysis 

APPENDIX Q Administrative Information 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX A 

PLAN CONTENTS 

(30 CFR Part 250.211 and 250.241) 

A. Plan information 

In accordance with 30 CFR 250.211 and 250.241(a),and NTL No. 2008-G04 and NTL 

2010-N06, LLOG Exploration Offshore, LLC proposes the drilling, completion, testing 

and installation of subsea wellhead and/or manifold for four (4) proposed locations for 

Lease OCS-G-24066, Mississippi Canyon Block 258. 

The current lease operator and ownership are as follows: 

Area/Block Lease No. Operator Ownership 

Mississippi Canyon Block 258, 

OCS-G 24066 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, Inc. LLOG Exploration Offshore, Inc 

Included as Attachment A is Form BOEM 137 “OCS Plan Information Form”, which 

provides for the drilling, sub-sea completion and testing of all well locations. 

. 

B. Location 

 Attachment B – Well Location Plat 

 Attachment C – Bathymetry Map – Seafloor disturbance area with anchor 

 Radius 

C. Safety & Pollution Features 

LLOG will utilize either a semi-submersible drilling rig or a DP semi-submersible rig 

for the proposed operations. A description of the drilling unit is included on the OCS 

Plans Information Form. Rig specifications will be made part of the Application for 

Permit to Drill. 

Safety features on the drilling unit will include well control, pollution prevention, and 

blowout prevention equipment as described in Title 30 CFR Part 250, Subparts C, D, E 

and G; and further clarified by BOEM’s Notices to Lessees, and currently policy 

making invoked by BOEM, EPA and USCG. Appropriate life rafts, life jackets, ring 

buoys, etc., will be maintained on the facility at all times. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Pollution prevention measures include installation of curbs, gutters, drip pans, and 

drains on the drilling deck areas to collect all contaminants and debris. 

D. Storage Tanks and Vessels

The following table details the storage tanks and/or production vessels that will store oil 

(capacity greater than 25 bbls. or more) and be used to support the proposed activities 

(MODU, barges, platforms, etc.): 

Semi-submersible Rig: 

Type of 

Storage Tank 

Type of Facility Tank Capacity 

(bbls) 

Number of 

tanks 

Total Capacity 

(bbls) 

Fluid Gravity 

(API) 

Fuel Oil 

(Marine Diesel) 

SemiSubmersible 95.24 2 190.5 No. 2 Diesel - 

.81 

 2917.8 4 11,671.2 

Total 11,861.7 

DP Semi-submersible Rig: 

Type of Storage 

Tank 

Type of Facility Tank Capacity 

(bbls) 

Number of 

tanks 

Total Capacity 

(bbls) 

Fluid Gravity 

(API) 

Fuel Oil (Marine 

Diesel) 

DP SemiSubmersible 164 1 164 0.876 

Fuel Oil Day 367 2 734 0.876 

Emergency 

Generator 

 31 1 31 0.876 

Forward Hull 

Fuel Oil 

 4634 2 9268 0.876 

Lower Aft Hull 

Fuel Oil 

 3462 2 6924 0.876 

Lube Oil 

Services 

 117/10.5/4.6 3 132 0.8 

Dirty Lube Oil 38/28 2 66 0.8 

Dirty Bilge 190 4 760 0.1 

E. Pollution Prevention Measures: Not applicable. The State of Florida is not an 

affected State by the proposed activities in this plan. 

F. Additional measures: LLOG does not propose any additional safety, pollution 

prevention, or early detection measures, beyond those required in 30 CFR 250 and per 

December 13, 2010 – Guidance for Deepwater Drillers to Comply with Strengthened 

Safety and Environmental Standards. 
High Island Block A-7 (OCS-G 32758) 10/3/2011 

Initial Exploration Plan 3

 

OCS Plan Information Form

Attachment A 

(Public Information) 
U.S. Department of the Interior OMB Control Number: 1010-0151 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management OMB Approval Expires: 12/31/2014

OCS PLAN INFORMATION FORM

General Information

Type of OCS Plan: Exploration Plan (EP) Development Operations Coordination Document (DOCD) 

Company Name: BOEM Operator Number: 

Address: Contact Person: 

Phone Number: 

E-Mail Address: 

Lease(s): Area: Block(s): Project Name (If Applicable): 

Objective(s): Oil Gas Sulphur Salt Onshore Base: Distance to Closest Land (Miles): 

Description of Proposed Activities (Mark all that apply)

Exploration drilling Development drilling 

Well completion Installation of production platform 

Well test flaring (for more than 48 hours) Installation of production facilities 

Installation of caisson or platform as well protection structure Installation of satellite structure 

Installation of subsea wellheads and/or manifolds Commence production 

Installation of lease term pipelines Other (Specify and describe) 

Have you submitted or do you plan to submit a Conservation Information Document to accompany this plan? Yes No 

Do you propose to use new or unusual technology to conduct your activities? Yes No 

Do you propose any facility that will serve as a host facility for deepwater subsea development? Yes No 

Do you propose any activities that may disturb an BOEM-designated high-probability archaeological area? Yes No 

Have all of the surface locations of your proposed activities been previously reviewed and approved by BOEM? Yes No 

Tentative Schedule of Proposed Activities

Proposed Activity Start Date End Date No. of Days

      

Description of Drilling Rig Description of Production Platform

Jackup Drillship Caisson Tension leg platform 

Gorilla Jackup Platform rig Well protector Compliant tower 

Semisubmersible Submersible Fixed platform Guyed tower 

DP Semisubmersible Other (Attach Description) Subsea manifold Floating production system 

Drilling Rig Name (If Known): Spar Other (Attach Description) 

Description of Lease Term Pipelines

From (Facility/Area/Block) To (Facility/Area/Block) Diameter (Inches) Length (Feet)

      

FORM BOEM-0137 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous editions of form BOEM-0137 which may not be used.) 

Page 1 of 2 




High Island Block A-7 (OCS-G 32758) 10/3/2011 

Initial Exploration Plan 4

 

Well Location Plats

Attachment B 

(Public Information) 

Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Bathymetry Map 

Attachment C 

(Public Information) 


Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX B 

GENERAL INFORMATION 

(30 CFR Part 250.213 and 250.243) 

A. Applications and Permits 

There are no Federal/State applications to be submitted for the activities provided for in 

this Plan (exclusive to BOEMRE permit applications and general permits issued by the 

EPA and COE) 

Application/Permit Issuing Agency Status 

N/A 

 

B. Drilling Fluids 

Type of Drilling Fluid Estimated Volume of Drilling Fluid to be 

used per Well 

Water Based (seawater, freshwater, barite) See Appendix F, Table 1 of this Plan 

Oil–based (diesel, mineral oil) N/A 

Synthetic-based (internal olefin, ester) See Appendix F, Table 2 of this Plan 

C. New Or Unusual Technology 

LLOG does not propose using any new and/or unusual technology for the operations 

proposed in this Initial Plan. 

D. Bonding Statement 

The bond requirements for the activities and facilities proposed in this Initial 

Exploration Plan are satisfied by an area wide bond, furnished and maintained 

according to 30 CFR Part 256; subpart I; NTL No. 2000-G16, “Guidelines for General 

Lease Surety Bonds,” and additional security under 30 CFR 256.53(d) and NTL No. 

2008-N07 “Supplemental Bond Procedures.” 

E. Oil Spill Responsibility (OSFR) 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C (MMS Co. No. 02058) will demonstrate oil spill 

financial responsibility for the facilities proposed in this Initial EP according to 30 CFR 

Part 253, and NTL No. 2008-N05 “Guidelines for Oil Spill Financial Responsibility 

(OSFR) for Covered Facilities.” 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

F. Deepwater Well Control Statement 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C. (MMS Co. No. 02058) has the financial capability 

to drill a relief well and conduct other emergency well control operations. 

G. Blowout Scenario 

See the following Worst Case Discharge Calculations (Proprietary) – Attachment D and 

Blowout Scenario, including Site Specific Proposed Relief Well and Intervention 

Planning and Relief Well Response Time Estimate (Public Information) - Attachment 

D-1 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

NTL 2010-N06 Data 

Worst Case Discharge Calculations 

Attachment D 

(Proprietary Information) 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

NTL 2010-N06 Data 

Blowout Scenario 

Attachment D-1 

(Public Information) 
BLOWOUT SCENARIO 

 MC 258 

Created by: S.L. Stegeman 

Last Revised: 9/6/2012 

Page 1 of 7 

Confidential

 

BLOWOUT SCENARIO 

Pursuant with 30 CFR 250.213(g), 250.219, 250,250 and NTL 2010-N06 the following attachment 

provides a blowout scenario description, information regarding any oil spill, WCD results and assumptions 

of potential spill and additional measures taken to firstly enhance the ability to prevent a blowout and 

secondly to manage a blowout scenario if it occurred. 

INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 

PROPOSED PROSPECT INFORMATION 

Well Surface Location WD X (NAD 27) Y (NAD 27) Latitude Longitude

MC 258 “A” OCS-G-24066 5850 1,289,805’ 10,431,383’ 28° 44’ 23.856” 88° 05’ 39.872” 

MC 258 “B” OCS-G-24066 5782 1,289,086’ 10,432,752’ 28° 44’ 37.347” 88° 05’ 48.092” 

MC 258 “C” OCS-G-24066 5784 1,288,213’ 10,435,298’ 28° 45’ 02.481” 88° 05’ 58.165” 

MC 258 “D” OCS-G-24066 5850 1,290,014’ 10,434,144’ 28° 44’ 51.217” 88° 05’ 37.809” 

INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 

A) Blowout scenario 

The MC 258 well to be drilled to potential outlined in the Geological and Geophysical Information 

Section of this plan utilizing a typical subsea wellhead system, conductor, surface and intermediate 

casing strings from a pre-existing wellbore and a MODU rig with marine riser and a subsea BOP 

system. A hydrocarbon influx and a well control event occurring from the objective sand is modeled 

with no drill pipe or obstructions in the wellbore followed by a failure of the subsea BOP’s and loss of 

well control at the seabed. The simulated flow and worst case discharge (WCD) results for all wells 

are calculated and the highest WCD is used for this unrestricted blowout scenario. 

B) Estimated flow rate of the potential blowout 

Category Revised EP 

Type of Activity Drilling 

Facility Location (area / block) MC 258 

Facility Designation MODU 

Distance to Nearest Shoreline (miles) ~62 N-M 

Uncontrolled Blowout (Volume per day) 78,811 bbls 

Type of Fluid Crude 

C) Total volume and maximum duration of the potential blowout 

Duration of Flow (days) 94 days total (see Relief Well Response Estimate below) 

Total Volume of Spill (bbls) 7.4 MMBO based on 94 days of uncontrolled flow 

D) Assumptions and calculations used in determining the worst case discharge 

 See Attachment D-1 of this Plan - Omitted from Public Information Copies 

E) Potential for the well to bridge over 

Mechanical failure/collapse of the borehole in a blowout scenario is influenced by several factors 

including in-situ stress, rock strength and fluid velocities at the sand face. Given the substantial fluid 
BLOWOUT SCENARIO 

 MC 258 

Created by: S.L. Stegeman 

Last Revised: 9/6/2012 

Page 2 of 7 

Confidential

 

velocities inherent in the WCD, and the scenario as defined where the formation is not supported by a 

cased and cemented wellbore, it is possible that the borehole may fall/collapse/bridge over within a 

span of a few days, significantly reducing the outflow of the rates. For this blowout scenario, no 

bridging is considered. 

F) Likelihood for intervention to stop blowout 

The likelihood of surface intervention to stop a blowout is based on some of the following equipment 

specific to potential MODU’s to be contracted for this well. It is reasonable to assume that the sooner 

you are able to respond to the initial blowout, the better likelihood there is to control and contain the 

event due to reduced pressures at the wellhead, less exposure of well fluids to erode and 

compromise the well control equipment, and less exposure of hydrocarbons to the surface to 

safeguard personnel and equipment in an emergency situation. This equipment includes: 

• Secondary Acoustic BOP Control System – typically fitted on DP MODU’s presently operating 

in the GOM. This system has the ability to communicate and function specific BOP controls 

from the surface in the event of a failure of the primary umbilical control system. This system 

typically can establish BOP controls from the surface acoustic system package on the rig or 

by deploying a second acoustic package from a separate vessel of opportunity. This system 

may not be included on all MODU’s such as 4th generation moored rigs. This system is 

typically configured to function the following: 

- Blind/;shear ram close 

- Pipe ram close 

- LMRP disconnect 

• ROV Intervention BOP Control System – includes one or more ROV intervention panels 

mounted on the subsea BOP’s located on the seabed allows a ROV utilizing standard ROV 

stabs to access and function the specific BOP controls. These functions will be tested at the 

surface as part of the required BOP stump test and selectively at the seafloor to ensure 

proper functionality. These function include the following (at a minimum): 

- Blind/shear ram close 

- Pipe ram close 

- LMRP disconnect 

- WH disconnect 

 

• Deadman / Autoshear function – typically fitted on DP MODU’s and but to be on all MODU’s 

operating in the GOM according to new requirements, this equipment allows for an 

automated pre-programmed sequence of functions to close the casing shear rams and the 

blind/shear rams in the event of an inadvertent or emergency disconnect of the LMRP or loss 

of both hydraulic and electrical supply from the surface control system. 

In the event that the intervention systems for the subsea BOP’s fail, LLOG will initiate call out of a 

secondary containment / surface intervention system supported by the Helix Well Containment Group 

(HWCG) of which LLOG is a member. This system incorporates a capping stack capable of being 

deployed from the back of a vessel of opportunity equipped with an ROV or from the Helix Q4000 DP 

MODU. Based on the potential integrity concerns of the well, a “cap and flow” system can be 

deployed which may include the Helix Producer 1 capable of handling up to 55,000 BOPD flowback. 

The vertical intervention work is contingent upon the condition of the blowing out well and what 

equipment is intact to access the wellbore for kill or containment operations. The available 

intervention equipment may also require modifications based on actual wellbore conditions. Standard 
BLOWOUT SCENARIO 

 MC 258 

Created by: S.L. Stegeman 

Last Revised: 9/6/2012 

Page 3 of 7 

Confidential

 

equipment is available through the Helix Deepwater Containment System to fit the wellhead and BOP 

stack profiles used for the drilling of the above mentioned well. 

G) Availability of rig to drill relief well, rig constraints and timing of rigs 

LLOG currently has one deepwater MODU under contract (Noble Amos Runner moored semi). In the 

event of a blowout scenario that does not involve loss or damage to the rig such as an inadvertent 

disconnect of the BOP’s, then the existing contracted rig may be available for drilling the relief well 

and vertical intervention work. If the blowout scenario involves damage to the rig or loss of the BOP’s 

and riser, a replacement rig or rigs will be required. 

With the current activity level in the GOM, 25 to 35 deepwater MODU’S are potentially available to 

support the relief well drilling operations. Rig share and resource sharing agreements are in place 

between members of the Helix Well Containment Group. The ability to negotiate and contract an 

appropriate rig or rigs to drill relief wells is highly probable in a short period of time. If the rig or rigs 

are operating, the time to properly secure the well and mobe the rig to the relief well site location is 

estimated to be about 14 to 21 days. Dynamically positioned (DP) MODU’s would be the preferred 

option due to the logistical advantage versus a moored MODU which may add complications due to 

the mooring spread. 

VESSELS OF OPPORTUNITY 

Based on the water depth restrictions for the proposed locations the following “Vessels of 

Opportunity” are presently available for utilization for intervention and containment and relief well 

operations. These may include service vessels and drilling rigs capable of working in the potential 

water depths and may include moored vessels and dynamically positioned vessels. The specific 

conditions of the intervention or relief well operations will dictate the “best fit” vessel to efficiently 

perform the desired results based on the blowout scenario. The list included below illustrates specific 

option that may vary according to the actual timing / availability at the time the vessels are needed. 

OPERATION SPECIFIC VESSEL OF OPPORTUNITY 

Intervention and Containment • Helix Q4000 (DP Semi) 

• Helix Producer 1 (DP FPU) 

Relief Well Drilling Rigs • Diamond Ocean Victory (Moored Semi) 

• Ensco 8502 (DP Semi) 

• Transocean Enterprise (DP Drillship) 

ROV / Multi-Purpose Service Vessels • Oceaneering (numerous DP ROV vessels) 

• HOS Achiever, Iron Horse 1 and 2 (DP MPSV) 

• Helix Pipe Lay Vessel (equipped w/ 6” PL – 75,000’) 

• Other ROV Vessels – (Chouest, HOS, Fugro, Subsea 7)

Shuttle Tanker / Barge Support • OSG Ship Management 

H) Measures taken to enhance ability to prevent blowout 

Pursuant to BOEM-2010-034 Final Interim Rules, measures to enhance the ability to prevent or 

reduce the likelihood of a blowout are largely based on proper planning and communication, 

identification of potential hazards, training and experience of personnel, use of good oil field practices 

and proper equipment that is properly maintained and inspected for executing drilling operations of 

the proposed well or wells to be drilled. 
BLOWOUT SCENARIO 

 MC 258 

Created by: S.L. Stegeman 

Last Revised: 9/6/2012 

Page 4 of 7 

Confidential

 

When planning and designing the well, ample time is spent analyzing offset data, performing any 

needed earth modeling and identifying any potential drilling hazards or well specific conditions to 

safeguard the safety of the crews when well construction operations are underway. Once the design 

criteria and well design is established, the well design is modeled for the lifecycle of the wellbore to 

ensure potential failure modes are eliminated. Pursuant to BOEM-2010-0034 Interim Final Rules 

implemented additional considerations of a minimum of 2 independent barriers for both internal and 

external flow paths in addition to proper positive and negative testing of the barriers. 

The proper training of crew members and awareness to identify and handle well control event is the 

best way prevent a blowout incident. Contractor’s personnel and service personnel training 

requirements are verified per regulatory requirements per guidelines issued in BOEM-2010-034 

Interim Final Rules. Drills are performed frequently to verify crew training and improve reaction times. 

Good communication between rig personnel, office support personnel is critical to the success of the 

operations. Pre-spud meetings are conducted with rig crews and service providers to discuss, inform 

and as needed improve operations and well plans for safety and efficiency considerations. Daily 

meetings are conducted to discuss planning and potential hazards to ensure state of preparedness 

and behavior is enforced to create an informed and safe culture for the operations. Any changes in 

the planning and initial wellbore design is incorporated and communicated in a Management of 

Change (MOC) process to ensure continuity for all personnel. 

Use of established good oil field practices that safeguard crews and equipment are integrated to 

incorporate LLOG’s, the contractor and service provider policies. 

Additional personnel and equipment will be used as needed to elevate awareness and provide real 

time monitoring of well conditions while drilling such as MWD/LWD/PWD tools used in the bottom 

hole assemblies. The tool configuration for each open hole section varies to optimize information 

gathered including the use of Formation-Pressure-While-Drilling (FPWD) tools to establish real time 

formation pressures and to be used to calibrates pore pressure models while drilling. Log information 

and pressure data is used by the drilling engineers, geologist and pore pressure engineers to 

maintain well control and reduced potential events such as well control events and loss circulation 

events. 

Mud loggers continuously monitor return drilling fluids, drill gas levels and cuttings as well as surface 

mud volumes and flow rates, rate of penetration and lithology/paleo to aid in understanding trends 

and geology being drilled. Remote monitoring of real time drilling parameters and evaluation of 

geologic markers and pore pressure indicators is used to identify potential well condition changes. 

Proper equipment maintenance and inspection program for same to before the equipment is required. 

Programmed equipment inspections and maintenance will be performed to ensure the equipment 

operability and condition. Operations will cease as needed in order to ensure equipment and well 

conditions are maintained and controlled for the safety of personnel, rig and subsurface equipment 

and the environment. 

I) Measures to conduct effective and early intervention in the event of a blowout 

In conjunction with the LLOG Exploration’s “Well Control Emergency Response Plan” and as required 

by NTL 2010-N06, the following is provided to demonstrate the potential time needed for performing 

secondary intervention and drilling of a relief well to handle potential worst case discharge for the 

proposed prospect. Specific plans are integrated into the Helix Well Containment Groups procures to 

be approved and submitted with the Application for Permit to Drill. Equipment availability, backup 

equipment and adaptability to the potential scenarios will need to be addressed based on the initial 

site assessment of the seafloor conditions for intervention operations. Relief well equipment such as 
BLOWOUT SCENARIO 

 MC 258 

Created by: S.L. Stegeman 

Last Revised: 9/6/2012 

Page 5 of 7 

Confidential

 

backup wellhead equipment and tubulars will be available in LLOG’s inventory for immediate 

deployment as needed to address frilling the relief well(s). 

SITE SPECIFIC PROPOSED RELIEF WELL AND INTERVENTION PLANNING 

No platform was considered for drilling relief wells for this location due to location, water depth and 

lack of appropriate platform within the area. For this reason a moored or DP MODU will be preferred 

/ required. 

Nearest production pipeline tie-ins are located ~10 miles from ExxonMobil MC 211 and ~12 miles 

from ENI MC 299. Potential to utilize these lines in the event of a “cap and flow” scenario are 

possible. 

Relief well sites have been initially identified to address blowout scenarios for the potential geologic 

targets for the proposed wells. A total of 7 relief well surface locations are proposed for the 4 drill 

sites in the Proposed Exploration Plan wells. These 4 drill sites are the most probable well sites for a 

development scenario. Based on actual seafloor state unforeseen at this time, the final location(s) 

may need to be revised. The locations have been selected based on proximity to the targets sands 

and potential shallow hazards. 
BLOWOUT SCENARIO 

 MC 258 

Created by: S.L. Stegeman 

Last Revised: 9/6/2012 

Page 6 of 7 

Confidential

 

RELIEF WELL RESPONSE TIME ESTIMATE 

OPERATION TIME ESTIMATE

 (DAYS)

IMMEDIATE RESPONSE 

• safeguard personnel, render first-aid 

• make initial notifications 

• implement short term intervention (if possible) 

• implement spill control 

• develop Initial Action Plan 

 

 1 

INTERIM REPSONSE 

• establish Onsite Command Center and Emergency Management Team 

• assess well control issues 

• mobilize people and equipment (Helix DW Containment System) 

• implement short term intervention and containment (if possible) 

• develop Intervention Plan 

• initiate relief well planning 

• continue spill control measures 

 

 4 

INTERVENTION AND CONTAIMENT OPERATIONS 

• mobilize equipment and initiate intervention and containment operations

• perform TA operations and mobilize relief wells rig(s) 

• finalize relief well plans, mobilize spud equipment, receive approvals 

 14 
BLOWOUT SCENARIO 

 MC 258 

Created by: S.L. Stegeman 

Last Revised: 9/6/2012 

Page 7 of 7 

Confidential

 

• continue spill control measures 

RELIEF WELL(S) OPERATIONS 

• continue intervention and containment measures

• continue spill control measures

• drill relief well (s) 

 55 

PERFORM HYDRAULIC KILL OPERATIONS / SECURE BLOWNOUT WELL 

• continue intervention and containment measures

• continue spill control measures

• perform hydraulic kill operations, monitor well, secure well

 

 20 

 ESTIMATED TOTAL DAYS OF UNCONTROLLED FLOW 94 

SECURE RELIELF WELL(S) / PERFORM P&A / TA OPERATIONS / DEMOBE 30 

 TOTAL DAYS 124 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX C 

GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL INFORMATION 

(30 CFR Part 250.214 and 250.244) 

A. Geological Description 

Included as Attachment E are the geological targets and a narrative of trapping features 

proposed in this Plan

B. Structure Contour Maps 

Included as Attachment F are current structure maps (depth base and expressed in feet 

subsea) depicting the entire lease coverage area; drawn on top of the prospective 

hydrocarbon sands. The maps depict each proposed bottom hole location and 

applicable geological cross section. 

C. Interpreted Seismic Lines 

Included as Attachment G is a copy of the migrated and annotated (shot points, time 

lines, well paths) deep seismic line within 500 feet of the surface location being 

proposed in this Plan. 

D. Geological Structure Cross-Sections 

An interpreted geological cross section depicting the proposed well locations and depth 

of the proposed wells is included as Attachment H. Such cross section corresponds to 

each seismic line being submitted. 

E. Shallow Hazards Report 

Berger Geosciences, LLC conducted a Shallow Hazards Assessment, Benthic 

Communities Evaluation, and Archaeological Resource Survey for Mississippi Canyon 

Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) on behalf of LLOG Exploration Offshore, Inc. The purpose 

of the survey was to evaluate geologic conditions and inspect for potential hazards or 

constraints to lease development. The report was submitted to BOEM under separate 

cover on September 4, 2012. 

F. Shallow Hazards Assessment 

Utilizing the 3D deep seismic exploration data a shallow hazards analysis was prepared 

for the proposed surface locations, evaluating seafloor and subsurface geologic and 

manmade features and conditions, and is included as Attachment I. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

G. High Resolution Seismic Lines 

LLOG provided exploration 3-D seismic data for the evaluation of the proposed surface 

disturbance operations. 

H. Stratigraphic Column 

A generalized biostratigraphic/lithostratigraphic column from the seafloor to the total 

depth of the proposed wells is included as Attachment J. 

I. Time vs Depth Tables 

LLOG has determined that there is existing sufficient well control data for the target 

areas proposed in this Plan; therefore, tables providing seismic time versus depth for the 

proposed well locations are not required. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Geological Description 

Attachment E 

(Proprietary Information) 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Structure Maps 

Attachment F 

(Proprietary Information) 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Deep Seismic Lines 

Attachment G 

(Proprietary Information) 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Cross Section Maps 

Attachment H 

(Proprietary Information) 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Shallow Hazards Assessment 

Attachment I 

(Public Information) 
Tesla Offshore, LLC

36499 Perkins Road

Prairieville, Louisiana 70769

Telephone: (225) 673-2163

Fax: (225) 744-3116

August 17, 2012 Job No. 12-072-11

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (MS 5230)

Gulf of Mexico OCS Region

1201 Elmwood Park Blvd.

New Orleans, LA 70123-2394

RE: LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘A’ Well

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C., proposes to drill the OCS-G 24066 ‘A’ Well from the 

following surface location: 

Datum: 

NAD 27

 Spheroid: 

Clarke 1866

 Projection: 

UTM

 Zone:

 16

Central Meridian:

 87° 00’ West

 Latitude: 28° 44’ 23.856” N Longitude: 88° 05’ 39.872” W

 X: 1,289,805.00 Y: 10,431,383.00

 FWL: 6,765’ FNL: 7,177’

 

Tesla Offshore conducted a high-resolution geophysical survey centered on Block 258, 

Mississippi Canyon Area between February 21st and April 5th, 2012, using 250-meter 

primary grid spacing and 900-meter tie lines. LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

selected Tesla Offshore, LLC to prepare this archaeological assessment for the 

proposed drill site to comply with NTL No. 2005-G07 published by the Bureau of Ocean 

Energy Management (BOEM), Gulf of Mexico Region. Geophysical record copies are

enclosed for the side scan sonar, subbottom profiler, and single-beam echo sounder

from the survey line nearest the proposed well site as required by the BOEM in NTL No. 

2008-G04. LLOG has commissioned a separate hazards survey utilizing 3-D seismic 

data, which will address shallow hazards and potential deepwater benthic communities.

Water depth is approximately 5,850 feet surrounding the proposed drill site. The 

location is positioned on a gradual slope and the seafloor slopes to the east at an 

estimated rate of 450 feet/mile. 

 

Seafloor sediments reportedly consist of clays and marine deposits (MMS 1983 

Visual No. 3; MMS 1986 Visual No. 5). 

Seafloor installations located within 1,000’ of the proposed surface location include 

the 2” BP pipeline (Segment 17364) located approximately 750’ SE at its closest 

point. Additionally the only other infrastructure located within the surveyed area is 

the 2” BP pipeline (Segment 17851) which is located approximately 3,100’ to the 
TESLA OFFSHORE

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘A’ Well 

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

Page 2

NE at its closest point. The pipelines were too small to be resolved by sonar or 

multibeam data, therefore this assessment is based on the published as-built 

pipeline positions.

Magnetometer data acquisition is not required, per NTL 2005-G07, since water 

depths exceed 200 meters (656 feet) throughout the entire survey grid.

Side scan sonar verified that the seafloor immediately surrounding the proposed 

well site was clear of protruding obstructions. The seafloor at the well location 

appears lightly reflective and exhibits no significant seafloor features, apart from

nearby fault scarps. Two areas interpreted as surficial mass transport deposits are 

located approximately 520’ to the SE and 1,330’ NE of the surface location. The 

closest observed sonar target is no. 4, located in Block 258 approximately 570’ to the 

WNW. This target appears amorphous in shape and measures approximately 13’ x 

6’ with no visible relief above the seafloor. Target 4 is not considered to represent 

possible cultural resources and has been designated for avoidance as a potential 

hazard only. Sonar targets designated for avoidance as potential cultural resources 

are located over 15,000’ southeast of the proposed surface location. The targets are 

located beyond the extent of the proposed anchor radius, however the avoidance 

zone is intersected by the radius. As long as he designated avoidance criterion of 

2,000’ is adhered to there should be no impact to the potential resource; the portion 

of the avoidance zone within the proposed radius will be designated as a noanchorage area. Areas of high seafloor reflectivity and possible outcrops were also 

identified within the survey grid, however none are located within the immediate 

vicinity of the proposed surface location.

Subbottom data nearest the proposed location resolved a strongly reflective 

seafloor. Surficial sediments underlying the proposed surface location appear as 

weakly to moderately reflecting, acoustically amorphous deposits approximately 5’

thick, overlying 10’ of poorly stratified, moderately reflective sediment, followed by 

approximately 100-125’ of well-stratified parallel to subparallel, strongly to 

moderately reflective sediments before the record becomes attenuated. Aerially 

extensive fault zones were mapped throughout the southwestern portion of the 

survey grid and isolated subsurface faults were identified within the central portion of 

the survey, but none were observed within 1,000’ of the proposed surface location.

The nearest observed fault is located approximately 3,130’ to the SW and appears to 

be an isolated fault identified at a depth of 5’ BML exhibiting 2’ of displacement to the

NW. The proposed drill site is located within an area of mass transport deposits 

observed on the subbottom profiler data at a depth of approximately 8’ BML. 

Additionally, gas fronts and areas of acoustic vertical wipeout were identified 

throughout the surveyed grid. None of these features are located within the vicinity 

of the proposed surface location. 
TESLA OFFSHORE

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘A’ Well 

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

Page 3

The operator has identified the primary hazards to rig movements, any ancillary 

anchor/mooring deployments, and drilling. No evidence of potential cultural resources 

was observed at the well location. The proposed well site will be marked with DGPS 

during rig moves and drilling to comply with the BOEM On-Site Requirements specified 

in NTL No. 2008-G05, Section VI, Item B-2(a).

Pursuant to 30 CFR 550.194 (c), 30 CFR 550.101 (c), and NTL No. 2005-G07, if any 

archaeological or potentially historically significant materials are observed during lease 

development, operations will immediately cease in that area and appropriate BOEM 

personnel will be notified within 48 hours of discovery. 

The operator and subcontractors will apply the safest and best available technologies 

during rig moves and drilling operations. 

Sincerely,

Matt Keith Erin Voisin, MA

Geoscience Manager Archaeologist
Tesla Offshore, LLC

36499 Perkins Road

Prairieville, Louisiana 70769

Telephone: (225) 673-2163

Fax: (225) 744-3116

August 17, 2012 Job No. 12-072-11

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (MS 5230)

Gulf of Mexico OCS Region

1201 Elmwood Park Blvd.

New Orleans, LA 70123-2394

RE: LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘B’ Well

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C., proposes to drill the OCS-G 24066 ‘B’ Well from the 

following surface location: 

Datum: 

NAD 27

 Spheroid: 

Clarke 1866

 Projection: 

UTM

 Zone:

 16

Central Meridian:

 87° 00’ West

 Latitude: 28° 44’ 37.347” N Longitude: 88° 05’ 48.092” W

 X: 1,289,086.00 Y: 10,432,752.00

 FWL: 6,046’ FNL: 5,808’

 

Tesla Offshore conducted a high-resolution geophysical survey centered on Block 258, 

Mississippi Canyon Area between February 21st and April 5th, 2012, using 250-meter 

primary grid spacing and 900-meter tie lines. LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

selected Tesla Offshore, LLC to prepare this archaeological assessment for the 

proposed drill site to comply with NTL No. 2005-G07 published by the Bureau of Ocean 

Energy Management (BOEM), Gulf of Mexico Region. Geophysical record copies are

enclosed for the side scan sonar, subbottom profiler, and single-beam echo sounder

from the survey line nearest the proposed well site as required by the BOEM in NTL No. 

2008-G04. LLOG has commissioned a separate hazards survey utilizing 3-D seismic 

data, which will address shallow hazards and potential deepwater benthic communities.

Water depth is approximately 5,782 feet surrounding the proposed drill site. The 

seafloor slopes to the east at an estimated rate of 350 feet/mile. 

 

Seafloor sediments reportedly consist of clays and marine deposits (MMS 1983 

Visual No. 3; MMS 1986 Visual No. 5). 

No Seafloor installations are located within 1,000’ of the proposed surface location. 

The nearest infrastructure is the 2” BP pipeline (Segment 17364) is located 

approximately 2,160’ SE at its closest point and the 2” BP pipeline (Segment 17851)

located approximately 3,300’ E at its closest point. The pipelines were too small to 

be resolved by sonar or multibeam data, therefore this assessment is based 
TESLA OFFSHORE

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘B’ Well 

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

Page 2

on the published as-built pipeline positions.

Magnetometer data acquisition is not required, per NTL 2005-G07, since water 

depths exceed 200 meters (656 feet) throughout the entire survey grid.

Side scan sonar verified that the seafloor immediately surrounding the proposed 

well site was clear of protruding obstructions. The seafloor at the well location 

appears lightly reflective and exhibits no significant seafloor features. The closest 

observed sonar target is no. 4, located in Block 258 approximately 4,800’ to the west. 

This target is amorphous in shape and measures 13’ x 6’ with no visible relief above 

the seafloor. Target 4 is not considered to represent possible cultural resources and 

has been designated for avoidance as a potential hazard only. The nearest sonar 

target designated for avoidance as a potential cultural resource is located 

approximately 17,160’ SE of the proposed surface location, outside of the proposed 

anchor radius for this proposed surface location. The anchor radius will not intersect 

the avoidance zone for this, or any other sonar target, and this potential cultural 

resource will not be impacted by drilling activities. Surficial areas of mass transport 

deposits are located approximately 1,300’ ESE of the proposed surface location. 

Areas of high reflectivity and possible outcrops were observed, however none are 

located within 2,000’ of the proposed surface location.

Subbottom data nearest the proposed location resolved a strongly reflective 

seafloor. Near-seafloor sediments underlying the proposed surface location appear 

as weakly reflecting, acoustically amorphous deposits approximately 7’ thick, 

followed by approximately 195’ of well-stratified parallel to subparallel, strongly to 

moderately reflective sediments before the record becomes attenuated. Aerially 

extensive fault zones were mapped throughout the southwestern portion of the 

survey grid and isolated subsurface faults were identified within the central portion of 

the survey, but none were observed within 2,000’ of the proposed surface location. 

The nearest observed fault is located approximately 3,420’ to the SW and appears to 

be an isolated fault identified at a depth of 5’ BML exhibiting 2’ of displacement to the 

NW. Areas of subsurface mass transport deposits were observed approximately 

1,300’ SE and 1,260’ NE of the proposed surface location. Subbottom data also 

recorded sporadic gas fronts and areas of acoustic vertical wipeout throughout the 

surveyed grid. None of these features are located within the immediate vicinity of the 

proposed surface location. 

The operator has identified the primary hazards to rig movements, any ancillary 

anchor/mooring deployments, and drilling. No evidence of potential cultural resources 

was observed at the well location. The proposed well site will be marked with DGPS 

during rig moves and drilling to comply with the BOEM On-Site Requirements specified 

in NTL No. 2008-G05, Section VI, Item B-2(a).

Pursuant to 30 CFR 250.194 (c), 30 CFR 250.101 (c), and NTL No. 2005-G07, if any 

archaeological or potentially historically significant materials are observed during lease 
TESLA OFFSHORE

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘B’ Well 

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

Page 3

development, operations will immediately cease in that area and appropriate BOEM 

personnel will be notified within 48 hours of discovery. 

The operator and subcontractors will apply the safest and best available technologies 

during rig moves and drilling operations. 

Sincerely,

Matt Keith Erin Voisin, MA

Geoscience Manager Archaeologist
Tesla Offshore, LLC

36499 Perkins Road

Prairieville, Louisiana 70769

Telephone: (225) 673-2163

Fax: (225) 744-3116

August 17, 2012 Job No. 12-072-11

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (MS 5230)

Gulf of Mexico OCS Region

1201 Elmwood Park Blvd.

New Orleans, LA 70123-2394

RE: LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘C’ Well

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C., proposes to drill the OCS-G 24066 ‘C’ Well from the 

following surface location: 

Datum: 

NAD 27

 Spheroid: 

Clarke 1866

 Projection: 

UTM

 Zone:

 16

Central Meridian:

 87° 00’ West

 Latitude: 28° 45’ 02.481” N Longitude: 88° 05’ 58.165” W

 X: 1,288,213.00 Y: 10,435,298.00

 FWL: 5,173’ FNL: 3,262’

 

Tesla Offshore conducted a high-resolution geophysical survey centered on Block 258, 

Mississippi Canyon Area between February 21st and April 5th, 2012, using 250-meter 

primary grid spacing and 900-meter tie lines. LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

selected Tesla Offshore, LLC to prepare this archaeological assessment for the 

proposed drill site to comply with NTL No. 2005-G07 published by the Bureau of Ocean 

Energy Management (BOEM), Gulf of Mexico Region. Geophysical record copies are

enclosed for the side scan sonar, subbottom profiler, and single-beam echo sounder

from the survey line nearest the proposed well site as required by the BOEM in NTL No. 

2008-G04. LLOG has commissioned a separate hazards survey utilizing 3-D seismic 

data, which will address shallow hazards and potential deepwater benthic communities.

Water depth is approximately 5,784 feet surrounding the proposed drill site. The 

seafloor slopes to the east at an estimated rate of 250 feet/mile. 

 

Seafloor sediments reportedly consist of clays and marine deposits (MMS 1983 

Visual No. 3; MMS 1986 Visual No. 5). 

No Seafloor installations are located within 1,000’ of the proposed surface location.

The nearest infrastructure is the 2” BP pipeline (Segment 17364) located 

approximately 4,530’ SE at its closest point and the 2” BP pipeline (Segment 17851) 

located approximately 4,690’ to the SE at its closest point. The pipelines were too 

small to be resolved by either sonar or multibeam data, therefore this assessment is 

based on the published as-built positions for these pipelines.
TESLA OFFSHORE

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘C’ Well 

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

Page 2

Magnetometer data acquisition is not required, per NTL 2005-G07, since water 

depths exceed 200 meters (656 feet) throughout the entire survey grid.

Side scan sonar verified that the seafloor immediately surrounding the proposed 

well site was clear of protruding obstructions. The seafloor at the well location 

appears lightly reflective and exhibits no significant seafloor features. The closest 

observed sonar target is no. 4, located in Block 258 approximately 4,580’ to the SW. 

This target is amorphous in shape and measures 13’ x 6’ with no visible relief above 

the seafloor. Target 4 is not considered to represent possible cultural resources and 

has been designated for avoidance as a potential hazard only. The nearest sonar 

target designated for avoidance as a potential cultural resource is located 

approximately 19,300’ southeast of the proposed surface location. This potential 

cultural resource will not be impacted by drilling activities, as both it and its 

associated avoidance zone are completely outside of the proposed anchor radius for 

this surface location. Areas of high reflectivity, possible outcrops, and surficial areas 

of mass transport deposits were also identified throughout the survey grid, none of 

which are located within the immediate vicinity of the proposed surface location.

Subbottom data nearest the proposed location resolved a strongly reflective 

seafloor. Near-surface sediments underlying the proposed surface location appear 

as weakly reflecting, acoustically amorphous deposits approximately 7’ thick, 

followed by approximately 195’ of well-stratified parallel to subparallel, strongly to 

moderately reflective sediments before the record becomes attenuated. Aerially 

extensive fault zones were mapped throughout the southwestern portion of the 

survey grid and isolated subsurface faults were identified within the central portion of 

the survey, but none were observed within 2,000’ of the proposed surface location. 

The nearest observed faults are located approximately 4,600’ to the NE and appears

to be an isolated fault identified at a depth of 23’ BML with minimal displacement of 

2’ to the NW. Areas of subsurface mass transport deposits, gas fronts, and areas of 

acoustic vertical wipeout were identified throughout the surveyed grid, however none 

of these features are located within 2,000’ of the proposed surface location. 

The operator has identified the primary hazards to rig movements, any ancillary 

anchor/mooring deployments, and drilling. No evidence of potential cultural resources 

was observed at the well location. The proposed well site will be marked with DGPS 

during rig moves and drilling to comply with the BOEM On-Site Requirements specified 

in NTL No. 2008-G05, Section VI, Item B-2(a).

Pursuant to 30 CFR 250.194 (c), 30 CFR 250.101 (c), and NTL No. 2005-G07, if any 

archaeological or potentially historically significant materials are observed during lease 

development, operations will immediately cease in that area and appropriate BOEM

personnel will be notified within 48 hours of discovery. 
TESLA OFFSHORE

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘C’ Well 

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

Page 3

The operator and subcontractors will apply the safest and best available technologies 

during rig moves and drilling operations. 

Sincerely,

Matt Keith Erin Voisin, MA

Geoscience Manager Archaeologist
Tesla Offshore, LLC

36499 Perkins Road

Prairieville, Louisiana 70769

Telephone: (225) 673-2163

Fax: (225) 744-3116

August 17, 2012 Job No. 12-072-11

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (MS 5230)

Gulf of Mexico OCS Region

1201 Elmwood Park Blvd.

New Orleans, LA 70123-2394

RE: LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘D’ Well

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C., proposes to drill the OCS-G 24066 ‘D’ Well from the 

following surface location: 

Datum: 

NAD 27

 Spheroid: 

Clarke 1866

 Projection: 

UTM

 Zone:

 16

Central Meridian:

 87° 00’ West

 Latitude: 28° 44’ 51.217” N Longitude: 88° 05’ 37.809” W

 X: 1,290,014.00 Y: 10,434,144.00

 FWL: 6,974’ FNL: 4,416’

 

Tesla Offshore conducted a high-resolution geophysical survey centered on Block 258, 

Mississippi Canyon Area between February 21st and April 5th, 2012, using 250-meter 

primary grid spacing and 900-meter tie lines. LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

selected Tesla Offshore, LLC to prepare this archaeological assessment for the 

proposed drill site to comply with NTL No. 2005-G07 published by the Bureau of Ocean 

Energy Management (BOEM), Gulf of Mexico Region. Geophysical record copies are

enclosed for the side scan sonar, subbottom profiler, and single-beam echo sounder

from the survey line nearest the proposed well site as required by the BOEM in NTL No. 

2008-G04. LLOG has commissioned a separate hazards survey utilizing 3-D seismic 

data, which will address shallow hazards and potential deepwater benthic communities.

Water depth is approximately 5,835 feet surrounding the proposed drill site. The 

seafloor slopes to the east at an estimated rate of 300 feet/mile. 

 

Seafloor sediments reportedly consist of clays and marine deposits (MMS 1983 

Visual No. 3; MMS 1986 Visual No. 5). 

No Seafloor installations are located within 1,000’ of the proposed surface location. 

The nearest infrastructure is the 2” BP pipeline (Segment 17364) located 

approximately 2,420’ SE at its closest point and the 2” BP pipeline (Segment 17851) 

located approximately 2,570’ to the SE at its closest point. The pipelines were too 

small to be resolved by either sonar or multibeam data, therefore this assessment is 

based on the published as-built positions for these pipelines.
TESLA OFFSHORE

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘D’ Well 

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

Page 2

Magnetometer data acquisition is not required, per NTL 2005-G07, since water 

depths exceed 200 meters (656 feet) throughout the entire survey grid.

Side scan sonar verified that the seafloor immediately surrounding the proposed 

well site was clear of protruding obstructions. The seafloor at the well location 

appears lightly reflective and exhibits no significant seafloor features. The closest 

observed sonar target is no. 4, located in Block 258 approximately 5,860’ to the 

WSW. This target is amorphous in shape and measures 13’ x 6’ with no visible relief 

above the seafloor. Target 4 is not considered to represent possible cultural 

resources and has been designated for avoidance as a potential hazard only. The 

nearest sonar target designated for avoidance as a potential cultural resource is 

located over 17,000’ SE of the proposed surface location. This potential cultural

resource will not be impacted by drilling activities, as both the target and its 

associated avoidance zone are completely outside of the proposed anchor radius. 

Surficial areas of mass transport deposits were observed approximately 1,730’ to the 

SSE of the proposed surface location. Sonar data also recorded areas of high 

reflectivity and possible outcrops; however, none of these are located within 2,000’ of 

the proposed surface location.

Subbottom data nearest the proposed location resolved a strongly reflective 

seafloor. Near-seafloor sediments underlying the proposed surface location appear 

as weakly reflecting, acoustically amorphous deposits approximately 7’ thick, 

followed by approximately 195’ of well-stratified parallel to subparallel, strongly to 

moderately reflective sediments before the record becomes attenuated. Aerially 

extensive fault zones were mapped throughout the southwestern portion of the 

survey grid and isolated subsurface faults were identified within the central portion of 

the survey, but none were observed within 2,000’ of the proposed surface location. 

The nearest observed fault is located approximately 4,040’ to the NE and appears to 

be an isolated fault identified at a depth of 23’ BML exhibiting 2’ of displacement to 

the NW. Areas of subsurface mass transport deposits were mapped throughout the 

survey, the nearest of which is located approximately 450’ feet SE of the proposed 

location. Additionally, gas fronts and areas of acoustic vertical wipeout were 

identified throughout the surveyed grid, none of which are located within the vicinity 

of the proposed surface location. 

The operator has identified the primary hazards to rig movements, any ancillary 

anchor/mooring deployments, and drilling. No evidence of potential cultural resources 

was observed at the well location. The proposed well site will be marked with DGPS 

during rig moves and drilling to comply with the BOEM On-Site Requirements specified 

in NTL No. 2008-G05, Section VI, Item B-2(a).

Pursuant to 30 CFR 250.194 (c), 30 CFR 250.101 (c), and NTL No. 2005-G07, if any 

archaeological or potentially historically significant materials are observed during lease 

development, operations will immediately cease in that area and appropriate BOEM

personnel will be notified within 48 hours of discovery. 
TESLA OFFSHORE

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.

Proposed OCS-G 24066 ‘D’ Well 

Block 258, Mississippi Canyon Area

Archaeological Assessment 

Page 3

The operator and subcontractors will apply the safest and best available technologies 

during rig moves and drilling operations. 

Sincerely,

Matt Keith Erin Voisin, MA

Geoscience Manager Archaeologist
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Stratigraphic Column 

Attachment J 

(Proprietary Information) 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX D 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE (H2S) INFORMATION 

(30 CFR Part 250.215 and 250.245) 

A. Concentration 

LLOG does not anticipate encountering H2S while conducting the proposed exploratory 

operations provided for under this plan. 

B. Classification 

In accordance with 30 CFR 250.490© and NTL No. 2009-G31 “Hydrogen Sulfide”, 

LLOG requests that the proposed locations be classified H2S absent. 

C. H2S Contingency Plan 

Not applicable for the proposed operations. 

D. Modeling Report 

Not applicable to the proposed operations. 

APPENDIX E 

BIOLOGICAL, PHYSICAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC INFORMATION 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX E 

BIOLOGICAL, PHYSICAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC INFORMATION 

(30 CFR Part 250.216 and 250.247) 

A. High-Density Deepwater Benthic Communities Information 

Seafloor amplitude anomalies can help identify possible areas of hydrocarbon seepage 

and/or carbonate accumulations that could support chemosynthetic or other benthic 

communities. Isolated areas of high-amplitude response which may represent 

authigenic carbonates or other exposed hard surfaces are located in the southern portion 

of the maximum anchor radius in association with Mobile Dome. These areas may 

support benthic communities. The high-amplitude seafloor forms linear bands located 

in the western portion of the maximum anchor radius. These areas are interpreted as 

data artifacts as a result of processing. The areas of high seafloor amplitude return 

along the basin margin in the southeastern portion of the anchor assessment area are 

likely represent more consolidated sediments resulting from slump deposition along the 

steep escarpment. There is no indication of faulting or fluid migration to the seafloor 

near these areas. Therefore, the seafloor amplitude anomalies in those areas are not 

interpreted to represent high-density benthic community habitat. 

 

Features or areas that could support high-density chemosynthetic or other benthic 

communities are located in the areas associated with high-amplitude response 

associated with Mobile Dome in the southern portion of the maximum anchor radius of 

proposed Well MC 258-C. 

B. Topographic Features Map 

The activities proposed in this Plan are not affected by a topographic feature. 

C. Topographic Features Statement (Shunting) 

The activities proposed in this Plan are not affected by a topographic feature; therefore, 

LLOG is not required to shunt drill cuttings and drill fluids. 

D. Live Bottoms (Pinnacle Trend) Map 

Mississippi Canyon Block 258 is not located within the vicinity of a proposed live 

bottom (Pinnacle trend) area. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

E. Live Bottoms (Low Relief) Map 

Mississippi Canyon Block 258 is not located within the vicinity of a proposed live 

bottom (Low Relief) area. 

F. Potentially Sensitive Biological Features Map 

Mississippi Canyon Block 258 is not located within the vicinity of a proposed sensitive 

biological feature area. 

G. Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Monitoring Survey Plan 

 

Mississippi Canyon Block 258 is located in Grid 16 an area for which there is adequate

coverage and does not require a ROV survey. 

H. Threatened or Endangered Species, Critical Habitat, and Marine 

Mammal Information. 

Proposed activities in Mississippi Canyon Block 258 is not located in the presence of 

federally listed threatened or endangered species and critical habitat designated under 

the ESA and marine mammal protected under the MMPA. See Attachment K for a list 

of the NOAA Species known in the Gulf of Mexico. 

I. Archaeological Report

Berger Geosciences, LLC conducted a Shallow Hazards Assessment, Benthic 

Communities Evaluation, and Archaeological Resource Survey for Mississippi Canyon 

Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) on behalf of LLOG Exploration Offshore, Inc. The purpose 

of the survey was to evaluate geologic conditions and inspect for potential hazards or 

constraints to lease development. The report was submitted to BOEM under separate 

cover on September 4, 2012. An Archaeological Deep Tow Survey, Block 258, 

Mississippi Canyon Area, OCS-G 24066, was prepared by Tesla Offshore, LLC in June 

2012 for LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C., which was submitted to BOEM on June 

12, 2012. 

J. Air and Water Quality Information 

 Not applicable to proposed operations. 

K. Socioeconomic Information 

 Not applicable to proposed operations. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

NOAA Species Known in GOM 

Attachment K 

(Public Information) 


Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX F 

WASTE AND DISCHARGE INFORMATION 

(30 CFR PART 250.217 AND 250.248) 

A. Projected Generated Wastes 

See the following tables:

TABLE 1. Wastes you will generate, treat and downhole dispose or 

discharge to the GOM 

 TABLE 2. Wastes you will transport and /or dispose of onshore 

B. Modeling 

Not applicable. Proposed activities will be covered by U.S. EPA NPDES General 

Permit. 
please specify if the amount reported is a total or per well amount

MC 258

Projected generated waste PProjected ocean discharges 

Type of Waste Composition Projected Amount TDischarge rate Discharge Method 

Will drilling occur ? If yes, fill in the muds and cuttings.

EXAMPLE: Cuttings wetted with synthetic based fluid 

Cuttings generated while using synthetic based drilling fluid. X bbl/well X bbl/day/well discharge overboard 

Water-based drilling fluid

Water based mud additives, 

barite and gel used for WBM 55,554 bbls/well 9,811 bbls/day/well Discharge overbo

Cuttings wetted with water-based fluid

Cuttings generated while using

water based drilling fluid. 2,544 bbls/well 449 bbls/day/well Discharge overbo

Cuttings wetted with synthetic-based fluid 

Cuttings generated while using 

synthetic based drilling fluid. 2,012 bbls/well 98 bbls/day/well Discharge overbo

Will humans be there? If yes, expect conventional waste

EXAMPLE: Sanitary waste water

Sanitary waste from living 

quarters X bbl/well X bbl/hr/well

chlorinate and disc

overboard 

Domestic waste Misc waste for living quarters 25,194 bbls/well 2.7 bbls/hr/well

Discharge overboard 

oil) 

Sanitary waste

Processed sanitary waste from 

living quarters 16,796 bbls/well 1.8 bbls/hr/well

Chlorinate and disc

overboard 

Is there a deck? If yes, there will be Deck Drainage

Deck Drainage

Accumulated drainage due to 

rainfall 0 to 47,261 bbls/well 0 to 167 bbls/hr/well

Test for oil and grea

discharge overbo

Will you conduct well treatment, completion, or workover? 

Well treatment fluids

NPDES approved treatment 

fluid used for well operations 100 bbls/well 20 bbls/hr/well

Test for oil and grea

discharge overbo

Well completion fluids

Clear brines used for 

completion operations 500 bbls/well 100 bbls/hr/well

Test for oil and grea

discharge overboard

excludes clear br

containing Zinc 

Workover fluids N/A N/A NA NA 

TABLE 1. WASTES YOU WILL GENERATE, TREAT AND DOWNHOLE DISPOSE OR DISCHARTO THE GOM
please specify if the amount reported is a total or per well amount

MC 258

Projected generated waste PProjected ocean discharges 

Type of Waste Composition Projected Amount TDischarge rate Discharge Method 

TABLE 1. WASTES YOU WILL GENERATE, TREAT AND DOWNHOLE DISPOSE OR DISCHARTO THE GOM

Miscellaneous discharges. If yes, only fill in those associated with your activity. 

Desalinization unit discharge

Uncontaminated spent seawate

used for potable water 

generation unit 0 to 5,000 bbls/well 700 bbls/hr/well Discharge overbo

Blowout prevent fluid

Treated freshwater used control 

of subsea blowout preventers 0 to 100 bbls/well 30 bbls/hr/well

Discharge at seafloo

BOP's installed 

Ballast water

Uncontaminated seawater used 

for ballast control 0 to 100,000 bbls/well 16,350 bbls/hr/well Discharge overbo

Bilge water

Uncontaminated freshwater and

seawater overflow / leakage 

accumuated from machinery 

operations 0 to 5000 bbls/well 1635 bbls/hr/well Discharge overbo

Excess cement at seafloor

Excess cement slurry and 

mixwater used for cementing 

operation - NPDES allowed 300 bbls/well 360 bbls/hr/well Discharge at mud

Fire water

Uncontaminated seawater used 

for fire control system 0 to 10,000 bbls/well 16,350 bbls/hr/well Discharge overbo

Cooling water

Uncontaminated seawater used 

for heat exchanger operations 

used to cool machinery 3,367,000 bbls/well 1542 bbls/hr/well Discharge overbo

Will you produce hydrocarbons? If yes fill in for produced water.

Produced water NA NA NA NA 

Will you be covered by an individual or general NPDES permit ? General OGMG290000

comply with the requirements of the NPDES per

NOTE: If you will not have a type of waste, enter NA in the row
Please specify whatever the amount reported is a total or per well

MC 258

Projected 

generated waste

Solid and Liquid 

Wastses 

Transportation

Type of Waste Composition Transport Method Name/Location of Facility Amount 

Newport Environmental Services Inc., Ingleside, TX X bbl/well 

Oil-based drilling fluid or mud N/A NA N/A NA Synthetic-based drilling fluid or mud 

Internal olifin, ester nbased mud

Barged in 25 bbls cutting boxes and / or liquid mud tanks for supply vessels

Newpark Transfer Station, Fourchon, LA 6750 bbls 

Cuttings wetted with Water-based fluid N/A NA N/A NA Cuttings wetted with Synthetic-based fluid N/A NA N/A NA Cuttings wetted with oil-based fluids N/A NA N/A NA 

Will you produce hydrocarbons? If yes fill in for produced sand.

Produced sand N/A N/A N/A N/A EXAMPLE: trash and debris (recylables) Plastic, paper, aluminum barged in a storage bin ARC, New Iberia, LA X lb/well Trash and debris Plastic, paper, aluminum Barged in a storage bin

Blanchard Landfill, Golden Meadows, LA 4000 lbs / 

Used oil Spent oil from machinery

Barged in USCG approved transfer tote tanks. L&L Services, Fourchon, LA 200 bbls / 

Wash water

Wash water w/ SBM residue and surfactants

Barged in 25 bbls cutting boxes and / or liquid mud tanks for supply vessels

Newpark Transfer Station, Fourchon, LA 2000 bbls 

Chemical product wastes

Spent treatment and / or damaged chemicals used in operations

Barged in 25 bbls cutting boxes and / or cutting boxes L&L Services, Fourchon, LA 10 bbls / w

NOTE: If you will not have a type of waste, enter NA in the row. 

TABLE 2. WASTES YOU WILL TRANSPORT AND /OR DISPOSE OF ONSHOR

Will you have additional wastes that are not permitted for discharge? If 

Waste Disp
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX G 

AIR EMISSIONS INFORMATION 

(30 CFR PART 250.218AND 250.249) 

A. Emissions Worksheets and Screening Questions 

The Projected Quality Emissions Report (Form MMS-138) addresses the proposed 

drilling, completion and potential testing operations utilizing a typical semisubmersible drilling unit, with related support vessels and construction barge 

information. 

As evidenced by Attachment L, the worksheets were completed based on the 

proposed flaring and burning operations. 

Screening Questions for EP’s Yes No 

Is any calculated Complete Total (CT) Emission amount (in tons associated with your 

proposed exploration activities more than 90% of the amounts calculated using the 

following formulas: CT = 3400D(2/3) for CO, and CT = 33.3D for the other air 

pollutants (where D = distance to shore in miles)? 

 X 

Does your emission calculations include any emission reduction measures or modified 

emission factors? 

 X 

Are your proposed exploration activities located east of 87.5 degrees W longitude? X 

Do you expect to encounter H2S at concentrations greater than 20 parts per million 

(ppm)? 

 X 

Do you propose to flare or vent natural gas for more than 48 continuous hours from any 

proposed well? 

 X 

Do you propose to burn produced hydrocarbon liquids? X 

B. Emissions Reduction Measures

The projected air emissions are within the exemption level; therefore, no emission 

reduction measures are being proposed. 

C. Verification of Nondefault Emissions Factors 

LLOG has elected to use the default emission factors as provided in Attachment L. 

D. Non-Exempt Activities 

 

The proposed activities are within the exemption amount as provided in Attachment L.

E. Modeling Report 

This section of the Plan is not applicable to the proposed operations.
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Air Quality Emissions Report 

Attachment L 

(Public Information) 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

COMPANY LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C. 

AREA Mississippi Canyon 

BLOCK 258 

LEASE OCS-G-24066 

PLATFORM 

WELL Locations A - D 

 

COMPANY 

CONTACT Kathy Gowland 

TELEPHONE NO. 985-801-4300 

REMARKS Semi-submersible and DP Semi-submersible Rigs 

 

Semi-Submersible Rig 

Air Pollutant Plan Emission 

Amounts* 

(tons) 

Calculated 

Exemption 

Amounts** 

(tons) 

Calculated 

Complex Total 

Emission 

Amounts*** 

(tons) 

Carbon monoxide (CO) 141.70 53260.68 N/A 

Particulate matter (PM) 18.89 2064.60 N/A 

Sulphur dioxide (SOx) 86.68 2064.60 N/A 

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) 649.47 2064.60 N/A 

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) 19.48 2064.60 N/A 

 *For activities proposed in your EP, list the projected emissions calculated from the worksheet. 

 **List the exemption amounts in your proposed activities calculated using the formulas in 30 CFR 250.303(d). 

***List the complex total emissions associated with your porposed activities calculated from the worksheets. 

DP Semi-Submersible Rig 

Air Pollutant Plan Emission 

Amounts* 

(tons) 

Calculated 

Exemption 

Amounts** 

(tons) 

Calculated 

Complex Total 

Emission 

Amounts*** 

(tons) 

Carbon monoxide (CO) 307.01 53260.68 N/A 

Particulate matter (PM) 40.93 2064.60 N/A 

Sulphur dioxide (SOx) 187.79 2064.60 N/A 

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) 1407.11 2064.60 N/A 

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) 42.21 2064.60 N/A 

 *For activities proposed in your EP, list the projected emissions calculated from the worksheet. 

 **List the exemption amounts in your proposed activities calculated using the formulas in 30 CFR 250.303(d). 

***List the complex total emissions associated with your porposed activities calculated from the worksheets. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX H 

OIL SPILL INFORMATION 

(30 CFR PART 250.219 AND 250.250)

A. Oil Spill Response Planning

The proposed activities in this Supplemental Exploration Plan will be covered by the 

Oil Spill Response Plan filed by LLGO (MMS Operator No. 020258) in accordance 

with 30 CFR 254 and approved on June 3, 2009, modified October 5, 2010, November 

10, 2010, January 13, 2011, March 15, 2011 and modification received June 8, 2011. 

Certification letter accepted July 11, 2011. Additionally, the most recent modifications 

were received by BOEM on December 14, 2011 and May 30, 2012. Biennial update 

and revisions to OSRP approved by BOEM as of August 8, 2012 

The WCD proposed in this Plan does not exceed the WCD outlined in our OSRP. 

B. Spill Response Sites

The following locations will be used in the event an oil spill occurs as a result of the 

proposed activities. 

Primary Response Equipment 

Location 

Pre-Planned Staging Location(s) 

Houma, LA Fort Jackson, LA 

C. OSRO Information

The O’Brien Group (TOG) will provide trained personnel capable of providing 

supervisory management of the oil spill response in addition to contacting and 

deploying cleanup personnel and equipment 

LLOG utilizes Clean Gulf Associates (CGA) as it’s primary provider for equipment, 

which is an industry cooperative owning an inventory of oil spill clean-up equipment. 

CGA is supported by the Marine Spill Response Corporation’s (MSRC), which is 

responsible for storing, inspecting, maintaining and dispatching CGA’s equipment. The 

MSRC STARS network provides for the closest available personnel, as well as an 

MSRC supervisor to operate the equipment. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

D. Worst-Case Scenario Information

Category Regional OSRP Revised EP 

Type of Activity Exploratory MODU Exploratory MODU 

Facility Surface Location Mississippi Canyon Block 547 Mississippi Canyon Blocks 258 

Facility Description Well Location Well No. SS002 

(Location B) 

Location D 

Distance to Nearest Shoreline 

(Miles) 38 miles 62 miles 

Volume: 

 Storage Tanks (total) 

 Facility Piping (total) 

 Lease Term Pipeline 

 Uncontrolled Blowout (day) 

 Barging 

Potential 24 Hour Volume 

(bbls) 225,144 bbls 

 

 

78,811 bbls 

 

Type of Liquid Hydrocarbon Condensate Crude Oil 

API Gravity 28o 38.7o 

Since LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C. (LLOG) has the capability to respond to the 

appropriate worst-case spill scenario included in its regional OSRP approved on June 3, 

2009, modified October 5, 2010, November 10, 2010, January 13, 2011, March 15, 

2011, and modification received June 8, 2011, and certification letter accepted July 11, 

2011. Additionally, a modification was submitted and received by BOEM on 

December 14, 2011 and May 30, 2012. Biennial update and revisions to OSRP were 

approved by BOEM on August 8, 2012. I hereby certify that LLOG has the capability 

to respond, to the maximum extent practicable, to a worst-case discharge, or a 

substantial threat of such a discharge, resulting from the activities proposed in this 

Supplemental EP. The WCD for the subject plan does not exceed the worst case 

discharge previously submitted for MC 547. 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C., Company No. 02058, previously submitted the 

Regional OSRP Exploration WCD volume to be reviewed in Plan R-5139, Revised 

Exploration Plan submitted on March 2, 2011 and approved October 6, 2011. 

 

The required proprietary data outlined in NTL 2010-N06 is being submitted to BOEM 

with the Confidential Copy of this Initial Exploration Plan. 

E. Oil Spill Response Discussion 

See the following Oil Spill Response Discussion. 
SPILL RESPONSE DISCUSSION 

For the purpose of NEPA and Coastal Zone Management Act analysis, the largest spill volume 

originating from the proposed activity would be a well blowout during drilling operations, 

estimated to be 78,811 barrels of crude oil with an API gravity of 38.7°. 

Land Segment and Resource Identification

Trajectories of a spill and the probability of it impacting a land segment have been projected 

utilizing information in the BSEE Oil Spill Risk Analysis Model (OSRAM) for the Central and 

Western Gulf of Mexico available on the BSEE website. The results are shown in Figure 1. The 

BSEE OSRAM identifies a 21% probability of impact to the shorelines of Plaquemines Parish, 

Louisiana within 30 days. Plaquemines Parish includes Barataria Bay, the Mississippi River 

Delta, Breton Sound and the affiliated islands and bays. This region is an extremely sensitive 

habitat and serves as a migratory, breeding, feeding and nursery habitat for numerous species of 

wildlife. Beaches in this area vary in grain particle size and can be classified as fine sand, shell 

or perched shell beaches. Sandy and muddy tidal flats are also abundant. 

Response

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C. will make every effort to respond to the Worst Case 

Discharge as effectively as practicable. A description of the response equipment under contract 

to contain and recover the Worst Case Discharge is shown in Figure 2.

Using the estimated chemical and physical characteristics of crude oil, an ADIOS weathering 

model was run on a similar product from the ADIOS oil database. The results indicate 29% or 

approximately 22,855 barrels of crude oil would be evaporated/dispersed within 24 hours, with 

approximately 55,956 barrels remaining. 

Spill Response MC 258, Location D Barrels of Oil 

WCD Volume 78,811 

Less 29% natural evaporation/dispersion 22,855 

Remaining volume 55,956 

Daily dispersant capability 7,540 

Oil addressed by in-situ burning 2,797 

Figure 2 outlines equipment, personnel, materials and support vessels as well as temporary 

storage equipment available to respond to a spill of approximately 55,956 barrels. The volume 

accounts for the amount remaining after evaporation/dispersion at 24 hours. The list estimates 

individual times needed for procurement, load out, travel time to the site and deployment. Figure 

2 also indicates how operations will be supported. 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.’s Oil Spill Response Plan includes alternative response 

technologies such as dispersants and in-situ burn. Strategies will be decided by Unified 
Command based on the size of the spill, weather and potential impacts. If aerial dispersants are 

utilized, 8 sorties (9,600 gallons) from two of the DC-3 aircrafts and 4 sorties (8,000 gallons) 

from the Basler aircraft would provide a daily dispersant capability of 7,540 barrels. If the 

conditions are favorable for in-situ burning, the proper approvals have been obtained and the 

proper planning is in place, in-situ burning of oil may be attempted. Using estimates based on the 

Deepwater Horizon spill of 2010, up to 5% or approximately 2,797 barrels of the total daily 

Worst Case Discharge volume could be burned. Slick containment boom would be immediately 

called out and on-scene as soon as possible. Offshore response strategies may include attempting 

to skim utilizing CGA’s HOSS Barge and nine Fast Response Units (FRUs), along with MSRC’s 

Louisiana Responder, Mississippi Responder, and Offshore Barge 452, with a total derated 

skimming capacity of 113,515 barrels. Temporary storage associated with skimming equipment 

equals 58,700 barrels. If additional storage is needed, three 20,000 barrel storage barges may be 

mobilized and centrally located to provide temporary storage allowing the skimmers to stay in 

the area of operations as much as possible. Safety is first priority. Air monitoring will be 

accomplished and operations deemed safe prior to any containment/skimming attempts. 

If the spill went unabated, shoreline impact in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana would depend 

upon existing environmental conditions. Shoreline protection would include the use of CGA’s 

near shore and shallow water skimmers with a totaled derated skimming capacity of 21,126 

barrels. Temporary storage associated with skimming equipment equals 725 barrels. If additional 

storage is needed, a 23,000 barrel storage barge may be mobilized and centrally located to 

provide temporary storage allowing the skimmers to stay in the area of operations as much as 

possible. Onshore response may include the deployment of shoreline boom on beach areas, or 

protection and sorbent boom on vegetated areas. Master Service Agreements with AMPOL and 

OMI Environmental will ensure access to 147,000 feet of 18” shoreline protection boom. Figure 

2 outlines individual times needed for procurement, load out, travel time to the site and 

deployment. Strategies would be based upon surveillance and real time trajectories that depict 

areas of potential impact given actual sea and weather conditions. The State of Louisiana Initial 

Oil Spill Response Plan for Plaquemines Parish and Unified Command would be consulted to 

ensure that environmental and special economic resources would be correctly identified and 

prioritized to ensure optimal protection. Shoreline protection strategies depict the protection 

response modes applicable for oil spill clean-up operations. The State of Louisiana Initial Oil 

Spill Response Plan provides detailed shoreline protection strategies for this area, and it 

describes necessary action to keep the oil spill from entering Louisiana’s coastal wetlands, based 

on the assumption that removal of the released oil will be much easier and less damaging to 

fragile coastal ecosystems if done in the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Supervisory 

personnel have the option to modify the deployment and operation of equipment allowing a more 

effective response to site-specific circumstances. LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.’s contract 

Spill Management Team holds a copy of the State of Louisiana Initial Oil Spill Response Plan. 

Based on the anticipated worst case discharge scenario, LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C. can 

be onsite with contracted oil spill recovery equipment with adequate response capacity to contain 

and recover surface hydrocarbons, and prevent land impact, to the maximum extent practicable, 

within an estimated 47 hours (based on the equipment’s Effective Daily Recovery Capacity 

(EDRC)). 
Initial Response Considerations 

Actual actions taken during an oil spill response will be based on many factors which include but 

are not limited to: 

• Weather 

• Equipment and materials availability 

• Ocean currents and tides 

• Location of the spill 

• Product spilled 

• Amount spilled 

• Environmental risk assessments 

• Trajectory and product analysis 

• Well status, i.e., shut in or continual release 

LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C. will take action to provide a safe, aggressive response to 

contain and recover as much of the spilled oil as quickly as it is safe to do so. In an effort to 

protect the environment, response actions will be designed to provide an “in-depth” protection 

strategy meant to recover as much oil as possible as far from environmentally sensitive areas as 

possible. Safety will take precedence over all other considerations during these operations. 

Upon notification of a spill, the following actions will be taken: 

• Information will be confirmed 

• An assessment will be made and initial objectives set 

• OSROs and appropriate agencies will be notified 

• ICS 201, Initial Report Form will be completed 

• Initial Safety plan will be written and published 

• Unified Command will be established 

o Overall safety plan developed to reflect the operational situation and coordinated 

objectives 

o Areas of responsibility established for Source Control and each surface operational 

site 

o On-site command and control established 

Offshore Response Actions 

Equipment Deployment

Surveillance 

• Surveillance Aircraft will be deployed within two hours of Qualified Individual (QI) 

notification, or at first light

• Provide trained observer to provide on site status reports 

• Provide command and control platform at the site if needed 

• Continual surveillance of oil movement by remote sensing systems, aerial photography 

and visual confirmation 

• Continual monitoring of vessel assets using vessel monitoring systems 
Dispersant application assets 

• Put Airborne Support Inc. (ASI) on standby 

• With the Federal On-Scene Coordinator (FOSC), conduct analysis to determine 

appropriateness of dispersant application 

• Gain FOSC approval for use of dispersants on the surface 

• Deploy aircraft in accordance with a plan developed for the actual situation 

• Coordinate movement of dispersants, aircraft, and support equipment and personnel 

• Confirm dispersant availability for current and long range operations 

• Start ordering dispersant stocks required for expected operations 

Containment boom 

• Call out early and expedite deployment to be on scene ASAP 

• Ensure boom handling and mooring equipment is deployed with boom 

• Provide continuing reports to vessels to expedite their arrival at sites that will provide for 

their most effective containment 

• Use Vessels of Opportunity (VOO) to deploy and maintain boom 

Dedicated off-shore skimming systems 

General 

• Deployed to the highest concentration of oil 

• Assets deployed at safe distance from aerial dispersant and in-situ burn operations 

CGA HOSS Barge 

• Use in areas with heaviest oil concentrations 

• Consider for use in areas of known debris (seaweed, and other floating materials) 

CGA FRUs 

• To the area of the thickest oil 

• Use as far off-shore as allowed 

• VOOs 140’ – 180’ in length 

• VOOs with minimum of 18’ x 38’ or 23’ x 50’ of optimum deck space 

MSRC Oil Spill Response Vessels (OSRV) 

• Use in areas with heaviest oil concentrations 

• Use as far off-shore as allowed 

MSRC Responders 

• Use in areas with heaviest oil concentrations 

• Consider for use in areas of known debris (seaweed, and other floating materials) 
Storage Vessels 

• Establish availability of CGA contracted assets 

• Early call out (to allow for tug boat acquisition and deployment speeds) 

• Phase mobilization to allow storage vessels to arrive at the same time as skimming 

systems 

• Position as closely as possible to skimming assets to minimize offloading time 

Vessels of Opportunity (VOO) 

• Use LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.’s contracted resources as applicable 

• Industry vessels are usually best for deployment of Vessel of Opportunity Skimming 

Systems (VOSS) 

• Acquire additional resources as needed 

• Consider use of local assets, i.e. fishing and pleasure craft 

• Expect mission specific and safety training to be required 

• Plan with the US Coast Guard for vessel inspections 

In-situ Burn assets 

• Determine appropriateness of in-situ burn operation in coordination with the FOSC and 

affected State On-Scene Coordinator (SOSC) 

• Determine availability of fire boom and selected ignition systems 

• Start ordering fire boom stocks required for expected operations 

• Contact boom manufacturer to provide training if required 

• Determine assets to perform on water operation 

• Build operations into safety plan 

• Conduct operations in accordance with an approved plan 
Near Shore Response Actions 

Timing 

• Place near shore assets on standby and deploy in accordance with planning based on the 

actual situation, actual trajectories and oil budgets 

• VOO identification and training in advance of spill nearing shoreline if possible 

• Outfitting of VOOs for specific missions 

• Deployment of assets based on actual movement of oil 

Considerations 

• Water depth, vessel draft 

• Shoreline gradient 

• State of the oil 

• Use of VOOs 

• Distance of surf zone from shoreline 

Equipment Deployment 

Surveillance 

• Provide trained observer to direct skimming operations 

• Continual surveillance of oil movement by remote sensing systems, aerial photography 

and visual confirmation 

• Continual monitoring of vessel assets 

Dispersant Use 

• Generally will not be approved within 3 miles of shore or with less than 10 meters of 

water depth 

• Approval would be at Regional Response Team level (Region 6) 

Vessel Deployment 

Dedicated Near Shore skimming systems 

• Fast Response Vessels (FRV) 

• Egmopol and Marco Shallow Water Skimmer (SWS) 

• Operate with aerial spotter directing systems to observed oil slicks 

VOO 

• Use LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.’s contracted resources as applicable 

• Industry vessels are usually best for deployment of Vessel of Opportunity Skimming 

Systems (VOSS) 

• Acquire additional resources as needed 

• Consider use of local assets, i.e. fishing and pleasure craft 

• Expect mission specific and safety training to be required 

• Plan with the US Coast Guard for vessel inspections 

• Operate with aerial spotter directing systems to oil patches 
Shoreline Protection Operations 

Response Planning Considerations 

• Environmental risk assessments (ERA) to determine priorities for area protection 

• Time to acquire personnel and equipment and their availability 

• Previous contingency planning contained in the appropriate Area Contingency Plan, and 

currently for Louisiana, The State of Louisiana Initial Oil Spill Response Plan, Deep 

Water Horizon, dated 2 May 2010 

Actions 

Placement of boom 

• Position boom in accordance with the ERA based on the actual situation or the 

appropriate ACP 

• Assess timing of booming operations to ensure it is where it needs to be at time of 

impact. Consider: 

o Trajectories 

o Weather forecast 

o Oil Impact forecast 

o Verified spill movement 

o Boom, manpower and vessel (shallow draft) availability 

o Near shore boom and support material, (stakes, anchors, line) 

Beach Preparation 

Considerations and Actions 

• Use of a 10 mile go/no go line to determine timing of beach cleaning 

• Shoreline Cleanup and Assessment Team Reports and recommendations 

• Determination of Archeological sites and gaining authority to enter 

• Monitoring of tide tables and weather to determine extent of high tides 

• Pre cleaning of beaches by moving waste above high tide lines to minimize waste 

• Staging of equipment and housing of response personnel as close to the job site as 

possible to maximize on-site work time 

• Boom tending, repair, replacement and security (use of local assets may be advantageous) 

• Constant awareness of weather and oil movement for resource redeployment as necessary 

• In-situ burn may be considered when marshes have been impacted 

• Passive clean up of marshes should be considered and appropriate stocks of sorbent boom 

and/or sweep obtained 

• Earthen berms and shoreline protection boom may be considered to protect sensitive 

inland areas 
Decanting Strategy 

Recovered oil and water mixtures will typically separate into distinct phases when left in a 

quiescent state. When separation occurs, the relatively clean water phase can be siphoned or 

decanted back to the recovery point with minimal, if any, impact. Decanting therefore increases 

the effective on-site oil storage capacity and equipment operating time. FOSC/SOSC approval 

will be requested prior to decanting operations. This practice is routinely used for oil spill 

recovery. 

CGA Equipment Limitations 

The capability for any spill response equipment, whether a dedicated or portable system, to 

operate in differing weather conditions will be directly in relation to the capabilities of the vessel 

the system in placed on. Most importantly, however, the decision to operate will be based on the 

judgment of the Unified Command and/or the Captain of the vessel, who will ultimately have the 

final say in terminating operations. Skimming equipment listed below may have operational 

limits which exceed those safety thresholds. As was seen in the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil 

spill response, vessel skimming operations ceased when seas reached 5-6 feet and vessels were 

often recalled to port when those conditions were exceeded. Systems below are some of the 

most up-to-date systems available and were employed during the DWH spill. 

Boom 3 foot seas, 20 knot winds 

Dispersants Winds more than 25 knots 

Visibility less than 3 nautical miles 

Ceiling less than 1,000 feet. 

FRU 8 foot seas 

HOSS Barge/OSRB 8 foot seas 

Koseq Arms 8 foot seas 

OSRV 4 foot seas 
Environmental Conditions in the GOM

Louisiana is situated between the easterly and westerly wind belts, and therefore, experiences 

westerly winds during the winter and easterly winds in the summer. Average wind speed is 

generally 14-15 mph along the coast. Wave heights average 4 and 5 feet. However, during 

hurricane season, Louisiana has recorded wave heights ranging from 40 to 50 feet high and 

winds reaching speeds of 100 mph. Because much of southern Louisiana lies below sea level, 

flooding is prominent. 

Surface water temperature ranges between 70 and 80 ̊F during the summer months. During the 

winter, the average temperature will range from 50 and 60 ̊F. 

The Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico hurricane season is officially from 1 June to 30 November. 

97% of all tropical activity occurs within this window. The Atlantic basin shows a very peaked 

season from August through October, with 78% of the tropical storm days, 87% of the minor 

(Saffir-Simpson Scale categories 1 and 2) hurricane days, and 96% of the major (Saffir-Simpson 

categories 3, 4 and 5) hurricane days occurring then. Maximum activity is in early to mid 

September. Once in a few years there may be a hurricane occurring "out of season" - primarily in 

May or December. Globally, September is the most active month and May is the least active 

month. 
FIGURE 1 

TRAJECTORY BY LAND SEGMENT 

Trajectory of a spill and the probability of it impacting a land segment have been projected 

utilizing LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C.’s WCD and information in the BSEE Oil 

Spill Risk Analysis Model (OSRAM) for the Central and Western Gulf of Mexico 

available on the BSEE website using 30 day impact. The results are tabulated below. 

Area/Block OCS-G Launch 

Area 

Land Segment and/or 

Resource 

Conditional 

Probability (%) 

within 30 days 

Exploratory Drilling 

MC 258, Location D 

62 miles from shore 

G24066 C57 Cameron, LA 

Vermilion, LA 

Terrebonne, LA 

Lafourche, LA 

Plaquemines, LA 

St. Bernard, LA 

Hancock & Harrison, LA 

Jackson, MS 

Mobile, AL 

Baldwin, AL 

Escambia, AL 

Okaloosa, FL 

Walton, FL 

Bay, FL 

1 

1 

2 

2 

21 

3 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 
WCD Scenario– BASED ON WELL BLOWOUT DURING DRILLING OPERATIONS (62 miles from sh

55,956 bbls of crude oil (Volume considering natural weathering) API Gravity 38.7° 

FIGURE 2 – Equipment Response Time to MC 258, Location D 

Dispersants/Surveillance

Dispersant/Surveillance Dispersant Capacity (gal) Storage Capacity Persons Req. From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Trave

site 

CGA 

Basler 67T 2000 NA 2 Houma 1 1 0.8 

ASI 

DC 3 1200 NA 2 Houma 1 1 1.1 DC 3 1200 NA 2 Houma 1 1 1.1 Aero Commander NA NA 2 Houma 1 1 0.8 

Offshore Response

Offshore Equipment No Staging EDRC Storage Capacity VOO Persons Required From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Hrs to GOM 

CGA 

HOSS Barge 43000 4000 3 Tugs 5 Harvey 7 0 5 

MSRC 

Louisiana Responder Transrec 350 + OSRV 2,640’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 5,280’ 67” LAMOR 

10567 4000 NA 14 Fort Jackson 2 0 1 

MSRC 452 Offshore Barge 1 Crucial Disk 88/30 1,980’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 660 ‘ 67” LAMOR 

11122 45000 3 Tugs 6 Fort Jackson 2 0 2 

Mississippi Responder Transrec 350 + OSRV 5,280’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 2,640’ 67” LAMOR 

10567 4000 NA 14 Pascagoula 2 0 1 
Recovered Oil Storage No 

Staging EDRC 

Storage 

Capacity 

(bbl) 

VOO Persons Required From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Hrs to GOM 

Enterprise Marine Services LLC (available through contract with CGA) 

CTCo 2604 NA 20000 1 Tug 6 Amelia 4 12 4 CTCo 2605 NA 20000 1 Tug 6 Amelia 4 12 4 CTCo 2606 NA 20000 1 Tug 6 Amelia 4 12 4 Staging Area: Venice

Offshore Equipment With 

Staging EDRC Storage Capacity VOO Persons Req. From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Travel to Staging 

CGA 

FRU (1) + 100 bbl Tank (2) 4251 200 1 Utility 6 Galveston 1 2 8 FRU (1) + 100 bbl Tank (1) 4251 100 1 Utility 6 Harvey 1 2 1.75 FRU (1) + 100 bbl Tank (2) 4251 200 1 Utility 6 Ingleside 1 2 11 FRU (1) + 100 bbl Tank (2) 4251 200 1 Utility 6 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 FRU (2) + 100 bbl Tank (2) 8502 400 2 Utility 12 Leeville 1 2 3.5 FRU (1) + 100 bbl Tank (2) 4251 200 1 Utility 6 Morgan City 1 2 3.25 FRU (2) + 100 bbl Tank (4) 8502 400 2 Utility 12 Venice 1 2 0 

Offshore Equipment With 

Staging EDRC Storage Capacity VOO Persons Req. From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Travel to Staging 

CGA 

42” Auto Boom (5000’) NA NA 10 Crew 20 Galveston 1 2 8 42” Auto Boom (10000’) NA NA 20 Crew 40 Harvey 1 2 1.75 42” Auto Boom (2500’) NA NA 6 Crew 12 Ingleside 1 2 11 42” Auto Boom (5000’) NA NA 10 Crew 20 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 42” Auto Boom (2500’) NA NA 6 Crew 12 Pascagoula 1 2 4 Hydro-Fire Boom NA NA 8 Utility 40 Harvey 1 4 1.75 
Nearshore Response

Nearshore Equipment No 

Staging EDRC Storage Capacity VOO Persons Required From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Hrs to GOM 

CGA 

46’ FRV 5000 65 NA 4 Leeville 1 0 2 46’ FRV 5000 65 NA 4 Venice 1 0 1 Trinity SWS 21500 249 NA 4 Venice 1 2 2 

Enterprise Marine Services LLC (available through contract with CGA) 

CTCo 2607 NA 23000 1 Tug 6 Amelia 4 12 4 

Staging Area: Venice

Nearshore and Inland 

Skimmers With Staging EDRC Storage Capacity VOO Persons Req. From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Travel to Staging Tra

Deplo

CGA

SWS Egmopol 3000 100 NA 3 Galveston 1 2 8 SWS Egmopol 3000 100 NA 3 Morgan City 1 2 3.25 SWS Marco 3588 20 NA 3 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 SWS Marco 3588 34 NA 3 Leeville 1 2 3.5 SWS Marco 3588 34 NA 3 Venice 1 2 0 Rope Mop 77 2 0 3 Harvey 1 2 8 Foilex Skim Package 891 45 NA 3 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 Foilex Skim Package 891 45 NA 3 Galveston 1 2 8 Foilex Skim Package 891 45 NA 3 Harvey 1 2 1.75 4 Drum Skimmer 686 100 1 Crew 3 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 4 Drum Skimmer 686 100 1 Crew 3 Harvey 1 2 1.75 2 Drum Skimmer 240 100 1 Crew 3 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 
Shoreline Protection 

Staging Area: Venice 

Shoreline Protection 

Boom VOO Persons Req. Storage/Warehouse Location Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Travel to Staging Travel to Deployment 

AMPOL (available through MSA) 

42,000’ 18” Boom 16 Crew 40 New Iberia, LA 2 2 4 2 20,000’ 18” Boom 8 Crew 20 New Orleans, LA 2 2 2 2 

OMI Environmental (available through MSA) 

10,000’ 18” Boom 4 Crew 10 New Iberia, LA 1 1 4 2 10,000’ 18” Boom 4 Crew 10 Houston, TX 1 1 7.5 2 

10,000 18” Boom 4 Crew 10 Port Arthur, TX 1 1 6.25 2 20,000 18” Boom 8 Crew 20 Belle Chasse, LA 1 1 1.75 2 10,000 18” Boom 4 Crew 10 Port Allen, LA 1 1 3.5 2 10,000 18” Boom 4 Crew 10 Houma, LA 1 1 3.5 2 15,000 18” Boom 6 Crew 14 Gretna, LA 2 2 2 2 

Beach Boom VOO Persons Req. From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Travel to Staging Travel to Deployment H

D

CGA 

Beach Boom (2000’) NA 6 Galveston 1 2 8 1 Beach Boom (1000’) NA 4 Ingleside 1 2 11 1 Beach Boom (2000’) NA 6 Pascagoula 1 2 4 1 
Wildlife Response VOO Persons Req. From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Travel to Staging Travel to Deployment H

D

CGA 

Wildlife Support Trailer NA 2 Houma 1 2 3 1 Bird Scare Guns (24) NA 2 Belle Chasse 1 2 1.5 1 Bird Scare Guns (12) NA 2 Galveston 1 2 8 1 Bird Scare Guns (24) NA 2 Houma 1 2 3 1 Bird Scare Guns (12) NA 2 Ingleside 1 2 11 1 Bird Scare Guns (24) NA 2 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 1 Bird Scare Guns (24) NA 2 Pascagoula 1 2 4 1 

Response Asset Total 

Offshore EDRC 113,515 

Offshore Recovered Oil Storage 118,700 

Nearshore / Shallow Water EDRC 21,126 

Nearshore / Shallow Water Recovered Oil Storage 23,725 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX I 

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING INFORMATION 

(30 CFR PART 250.221 AND 250.252) 

A. Monitoring Systems 

LLOG subscribes to Impact Weather Service which provides access to real-time 

weather conditions, and provides periodic updates on impending inclement weather 

conditions such as tropical depressions, storms and/or hurricanes entering the Gulf of 

Mexico. 

LLOG also relies on the National Weather Service to support the aforementioned 

subscribed service. During impending inclement weather conditions, LLOG closely 

coordinates the activity with our contractors and field personnel to ensure the safety of 

people for evacuation; measures to prepare the facility for evacuation to ensure 

protection of the environment and the facility/equipment. 

Mississippi Canyon Block 258 is in water depths greater than 400 meters (1,312’); 

therefore LLOG will follow the guidelines of the applicable NTL 2009-G02 “Ocean 

Current Monitoring”, by monitoring and gathering ocean current data using Acoustic 

Doppler Current Profile (ADCP) while the MODU is on location. 

B. Incidental Takes 

LLOG does not anticipate the incidental taking of any species as a result of the 

proposed activities based on the implementation of, and adherence to, the BSEE NTL 

No. 2012-G01 “Marine Trash and Debris Awareness Training and Elimination” and 

Joint NTL No. 2012-G01 “Vessel Strike Avoidance and Injured/Dead Protected Species 

Reporting”. 

C. Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 

This section of the plan is not applicable to the proposed operations. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX J 

LEASE STIPULATIONS/SPECIAL CONDITIONS INFORMATION 

(30 CFR PART 250.222 AND 250.253) 

A. Lease Stipulations 

Minerals Management Service (BOEM) invoked Stipulation No. 6 – “Marine Protected 

Species” on Lease OCS-G-24066, Mississippi Canyon Block 258. 

Lease Stipulation No. 6 is to reference measures to minimize or avoid potential adverse 

impacts to protected species (sea turtles, marine mammals, gulf sturgeon, and other 

federally protected species). BOEM has issued Notice to Lessees Joint NTL No. 2012-

G02 “Implementation of Seismic Survey Mitigation Measures and Protected Species 

Observer Program”, Joint NTL No. 2012-G01 “Vessel Strike Avoidance and 

Injured/Dead Protected Species Reporting” and BSEE NTL No. 2012-G01 “Marine 

Trash and Debris Awareness and Elimination”. 

B. Special Conditions 

• Subsea Completions 

LLOG may potentially complete the proposed wells as subsea completions. 

Therefore, LLOG will follow the regulations in Title 30 CFR Parts 550.296 

through 550.299, which mandates the submittal and approval of separate 

regulatory filings entitled a “Conservation Information Document” and Title 30 

CFR Parts 250.286 to Title 30 CFR Parts 250.295 entitled “Deepwater 

Operations Plan”. 

 

• Ocean Current Monitoring 

The proposed operations under this Plan are in water depths greater than 400 

meters (1,312’); therefore, LLOG will follow the guidelines of the applicable 

NTL 2009-G02 “Ocean Current Monitoring”, by continuously monitoring and 

gathering ocean current data using Acoustic Doppler Current Profile (ADCP) 

while the MODU is on location. 

• Breton Sound Area 

Mississippi Canyon Block 258 is located within the 200 km zone of the Breton 

National Wildlife Refuge, and LLOG will consider the use of best available 

control technology as required if the projected air emissions are determined to 

significantly affect the air quality of an onshore area. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX K 

ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION MEASURES INFORMATION 

(30 CFR Part 250.23 and 250.54) 

A. Measures Taken to Avoid, Minimize, and Mitigate Impacts 

This section does not apply to the operations as proposed herein. 

B. Incidental Takes 

LLOG does not anticipate the incidental taking of any species as a result of the 

proposed activities based on the implementation of, and adherence to, the BSEE NTL 

No. 2012-G01 “Marine Trash and Debris Awareness Training and Elimination”; Joint 

NTL No. 2012-G01 “Vessel Strike Avoidance and Injured/Dead Protected Species 

Reporting”; and Joint NTL No. 2012-G02 “Implementation of Seismic Survey 

Mitigation Measures and Protected Species Observer Program”. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX L 

 RELATED FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS INFORMATION 

(30 CFR PART 250.256) 

A. Produced Liquid Hydrocarbon Transportation Vessels

Not applicable to proposed operations. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX M 

SUPPORT VESSELS AND AIRCRAFT INFORMATION 

(30 CFR PART 250.224 AND 250.257) 

A. General 

Personnel involved in the proposed operations will typically use their own vehicles as 

transportation to and from the selected onshore base; whereas the selected vendors will 

transport the equipment by a combination of trucks, boats and/or helicopters to the 

onshore base. The personnel and equipment will then be transported to the drilling rig 

via the transportation methods and frequencies shown, taking the most direct route 

feasible as mandated by weather and traffic conditions: 

DP Semisubmersible Rig: 

Type Maximum Fuel Tank 

Storage Capacity 

Maximum No. in Area 

at Any Time 

Trip Frequency or 

Duration 

Supply Boats 500 bbls 1 Six times weekly 

Crew Boats 500 bbls 1 Three times weekly 

Aircraft 1900 lbs 1 As Needed 

 

Semisubmersible Rig: 

Type Maximum Fuel Tank 

Storage Capacity 

Maximum No. in Area 

at Any Time 

Trip Frequency or 

Duration 

Tug Boats 3000 bbls 1 During rig moves on/off 

Supply Boats 500 bbls 1 Six times weekly 

Crew Boats 500 bbls 1 Three times weekly 

Aircraft 1900 lbs 1 As Needed 

C. Drilling Fluids Transportation 

See Table 2 – Wastes you will Transport and/or Dispose of Onshore, located in 

Appendix F of this Plan. 

D. Solid and Liquid Wastes Transportation 

See Table 2 – Wastes you will Transport and/or Dispose of Onshore, located in 

Appendix F of this Plan. 

E. Vicinity Map 

Vicinity Plat showing the location of Mississippi Canyon Block 258 relative to the 

nearest shoreline and onshore base is included as Attachment M. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Vicinity Map 

Attachment M 

(Public Information) 

Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX N

ONSHORE SUPPORT FACILITIES INFORMATION 

(30 CFR PART 250.225 AND 250.258) 

 A. General

The proposed surface disturbances in Mississippi Canyon Block 258 will be located 

approximately 62 miles from the nearest Louisiana shoreline, and approximately 

130 miles from the following onshore support base: 

Name Location Existing/New/Modified

Martin North Fourchon, LA Existing 

LLOG will use an existing onshore base to accomplish the following routine 

operations: 

● Loading/Offloading point for equipment supporting the offshore operations. 

● Dispatching personnel and equipment, and does not anticipate the need for any 

expansion of the selected facilities as a result of the activities proposed in this 

Initial Plan. 

● Temporary storage for materials and equipment. 

● 24 Hour Dispatcher 

B. Support Base Construction or Expansion 

The proposed operations are temporary in nature and do not require any immediate 

action to acquire additional land or expand existing base facilities. 

C. Support Base Construction or Expansion Timetable 

This section of the plan is not applicable to the proposed operations. 

 

D. Waste Disposal 

See Table 2 – Wastes you will Transport and/or Dispose of Onshore, located in 

Appendix F of this Plan. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX O

 COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT (CZMA) INFORMATION 

(30 CFR PART 250.226 AND 250.260) 

A. Consistency Certification 

. 

A certificate of Coastal Zone Management Consistency for the States of Louisiana and 

Alabama are enclosed as Attachment N

B. Other Information

Included as Attachment O are the enforceable policies from the State of Alabama that 

are related to OCS Plan Filings. 

LLOG has considered all of Louisiana’s enforceable policies and certifies the 

consistency for the proposed operations. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

 

Coastal Zone Management Consistency Statement for the 

States of Louisiana and Alabama 

Attachment N 

(Public Information) 

 


Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Coastal Zone Management Enforceable Policies for the 

State of Alabama 

Attachment O 

(Public Information) 
ALABAMA COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT 

CONSISTENCY CERTIFICATION 

INITIAL EXPLORATION PLAN 

MISSISSIPPI CANYON 258 

OCS-G-24066 

The OCS related oil and gas development activities having potential impact on the Alabama 

Coastal Zone are based on the location of the proposed facilities, access to those sites, best 

practical techniques for operations and production equipment, guidelines for the prevention 

of adverse environmental effects, effective environmental protection, emergency plans and 

contingency plans. Alabama policies have been addressed below or are cross referenced to 

the appropriate sections of the Plan: 

Topic Cross 

Reference

Comments 

Coastal Resource Use Policies 

Coastal Development Dock and port facilities in Louisiana will be used. There 

will be no new construction, dredging or filling in 

Alabama state waters. There will be no new commercial 

development or capital improvements in Alabama’s 

coastal zone, nor will there be any employment effects. 

Mineral Resource Exploration 

and Extraction 

 Proposed development operations will take place 90 

statute miles from Alabama’s coastline 

Commercial Fishing Appendix H 

Hazard Management Appendix C A Shallow Hazards Report was previously submitted to 

BOEM in order to identify and assess the seafloor and 

shallow geologic conditions in this block 

Shoreline Erosion Appendix H Proposed development operations will take place 90 

statute miles from Alabama’s coastline 

Recreation Appendix H 

Transportation Appendix B 

Natural Resource Protection 

Policies 

 

Biological Productivity Appendix H 

Water Quality Appendix H 

Water Resources Appendix H 

Air Quality Appendix G 

Wetlands and Submerged 

Grassbeds 

Appendix H 

Beach and Dune Protection Appendix H 

Wildlife Habitat Protection Appendix H 

Endangered Species Appendix H 

Cultural Resources Protection Appendix D Mississippi Canyon Block 258 has been determined to 

have a high potential for containing archaeological 

properties. An archaeological report was submitted to 

BOEM under separate cover. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX P 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS 

(30 CFR PART 250.227 AND 250.261) 

A. Impact Producing Factors (IPF’s) From Proposed Activities

The following matrix is utilized to identify the affected environments that could be 

impacted by these IPF’s. An “x” has been marked for each IPF category that LLOG 

has determined may impact a particular environment as a result of the proposed 

activities. For those cells which are footnoted, a statement is provided as to the 

applicability of the proposed activities, and where there may be an effect, an 

analysis of the effect is provided. 

Environmental Resources Impact Producing Factors (IPF’s) 

Emissions 

(air, noise, 

light, etc) 

Effluents 

(muds, cuttings, 

other discharges 

to the water 

column or 

seafloor) 

Physical 

disturbances 

to the seafloor 

(rig, anchor, 

structure 

emplacement, 

etc.) 

Wastes sent 

to shore for 

treatment 

or disposal 

Accidents 

(e.g., oil 

spills, 

chemical 

spills, H2S 

releases) 

Other IPF’s 

you Identify 

Site Specific at Offshore 

Location 

 

Designated topographic 

features 

 (1) (1) (1) 

Pinnacle Trend area live 

bottoms 

 (2) (2) (2) 

Eastern Gulf live bottoms (3) (3) (3) 

Chemosynthetic communities (4) 

Water quality X X 

Fisheries X X X 

Marine mammals X (8) X X (8) 

Sea turtles X (8) X X (8) 

Air quality (9) 

Shipwreck sites (known or 

potential) 

 (7) 

Prehistoric archaeological sites (7) 

 

Vicinity of Offshore Location 

Essential fish habitat X (6) 

Marine and pelagic birds X 

Public health and safety (5) 

 

Coastal and Onshore 

Beaches (6) 

Wetlands (6) 

Shorebirds and coastal nesting 

birds 

 (6) 

Coastal wildlife refuge 

Wilderness areas 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

Footnotes for Environmental Impact Analysis Matrix: 

1. Activities that may affect a marine sanctuary or topographic feature. Specifically, if the well or platform site 

or any anchors will be on the seafloor within the: 

(a) 4-mile zone of the Flower Gardens Banks, or the 3-mile zone of Stetson Bank; 

(b) 1000-m, 1-mile or 3-mile zone of any topographic feature (submarine bank) protected by the 

Topographic Features Stipulation attached to an OCS lease; 

(c) Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) criteria of 500 feet from any no-activity zone; or 

(d) Proximity of any submarine bank (500 ft buffer zone) with relief greater than 2 meters that is not 

protected by the Topographic Stipulation attached to an OCS lease. 

2. Activities with any bottom disturbance within an OCS lease block protected through the Live Bottom 

(Pinnacle Trend) Stipulation attached to an OCS lease. 

3. Activities within any Eastern Gulf OCS block where seafloor habitats are protected by the Live Bottom (LowRelief) Stipulation attached to an OCS lease. 

4. Activities on blocks designated by the BOEMRE as being in water depths 300 meters or greater. 

5. Exploration or production activities where H2S concentrations greater than 500 ppm might be encountered. 

6. All activities that could result in an accidental spill of produced liquid hydrocarbons or diesel fuel that you 

determine would impact these environmental resources. If the proposed action is located a sufficient distance 

from a resource that no impact would occur, the EIA can note that in a sentence or two. 

7. All activities that involve seafloor disturbances, including anchor emplacements, in any OCS block designated 

by the BOEMRE as having high-probability for the occurrence of shipwrecks or prehistoric sites, including 

such blocks that will be affected that are adjacent to the lease block in which your planned activity will occur. 

If the proposed activities are located a sufficient distance from a shipwreck or prehistoric site that no impact 

would occur, the EIA can note that in a sentence or two. 

8. All activities that you determine might have an adverse effect on endangered or threatened marine mammals 

or sea turtles or their critical habitats. 

9. Production activities that involve transportation of produced fluids to shore using shuttle tankers or barges. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

B. Impact Analysis 

LLOG does not anticipate any unforeseen incidents from the proposed activities which 

could significantly impact the associated environment. LLOG activities associated with 

this Exploration Plan (Plan) will be performed with prudent and industry accepted 

standards, and in compliance with the federal agency regulations and oversight. 

The “Oil Spills Information” Section of this Plan details the potential worse case 

discharge volume which has been calculated based on the new Bureau of Ocean Energy 

Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE) Notice to Lessees (NTL 2010-

N06). Response details associated with an unanticipated spill from this site are detailed 

in our Regional Oil Spill Response Plan (OSRP) which outlines the potential spill 

scenario, spill volumes, anticipated trajectory of the spill, response equipment available, 

and actions to be taken to respond to the potential spill incident. Additional measures 

implemented by LLOG is trajectory analyses to be obtained prior to and during the 

proposed activities, contractual arrangements with well control specialists and 

preliminary reviews of potential well intervention scenarios, and to supplement existing 

contracted response/clean-up equipment with equipment offered by Helix which 

specializes in subsea deepwater well intervention, containment and processing. 

 Site Specific at Offshore Location 

• Designated Topographic Features 

There are no anticipated emissions, effluents, physical disturbances to the 

seafloor, wastes transported to shore, and/or accidents from the proposed 

activities that could cause impacts to topographic features. 

The proposed surface disturbances within Mississippi Canyon Block 258 are 

located a significant distance (> 100 miles) from the closest designated 

topographic feature (Sackett Bank). 

The crests of these designated topographic features in the northern Gulf are 

typically found below 10 m; therefore, concentrated oil from a surface spill is 

not likely to reach sessile biota. Subsurface spills could cause adverse impacts 

to a designated topographic feature; however, due to the offset distance this 

should not have an impact. 

In the event of an unanticipated spill, LLOG would immediately implement its 

Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and active source control and countermeasures 

to minimize these potential impacts. 

 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

• Pinnacle Trend Area Live Bottoms 

There are no anticipated emissions, effluents, physical disturbances to the 

seafloor, wastes sent to shore and/or accidents from the proposed activities that 

could cause impacts to a pinnacle trend area. 

The proposed surface disturbances within Mississippi Canyon Block 258 are 

located a significant distance (> 100 miles) from the closest pinnacle trend live 

bottom stipulated block. The crests of these pinnacle trend areas are much 

deeper than 20 m. 

During the surface location disturbance review, LLOG reviews potential surface 

impacts, and would be able to identify any pinnacles within the vicinity and 

would avoid placement of any surface disturbances such as a drilling rig and 

associated anchors. These surface location disturbance areas would be avoided 

and/or mitigated during the review and approval process by the BOEM. 

In the event of an unanticipated spill, LLOG would immediately implement its 

Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and activate source control and 

countermeasures to minimize these potential impacts. 

• Eastern Gulf Live Bottoms

There are no anticipated emissions, effluents, emissions physical disturbances to 

the seafloor, wastes sent to shore, and/or accidents from the proposed activities 

that could cause impacts to Eastern Gulf live bottoms. 

The proposed surface disturbance within Mississippi Canyon Block 258 is 

located a significant distance (> 100 miles) from the closest Eastern Gulf live 

bottoms stipulated block. During the surface location disturbance review, 

LLOG previews potential surface impacts, and would be able to identify any 

live bottom areas within the vicinity and would avoid placement of any surface 

disturbances such as a drilling rig and associated anchors. 

In the event of an unanticipated spill, LLOG would immediately implement its 

Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and activate source control and 

countermeasures to minimize these potential impacts. 

• Chemosynthetic Communities 

Water depth at the surface location in Mississippi Canyon Block 258 ranges 

from 5,447 to 6,686 feet including anchor radius. As noted in the shallow 

hazards assessment (Attachment I) it is unlikely that the identified anomalies 

represent the presence of high-density chemosynthetic or other benthic 

communities. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

• Water Quality 

Bottom disturbances which may result based on placement of drilling rigs 

during an exploratory phase could increase water column turbidity and 

redistribution of any accumulated pollutants in the water column; which could 

cause temporary impacts on water quality conditions in the immediate vicinity. 

Associated overboard effluents are regulated by the EPA Region VI NPDES 

General Permit GMG290000 which mandates volume discharge rate limitations, 

certain testing requirements for toxicity and oil and grease limitations. As such, 

it is not anticipated these discharges authorized under the approved EPA 

NPDES permit will cause significant adverse impacts to water quality. 

Certain wastes generated from the proposed activities will be manifested and 

sent to shore for treatment and/or disposal at approved facilities. Other waste 

which may be considered hazardous will be collected and transported in sealed 

containers and transported to approve disposal sites in accordance with the 

RCRA regulations and guidelines. 

An accidental oil spill release from the proposed activities, and cumulative 

similar discharge activity within the vicinity could potentially cause temporary 

impacts to water quality. In the event of such a release, the water quality would 

be temporarily affected by the dissolved components and small droplets. 

Currents and microbial degradation would remove the oil from the water column 

or dilute the constituents to background levels. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 

• Fisheries 

Accidental oil spill releases from the proposed activities, and cumulative similar 

discharge activity within the vicinity may potentially cause some detrimental 

effects on fisheries. It is unlikely a spill would occur; however, such a release in 

open waters closed to mobile adult finfish or shellfish would likely be sub-lethal 

and the extent of damage would be reduced to the capability of adult fish and 

shellfish to avoid a spill, to metabolize hydrocarbons, and to excrete both 

metabolites and parent compounds. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 

• Marine Mammals

GulfCet II studies reveal that cetaceans of the continental shelf and shelf edge 

are comprised of bottlenose dolphin and Atlantic spotted dolphin. Squid eaters, 

including dwarf and pygmy killer whale, Risso’s dolphin and Cuvier’s beaked 

whale occur most frequently along the upper slope in areas outside of 

anticyclones. 

As a result of the proposed activities, marine mammals may be adversely 

impacted by emissions, effluents, waste sent to shore and/or accidents. 

Chronic and sporadic sub-lethal effects would occur that may stress and/or 

weaken individuals of a local group or population and make them more 

susceptible to infection from natural or anthropogenic sources. Few lethal 

effects are expected from an accidental oil spill, chance collisions with service 

vessels and ingestion of plastic material. 

The net results of any disturbance would depend on the size and percentage of 

the population affected, ecological importance of the disturbed area, 

environmental and biological parameters that influence an animal’s sensitivity to 

disturbance and stress, and the accommodation time in response to prolonged 

disturbance (Geraci and St. Aubin, 1980). Collisions between cetaceans and 

ship could cause serious injury or death (Laist et al., 2001). 

Sperm whales are one of 11 whale species that are hit commonly by ships (Laist 

et al., 2001). Collisions between OCS vessels and cetaceans within the project 

area are expected to be unusual events. 

LLOG does not anticipate the incidental taking of any marine mammals as the 

result of the proposed activities. The proposed activities will be conducted by 

our company and its contractors under the additional criteria addressed in BSEE 

NTL No. 2012-G01 “Marine Trash and Debris Awareness Training and 

Elimination” and Joint NTL No. 2012-G01 “Vessel Strike Avoidance and 

Injured/Dead Protected Species Reporting”. The proposed operations will be 

conducted in accordance with the regulations via manifesting waste sent to shore 

and ensuring such wastes are contained to prevent loss. Informational placards 

will be maintained on the facility, and LLOG and the associated contractors 

obtain training on at least an annual basis to ensure personnel are aware of the 

reporting and operational requirements. 

LLOG will conduct the proposed activities under EPA’s Region VI NPDES 

General Permit GMG290000 which authorizes the discharge of certain effluents, 

subject to certain limitations, prohibitions and recordkeeping requirements. As 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

such, it is not anticipated these discharges authorized under the approved EPA 

NPDES permit will not cause significant adverse impacts to water quality. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 

• Sea Turtles 

Small numbers of turtles could be killed or injured by chance collision with 

service vessels or by eating indigestible trash, particularly plastic items 

accidentally lost from drilling rigs, production facilities and service vessels. 

Drilling rigs and project vessels produce noise that could disrupt normal 

behavior patterns and create some stress to sea turtles, making them more 

susceptible to disease. Accidental oil spill releases are potential threats which 

could have lethal effects on turtles. Contact and/or consumption of this released 

material could seriously affect individual sea turtles. Most OCS related impacts 

on sea turtles are expected to be sub-lethal. Chronic and/or avoidance of 

affected areas could cause declines in survival or productivity, resulting in 

gradual population declines. 

LLOG will conduct the proposed activities under EPA’s Region VI NPDES 

General Permit GMG290000 which authorizes the discharge of certain effluents, 

subject to certain limitations, prohibitions and recordkeeping requirements. As 

such, it is not anticipated these discharges authorized under the approved EPA 

NPDES permit will not cause significant adverse impacts to water quality. 

Additionally, LLOG and its contractors will conduct the proposed activities 

under the additional criteria addressed by BSEE NTL No. 2012-G01 “Marine 

Trash and Debris Awareness Training and Elimination” and Joint NTL No. 

2012-G01 “Vessel Strike Avoidance and Injured/Dead Protected Species 

Reporting”. The proposed operations will be conducted in accordance with the 

regulations via manifesting waste sent to shore and ensuring such wastes are 

contained to prevent loss. Informational placards will be maintained on the 

facility, and LLOG and the associated contractors obtain training on at least an 

annual basis to ensure personnel are aware of the reporting and operational 

requirements. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

• Air Quality

The proposed activities are located approximately 62 miles to the nearest 

shoreline. LLOG has addressed the air quality issues associated with the 

proposed activities in the “Air Emissions Information” section of this Plan as a 

result of the proposed activities. 

• Ship Wreck Sites (Known or Potential)

There are no physical disturbances to the seafloor which could impact known or 

potential shipwreck sites, as the review of high resolution shallow hazards data 

indicate there are no known or potential shipwreck sites located within the 

survey area. As such, LLOG does not anticipate any IPF’s as a result of the 

proposed activities. 

• Prehistoric Archaeological Sites

There are no physical disturbances to the seafloor which could cause impacts to 

prehistoric archaeological sites, as the review of high resolution shallow hazards 

data and supporting studies did not reflect the occurrence of prehistoric 

archaeological sites. As such LLOG does not anticipate any IPF’s as a result of 

the proposed activities. 

Vicinity of Offshore Location 

• Essential Fish Habitat 

As a result of the proposed activities, essential fish habitat may be adversely 

impacted by effluents and/or accidents. 

An Accidental oil spill that may occur as a result of the proposed activities has 

potential to cause some detrimental effects on essential fish habitat. It is 

unlikely that an accidental oil spill release would occur; however, if a spill were 

to occur in close proximity to finfish or shellfish, the effects would likely be 

sub-lethal and the extent of damage would be reduced to the capability of adult 

fish and shellfish to avoid a spill, to metabolize hydrocarbons and to excrete 

both metabolites and parent compounds. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

• Marine and Pelagic Birds

As a result of the proposed activities, marine and pelagic birds may be adversely 

impacted by an accidental oil spill, by the birds coming into contact with the 

released oil. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout resulting in an oil spill, it is likely to 

have an impact based on the industry wide standards for using proven equipment 

and technology for such responses. In that event, LLOG will implement the 

Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and activate source control and 

countermeasures to minimize these potential impacts. 

• Public Health and Safety

There are no anticipated emissions, effluents, wastes sent to shore, and/or 

accidents from the proposed activities that could cause impacts to the public 

health safety. LLOG has requested BOEMRE approval to classify the proposed 

objective area as absent of hydrogen sulfide. 

Coastal and Onshore 

• Beaches 

As a result of the proposed activities, beaches may be adversely impacted by an 

accidental oil spill. However, due to the distance from shore (approximately 62 

miles), and the response capabilities that would be implemented, no significant 

adverse impacts are expected. Both historical spill data and the combined 

trajectory/risk calculations referenced in the publication of OCS EIA/EA 

BOEMRE 2002-052 indicate there is little risk of contact or impact to the 

coastline and associated environmental resources. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 

• Wetlands 

As a result of the proposed activities, wetlands may be adversely impacted by an 

accidental oil spill. However, due to the distance from shore (approximately 62 

miles) and the response capabilities that would be implemented, no significant 

adverse impacts are expected. Both historical spill data and the combined 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

trajectory/risk calculations referenced in the publication of OCS EIA/EA 

BOEMRE 2002-052 indicate there is little risk of contact or impact to the 

coastline and associated environmental resources. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 

• Shore Birds and Coastal Nesting Birds 

As a result of the proposed activities, shore birds and coastal nesting birds may 

be adversely impacted by an accidental oil spill. However, due to the distance 

from shore (approximately 62 miles) and the response capabilities that would be 

implemented, no significant adverse impacts are expected. Both historical spill 

data and the combined trajectory/risk calculations referenced in the publication 

of OCS EIA/EA BOEMRE 2002-052 indicate there is little risk of contact or 

impact to the coastline and associated environmental resources. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 

• Coastal Wildlife Refuges 

As a result of the proposed activities, coastal wildlife refuges may be adversely 

impacted by an accidental oil spill. However, due to the distance from shore 

(approximately 62 miles) and the response capabilities that would be 

implemented, no significant adverse impacts are expected. Both historical spill 

data and the combined trajectory/risk calculations referenced in the publication 

of OCS EIA/EA BOEMRE 2002-052 indicate there is little risk of contact or 

impact to the coastline and associated environmental resources. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 

• Wilderness Area 

As a result of the proposed activities, wilderness areas may be adversely 

impacted by an accidental oil spill. However, due to the distance from shore 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

(approximately 62 miles) and the response capabilities that would be 

implemented, no significant adverse impacts are expected. Both historical spill 

data and the combined trajectory/risk calculations referenced in the publication 

of OCS EIA/EA BOEMRE 2002-052 indicate there is little risk of contact or 

impact to the coastline and associated environmental resources. 

In the event of an unanticipated blowout, LLOG will implement industry wide 

standards for using proven equipment and technology for such responses. 

LLOG would immediately implement its Regional Oil Spill Response Plan and 

activate source control and countermeasures to minimize these potential 

impacts. 

Other Resources Identified 

LLOG has not identified any other environmental resources other than those addressed 

above. 

C. Impacts of Proposed Activities 

LLOG does not anticipate any impacts on the offshore site specific locations, offshore 

vicinity, and/or coastal and onshore environmental conditions based on the potential 

impacts identified in the EIA worksheets and historical operations in the exploration of 

this reservoir. 

D. Environmental Hazards 

The Gulf of Mexico may experience several hurricanes throughout the season which 

typically runs from June through November. A severe hurricane may impact the 

activities covered in this Plan. Such impacts may be damage to the drilling rig, the 

unanticipated release of hydrocarbons depending upon the current status of the well. 

Additionally, the surface located in Mississippi Canyon Block 258 has the potential to 

be affected by the “Loop Current” which is a warm ocean current in the Gulf of Mexico 

that flows northward between Cuba and the Yucatan Peninsula, moves northward into 

the Gulf of Mexico, then loops east and south before exiting to the east through the 

Florida Straits. While the loop current is present approximately 95% of the time, it is 

most active in the summer and fall seasons. 

To mitigate potential impacts to the well during impending hurricanes or loop currents, 

LLOG will take precautionary measures by securing the well, rig and evacuation of 

personnel; and will comply with the requirements of NTL’s 2008-G09 and 2009-G10. 

E. Alternatives 

LLOG did not consider any alternatives to reduce environmental impacts as a result of 

the proposed activities. 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

F. Mitigation Measures 

LLOG will not implement any mitigation measures to avoid, diminish or eliminate 

potential environmental resources, other than those required by regulation and policy. 

G. Consultation 

LLOG has not contacted any agencies or persons for consultation regarding potential 

impacts associated with the proposed activities. Therefore, a list of such entities is not 

being provided. 

H. Preparers 

Questions or requests for additional information should be made to LLOG’s authorized 

representative of this Plan: 

Kathy Gowland 

Regulatory Specialist 

1001 Ochsner Boulevard, Suite 200 

Covington, Louisiana 70433 

985-801-4300 (Phone) 

kathygo@llog.com 

I. References 

The following documents were utilized in preparing the Environmental Impact 

Assessment: 

Document Author Dated 

Shallow Hazards Assessment, Benthic Communities 

Evaluation and Archaeological Resource Survey 

Archaeological Deep Tow Survey 

Berger Geosciences, LLC 

Tesla Offshore 

2012 

2012 

BOEMRE Environmental Impact Statement Report No. 

2007-003 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2007 

Title 30 CFR Part 250 Subpart B (250.216 / 250.221 / 

250.223 / 250.227 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2006 

NTL 2000-G16 “Guidelines for General Lease Surety 

Bonds” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2000 

NTL 2005-G07 “Archaeological Resource Surveys and 

Reports” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2005 

NTL 2006-N06 “Flaring and Venting Regulations” 

NTL 2011-N02 “Flaring and Venting Approval Contact 

Information” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2006 

2011 

NTL 2006-G07 “Revisions to the List of OCS Lease Blocks 

Requiring Archaeological Surveys and Reports:” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2006 

JOINT NTL 2012-G02 “Implementation of seismic Survey 

Mitigation Measures and Protected Species Observer 

Program” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2012 

BSEE NTL 2012-G01 “Marine Trash & Debris Awareness 

& Elimination” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2012 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

JOINT NTL 2012-G01 “Vessel Strike Avoidance and 

Injured/Dead Protective Species” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2012 

NTL 2008-G04 “Information Requirements for Exploration 

Plans and Development Operations Coordination 

Documents” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2008 

NTL 2008-N05 “Guidelines for Oil Spill Financial 

Responsibility for Covered Offshore Facilities” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2008 

NTL 2008-G06 “Remotely Operated Vehicle Surveys in 

Deepwater” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2008 

NTL 2008-N07 “Supplemental Bond Procedures Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2008 

NTL 2008-G20 “Revisions to the List of OCS Lease Blocks 

Requiring Archaeological Resource Surveys and Reports” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2008 

NTL 2009-G02 “Ocean Current Monitoring” Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2009 

NTL 2009-G27 “Submitting Exploration Plans and 

Development Operations Coordination Documents” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2009 

NTL 2009-G29 “Implementation Plan for Transition from 

North American Datum 27 to North American Datum 83” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2009 

NTL 2009-G31 “Hydrogen Sulphide” Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2009 

NTL 2009-G34 “Ancillary Activities” Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2009 

NTL BOEM 2011-G01 “Drilling Windows, Eastern Gulf of 

Mexico” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2011 

NTL 2009-G39 “Biologically-Sensitive Underwater 

Features and Areas” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2009 

NTL 2009-G40 “Deepwater Benthic Communities” Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2009 

NTL 2009-N11 “Air Quality Jurisdiction on the OCS” Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2009 

NTL 2010-N05 “Increased Safety Measures for Energy 

Development on the OCS” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2010 

NTL 2010-N06 “Information Requirements for EP’s, 

DOCD’s, DPP on the OCS” 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2010 

NPDES General Permit GMG290000 EPA – Region VI 2007 

Regional Oil Spill Response Plan LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C. 2010 
Mississippi Canyon Block 258 (OCS-G 24066) 

Initial Exploration Plan 09/10/2012 

APPENDIX Q 

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION 

(30 CFR Part 250.228 and 250.262) 

A. Exempted Information Description (Public Information Copies only) 

Excluded from the Public Information copies are the following: 

• Proposed bottomhole location information 

• Proposed total well depths (measured and true vertical depth) 

• Production Rates and Life of Reserves 

• New and Unusual Technologies 

• Geological and Geophysical Attachments 

B. Bibliography

The following documents were utilized in preparing this Plan: 

Document Author Dated 

Shallow Hazards Assessment, Benthic Communities 

Evaluation and Archaeological Resource Survey 

Archaeological Deep Tow Survey 

Berger Geosciences, LLC 

Tesla Offshore 

2012 

2012 

BOEMRE Environmental Impact Statement Report – No. 

2007-003 

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 

Regulation, and Enforcement 

2007 

Regional Oil Spill Response Plan LLOG Exploration Offshore, L.L.C. 2010