15110.0

13600.0

45000 50000

1.700

1.800

1.900

2.000

2.100

2.200

2.300

2.400

2.500

2.600

2.700

2.800

2.900

3.000

3.100

3.200

3.300

3.400

Line:

Trace:

WATER

FLOW AND

GAS

POTENTIAL

Shallow Water Flow and Gas Potential

HIGH

0 1 2 3

0 = NEGLIGIBLE

1 = LOW

2 = MODERATE

3 = HIGH

NEGLIGIBLE

Horizon Lithology/Stratigraphy

Illustration MC555-B-2. Tophole Prognosis Chart, Proposed Wellsite MC555-B, Mississippi Canyon, Block 555

Potential Drilling

Constraints

Project No. 0712-2117b Filename: 122117b_ill_MC555-B-2.cdr

Water 

Flow

Gas

3-D Seismic Section Through

Proposed Wellsite MC555-B

X = 1,116,591 FT; Y = 10,316,301 FT

 Inline 15110 at Crossline 13647 

NW SE

Horizon

TWT

(sec, bsl)

Depth

(ft, bml)

Depth

(ft, bsl)

INLINE 15110

TWO-WAY TIME TRAVEL (SEC)

SEAFLOOR

HORIZON 10

HORIZON 30

HORIZON 40

0.083

1.564

0.382

0.736

198

4,664

 991

2,036

-4,760

-4,958

-9,423

-5,751

-6,796

Proposed 

Wellsite MC555-B

INTERFACE 2

 

0.579 -6,323 1,563

Distance (ft):

Horizontal

Silt- to sand-prone turbidites. Mud-dominated rotated

slide blocks possible. 

Muddy- to sandy turbidites. Mass-transport deposits and

thick continuous sands possible. 

Moderate potential for encountering overpressured sands

and low potential for minor shallow gas.

Low potential for encountering overpressured sands

and minor shallow gas.

Horizon

TWT

(sec, bml)

1.936

2.019

3.500

2.318

2.672

2.515

Sand-prone slope fan system. 

Mass-transport deposits underlain by muddy- to sandy

turbidites. Sand-prone erosional remnants possible

within the MTD. 

 LIMIT OF

INVESTIGATION

HORIZON 20 2.177 0.241 -5,363 603

Negligible potential for encountering overpressured sands

Mass-transport deposits (MTD) interlayered by silty- and shallow gas.

to silty-clay turbidites.

Moderate potential for encountering overpressured sands

and low potential for minor shallow gas.

The Seafloor slopes less than 3° to the SE. There is no

potential for benthic communities within 2,000 ft of the

wellsite. The closest well lies 1 mile southwest of the

proposed location. No shallow water flow conditions

were reported at this location.

INTERFACE 1 2.375 0.439 -5,913 1,153 Mud-dominated turbidites. Low potential for encountering overpressured sands

and minor shallow gas.

FAULT 3.051 1.115 -7,976 3,217

MC 555

UNIT 1

UNIT 2

UNIT 3

UNIT 4

UNIT 5

Hemipelagic clay- to silt-rich sediments. 
Project No. 0712-2117b

Green circle repreradius and outer 

Buried 

slump

Buried 

blo

(C)

Faults

SEAFLOOR REND

Grid

North

MC555-B

1,000 ft

(A)

Expulsion 

features

Faults

Grid

North

Buried rafted 

blocks

MC555-B MC 555 MC 556

BACKSCATTER

Buried slump

Filen

Potential for Benthic Communities

High reflectivity on backscatter data irregular rocky topography on sonar dof carbonate hard grounds at expulsiomultibeam bathymetry (C), show sofeatures (mounds and depressions) radius. The presence of hard grounds growth and support of potential benthic The mound-like features associated wilack hard returns. This validates that hydrocarbon related.

radius and outer circle represents 11anchor radius.1,000 ft buffer beanchor radius

Illustration MC555-B-3. 

(A) MC555-B MC 555 MC 556(B)

Expulsion 

features

1,000 ft

Buried rafted 

blocks

Grid

North

SIDE-SCAN SONAR MOSAIC

Buried slump

MC555-B

Faults

MC 555 MC 556
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page D‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION D 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE (H2S) INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.215 and 550.245) 

A. CONCENTRATION

Apache Deewpater LLC does not anticipate encountering any H2S during the proposed 

operations. 

Based on the BOEM H2S Map, there are two blocks in Mississippi Canyon Protraction Area that 

reported H2S occurrences. The closest of these blocks is MC 948 which is approximately 25.5 

miles from the proposed locations. However, the closest well to the proposed location(s) is the 

previously referenced OCS-G-21770 001, which did not report any occurrence of H2S. Based on 

the proximity of the ExxonMobil well to the proposed locations and the long distance to the 

reported H2S occurrences, both of which were less than 20ppm, Apache does not expect H2S at 

the proposed location(s). 

B. CLASSIFICATION

In accordance with Title 30 CFR 250.490(c), Apache Deepwater requests that Mississippi 

Canyon Blocks 554/555 be classified by the BOEM as H2S absent. 
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page E‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION E 

BIOLOGICAL, PHYSICAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.216 and 550.247) 

A. DEEPWATER BENTHIC/CHEMOSYNTHETIC COMMUNITIES

This EP does propose activities that could disturb seafloor areas in water depths of 300 meters 

(984 feet) or greater; therefore in compliance with Attachment A of NTL No. 2009-G40, 

“Deepwater Benthic Communities”, information is included in the Site Clearance Letters 

(reference Section C, Attachment C-4) with this plan. 

Also included is the Geohazard & Archaeological Assessment submitted in conjunction with this 

plan. 

B. TOPOGRAPHIC FEATURES MAP

This EP’s activities proposed do not fall within 305 meters (1,000 feet) of a topographic “no 

activity zone”. 

C. TOPOGRAPHIC FEATURES STATEMENT (SHUNTING)

All activities proposed under this EP will be conducted outside all Topographic Feature 

Protective Zones, therefore shunting of drill cuttings and drilling fluids is not required. 

D. LIVE BOTTOMS (PINNACLE TREND) MAP

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 is not located within 61 meters (200 feet) of any pinnacle 

trend feature; therefore a separate bathymetric map is not required. 

E. LIVE BOTTOMS (LOW RELIEF) STIPULATION

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 is not located within 30 meters (100 feet) of any pinnacle 

trend feature vertical relief equal to or greater than 8 feet; therefore, live bottom (low relief) 

maps are not required. 

F. POTENTIAL SENSITIVE BIOLOGICAL FEATURES

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 is not located within 30 meters (100 feet) of potentially 

sensitive biological features; therefore, biologically sensitive area maps are not required. 

G. REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLE (ROV) SURVEYS 

Per NTL 2008-G04, Apache Deepwater has referred to the BOEM Grid EA and ROV Survey 

Status Report as of February 12, 2010 to determine that there is enough data gathered in this grid 

area. An ROV survey will not be conducted either pre-spudding or post-drilling operations. 

Sufficient ROV information has been gathered for Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 per this 

NTL. 
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page E‐2

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

H. THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES, CRITICAL HABITAT AND 

MARINE MAMMAL INFORMATION

Under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) all federal agencies must ensure that any 

actions they authorize, fund or carry out are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a 

listed species, destroy or adversely modify its designated critical habitat. 

In accordance with the 30 CFR 250, Subpart B, effective May 14, 2007, and further outlined in 

Notice to Lessees (NTL) 2008-G04, lessees/operators are required to address site-specific 

information on the presence of federally listed threatened or endangered species and critical 

habitat designated under the ESA and marine mammals protected under the Marine Mammal 

Protection Act (MMPA) in the area of proposed activities under this plan. 

NOAA Fisheries currently lists the Sperm Whale, Leatherback Turtle, Green Turtle, Hawksbill, 

Turtle and the Kemp’s Ridley Turtle as endangered and the Loggerhead Turtle and Gulf 

Sturgeon as threatened. Currently there are no designated critical habitats for the listed species 

in the Gulf of Mexico Outer Continental Shelf; however, it is possible that one or more of these 

species could be seen in the area of our operations. 

The Environmental Impact Analysis in “Section O” of this plan further discusses potential 

impacts and mitigation measures related to threatened and endangered species. 

I. ARCHAEOLOGICAL REPORT

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 is located in an area determined to have any historic or 

prehistoric cultural resources. As per NTL 2011-G01, an Archaeological Report is required. An 

Archaeological Assessment is submitted with this plan. 
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page F‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555(OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION F 

WASTES AND DISCHARGES INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.217 and 550.248) 

A. PROJECTED GENERATED WASTES

Wastes you will generate, treat and downhole dispose or discharge to the GOM, are included in 

this section as Attachment F-1. 
ATTACHMENT F‐1

Projected Downhole 

Disposal

Answer Yes or No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

N/A

No

N/A

No

No

No

No

No

N/A

No

N/A

Desalinization unit discharge Rejected water from water 

maker unit 123,390 bbls/well 57 bbls/hr/well Discharged thru shunt pipe to 25' below ocean surface

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

Waste you will generate, treat and downhole dispose or dicharge to the GOM (Table 1)

Please specify if the amount reported is a total or per well amount

N/A N/A

Well completion fluids* Completion fluid 2,500 bbls/well 35 bbls/hr/well

Sheen tested, checked for grease, and 

then, if acceptable per regulations, 

discharge overboard thru shunt line 25' 

belwo ocean surface

Well treatment fluids N/A N/A N/A N/A

Workover fluids N/A N/A

Cuttings wetted with synthetic-based fluid

Produced water N/A N/A N/A N/A

Blowout prevent fluid

Stackmagic 200/0/5% glycol 

based on 2% mixture with 

potable water

143 bbls/well 12 bbls/week with 

function test Discharged from BOP stack near mudline

Cooling water Seawater with no addition of 

chemicals 3,600,000 bbls/well 1,667 bbls/hr/well Discharged overboard.

Firewater N/A N/A N/A N/A

Excess cement at seafloor Cement slurry 1,050 bbls/well 22 bbls/hr/well Discharged at mudline during the 

conductor casing cement jobs

Ballast water Uncontaminated seawater used 

to maintain proper draft 19,710 bbls/well 9 bbls/hr/well Discharged overboard

Bilge Water Bilge water 216 bbls/well 0.1 bbl/hr/well Discharged overboard

Cuttings generated while using 

synthetic based drilling fluid 5,000 bbls/well 100 bbls/day/well

Processed by cuttings dryer equipment 

and then discharged thru shut pipe to 25' 

below surface of ocean

Deck Drainage Rig washing and rainwater 214 bbls/well 0.1 bbls/hr/well

Oily water is treated in oily water 

separator prior to discharging clean water 

overboard.

Domestic waste Gray water (galley, laundry, 

lavatory) 10,750 bbls/well 5 bbls/hr/well

Discharged overboard. Any associated 

food waste will be processed using an 

approved grinder

Sanitary waste Treated human body waste 

from toilets 10,750 bbls/well 5 bbls/hr/well USCG approved MSD

Projected Generated Waste

EXAMPLE: Cuttings wetted with synthetic based 

fluid

Cuttings generated while 

using synthetic based drilling 

fluid

X bbl/well X bbl/day /well Discharge overboard

Type of Waste Composition Projected Amount Discharge Rate Discharge Method

Projected Ocean Discharges

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

Will you be covered by an individual or general NPDES permit:

NOTE: IF YOU WILL NOT HAVE A TYPE OF WASTE, ENTER “NA” IN THE ROW.

General - NPDES ID GMG290388

* If "N/A", specify why there will be no "Well completion fluids".

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

Will you conduct well treatment, completion or workover? If yes, only fill in those associated with your activity

Will drilling occur? If yes, you should list muds and cuttings

Will humans be there? If yes, expect conventional waste

Cuttings wetted with water-based fluid Cuttings generated while using 

water-based drilling fluid 2,000 bbls/well 500 bbls/day/well

Water-based Drilling Fluids Water-based drilling fluids 40,000 bbls/well 10,000 

bbls/day/well

Discharged at mudline prior to BOP and 

riser installation

Discharged at mudline prior to BOP and 

riser installation

EXAMPLE: Sanitary waste water Sanitary waste from living 

quarters X bbl/well X bbl/hr /well Chlorinate & discharge overboard
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page G‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION G 

AIR EMISSIONS INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.218 and 550.249) 

A. SCREENING QUESTIONS

Screen Procedures for EP’s Yes No

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

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

following formulas: 

CT = 3400D2/3 for CO, and CT = 33.3D for the other air pollutants (where D = 

distance to shore in miles)? 

 X 

Do your emissions calculations include any emission reduction measures or modified 

emission factors? 

 X 

Are your proposed exploration activities located east of 87.5° 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 

A. EMISSIONS WORKSHEETS

Air emission worksheets have been prepared using Semisubmersible and DP Semisubmersible 

drilling units. Air emission worksheets are available upon request. Per NTL No. 2008-G04, if 

an operator answers “no” to all of the above screening questions from the appropriate table, 

provide the following: 

Summary information regarding the peak year emissions that will be generated by and associated 

with your Plan Emissions and Complex Total Emissions which is compiled on the summary 

form of the two sets of worksheets or in the format below. The entire set of worksheets does not 

need to be included. 

If drilled with a Semisubmersible: 

Air Pollutant Plan Emission 

Amounts1 (tons) 

Calculated Exemption 

Amounts2 (tons) 

Carbon Monoxide (CO) 159.69 46145.10 

Particular Matter (PM) 21.29 1665.00 

Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) 97.68 1665.00

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) 731.93 1665.00

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) 21.96 1665.00
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page G‐2

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

If drilled with a DP Semisubmersible: 

Air Pollutant Plan Emission 

Amounts1 (tons) 

Calculated Exemption 

Amounts2 (tons) 

Carbon Monoxide (CO) 367.21 46145.10 

Particular Matter (PM) 48.96 1665.00 

Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) 224.61 1665.00

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) 1683.03 1665.00

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) 50.49 1665.00

1

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

2

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

This information was calculated by: 

Terri Young 

EH&S Specialist II – Regulatory 

(731) 296-7456 

Terri.young@apachecorp.com
EXPLORATION PLAN (EP)

AIR QUALITY SCREENING CHECKLIST

OMB 

COMPANY APACHE DEEPWATER LLC

AREA Mississippi Canyon

BLOCK 554/555LEASE OCS-G 34444/34445PLATFORMWELL(S) Locations: MC 555 A, MC 554 A, MC 555 BCOMPANY CONTACT Terri YoungTELEPHONE NO. 713-296-7456REMARKS

Type of Rig Max HP

Drillship 61,800DP Semisubmersible 61,200 Semisubmersible 26,400 Submersible 6,064Jack-up 16,975Platform/Barge 6,635

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 1 of 8
EMISSIONS FACTORS

Fuel Usage Conversion Factors Natural Gas Turbines Natural Gas Engines Diesel Recip. Engine RE

SCF/hp-hr 9.524 SCF/hp-hr 7.143 GAL/hp-hr 0.0483 AP42 

Equipment/Emission Factors units PM SOx NOx VOC CO RENG Turbines gms/hp-hr 0.00247 1.3 0.01 0.83 AP42 3.2-NG 2-cycle lean gms/hp-hr 0.00185 10.9 0.43 1.5 AP42 NG 4-cycle lean gms/hp-hr 0.00185 11.8 0.72 1.6 AP42 NG 4-cycle rich gms/hp-hr 0.00185 10 0.14 8.6 AP42 Diesel Recip. < 600 hp. gms/hp-hr 1 1.468 14 1.12 3.03 AP42 Diesel Recip. > 600 hp. gms/hp-hr 0.32 1.468 11 0.33 2.4 AP42 Diesel Boiler lbs/bbl 0.084 2.42 0.84 0.008 0.21 AP42 1.3NG Heaters/Boilers/Burners lbs/mmscf 7.6 0.593 100 5.5 84 P42 1.4-1, 1NG Flares lbs/mmscf 0.593 71.4 60.3 388.5 AP42 1Liquid Flaring lbs/bbl 0.42 6.83 2 0.01 0.21 AP42 1.3-Tank Vapors lbs/bbl 0.03 E&P FFugitives lbs/hr/comp. 0.0005 API SGlycol Dehydrator Vent lbs/mmscf 6.6 La. DGas Venting lbs/scf 0.0034

Sulphur Content Source Value Units

Fuel Gas 3.33 ppm

Diesel Fuel 0.4 % weight

Produced Gas( Flares) 3.33 ppm

Produced Oil (Liquid Flaring) 1 % weight

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 2 of 8
EMISSIONS CALCULATIONS 1ST YEAR

COMPANY AREA BLOCK LEASE PLATFORM PHONE

APACHE DEEPWATER LLC Mississippi Canyon 554/555 OCS-G 34444/34445 713-296-7456

OPERATIONS EQUIPMENT RATING MAX. FUEL ACT. FUEL RUN TIME MAXIMUM POUNDS PER HOUR 

Diesel Engines HP GAL/HR GAL/D

Nat. Gas Engines HP SCF/HR SCF/D

Burners MMBTU/HR SCF/HR SCF/D HR/D DAYS PM SOx NOx VOC CO PM 

DRILLING PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 26400 1275.12 30602.88 24 94 18.61 85.36 639.65 19.19 139.56 20.99 

PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 BURNER diesel 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

AUXILIARY EQUIP<600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 6 26 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.11 VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 10 26 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.19 VESSELS>600hp diesel(tugs) 0 0 0.00 18 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

FACILITY DERRICK BARGE diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

INSTALLATION MATERIAL TUG diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 MISC. BPD SCF/HR COUNTTANK- 0 0 0 0.00 

DRILLING OIL BURN 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 WELL TEST GAS FLARE 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

2013 YEAR TOTAL 21.52 98.72 739.71 22.19 161.39 21.29 

EXEMPTION CALCULATION DISTANCE FROM LAND IN MILES 1665.00 

50.0

WELL

Locations: MC 555 A, MC 554 

A, MC 555 B Terri Young

CONTACT 

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 3 of 8
EMISSIONS CALCULATIONS 2ND YEAR

COMPANY AREA BLOCK LEASE PLATFORM PHONE REMARKS

APACHE DEEPWATER LLC Mississippi Canyon 554/555 OCS-G 34444/34445 713-296-7456 Total Days

OPERATIONS EQUIPMENT RATING MAX. FUEL ACT. FUEL RUN TIME MAXIMUM POUNDS PER HOUR 

Diesel Engines HP GAL/HR GAL/D

Nat. Gas Engines HP SCF/HR SCF/D

Burners MMBTU/HR SCF/HR SCF/D HR/D DAYS PM SOx NOx VOC CO PM 

DRILLING PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 26400 1275.12 30602.88 24.00 94.00 18.61 85.36 639.65 19.19 139.56 20.99 

PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 BURNER diesel 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

AUXILIARY EQUIP<600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 6.00 26.00 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.11 VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 10.00 26.00 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.19 VESSELS>600hp diesel(tugs) 0 0 0.00 18.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

FACILITY DERRICK BARGE diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

INSTALLATION MATERIAL TUG diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

MISC. BPD SCF/HR COUNTTANK- 0 0 0 0.00 

DRILLING OIL BURN 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

WELL TEST GAS FLARE 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

2014 YEAR TOTAL 21.52 98.72 739.71 22.19 161.39 21.29 

EXEMPTION 

CALCULATION

DISTANCE FROM LAND IN 

MILES 1665.00 

50.0

WELL

Locations: MC 555 A, MC 554 

A, MC 555 B

CONTACT

Terri Young

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 4 of 8
EMISSIONS CALCULATIONS 3RD YEAR

COMPANY AREA BLOCK LEASE PLATFORM PHONE REMARKS

APACHE DEEPWATER LLC Mississippi Canyon 554/555 OCS-G 34444/34445 713-296-7456 Total Days

OPERATIONS EQUIPMENT RATING MAX. FUEL ACT. FUEL RUN TIME MAXIMUM POUNDS PER HOUR 

Diesel Engines HP GAL/HR GAL/D

Nat. Gas Engines HP SCF/HR SCF/D

Burners MMBTU/HR SCF/HR SCF/D HR/D DAYS PM SOx NOx VOC CO PM 

DRILLING PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 26400 1275.12 30602.88 24 94 18.61 85.36 639.65 19.19 139.56 20.99 

PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 BURNER diesel 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 AUXILIARY EQUIP<600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 6 26 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.11 VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 10 26 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.19 VESSELS>600hp diesel(tugs) 0 0 0.00 18 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

FACILITY DERRICK BARGE diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

INSTALLATION MATERIAL TUG diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

MISC. BPD SCF/HR COUNTTANK- 0 0 0 0.00 

DRILLING OIL BURN 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

WELL TEST GAS FLARE 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

2015 YEAR TOTAL 21.52 98.72 739.71 22.19 161.39 21.29 

EXEMPTION 

CALCULATION

DISTANCE FROM LAND IN 

MILES 1665.00 

50.0

WELL

Locations: MC 555 A, MC 554 

A, MC 555 B

 CONTACTTerri Young

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 5 of 8
SUMMARY

COMPANY AREA BLOCK LEASE PLATFORM WELL

APACHE DEEPWATER LLC Mississippi Canyon 554/555 OCS-G 34444/34445 Locations: 

A, 

Emitted Substance

Year

 PM SOx NOx VOC 

2013 21.29 97.68 731.93 21.96 

2014 21.29 97.68 731.93 21.96 

2015 21.29 97.68 731.93 21.96 

Allowable 1665.00 1665.00 1665.00 1665.00 4

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 8 of 8
EXPLORATION PLAN (EP)

AIR QUALITY SCREENING CHECKLIST

OMB 

COMPANY APACHE DEEPWATER LLC

AREA Mississippi Canyon

BLOCK 554/555LEASE OCS-G 34444/34445PLATFORMWELL(S) Locations: MC 555 A, MC 554 A, MC 555 BCOMPANY CONTACT Terri YoungTELEPHONE NO. 713-296-7456REMARKS

Type of Rig Max HP

Drillship 61,800DP Semisubmersible 61,200 Semisubmersible 26,400 Submersible 6,064Jack-up 16,975Platform/Barge 6,635

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 1 of 8
EMISSIONS FACTORS

Fuel Usage Conversion Factors Natural Gas Turbines Natural Gas Engines Diesel Recip. Engine RE

SCF/hp-hr 9.524 SCF/hp-hr 7.143 GAL/hp-hr 0.0483 AP42 

Equipment/Emission Factors units PM SOx NOx VOC CO RENG Turbines gms/hp-hr 0.00247 1.3 0.01 0.83 AP42 3.2-NG 2-cycle lean gms/hp-hr 0.00185 10.9 0.43 1.5 AP42 NG 4-cycle lean gms/hp-hr 0.00185 11.8 0.72 1.6 AP42 NG 4-cycle rich gms/hp-hr 0.00185 10 0.14 8.6 AP42 Diesel Recip. < 600 hp. gms/hp-hr 1 1.468 14 1.12 3.03 AP42 Diesel Recip. > 600 hp. gms/hp-hr 0.32 1.468 11 0.33 2.4 AP42 Diesel Boiler lbs/bbl 0.084 2.42 0.84 0.008 0.21 AP42 1.3NG Heaters/Boilers/Burners lbs/mmscf 7.6 0.593 100 5.5 84 P42 1.4-1, 1NG Flares lbs/mmscf 0.593 71.4 60.3 388.5 AP42 1Liquid Flaring lbs/bbl 0.42 6.83 2 0.01 0.21 AP42 1.3-Tank Vapors lbs/bbl 0.03 E&P FFugitives lbs/hr/comp. 0.0005 API SGlycol Dehydrator Vent lbs/mmscf 6.6 La. DGas Venting lbs/scf 0.0034

Sulphur Content Source Value Units

Fuel Gas 3.33 ppm

Diesel Fuel 0.4 % weight

Produced Gas( Flares) 3.33 ppm

Produced Oil (Liquid Flaring) 1 % weight

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 2 of 8
EMISSIONS CALCULATIONS 1ST YEAR

COMPANY AREA BLOCK LEASE PLATFORM PHONE

APACHE DEEPWATER LLC Mississippi Canyon 554/555 OCS-G 34444/34445 713-296-7456

OPERATIONS EQUIPMENT RATING MAX. FUEL ACT. FUEL RUN TIME MAXIMUM POUNDS PER HOUR 

Diesel Engines HP GAL/HR GAL/D

Nat. Gas Engines HP SCF/HR SCF/D

Burners MMBTU/HR SCF/HR SCF/D HR/D DAYS PM SOx NOx VOC CO PM 

DRILLING PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 61200 2955.96 70943.04 24 94 43.14 197.89 1482.82 44.48 323.52 48.66 

PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 BURNER diesel 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 AUXILIARY EQUIP<600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 6 26 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.11 VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 10 26 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.19 VESSELS>600hp diesel(tugs) 0 0 0.00 18 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

FACILITY DERRICK BARGE diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 INSTALLATION MATERIAL TUG diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

MISC. BPD SCF/HR COUNTTANK- 0 0 0 0.00 

DRILLING OIL BURN 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 WELL TEST GAS FLARE 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

2013 YEAR TOTAL 46.05 211.24 1582.89 47.49 345.36 48.96 

EXEMPTION CALCULATION DISTANCE FROM LAND IN MILES 1665.00 

50.0

WELL

Locations: MC 555 A, MC 

554 A, MC 555 B Terri Young

CONTACT 

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 3 of 8
EMISSIONS CALCULATIONS 2ND YEAR

COMPANY AREA BLOCK LEASE PLATFORM PHONE REMARKS

APACHE DEEPWATER LLC Mississippi Canyon 554/555 OCS-G 34444/34445 713-296-7456 Total Days

OPERATIONS EQUIPMENT RATING MAX. FUEL ACT. FUEL RUN TIME MAXIMUM POUNDS PER HOUR 

Diesel Engines HP GAL/HR GAL/D

Nat. Gas Engines HP SCF/HR SCF/D

Burners MMBTU/HR SCF/HR SCF/D HR/D DAYS PM SOx NOx VOC CO PM 

DRILLING PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 61200 2955.96 70943.04 24.00 94.00 43.14 197.89 1482.82 44.48 323.52 48.66 

PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 BURNER diesel 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

AUXILIARY EQUIP<600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 6.00 26.00 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.11 VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 10.00 26.00 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.19 VESSELS>600hp diesel(tugs) 0 0 0.00 18.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

FACILITY DERRICK BARGE diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

INSTALLATION MATERIAL TUG diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

MISC. BPD SCF/HR COUNTTANK- 0 0 0 0.00 

DRILLING OIL BURN 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

WELL TEST GAS FLARE 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

2014 YEAR TOTAL 46.05 211.24 1582.89 47.49 345.36 48.96 

EXEMPTION 

CALCULATION

DISTANCE FROM LAND IN 

MILES 1665.00 

50.0

WELL

Locations: MC 555 A, MC 554 

A, MC 555 B

CONTACT

Terri Young

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 4 of 8
EMISSIONS CALCULATIONS 3RD YEAR

COMPANY AREA BLOCK LEASE PLATFORM PHONE REMARKS

APACHE DEEPWATER LLC Mississippi Canyon 554/555 OCS-G 34444/34445 713-296-7456 Total Days

OPERATIONS EQUIPMENT RATING MAX. FUEL ACT. FUEL RUN TIME MAXIMUM POUNDS PER HOUR 

Diesel Engines HP GAL/HR GAL/D

Nat. Gas Engines HP SCF/HR SCF/D

Burners MMBTU/HR SCF/HR SCF/D HR/D DAYS PM SOx NOx VOC CO PM 

DRILLING PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 61200 2955.96 70943.04 24 94 43.14 197.89 1482.82 44.48 323.52 48.66 

PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 PRIME MOVER>600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 BURNER diesel 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 AUXILIARY EQUIP<600hp diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 6 26 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.11 VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 2065 99.7395 2393.75 10 26 1.46 6.68 50.03 1.50 10.92 0.19 VESSELS>600hp diesel(tugs) 0 0 0.00 18 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

FACILITY DERRICK BARGE diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

INSTALLATION MATERIAL TUG diesel 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(crew) 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

VESSELS>600hp diesel(supply) 0 0 0.00 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

MISC. BPD SCF/HR COUNTTANK- 0 0 0 0.00 

DRILLING OIL BURN 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

WELL TEST GAS FLARE 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 

2015 YEAR TOTAL 46.05 211.24 1582.89 47.49 345.36 48.96 

EXEMPTION 

CALCULATION

DISTANCE FROM LAND IN 

MILES 1665.00 

50.0

WELL

Locations: MC 555 A, MC 554 

A, MC 555 B

 CONTACTTerri Young

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 5 of 8
SUMMARY

COMPANY AREA BLOCK LEASE PLATFORM WELL

APACHE DEEPWATER LLC Mississippi Canyon 554/555 OCS-G 34444/34445 Locations: MC 

A, MC 

Emitted Substance

Year

 PM SOx NOx VOC C

2013 48.96 224.61 1683.03 50.49 362014 48.96 224.61 1683.03 50.49 362015 48.96 224.61 1683.03 50.49 36

Allowable 1665.00 1665.00 1665.00 1665.00 461

FORM BOEM-0138 (December 2011 - Supersedes all previous versions of this form which may not be used). Page 8 of 8
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page H‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 March 1, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION H 

OIL SPILLS INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 250.219 and 250.250) 

A. OIL SPILL RESPONSE PLANNING

All proposed activities and facilities in this Joint Initial EP will be covered by the Regional OSRP (0-685) 

filed by Apache Deepwater LLC, (company number 03165) in accordance 30 CFR 254, NTL 2006-G21, 

NTL 2007-N04 and NTL 2008-G17 and includes information required by the Bureau of Ocean Energy 

Management (BOEM). The initial OSRP and further modifications have been approved as of April 18, 

2013. 

B. SPILL RESPONSE SITES

Primary Response Equipment Location Preplanned Staging Location 

Houma, Louisiana Houma, Louisiana 

Venice, Louisiana Venice, Louisiana 

C. OSRO INFORMATION

Apache Deepwater’s primary equipment provider is Clean Gulf Associates (CGA). The Clean Gulf 

Associate Services LLC (CGAS) will provide closest available personnel, as well as a CGAS supervisor 

to operate the equipment. 

In addition Apache Deepwater LLC has contracted with National Response Corporation (NRC), Marine 

Spill Response Corporation (MSRC) and Oil spill Response Limited (OSRL) for additional equipment 

and personnel. Apache Deepwater LLC is also a member of the Marine Well Containment Company 

(MWCC). This agreement allows access to the subsea well containment and well shut-in equipment. 

D. WORST-CASE SCENARIO COMPARISON

Category Regional OSRP - WCD EP - WCD 

Type of Activity Drilling Drilling 

Facility Location (Area/Block) MC 983 MC 554 

Facility Designation Well Location A Well Location A 

Distance to Nearest Shoreline (miles) 66 50 

Volume - Uncontrolled blowout - Total Volume 475,731 444,250 

Type of Oil(s) (crude, condensate, diesel) Crude Crude 

API Gravity 33 32 

Apache Deepwater LLC has determined that the worst-case scenario from the activities in this EP does 

not supersede the worst-case scenario from our Regional OSRP (0-685) approved April 18, 2013. 

Apache Deepwater LLC hereby certifies it 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 our Joint Initial EP. 

E. SPILL RESPONSE DISCUSSION FOR NEPA ANALYSIS

Spill Response Discussion is included in this section as Attachment H-1. 
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 444,250 barrels of crude oil with an API gravity of 32°. 

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 an 11% 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

Apache Deepwater LLC 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 14% or 

approximately 62,195 barrels of crude oil would be evaporated/dispersed within 24 hours, with 

approximately 382,055 barrels remaining. 

Spill Response MC 554, Well Location A Barrels of Oil 

WCD Volume 444,250 

Less 14% natural evaporation/dispersion 62,195 

Remaining volume 382,055 

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

storage equipment available to respond to a spill of approximately 382,055 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. 

Apache Deepwater LLC’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. Slick containment boom would be immediately 

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

to skim utilizing a variety of CGA, MSRC, and NRCC equipment, with a total derated skimming 

capacity of 935,182 barrels. Temporary storage associated with skimming equipment equals 

348,944 barrels. If additional storage is needed, an 80,000 barrel storage barge, an 83,937 barrel 

storage barge, and four 107,285 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, 

MSRC’s, and NRCC’s near shore and shallow water skimmers with a totaled derated skimming 

capacity of 230,695 barrels. Temporary storage associated with skimming equipment equals 

6,890 barrels. If additional storage is needed, an 86,948 barrel storage barge, a 25,000 barrel 

storage barge, three 20,000 barrel storage barges, and three 23,000 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. 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. Apache 

Deepwater LLC’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, Apache Deepwater LLC 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 82 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 

Apache Deepwater LLC 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 

T&T Koseq Skimming Systems 

• To the area of the thickest oil 

• Use as far off-shore as allowed 

• VOOs with a minimum of 2,000 bbls storage capacity 

• VOOs at least 200’ in length 

• VOOs with deck space of 100’ x 40’ to provide space for arms, tanks, and crane 

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 Apache Deepwater LLC’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 Apache Deepwater LLC’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 Apache Deepwater LLC’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 554, 

Well Location A 

50 miles from shore 

G34444 C59 Cameron, LA 

Vermilion, LA 

Terrebonne, LA 

Lafourche, LA 

Jefferson, LA 

Plaquemines, LA 

St. Bernard, LA 

Walton, FL 

Bay, FL 

1 

1 

2 

2 

1 

11 

2 

1 

1 
WCD Scenario– BASED ON WELL BLOWOUT DURING DRILLING OPERATIONS (50 miles from sh

382,055 bbls of crude oil (Volume considering natural weathering) API Gravity 32° 

FIGURE 2 – Equipment Response Time to MC 554, Well Location A 

Dispersants/Surveillance 

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

CGA

Basler 67T 2000 NA 2 Houma 1 1 0.7 

ASI 

DC 3 1200 NA 2 Houma 1 1 0.9 DC 3 1200 NA 2 Houma 1 1 0.9 Aero Commander NA NA 2 Houma 1 1 0.7 

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 8 Harvey 7 0 5 Boom Barge (CGA-300) 42” Auto Boom (25000’) NA NA 1 Tug 50 Crew 4 (Barge) 2 (Per Crew) Leeville 4 0 6 

T&T Marine (available through direct contract with CGA) 

Koseq Skimming Arms (5) 89145 10000 5 Utility 30 Galveston 24 24 1 Koseq Skimming Arms (3) 53487 6000 3 Utility 18 Leeville 24 24 2 Koseq Skimming Arms (2) 35658 4000 2 Utility 12 Venice 24 24 2 Koseq Skimming Arms (1) 17829 2000 1 Utility 6 Fourchon 24 24 1 

Recovered Oil Storage PreDetermined Staging EDRC Storage Capacity VOO Persons Required From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Hrs to GOM T

S

K-Sea Operating (available through contract with CGA) 

PACIFIC 996165 NA 80000 1 Tug 6 Venice 4 12 2 DBL 76 1212984 NA 83937 1 Tug 6 Venice 4 12 2 DBL 101 1119760 NA 107285 1 Tug 6 Venice 4 12 2 DBL 102 1146491 NA 107285 1 Tug 6 Venice 4 12 2 DBL 103 1170633 NA 107285 1 Tug 6 Venice 4 12 2 DBL 104 1193787 NA 107285 1 Tug 6 Venice 4 12 2 
Offshore Equipment 

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

MSRC 

Louisiana Responder LFF 100 Brush + OSRV 2,640’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 5,280’ 67” LAMOR 

18086 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 

MSRC 402 Offshore Barge 2 Crucial Disk 88/30 660’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 1,980‘ 67” LAMOR 

22244 40300 3 Tugs 6 Pascagoula 2 0 2 

Deep Blue Responder LFF 100 Brush + OSRV 6,600’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 660’ 67” LAMOR 

18086 4000 NA 14 Fourchon 2 0 1 

PSV – HOS Centerline 1 Crucial Disk 88/30 1,320’ EFC (cont inflate) 

11122 10626 NA 14 Fourchon 12 12 1 

PSV – HOS Strongline 1 Crucial Disk 88/30 1,320’ EFC (cont inflate) 

11122 10626 NA 14 Fourchon 12 12 1 

PSV – C-Freedom 1 LFF 100 Brush 1,320’ EFC (cont inflate) 

18086 6000 NA 14 Fourchon 12 12 1 

PSV – C-Leader 1 LFF 100 Brush 1,320’ EFC (cont inflate) 

18086 6000 NA 14 Fourchon 12 12 1 

PSV – Allysa Chouest 1 LFF 100 Brush 1,320’ EFC (cont inflate) 

18086 6000 NA 14 Fourchon 12 12 1 
Offshore Equipment 

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

MSRC 

MSRC Lightning 2 LORI Brush Pack 5000 50 3 Tugs 6 Tampa 2 0 2 Gulf Coast Responder Transrec 350 + OSRV 5,280’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 2,640’ 67” LAMOR 

10567 4000 NA 14 Lake Charles 2 0 1 

Texas Responder Transrec 350 + OSRV 4,620’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 3,300’ 67” LAMOR 

10567 4000 NA 14 Galveston 2 0 1 

MSRC 570 Offshore Barge 2 Crucial Disk 88/30 2,640’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 

22244 56900 3 Tugs 6 Galveston 2 0 2 

Southern Responder Transrec 350 + OSRV 4,290’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 2,970’ 67” LAMOR 

10567 4000 NA 14 Ingleside 2 0 1 

MSRC 403 Offshore Barge 1 Crucial Disk 88/30 660’ 44” Sea Sentry II Boom 660’ 67” LAMOR 

11122 40300 3 Tugs 6 Ingleside 2 0 2 

MSRC Quick Strike 2 LORI Brush Pack 5000 50 3 Tugs 6 Ingleside 2 0 1 

NRCC 

OSRV Energy (Marco Class XI AB) 24000 300 NA 6 Morgan City 4 2 0 OSRV Admiral (Marco Class XI AB) 24000 300 NA 6 Galveston 4 2 0 OSRB Defender (Marco Class XI AB) 24000 16500 1 Tug 6 Bayou La Batre 4 2 0 OSRB Valiant (Marco Class XI AB) 24000 20892 1 Tug 6 Aransas Pass 4 2 0 OSRB Valor (Marco Class XI AB) 24000 19000 1 Tug 6 Tampa 4 2 0 
Staging Area: Venice 

Offshore Equipment With 

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

T&T Marine (available through direct contract with CGA)

Aqua Guard Triton RBS (2) 45560 4000 2 Utility 12 Galveston 4 12 7.5 

CGA

FRU (1) + 100 bbl Tank (2) 4251 200 1 Utility 6 Morgan City 1 2 3 FRU (1) + 100 bbl Tank (1) 4251 100 1 Utility 6 Harvey 1 2 2 FRU (1) + 100 bbl Tank (2) 4251 200 1 Utility 6 Galveston 1 2 8 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 (4) 8502 400 2 Utility 12 Leeville 1 2 3.5 FRU (2) + 100 bbl Tank (4) 8502 400 2 Utility 12 Venice 1 2 0 
Staging Area: Venice 

Offshore Equipment 

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

MSRC 

WP 1 Skimmer (1) 3017 400 1 Utility 6 Ingleside 1 2 11 Stress I Skimmer (1) 15840 400 1 Utility 6 Ingleside 1 2 11 GT-185 Skimmer w Adaptor (1) 1371 400 1 Utility 6 Ingleside 1 2 11 Foilex 250 Skimmer (1) 3977 400 1 Utility 6 Ingleside 1 2 11 GT-185 Skimmer w Adaptor (2) 2742 400 2 Utility 12 Galveston 1 2 8 Walosep 4 Skimmer (1) 3017 400 1 Utility 6 Galveston 1 2 8 Queensboro Skimmer (1) 905 400 1 Utility 6 Galveston 1 2 8 Foilex 250 Skimmer (1) 3977 400 1 Utility 6 Galveston 1 2 8 Stress I Skimmer (1) 15840 400 1 Utility 6 Galveston 1 2 8 GT-185 Skimmer w Adaptor (1) 1371 400 1 Utility 6 Port Arthur 1 2 6 Queensboro Skimmer (4) 3620 400 4 Utility 24 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 Desmi Skimmer (1) 3017 400 1 Utility 6 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 Foilex 250 Skimmer (1) 3977 400 1 Utility 6 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 Stress I Skimmer (1) 15840 400 1 Utility 6 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 LFF 100 Brush Skimmer (1) 18086 400 1 Utility 6 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 Transrec 350 Skimmer (1) 21134 400 1 Utility 6 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 LFF 100 Brush Skimmer (2) 36172 400 2 Utility 12 Port Fourchon 1 2 4 Stress I Skimmer (1) 15840 400 1 Utility 6 Port Fourchon 1 2 4 Crucial Disk 88/30 Skimmer (1) 11122 400 1 Utility 6 Port Fourchon 1 2 4 GT-185 Skimmer w Adaptor (1) 1371 400 1 Utility 6 Fort Jackson 1 2 0.5 Walosep W4 Skimmer (1) 3017 400 1 Utility 6 Fort Jackson 1 2 0.5 Foilex 250 Skimmer (1) 3977 400 1 Utility 6 Fort Jackson 1 2 0.5 Stress I Skimmer (1) 15840 400 1 Utility 6 Fort Jackson 1 2 0.5 
Staging Area: Venice 

Offshore Equipment 

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

MSRC 

Desmi Ocean Skimmer (1) 3017 400 1 Utility 6 Fort Jackson 1 2 0.5 Queensboro Skimmer (1) 905 400 1 Utility 6 Fort Jackson 1 2 0.5 Foilex 200 Skimmer (1) 1989 400 1 Utility 6 Fort Jackson 1 2 0.5 GT-185 Skimmer w Adaptor (1) 1371 400 1 Utility 6 Baton Rouge 1 2 3 Stress I Skimmer (1) 15840 400 1 Utility 6 Pascagoula 1 2 4 GT-185 Skimmer (1) 1371 400 1 Utility 6 Pascagoula 1 2 4 AardVac Skimmer (1) 3840 400 1 Utility 6 Pascagoula 1 2 4 WP 1 Skimmer (1) 3017 400 1 Utility 6 Pascagoula 1 2 4 Queensboro Skimmer (1) 905 400 1 Utility 6 Pascagoula 1 2 4 Stress II Skimmer (1) 3017 400 1 Utility 6 Pascagoula 1 2 4 Stress I Skimmer (1) 15840 400 1 Utility 6 Tampa 1 2 11 GT-185 Skimmer w Adaptor (1) 1371 400 1 Utility 6 Tampa 1 2 11 WP 1 Skimmer (1) 3017 400 1 Utility 6 Tampa 1 2 11 
Staging Area: Venice 

Offshore Equipment Preferred 

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

CGA 

1000’ Hydro-Fire Boom NA NA 8 Utility 40 Harvey 1 4 2 

MSRC 

44” Sea Sentry II Boom (2860’) NA NA 6 Crew 12 Ingleside 1 2 11 44” Sea Sentry II Boom (4290’) NA NA 10 Crew 20 Galveston 1 2 8 44” Sea Sentry II Boom (6679’) NA NA 10 Crew 20 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 44” Sea Sentry II Boom (1980’) NA NA 6 Crew 12 Fort Jackson 1 2 0.5 44” Sea Sentry II Boom (3190’) NA NA 10 Crew 20 Pascagoula 1 2 4 2000’ Hydro-Fire Boom NA NA 16 Utility 80 Lake Charles 1 4 5.5 

NRCC 

42” Auto Boom (200’) NA NA 3 Crew 6 Belle Chasse 1 2 1.5 42” Auto Boom (1000’) NA NA 3 Crew 6 Bayou La Batre 1 2 4 42” Auto Boom (2100’) NA NA 6 Crew 12 Morgan City 1 2 3 42” Auto Boom (2000’) NA NA 6 Crew 12 Houston 1 2 7 42” Auto Boom (2200’) NA NA 6 Crew 12 Galveston 1 2 8 42” Auto Boom (2700’) NA NA 6 Crew 12 Aransas Pass 1 2 10 42” Auto Boom (4000’) NA NA 8 Crew 16 Corpus Christi 1 2 10 1000’ Hydro-Fire Boom NA NA 8 Utility 40 Morgan City 1 4 3 
Nearshore Response 

Nearshore Equipment 

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

CGA 

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

K-Sea Operating (Available through contract with CGA) 

DBL 81 1132231 NA 86948 1 Tug 6 Venice 4 12 4 

Enterprise Marine Services LLC (Available through contract with CGA) 

CTCo 2603 NA 25000 1 Tug 6 Amelia 4 12 4 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 CTCo 2607 NA 23000 1 Tug 6 Amelia 4 12 4 CTCo 2608 NA 23000 1 Tug 6 Amelia 4 12 4 CTCo 2609 NA 23000 1 Tug 6 Amelia 4 12 4 

Staging Area: Venice 

Nearshore Equipment With Staging EDRC Storage Capacity VOO Persons Req. From Hrs to Procure Hrs to Load Out Travel to Staging 

CGA 

SWS Egmopol 3000 100 NA 3 Galveston 1 2 8 SWS Egmopol 3000 100 NA 3 Houma 1 2 3 SWS Marco 3588 34 NA 3 Venice 1 2 0 SWS Marco 3588 34 NA 3 Houma 1 2 3 SWS Marco 3588 20 NA 3 Lake Charles 1 2 5.5 
Nearshore Equipment Preferred 

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

Stag

NRCC 

4-Band Rope Mop Skimmer 1509 100 1 Utility 3 Morgan City, LA 2 4 3 4-Band Rope Mop Skimmer 1509 100 1 Utility 3 Morgan City, LA 2 4 3 Vikoma Cascade Skimmer 5520 100 1 Utility 3 Sulphur, LA 2 4 5 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Mobile, AL 2 4 4 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Fort Lauderdale, FL 2 4 13.VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Fort Lauderdale, FL 2 4 13.VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Tampa, FL 2 4 11 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Panama City Beach, FL 2 4 7 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Morgan City, LA 2 4 3 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Belle Chasse, LA 2 4 1.5 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Sulphur, LA 2 4 5 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Sulphur, LA 2 4 5 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Southaven, MS 2 4 7 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 La Porte, TX 2 4 7 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Port Arthur, TX 2 4 6 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Corpus Christi, TX 2 4 10 VTU w/weir head skimmer 6857 24 1 Utility 3 Baytown, TX 2 4 6.5 
Staging Area: Venice 

Nearshore Equipment With 

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

MSRC 

GT 185 with Adaptor (1) + Storage Bladder 1371 500 1 Utility 3 Port Arthur 2 .5 6.5 GT 185 with Adaptor (1) + Storage Bladder 1371 500 1 Utility 3 Baton Rouge 2 .5 3.5 GT 185 with Adaptor (1) + Storage Bladder 1371 500 1 Utility 3 Pascagoula 2 .5 4 Foilex 250 Skimmer+ Storage Bladder 3977 500 1 Crew 3 Fort Jackson 2 .5 .5 Foilex 250 Skimmer+ Storage Bladder 3977 500 1 Crew 3 Lake Charles 2 .5 5.5 Foilex 250 Skimmer+ Storage Bladder 3977 500 1 Crew 3 Galveston 2 .5 8 Foilex 250 Skimmer+ Storage Bladder 3977 500 1 Crew 3 Ingleside 2 .5 11 WP-1 Skimmer+ Storage Bladder 3017 500 1 Utility 3 Ingleside 2 .5 11 WP-1 Skimmer+ Storage Bladder 3017 500 1 Utility 3 Pascagoula 2 .5 4 Aardvac 800 Skimmer+ Storage Bladder 3840 500 NA 3 Pascagoula 2 .5 4 
Shoreline Protection 

Staging Area: Venice 

Shoreline 

Protection Boom VOO Persons Req. Storage/Warehouse Location Hrs to Procure Hrs to Loadout Travel to Venice Travel to Deployment Site 

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 (Warehouse) 2 2 2 2 

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

D

CGA 

Beach Boom (2000’) NA NA NA 6 Galveston 1 2 8 Beach Boom (1000’) NA NA NA 4 Ingleside 1 2 11 Beach Boom (2000’) NA NA NA 6 Pascagoula 1 2 4 
Staging Area: Venice 

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

D

CGA 

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

Response Asset Total 

Offshore EDRC 935,182 Offshore Recovered Oil Capacity 942,021 Nearshore / Shallow Water EDRC 230,695 Nearshore / Shallow Water Recovered Oil Capacity 247,838 
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page I‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION I 

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.221 and 550.252) 

A. MONITORNING SYSTEMS

There are no environmental monitoring systems currently in place or planned for the proposed 

activities. 

B. INCIDENTAL TAKES

There is no reason to believe that any of the endangered species or marine mammals as listed in 

the ESA will be incidentally taken as a result of the operations proposed under this plan. 

To date, it has been documented that the use of explosives and/or seismic devices can affect 

marine life. Operations proposed in this plan will not be utilizing either of these devices. 

C. FLOWER GARDEN BANKS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 is not located in the Flower Garden Banks National Marine 

sanctuary; therefore, the requested information is not required for this EP. 
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page J‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION J 

LEASE STIPULATIONS INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.222 and 550.253) 

The Lease Stipulations Information for the exploration activities of this EP are subject to the 

following for Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555. 

Military Warning Area (MWA)

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 is not located within Military Warning Area (MWA). 

Marine Protected Species

The Marine Protected Species Stipulation is meant to reduce the potential taking of marine 

protected species. Apache Deepwater will operate in accordance with NTL 2007-G04, to 

minimize the risk of vessel strikes to protected species and report observations of injured or dead 

protected species and the prevention of intentional and/or accidental introduction of debris into 

the marine environment. 
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page K‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION K 

ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION MEASURES INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.213 and 550.243) 

A. MEASURES TAKEN TO AVOID, MINIMIZE AND MITIGATE IMPACTS

Not applicable for the operations proposed in this EP. 

B. INCIDENTAL TAKES

Apache Deepwater will adhere to the requirements set forth in the following documents, as 

applicable, to avoid or minimize impacts to any of the species listed in the ESA as a result of the 

operations conducted herein: 

 NTL 2012-JOINT-G01: Vessel Strike Avoidance and Injured/Dead Protected Species 

Reporting 

 NTL 2012-BSEE-G01: Marine Trash and Debris Awareness and Elimination 

 NTL 2012-JOINT-G02: Implementation of Seismic Survey Mitigation Measures and 

Protected Species Observer Program 
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page L‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION L 

SUPPORT VESSELS AND AIRCRAFT INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.224 and 550.257) 

A. GENERAL

The most practical, direct route from the shorebase as permitted by weather and traffic 

conditions will be utilized. 

Type Maximum Fuel 

Tank Capacity 

Maximum 

Number in Area 

at Any Time 

Trip Frequency 

or Duration 

Crew Boat 27,216 gals 1 2 Per week 

Marine Supply Vessel (MSV) 379,615 gals 2 2 Per week 

Anchor Handling Vessel (AHV) 306,170 gals 2 7 days total 

Helicopters 560 gals 1 6 Per week 

B. DIESEL OIL SUPPLY VESSELS

Size of Fuel Supply Vessel Capacity of Fuel 

Supply Vessel 

Frequency of 

Fuel Transfers 

Route Fuel Supply 

Vessel Will Take 

Marine Supply Vessel (MSV) 379,615 gals 1 per week Direct to Fourchon 

*Please note the actual vessels have not yet been contracted. 

C. DRILLING FLUIDS TRANSPORTATION

N/A 

D. SOLID AND LIQUID WASTE TRANSPORTATION

“Wastes You Will Transport and/or Dispose of Onshore” is included in this section as 

Attachment L-1. 

E. VICINITY MAP

A vicinity map, included in this section as Attachment L-2, is showing the location of the 

activities proposed herein relative to the shoreline with the distance of the proposed activities 

from the shoreline and the primary route(s) of the support vessels and aircraft that will be used 

when traveling between the onshore support facilities and the drilling unit. 
ATTACHMENT L‐1

Trash & debris (NonRecyclables) Non-hazardous trash and debris, non-recyclables

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

Projected Generated Waste Solid and Liquid Wastes Transportation W

Type of Waste Composition Transport Method Name/Location of Facility 

Below deck storage tanks on offshore support 

vessels

Newport Environmental 

Services Inc., Golden 

Meadow, LA

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

Produced sand N/A

Will you have additional wastes that are not permitted for discharge? If yes, fill in the appropriate row

EXAMPLE: Trash & debris 

(Recyclables)

Plastic, Paper, Aluminum, 

Glass Storage bins on supply boat or crew boat Waste Management 7170 Brannon Road, Sulphur, LA 

Transport in DOT containers on supply boats to 

shorebase

Progressive Waste 

Solutions of LA

Houma, LA

67

Chemical product wastes Paint, solvent, unused chemicals, etc. Transport in DOT containers on supply boats to shorebase Safety Kleen System Baton Rouge, LA 13

Used Oil Used oil & glycol Transport in DOT containers on supply boats to shorebase Safety Kleen System Baton Rouge, LA 40

NOTE: IF YOU WILL NOT HAVE A TYPE OF WASTE, ENTER “NA” IN THE ROW.

Wash Water N/A N/A N/A 

Wastes you will transport and/or dispose of onshore (Table 2)

Synthetic-based drilling fluid or mud Internal olefin

Cuttings wetted with Syntheticbased fluid Cuttings generated while using synthetic based mud *In the event that cuttings drying equipment fails, SBM cuttings will be transported in cuttings box containers on supply boats to shorebase. US Solutions Port Fourchon, LA 5,0

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

EXAMPLE: Synthetic-based 

drilling fluid or mud Internal olefin, ester

Below deck storage tanks on offshore support 

vessels

M-I Swaco

Port Fourchon, LA 14

Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page M‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION M 

ONSHORE SUPPORT FACILITIES INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.225 and 550.258) 

A. GENERAL

Apache Deepwater will utilize the following onshore facility to provide supply and service for 

the proposed operations. 

Name of Shorebase Location Existing/New/Modified 

Martin Fuel Docks Fourchon, LA Existing 

B. SUPPORT BASE CONSTRUCTION OR EXPANSION

There will be no new construction of an onshore support base, nor will we expand the existing 

shorebase as a result of the operations proposed in this Exploration Plan. 

C. WASTE DISPOSAL

Information regarding Waste Disposal on the onshore facilities that will be used to store and 

dispose of any solid and liquid wastes generated by the proposed activities is included in 

Attachment L-1. 
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page N‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION N 

COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT (CZM) INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.213 and 550.243) 

Under the direction of the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), the states of Alabama, 

Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas developed Coastal Zone Management Programs 

(CZMP) to allow for the supervision of the significant land and water use activities that take 

place within or that could significantly impact their respective coastal zones. 

Any new or unusual technology will/will not be used by Apache Deepwater LLC in regards 

to spill control, cleanup, prevention, etc. 

Relevant enforceable policies were considered in certifying consistency for Louisiana and 

Mississippi. 

A certificate of Coastal Zone Management Consistency for the state of Louisiana & Mississippi 

is enclosed as Attachment N-1. 
As authorized by the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), The State of Mississippi 

developed a Coastal Management Program (CMP) to allow for the review of proposed Federal 

license and permit activities affecting any coastal use or resources, in or outside of the 

Mississippi Coastal Zone. 

The OCS related oil and gas exploratory and development activities having potential impact on 

the Mississippi Coastal Zone are based on the location of the proposed facilities, access to those 

sites, best practical techniques for drilling locations, drilling equipment guidelines for the 

prevention of adverse environmental effects, effective environmental protection, emergency 

plans and contingency plans. 

Below are goals identified by the State of Mississippi and our comments and/or corresponding 

cross references: 

Mississippi Coastal Program (MCP) Enforceable Policies 

Goal 1: To provide for reasonable industrial expansion in the coastal area and to ensure 

the efficient utilization of waterfront industrial sites so that suitable sites are conserved for 

water dependent industry. 

The activities proposed in this plan are based out of Louisiana. The activities will not provide 

any industrial expansion on the coastal area of Mississippi. Therefore Mississippi coastal areas 

will be conserved for water dependent industry. 

Goal 2: To favor the preservation of the coastal wetlands and ecosystems, except where a 

specific alteration of specific coastal wetlands would serve a higher public interest in 

compliance with the public purposes of the public trust in which the coastal wetlands are 

held. 

Goal 2 is addressed in Section O - Environmental Impact Analysis. The nearest proposed 

activities will be __ miles from the Mississippi coast. 

Goal 3: To protect, propagate and conserve the state’s seafood and aquatic life in 

connection with the revitalization of the seafood industry of the State of Mississippi. 

Goal 3 is addressed in Section O - Environmental Impact Analysis. Little impact to the seafood 

industry can be expected due to the activities occurring 50 miles from the Louisiana coast. 

Goal 4: To conserve the air and waters of the state, and to protect, maintain and improve 

the quality thereof for public use, for the propagation of wildlife, fish and aquatic life, and 

for domestic, agricultural, industrial, recreational and other legitimate beneficial uses. 

Goal 4 is addressed in Section B - General Information, Section G - Air Emissions Information, 

and Section O - Environmental Impact Analysis. 
Goal 5: To put to beneficial use to the fullest extent of which they are capable the water 

resources of the state, and to prevent the waste, unreasonable use, or unreasonable method 

of use of water. 

The activities proposed in this plan are based in Louisiana. As such, Mississippi’s water 

resources should not be impacted by the proposed activities. Activities occurring at the sites in 

the OCS will be conducted in accordance with Regional Oil Spill Response Plan approved April 

18, 2013 referenced in Section H of this plan. 

Goal 6: To preserve the state’s historical and archaeological resources, to prevent their 

destruction, and to enhance these resources wherever possible. 

Goal 6 is addressed in Section B - General Information and Section O - Environmental Impact 

Analysis. 

Goal 7: To encourage the preservation of natural scenic qualities in the coastal area.

Goal 7 is addressed in Section F - Waste Discharges Information, Section G - Air Emissions 

Information, Section H - Oil Spill Information and Section O - Environmental Impact Analysis. 

Goal 8: To assist local governments in the provision of public facilities services in a manner 

consistent with the coastal program. 

As the proposed activities are located 50 miles from the Louisiana coast and are based out of a 

shorebase in Fourchon, LA, local governments should not be affected. 

Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page O‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION O 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS (EIA) 

(30 CFR 550.227 and 550.261) 

The Environmental Impact Analysis has been prepared and is included as Attachment O-1. 
Apache Deepwater LLC (Apache)

Joint Initial Exploration Plan

Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555

OCS-G 34444 and 34445

(A) IMPACT PRODUCING FACTORS

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS WORKSHEET

Environment

Resources

Impact Producing Factors (IPFs)

Categories and Examples

Refer to recent GOM OCS Lease Sale EIS for a more complete list of IPFs

Emissions 

(air, noise, 

light, etc.)

Effluents 

(muds, 

cutting, other 

discharges to 

the water 

column or 

seafloor)

Physical 

disturbances to the 

seafloor (rig or 

anchor 

emplacements, 

etc.)

Wastes sent 

to shore for 

treatment 

or disposal

Accidents 

(e.g., oil 

spills, 

chemical 

spills, H2S 

releases)

Discarded

Trash &

Debris

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)

Benthic communities (4)

Water quality X X X

Fisheries X X X

Marine Mammals X(8) X X(8) X

Sea Turtles X(8) X X(8) X

Air quality X(9)

Shipwreck sites (known or 

potential)

(7)

Prehistoric archaeological sites X(7)

Vicinity of Offshore Location

Essential fish habitat X X X(6)

Marine and pelagic birds X X X

Public health and safety (5)

Coastal and Onshore

Beaches X(6) X

Wetlands X(6)

Shore birds and coastal nesting 

birds

X(6) X

Coastal wildlife refuges X

Wilderness areas X
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:

o 4-mile zone of the Flower Garden Banks, or the 3-mile zone of Stetson Bank;

o 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;

o Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) criteria of 500 ft. from any no-activity zone; or

o Proximity of any submarine bank (500 ft. buffer zone) with relief greater than 2 meters that is not protected 

by the Topographic Features 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 BOEM 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 BOEM 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 a 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.
(B) ANALYSIS

Site-Specific at Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555

Proposed operations consist of the drilling, completion and installation of subsea wellheads for 3 

locations (MC 554 A, MC 555 A, MC 555B). 

Operations will be conducted with either a Semisubmersible or DP Semisubmersible rig. 

1. Designated Topographic Features

Potential IPFs on topographic features include physical disturbances to the seafloor, effluents, 

and accidents. 

Physical disturbances to the seafloor: Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are 56 miles 

from the closest designated Topographic Features Stipulation Block (Sackett Bank); therefore, 

no adverse impacts are expected. 

Effluents: Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are 56 miles from the closest designated 

Topographic Features Stipulation Block (Sackett Bank); therefore, no adverse impacts are

expected. 

Accidents: It is unlikely that an accidental surface or subsurface spill would occur from the 

proposed activities (refer to statistics in Item 5, Water Quality). Oil spills cause damage to 

benthic organisms only if the oil contacts the organisms. Oil from a surface spill can be driven 

into the water column; measurable amounts have been documented down to a 10 m depth. At 

this depth, the oil is found only at concentrations several orders of magnitude lower than the 

amount shown to have an effect on corals. Because the crests of topographic features in the 

Northern Gulf of Mexico are found below 10 m, no oil from a surface spill could reach their 

sessile biota. Oil from a subsurface spill is not applicable due to the distance of these blocks from 

a topographic area. The activities proposed in this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional 

OSRP (refer to information submitted in SectionH). 

There are no other IPFs (including emissions and wastes sent to shore for disposal) from the 

proposed activities, which could impact topographic features.

2. Pinnacle Trend Area Live Bottoms

Potential IPFs on pinnacle trend area live bottoms include physical disturbances to the seafloor, 

effluents, and accidents. 

Physical disturbances to the seafloor: Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are 55 miles 

from the closest live bottom (pinnacle trend) area; therefore, no adverse impacts are expected. 
Effluents: Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are 55 miles from the closest live bottom 

(pinnacle trend) area; therefore, no adverse impacts are expected. 

Accidents: It is unlikely that an accidental surface or subsurface spill would occur from the 

proposed activities (refer to statistics in Item 5, Water Quality). Oil spills have the potential to 

foul benthic communities and cause lethal and sublethal effects on live bottom organisms. Oil 

from a surface spill can be driven into the water column; measurable amounts have been

documented down to a 10 m depth. At this depth, the oil is found only at concentrations several 

orders of magnitude lower than the amount shown to have an effect on marine organisms. Oil 

from a subsurface spill is not applicable due to the distance of these blocks from a live bottom 

(pinnacle trend) area. The activities proposed in this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional 

OSRP (refer to information submitted in SectionH). 

There are no other IPFs (including emissions and wastes sent to shore for disposal) from the 

proposed activities which could impact a live bottom (pinnacle trend) area. 

3. Eastern Gulf Live Bottoms

Potential IPFs on Eastern Gulf live bottoms include physical disturbances to the seafloor, 

effluents, and accidents.

Physical disturbances to the seafloor: Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are not located 

in an area characterized by the existence of live bottoms, and this lease does not contain a LiveBottom Stipulation requiring a photo documentation survey and survey report.

Effluents: Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are not located in an area characterized by 

the existence of live bottoms; therefore, no adverse impacts are expected. 

Accidents: It is unlikely that an accidental surface or subsurface spill would occur from the 

proposed activities (refer to statistics in Item 5, Water Quality). Oil spills cause damage to live 

bottom organisms only if the oil contacts the organisms. Oil from a surface spill can be driven 

into the water column; measurable amounts have been documented down to a 10 m depth. At 

this depth, the oil is found only at concentrations several orders of magnitude lower than the 

amount shown to have an effect on marine invertebrates. Oil from a subsurface spill is not 

applicable due to the distance of these blocks from a live bottom area. The activities proposed in 

this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional OSRP (refer to information submitted in Section

H). 

There are no other IPFs (including emissions and wastes sent to shore for disposal) from the 

proposed activities which could impact an Eastern Gulf live bottom area. 
4. Benthic Communities 

Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are located in water depths 984 feet (300 meters) or 

greater. IPFs that could result in impacts to benthic communities from the proposed activities 

include physical disturbances to the seafloor. 

Physical disturbances to the seafloor: Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are

approximately 80 miles from a known benthic community site (BenthicMississippi Canyon 

Block 969), listed in NTL 2009-G40. This Joint Initial Exploration Plan submittal includes the 

required maps, analyses, and statement(s). The proposed activities will be conducted in

accordance with NTL 2009-G40, which will ensure that features or areas that could support 

high-density benthic communities will not be impacted.

If the DP Semisubmersible rig option is used for the proposed activities, then only an

insignificant amount of seafloor will be disturbed. In the event that a DP Semisubmersible is 

used, physical disturbances to the seafloor will be minimized and Apache’s proposed operations 

in Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 would not cause impacts to benthic communities.

There are no other IPFs (including emissions, effluents, wastes sent to shore for disposal, or 

accidents) from the proposed activities which could impact benthic communities.

5. Water Quality

IPFs that could result in water quality degradation from the proposed operations in Mississippi 

Canyon Block 554 and 555 include disturbances to the seafloor, effluents and accidents. 

Physical disturbances to the seafloor: Bottom area disturbances resulting from the

emplacement of drill rigs, the drilling of wells and the installation of platforms and pipelines 

would increase water-column turbidity and re-suspension of any accumulated pollutants, such as 

trace metals and excess nutrients. This would cause short-lived impacts on water quality

conditions in the immediate vicinity of the emplacement operations.

Effluents: Levels of contaminants in drilling muds and cuttings and produced water discharges, 

discharge-rate restrictions and monitoring and toxicity testing are regulated by the EPA NPDES 

permit, thereby eliminating many significant biological or ecological effects. Operational

discharges are not expected to cause significant adverse impacts to water quality.

Accidents: Oil spills have the potential to alter offshore water quality; however, it is unlikely 

that an accidental surface or subsurface spill would occur from the proposed activities. Between 

1980 and 2000, OCS operations produced 4.7 billion barrels of oil and spilled only 0.001 percent 

of this oil, or 1 bbl for every 81,000 bbl produced. The spill risk related to a diesel spill from 

drilling operations is even less. Between 1976 and 1985, (years for which data were collected), 

there were 80 reported diesel spills greater than one barrel associated with drilling activities. 
Considering that there were 11,944 wells drilled, this is a 0.7 percent probability of an

occurrence. If a spill were to occur, the water quality of marine waters would be temporarily 

affected by the dissolved components and small oil droplets. Dispersion by currents and 

microbial degradation would remove the oil from the water column and dilute the constituents to 

background levels. Historically, changes in offshore water quality from oil spills have only been 

detected during the life of the spill and up to several months afterwards. Most of the components 

of oil are insoluble in water and therefore float. The activities proposed in this plan will be 

covered by Apache’s Regional Oil Spill Response Plan (refer to information submitted in

Section H).

There are no other IPFs (including emissions, physical disturbances to the seafloor, and wastes 

sent to shore for disposal) from the proposed activities which could cause impacts to water 

quality.

6. Fisheries

IPFs that could cause impacts to fisheries as a result of the proposed operations in Mississippi 

Canyon Block 554 and 555 include physical disturbances to the seafloor, effluents and accidents. 

Physical disturbances to the seafloor: The emplacement of a structure or drilling rig results in 

minimal loss of bottom trawling area to commercial fishermen. Pipelines cause gear conflicts 

which result in losses of trawls and shrimp catch, business downtime and vessel damage. Most 

financial losses from gear conflicts are covered by the Fishermen’s Contingency Fund (FCF). 

The emplacement and removal of facilities are not expected to cause significant adverse impacts 

to fisheries.

Effluents: Effluents such as drilling fluids and cuttings discharges contain components and 

properties which are detrimental to fishery resources. Moderate petroleum and metal

contamination of sediments and the water column can occur out to several hundred meters downcurrent from the discharge point. Offshore discharges are expected to disperse and dilute to very 

near background levels in the water column or on the seafloor within 3,000 m of the discharge 

point, and are expected to have negligible effect on fisheries.

Accidents: An accidental oil spill has the potential to cause some detrimental effects on 

fisheries; however, it is unlikely that such an event would occur from the proposed activities 

(refer to Item 5, Water Quality). The effects of oil on mobile adult finfish or shellfish would 

likely be sublethal and the extent of damage would be reduced to the capacity of adult fish and 

shellfish to avoid the spill, to metabolize hydrocarbons, and to excrete both metabolites and 

parent compounds. The activities proposed in this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional 

OSRP (refer to information submitted in SectionH). 

There are no IPFs from emissions, or wastes sent to shore for disposal from the proposed 

activities which could cause impacts to fisheries.
7. Marine Mammals

GulfCet II studies revealed that cetaceans of the continental shelf and shelf-edge were almost 

exclusively bottlenose dolphin and Atlantic spotted dolphin. Squid eaters, including dwarf and 

pygmy killer whale, Risso’s dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, and Cuvier’s beaked whale,

occurred most frequently along the upper slope in areas outside of anticyclones. IPFs that could 

cause impacts to marine mammals as a result of the proposed operations in Mississippi Canyon 

Block 554 and 555 include emissions, effluents, discarded trash and debris, and accidents. 

Emissions: Noises from drilling activities, support vessels and helicopters may elicit a startle

reaction from marine mammals. This reaction may lead to disruption of marine mammals’ 

normal activities. Stress may make them more vulnerable to parasites, disease, environmental 

contaminants, and/or predation (Majors and Myrick, 1990). There is little conclusive evidence 

for long-term displacements and population trends for marine mammals relative to noise.

Effluents: Drilling fluids and cuttings discharges contain components which may be detrimental 

to marine mammals. Most operational discharges are diluted and dispersed upon release. Any 

potential impact from drilling fluids would be indirect, either as a result of impacts on prey items 

or possibly through ingestion in the food chain (API, 1989). 

Discarded trash and debris: Both entanglement in, and ingestion of debris have caused the 

death or serious injury of marine mammals (Laist, 1997; MMC, 1999). The limited amount of 

marine debris, if any, resulting from the proposed activities is not expected to substantially harm 

marine mammals. Operators are prohibited from deliberately discharging debris as mandated by 

MARPOL-Annex V and the Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act, and regulations 

imposed by various agencies including the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Apache will operate in accordance with the regulations and also avoid accidental loss of solid 

waste items by maintaining waste management plans, manifesting trash sent to shore, and using 

special precautions such as covering outside trash bins to prevent accidental loss of solid waste. 

Special caution will be exercised when handling and disposing of small items and packaging 

materials, particularly those made of non-biodegradable, environmentally persistent materials 

such as plastic or glass. 

Informational placards will be posted on all vessels and facilities having sleeping or food 

preparation capabilities. All offshore personnel, including contractors and other support 

services-related personnel (e.g. helicopter pilots, vessel captains and boat crews) will be

indoctrinated on waste procedures, and will view the video (or Microsoft PowerPoint

presentation), “Think About It” (previously “All Washed Up: The Beach Litter Problem”). 

Thereafter, all personnel will view the marine trash and debris training video annually. Offshore 

personnel will also receive an explanation from Apache management or the designated lease 
operator management that emphasizes their commitment to waste management in accordance 

with NTL No. 2012-G01. 

Accidents: Collisions between support vessels and cetaceans would be unusual events, however 

should one occur, death or injury to marine mammals is possible. Contract vessel operators can 

avoid marine mammals and reduce potential deaths by maintaining a vigilant watch for marine 

mammals and maintaining a safe distance when they are sighted. Vessel crews should use a 

reference guide to help identify the twenty-eight species of whales and dolphins, and the single 

species of manatee that may be encountered in the Gulf of Mexico OCS. Vessel crews must 

report sightings of any injured or dead protected marine mammal species immediately,

regardless of whether the injury or death is caused by their vessel, to the Marine Mammal and 

Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline at (888) 404-3922, the NMFS Southeast Regional Office at (727) 

824-5312, or the Marine Mammal Stranding Network at (305) 862-2850. In addition, if the 

injury or death was caused by a collision with a contract vessel, the BOEM must be notified 

within 24 hours of the strike by email to protectedspecies@boemre.gov. If the vessel is the 

responsible party, it is required to remain available to assist the respective salvage and stranding 

network as needed. 

Oil spills have the potential to cause sublethal oil-related injuries and spill-related deaths to 

marine mammals. However, it is unlikely that an accidental oil spill would occur from the 

proposed activities (refer to Item 5, Water Quality). Oil spill response activities may increase 

vessel traffic in the area, which could add to changes in cetacean behavior and/or distribution, 

thereby causing additional stress to the animals. The effect of oil dispersants on cetaceans is not 

known. The acute toxicity of oil dispersant chemicals included in Apache’s OSRP is considered 

to be low when compared with the constituents and fractions of crude oils and diesel products. 

The activities proposed in this plan will be covered by Apache’s OSRP (refer to information 

submitted in accordance with SectionH).

There are no other IPFs (including physical disturbances to the seafloor) from the proposed 

activities which could impact marine mammals.

8. Sea Turtles

IPFs that could cause impacts to sea turtles as a result of the proposed operations include 

emissions, effluents, discarded trash and debris, and accidents. GulfCet II studies sighted most 

loggerhead, Kemp’s ridley and leatherback sea turtles over shelf waters. Historically these 

species have been sighted up to the shelf’s edge. They appear to be more abundant east of the 

Mississippi River than they are west of the river (Fritts et al., 1983b; Lohoefener et al., 1990).

Deep waters may be used by all species as a transitory habitat.

Emissions: Noise from drilling activities, support vessels, and helicopters may elicit a startle 

reaction from sea turtles, but this is a temporary disturbance.
Effluents: Drilling fluids and cuttings discharges are not known to be lethal to sea turtles. Most 

operational discharges are diluted and dispersed upon release. Any potential impact from

drilling fluids would be indirect, either as a result of impacts on prey items or possibly through 

ingestion in the food chain (API, 1989).

Discarded trash and debris: Both entanglement in, and ingestion of, debris have caused the 

death or serious injury of sea turtles (Balazs, 1985). The limited amount of marine debris, if any, 

resulting from the proposed activities is not expected to substantially harm sea turtles. Operators 

are prohibited from deliberately discharging debris as mandated by MARPOL-Annex V and the 

Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act, and regulations imposed by various agencies 

including the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the Environmental Protection Agency 

(EPA). Apache will operate in accordance with the regulations and also avoid accidental loss of 

solid waste items by maintaining waste management plans, manifesting trash sent to shore, and 

using special precautions such as covering outside trash bins to prevent accidental loss of solid 

waste. Special caution will be exercised when handling and disposing of small items and 

packaging materials, particularly those made of non-biodegradable, environmentally persistent 

materials such as plastic or glass.

Informational placards will be posted on all vessels and facilities having sleeping or food 

preparation capabilities. All offshore personnel, including contractors and other support

services-related personnel (e.g. helicopter pilots, vessel captains and boat crews) will be

indoctrinated on waste procedures, and will view the video (or Microsoft PowerPoint

presentation), “Think About It” (previously “All Washed Up: The Beach Litter Problem”). 

Thereafter, all personnel will view the marine trash and debris training video annually. Offshore 

personnel will also receive an explanation from Apache management or the designated lease 

operator management that emphasizes their commitment to waste management in accordance 

with NTL No. 2012-G01. 

Accidents: Collisions between support vessels and sea turtles would be unusual events, however 

should one occur, death or injury to sea turtles is possible. Contract vessel operators can avoid 

sea turtles and reduce potential deaths by maintaining a vigilant watch for sea turtles and 

maintaining a safe distance when they are sighted. Vessel crews should use a reference guide to 

help identify the five species of sea turtles that may be encountered in the Gulf of Mexico OCS. 

Vessel crews must report sightings of any injured or dead protected sea turtle species

immediately, regardless of whether the injury or death is caused by their vessel, to the Marine 

Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline at (888) 404-3922, the NMFS Southeast Regional 

Office at (727) 824-5312, or the Marine Mammal Stranding Network at (305) 862-2850. In 

addition, if the injury or death was caused by a collision with a contract vessel, the BOEM must 

be notified within 24 hours of the strike by email to protectedspecies@boemre.gov. If the vessel 

is the responsible party, it is required to remain available to assist the respective salvage and 

stranding network as needed. 

All sea turtle species and their life stages are vulnerable to the harmful effects of oil through 

direct contact or by fouling of their food. Exposure to oil can be fatal, particularly to juveniles 
and hatchlings. However, it is unlikely that an accidental oil spill would occur from the proposed 

activities (refer to Item 5, Water Quality). Oil spill response activities may increase vessel traffic 

in the area, which could add to the possibility of collisions with sea turtles. The activities 

proposed in this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional Oil Spill Response Plan (refer to 

information submitted in accordance with Section H).

There are no other IPFs (including physical disturbances to the seafloor) from the proposed 

activities which could impact sea turtles.

9. Air Quality

Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 is located 77 miles from the Breton Wilderness Area and 

50 miles from shore. Applicable emissions data is included in SectionG of the Plan. 

There would be a limited degree of air quality degradation in the immediate vicinity of the 

proposed activities. Plan Emissions for the proposed activities do not exceed the annual

exemption levels as set forth by BOEM. Accidents and blowouts can release hydrocarbons or 

chemicals, which could cause the emission of air pollutants. However, these releases would not 

impact onshore air quality because of the prevailing atmospheric conditions, emission height, 

emission rates, and the distances of Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 from the coastline. 

There are no other IPFs (including effluents, physical disturbances to the seafloor, wastes sent to 

shore for treatment or disposal) from the proposed activities which would impact air quality.

10. Shipwreck Sites (known or potential)

IPFs that could impact known or unknown shipwreck sites as a result of the proposed operations 

in Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 include disturbances to the seafloor and accidents (oil 

spill). Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are not located in or adjacent to an OCS block

designated by BOEM as having a high probability for occurrence of shipwrecks. Apache will 

report to BOEM the discovery of any evidence of a shipwreck and make every reasonable effort 

to preserve and protect that cultural resource. There are no other IPFs (including emissions, 

effluents, wastes sent to shore for treatment or disposal, or accidents) from the proposed

activities which could impact shipwreck sites.

Accidents: An accidental oil spill has the potential to cause some detrimental effects to 

shipwreck sites if the release were to occur subsea. However, it is unlikely that an accidental oil 

spill would occur from the proposed activities (refer to Item 5, Water Quality). The activities 

proposed in this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional Oil Spill Response Plan (refer to 

information submitted in accordance with Section H).

Apache is familiar with the provisions of NTL 2008-G06. BOEM has determined that there is 

enough data gathered for grid area 16, therefore, Apache will not be conducting any AUV/ROV 

surveys either pre-spud or post-drilling operations for the purpose of biological and physical 

observations.
There are no other IPFs (including emissions, effluents, or wastes sent to shore for treatment or 

disposal) from the proposed activities that could cause impacts to shipwreck sites.

11. Prehistoric Archaeological Sites

IPFs that could cause impacts to prehistoric archaeological sites as a result of the proposed 

operations in Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are physical disturbances to the seafloor 

and accidents (oil spills). 

Physical Disturbances to the seafloor: Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 are located 

inside the Archaeological Prehistoric high probability lines. Apache will report to BOEM the 

discovery of any object of prehistoric archaeological significance and make every reasonable 

effort to preserve and protect that cultural resource.

If the DP Semisubmersible rig option is used for the proposed activities, then only an

insignificant amount of seafloor will be disturbed. In the event that a DP Semisubmersible is 

used, physical disturbances to the seafloor will be minimized and Apache’s proposed operations 

in Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 would not cause impacts to prehistoric archaeological 

sites.

Accidents: An accidental oil spill has the potential to cause some detrimental effects to

prehistoric archaeological sites if the release were to occur subsea. However, it is unlikely that 

an accidental oil spill would occur from the proposed activities (refer to Item 5, Water Quality). 

The activities proposed in this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional Oil Spill Response 

Plan (refer to information submitted in accordance with SectionH).

Apache is familiar with the provisions of NTL 2008-G06. BOEM has determined that there is 

enough data gathered for grid area 16, therefore, Apache will not be conducting any AUV/ROV 

surveys either pre-spud or post-drilling operations for the purpose of biological and physical 

observations.

There are no other IPFs (including emissions, effluents, wastes sent to shore for treatment or 

disposal) from the proposed activities that could cause impacts to prehistoric archaeological 

sites.

Vicinity of Offshore Location

1. Essential Fish Habitat (EFH)

IPFs that could cause impacts to EFH as a result of the proposed operations in Mississippi 

Canyon Block 554 and 555 include physical disturbances to the seafloor, effluents and accidents. 

EFH includes all estuarine and marine waters and substrates in the Gulf of Mexico. 
Physical disturbances to the seafloor: The Live Bottom Low Relief Stipulation, the Live 

Bottom (Pinnacle Trend) Stipulation, and the Eastern Gulf Pinnacle Trend Stipulation would 

prevent most of the potential impacts on live-bottom communities and EFH from bottom

disturbing activities (e.g., anchoring, structure emplacement and removal).

Effluents: The Live Bottom Low Relief Stipulation, the Live Bottom (Pinnacle Trend)

Stipulation, and the Eastern Gulf Pinnacle Trend Stipulation would prevent most of the potential 

impacts on live-bottom communities and EFH from operational waste discharges. Levels of 

contaminants in drilling muds and cuttings and produced-water discharges, discharge-rate 

restrictions, and monitoring and toxicity testing are regulated by the EPA NPDES permit, 

thereby eliminating many significant biological or ecological effects. Operational discharges are 

not expected to cause significant adverse impacts to EFH.

Accidents: An accidental oil spill has the potential to cause some detrimental effects on EFH. 

Oil spills that contact coastal bays and estuaries, as well as OCS waters when pelagic eggs and 

larvae are present, have the greatest potential to affect fisheries. However, it is unlikely that an 

oil spill would occur from the proposed activities (refer to Item 5, Water Quality). The activities 

proposed in this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional OSRP (refer to information

submitted in Section H).

There are no other IPFs (including emissions, or wastes sent to shore for treatment or disposal) 

from the proposed activities which could impact essential fish habitat.

2. Marine and Pelagic Birds 

IPFs that could impact marine birds as a result of the proposed activities include air emissions, 

accidental oil spills, and discarded trash and debris from vessels and the facilities.

Emissions: Emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere from these activities are far below 

concentrations which could harm coastal and marine birds.

Accidents: An oil spill would cause localized, low-level petroleum hydrocarbon contamination. 

However, it is unlikely that an oil spill would occur from the proposed activities (refer to Item 5, 

Water Quality). Marine and pelagic birds feeding at the spill location may experience chronic, 

nonfatal, physiological stress. It is expected that few, if any, coastal and marine birds would 

actually be affected to that extent. The activities proposed in this plan will be covered by

Apache’s Regional OSRP (refer to information submitted in Section H).

Discarded trash and debris: Marine and pelagic birds could become entangled and snared in 

discarded trash and debris, or ingest small plastic debris, which can cause permanent injuries and 

death. Operators are prohibited from deliberately discharging debris as mandated by MARPOLAnnex V and the Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act, and regulations imposed by 
various agencies including the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA). Apache will operate in accordance with the regulations and also 

avoid accidental loss of solid waste items by maintaining waste management plans, manifesting 

trash sent to shore, and using special precautions such as covering outside trash bins to prevent 

accidental loss of solid waste. Special caution will be exercised when handling and disposing of 

small items and packaging materials, particularly those made of non-biodegradable, 

environmentally persistent materials such as plastic or glass. Informational placards will be 

posted on all vessels and facilities having sleeping or food preparation capabilities. All offshore 

personne l, including contractors and other support services-related personnel (e.g. helicopter 

pilots, vessel captains and boat crews) will be indoctrinated on waste procedures, and will view 

the video (or Microsoft PowerPoint presentation), “Think About It” (previously “All Washed 

Up: The Beach Litter Problem”). Thereafter, all personnel will view the marine trash and debris 

training video annually. Offshore personnel will also receive an explanation from Apache

management or the designated lease operator management that emphasizes their commitment to 

waste management in accordance with NTL No. 2012-G01. Debris, if any, from these proposed 

activities will seldom interact with marine and pelagic birds; therefore, the effects will be 

negligible.

There are no other IPFs (including effluents, physical disturbances to the seafloor, or wastes sent 

to shore for treatment or disposal) from the proposed activities which could impact marine and 

pelagic birds.

3. Public Health and Safety Due to Accidents.

There are no IPFs (emissions, effluents, physical disturbances to the seafloor, wastes sent to 

shore for treatment or disposal or accidents, including an accidental H2S releases) from the 

proposed activities which could cause impacts to public health and safety. In accordance with 

NTL No.’s 2008-G04, 2009-G27, and 2009-G31, sufficient information is included in Section D

to justify our request that our proposed activities be classified by BSEE as H2S absent. 

Coastal and Onshore

1. Beaches

IPFs from the proposed activities that could cause impacts to beaches include accidents (oil 

spills) and discarded trash and debris. 

Accidents: Oil spills contacting beaches would have impacts on the use of recreational beaches 

and associated resources. Due to the distance from shore (50 miles) and the response capabilities 

that would be implemented, no significant adverse impacts are expected. The activities proposed 

in this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional OSRP (refer to information submitted in 

Section H). 
Discarded trash and debris: Trash on the beach is recognized as a major threat to the 

enjoyment and use of beaches. There will only be a limited amount of marine debris, if any, 

resulting from the proposed activities. Operators are prohibited from deliberately discharging 

debris as mandated by MARPOL-Annex V and the Marine Plastic Pollution Research and 

Control Act, and regulations imposed by various agencies including the United States Coast 

Guard (USCG) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Apache will operate in

accordance with the regulations and also avoid accidental loss of solid waste items by

maintaining waste management plans, manifesting trash sent to shore, and using special

precautions such as covering outside trash bins to prevent accidental loss of solid waste. Special 

caution will be exercised when handling and disposing of small items and packaging materials, 

particularly those made of non-biodegradable, environmentally persistent materials such as

plastic or glass. 

Informational placards will be posted on all vessels and facilities having sleeping or food 

preparation capabilities. All offshore personnel, including contractors and other support

services-related personnel (e.g. helicopter pilots, vessel captains and boat crews) will be

indoctrinated on waste procedures, and will view the video (or Microsoft PowerPoint

presentation), “Think About It” (previously “All Washed Up: The Beach Litter Problem”). 

Thereafter, all personnel will view the marine trash and debris training video annually. Offshore 

personnel will also receive an explanation from Apache management or the designated lease 

operator management that emphasizes their commitment to waste management in accordance 

with NTL No. 2012-G01. 

There are no other IPFs (emissions, effluents, physical disturbances to the seafloor, or wastes 

sent to shore for treatment or disposal) from the proposed activities which could impact beaches.

2. Wetlands

IPFs from the proposed activities that could cause impacts to wetlands include accidents (oil 

spills) and discarded trash and debris. 

Accidents: It is unlikely that an oil spill would occur from the proposed activities (refer to Item 

5, Water Quality). Due to the distance from shore (50 miles) and the response capabilities that 

would be implemented, no impacts are expected. The activities proposed in this plan will be 

covered by Apache’s Regional OSRP (refer to information submitted in SectionH). 

Discarded trash and debris: There will only be a limited amount of marine debris, if any, 

resulting from the proposed activities. Operators are prohibited from deliberately discharging 

debris as mandated by MARPOL-Annex V and the Marine Plastic Pollution Re search and 

Control Act, and regulations imposed by various agencies including the United States Coast 

Guard (USCG) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Apache will operate in

accordance with the regulations and also avoid accidental loss of solid waste items by

maintaining waste management plans, manifesting trash sent to shore, and using special

precautions such as covering outside trash bins to prevent accidental loss of solid waste. Special 
caution will be exercised when handling and disposing of small items and packaging materials, 

particularly those made of non-biodegradable, environmentally persistent materials such as

plastic or glass. 

Informational placards will be posted on all vessels and facilities having sleeping or food 

preparation capabilities. All offshore personnel, including contractors and other support

services-related personnel (e.g. helicopter pilots, vessel captains and boat crews) will be

indoctrinated on waste procedures, and will view the video (or Microsoft PowerPoint

presentation), “Think About It” (previously “All Washed Up: The Beach Litter Problem”). 

Thereafter, all personnel will view the marine trash and debris training video annually. Offshore 

personnel will also receive an explanation from Apache management or the designated lease 

operator management that emphasizes their commitment to waste management in accordance 

with NTL No. 2012-G01. 

There are no other IPFs (emissions, effluents, physical disturbances to the seafloor, or wastes 

sent to shore for treatment or disposal) from the proposed activities which could impact

wetlands.

3. Shore Birds and Coastal Nesting Birds

Accidents: Oil spills could cause impacts to shore birds and coastal nesting birds. However, it is 

unlikely that an oil spill would occur from the proposed activities (refer to Item 5, Water 

Quality). Given the distance from shore (50 miles) and the response capabilities that would be 

implemented, no impacts are expected. The activities proposed in this plan will be covered by 

Apache’s Regional OSRP (refer to information submitted in Section H). 

Discarded trash and debris: Coastal and marine birds are highly susceptible to entanglement 

in floating, submerged, and beached marine debris: specifically plastics. Operators are prohibited 

from deliberately discharging debris as mandated by MARPOL-Annex V and the Marine Plastic 

Pollution Research and Control Act, and regulations imposed by various agencies including the 

United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Apache

will operate in accordance with the regulations and also avoid accidental loss of solid waste 

items by maintaining waste management plans, manifesting trash sent to shore, and using special 

precautions such as covering outside trash bins to prevent accidental loss of solid waste. Special 

caution will be exercised when handling and disposing of small items and packaging materials, 

particularly those made of non-biodegradable, environmentally persistent materials such as

plastic or glass.

 

Informational placards will be posted on vessels and every facility that has sleeping or food 

preparation capabilities. All offshore personnel, including contractors and other support

services-related personnel (e.g. helicopter pilots, vessel captains and boat crews) will be

indoctrinated on waste procedures, and will view the video (or Microsoft PowerPoint

presentation), “Think About It” (previously “All Washed Up: The Beach Litter Problem”). 

Thereafter, all personnel will view the marine trash and debris training video annually. Offshore 
personnel will also receive an explanation from Apache management or the designated lease 

operator management that emphasizes their commitment to waste management in accordance 

with NTL No. 2012-G01. 

There are no other IPFs (emissions, effluents, physical disturbances to the seafloor, or wastes 

sent to shore for treatment or disposal) from the proposed activities that could cause impacts to 

shore birds and coastal nesting birds.

4. Coastal Wildlife Refuges

Accidents: An accidental oil spill from the proposed activities could cause impacts to coastal 

wildlife refuges. However, it is unlikely that an oil spill would occur from the proposed activities 

(refer to Item 5, Water Quality). Due to the distance from shore (50 miles) and the response 

capabilities that would be implemented, no impacts are expected. The activities proposed in this 

plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional OSRP (refer to information submitted in Section H).

Discarded trash and debris: Operators are prohibited from deliberately discharging debris as 

mandated by MARPOL-Annex V, the Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act and 

regulations imposed by various agencies including the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and 

the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Apache will operate in accordance with the 

regulations and also avoid accidental loss of solid waste items by maintaining waste management 

plans, manifesting trash sent to shore, and using special precautions such as covering outside 

trash bins to prevent accidental loss of solid waste. Special caution will be exercised when 

handling and disposing of small items and packaging materials, particularly those made of nonbiodegradable, environmentally persistent materials such as plastic or glass.

 

Informational placards will be posted on vessels and every facility that has sleeping or food 

preparation capabilities. All offshore personnel, including contractors and other support

services-related personnel (e.g. helicopter pilots, vessel captains and boat crews) will be

indoctrinated on waste procedures, and will view the video (or Microsoft PowerPoint

presentation), “Think About It” (previously “All Washed Up: The Beach Litter Problem”). 

Thereafter, all personnel will view the marine trash and debris training video annually. Offshore 

personnel will also receive an explanation from Apache management or the designated lease 

operator management that emphasizes their commitment to waste management in accordance 

with NTL No. 2012-G01. 

There are no other IPFs (emissions, effluents, physical disturbances to the seafloor, or wastes 

sent to shore for treatment or disposal) from the proposed activities that could cause impacts to 

coastal wildlife refuges.

5. Wilderness Areas

Accidents: An accidental oil spill from the proposed activities could cause impacts to wilderness 

areas. However, it is unlikely that an oil spill would occur from the proposed activities (refer to 

Item 5, Water Quality). Due to the distance from the nearest designated Wilderness Area (77 
miles) and the response capabilities that would be implemented, no significant adverse impacts 

are expected. The activities proposed in this plan will be covered by Apache’s Regional OSRP 

(refer to information submitted in SectionH).

Discarded trash and debris: Operators are prohibited from deliberately discharging debris as 

mandated by MARPOL-Annex V, the Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act and 

regulations imposed by various agencies including the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and 

the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Apache will operate in accordance with the 

regulations and also avoid accidental loss of solid waste items by maintaining waste management 

plans, manifesting trash sent to shore, and using special precautions such as covering outside 

trash bins to prevent accidental loss of solid waste. Special caution will be exercised when 

handling and disposing of small items and packaging materials, particularly those made of nonbiodegradable, environmentally persistent materials such as plastic or glass.

 

Informational placards will be posted on vessels and every facility that has sleeping or food 

preparation capabilities. All offshore personnel, including contractors and other support

services-related personnel (e.g. helicopter pilots, vessel captains and boat crews) will be

indoctrinated on waste procedures, and will view the video (or Microsoft PowerPoint

presentation), “Think About It” (previously “All Washed Up: The Beach Litter Problem”). 

Thereafter, all personnel will view the marine trash and debris training video annually. Offshore 

personnel will also receive an explanation from Apache management or the designated lease 

operator management that emphasizes their commitment to waste management in accordance 

with NTL No. 2012-G01. 

There are no other IPFs (emissions, effluents, physical disturbances to the seafloor, or wastes 

sent to shore for treatment or disposal) from the proposed activities that could cause impacts to 

wilderness areas. 

6. Other Environmental Resources Identified

There are no other environmental resources identified for this impact assessment.

(C) IMPACTS ON PROPOSED ACTIVITIES

The site–specific environmental conditions have been taken into account for the proposed

activities. No impacts are expected on the proposed activities from site-specific environmental 

conditions.

(D) ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS

During the hurricane season, June through November, the Gulf of Mexico is impacted by an 

average of ten tropical storms (39-73 mph winds), of which six become hurricanes ( > 74 mph 

winds). Due to its location in the gulf, Mississippi Canyon Block 554 and 555 may experience 

hurricane and tropical storm force winds, and related sea currents. These factors can adversely 

impact the integrity of the operations covered by this plan. A significant storm may present 

physical hazards to operators and vessels, damage exploration or production equipment, or result 
in the release of hazardous materials (including hydrocarbons). Additionally, the displacement of 

equipment may disrupt the local benthic habitat and pose a threat to local species.

The following preventative measures included in this plan may be implemented to mitigate these 

impacts:

1. Drilling & completion

a. Secure well

b. Secure rig / platform

c. Evacuate personnel

Drilling activities will be conducted in accordance with NTL No.’s 2008-G09, 2009-G10, and 

2010-N10. 

2. Structure Installation

Operator will not conduct structure installation operations during Tropical Storm or 

Hurricane threat.

(E) ALTERNATIVES

No alternatives to the proposed activities were considered to reduce environmental impacts.

(F) MITIGATION MEASURES

No mitigation measures other than those required by regulation will be employed to avoid, 

diminish, or eliminate potential impacts on environmental resources. 

(G) CONSULTATION

No agencies or persons were consulted regarding potential impacts associated with the proposed 

activities. Therefore, a list of such entities has not been provided. 

(H) PREPARER(S)

Matt Harlan

J. Connor Consulting, Inc.

16225 Park Ten Place, Suite 700

Houston, TX 77084

(281) 578-3388 

matt.harlan@jccteam.com

(I) REFERENCES

Authors: 
American Petroleum Institute (API). 1989. Effects of offshore petroleum operations on cold 

water marine mammals: a literature review. Washington, DC: American Petroleum

Institute. 385 pp.

Balazs, G.H. 1985. Impact of ocean debris on marine turtles: entanglement and ingestion. In: 

Shomura, R.S. and H.O. Yoshida, eds. Proceedings, Workshop on the Fate and Impact of

Marine Debris, 26-29 November 1984, Honolulu, HI. U.S. Dept. of Commerce. NOAA 

Tech. Memo. NOAA-TM-NMFS-SWFC-54. Pp 387-429. 

Burke, C.J. and J.A. Veil. 1995. Potential benefits from regulatory consideration of synthetic 

drilling muds. Environmental Assessment Division, Argonne National Laboratory,

ANL/EAD/TM-43. 

Daly, J.M. 1997. Controlling the discharge of synthetic-based drilling fluid contaminated 

cuttings in waters of the United States. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of 

Water. Work Plan, June 24, 1997.

Hansen, D.J. 198l. The relative sensitivity of seabird populations in Alaska to oil pollution. U.S. 

Dept. of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Alaska OCS Region, Anchorage. BLMYK-ES-81-006-1792. 

Laist, D.W. 1997. Impacts of marine debris: entanglement of marine life in marine debris 

including a comprehensive list of species with entanglement and ingestion records. In: Coe, 

J.M. and D.B. Rogers, eds. Marine debris: sources, impacts, and solutions. New York, NY: 

Springer-Verlag. Pp. 99-139. 

Majors, A.P. and A.C. Myrick, Jr. 1990. Effects of noise on animals: implications for dolphins

exposed to seal bombs in the eastern tropical Pacific purse-seine fishery–an annotated 

bibliography. NOAA Administrative Report LJ-90-06. 

Marine Mammal Commission. 1999. Annual report to Congress – 1998. 

Piatt, J.F., C.J. Lensink, W. Butler, M. Kendziorek, and D.R. Nysewander. 1990. Immediate 

impact of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on marine birds. The Auk. 107 (2): 387-397. 

Vauk , G., E. Hartwig, B. Reineking, and E. Vauk-Hentzelt. 1989. Losses of seabirds by oil 

pollution at the German North Sea coast. Topics in Marine Biology. Ros, J.D, ed. Scient. 

Mar. 53 (2-3): 749-754. 

Vermeer, K. and R. Vermeer, 1975 Oil threat to birds on the Canadian west coast. The Canadian 

Field-Naturalist. 89:278-298. 

Although not cited, the following were utilized in preparing this EIA:

• Hazard Surveys
• BOEM EIS’s:

o GOM Deepwater Operations and Activities. Environmental Assessment. MMS 2000-001 

o GOM Central and Western Planning Areas Sales 166 and 168 Final Environmental

Impact Statement. MMS 96-0058. 
Apache Deepwater LLC	 	 Page P‐1

Joint Initial Exploration Plan	 	 April 25, 2013

Mississippi Canyon Blocks 554/555 (OCS‐G 34444/34445)	 	

SECTION P 

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION 

(30 CFR 550.228 and 550.262) 

A. EXEMPTED INFORMATION DESCRIPTION

The proposed bottom-hole locations of the planned well have been removed from the public 

information copy of the EP as well as any discussion of the target objectives, geologic or 

geophysical data and any interpreted geology. 

B. BIBLIOGRAPHY

N/A