environment plan summary - nopsema · 2013-08-27 · 1. the seismic vessel will also execute turns...

WHL Energy Limited

La Bella 3D Marine Seismic Survey (Otway Basin) Environment Plan

(Vic/P67)

Date: 27th August 2013

0 27/08/2013 Issued to NOPSEMA LC MW MF

Rev Date Description By Review App.

La Bella 3D Marine Seismic Survey

Environment Plan Summary

| Revision: 0

1 IntroductionWHL Energy Limited (‘WHL’) is proposing to undertake the La Bella Marine Seismic Survey (MSS) in the Commonwealth waters of the Otway Basin, Victoria (Vic). The northern edge of the survey area is located approximately 35km southwest of Port Campbell (Vic) and approximately 60km west of Cape Otway (Vic) in Exploration Permit Areas Vic/P67, Vic/P43, Vic/P44 and adjacent non-permit areas.

The purpose of the La Bella survey is to better define hydrocarbon reserves within Vic/P67 for prospective drilling targets.

WHL, as nominated Environmental Operator for this petroleum activity within Vic/P67 and under access authorities Vic-AA19 and T-1AA for ingress into Vic/P43, Vic/P44 and adjacent non-permit areas, has prepared an Environment Plan (EP) for this activity in accordance with the requirements of the Offshore Petroleum & Greenhouse Gas (Environment) Regulations 2009. The EP has been reviewed and accepted by the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA).

This EP summary document has been prepared to comply with the requirements of Regulation 11(7) and (8) of the Offshore Petroleum & Greenhouse Gas (Environment)Regulations 2009.

2 Activity LocationThe La Bella MSS activity, shown on a regional basis in Figure 2-1, will be undertaken within Vic/P67, Vic/P43, Vic/P44 and adjacent non-permit areas (Otway Basin)1.

The La Bella 3D MSS covers an area of approximately 1150km2 (approx. 1300km prime sail lines) and is located entirely within Commonwealth waters of the Otway Basin (refer Figure 2-1). The MSS data acquisition area is defined by coordinates shown in Table 2-1. The seismic vessel will also execute turns up to 8km outside this defined MSS area and will work within a ‘Vessel Turning Area’ of approximately 1625km2 (total) defined by coordinates provided in Table 2-2. The vessel will operate in a WNW-ESE direction when acquiring seismic data and will maintain a minimum distance of approximately 35km from the Victorian coastline during the MSS activity.

The La Bella MSS area is located approximately 35km southwest of Port Campbell2 and 60km west of Cape Otway. The MSS will be undertaken in water depths ranging from 80-1000m.

The MSS vessel will deploy and retrieve equipment off the continental shelf to avoid fisheries interaction (in water depths greater than 500m). This will be managed by close cooperation between the Fisheries Liaison Officer, the local fishing fleet and the accompanying support vessels to identify any conflicting fisheries activities.

1 Mobilisation and demobilisation activities associated with port calls or deployment from the operational area associated with emergencies or refuge is not considered part of the La Bella MSS activity.2 Distance is measured from the nearest MSS boundary.



| Revision: 0

Figure 2-1: Regional Location of the La Bella MSS



of 28

Table 2-1 La Bella MSS ‘Data Acquisition’ Boundary Coordinates

Location Point

Latitude Longitude

Degrees Minutes Seconds Degrees Minutes Seconds

A 38 47 43.84 142 22 50.42

B 38 56 04.34 142 48 44.00

C 39 12 09.60 142 45 45.27

D 39 03 09.13 142 20 04.01

Table 2-2 La Bella 3D MSS ‘Vessel Turning Area’ Boundary Coordinates

Location Point

Latitude Longitude

Degrees Minutes Seconds Degrees Minutes Seconds

1 38 46 01.73 142 17 39.19

2 38 57 41.01 142 53 49.90

3 39 13 56.64 142 50 56.95

4 39 01 23.35 142 14 57.69



| Revision: 0

3 Seismic Program Activity DescriptionThe proposed La Bella MSS program will acquire seismic data between 1st November and 31st December 2013 with the activity expected to take approximately 30days. The precise commencement and completion dates are dependent on vessel schedule and weather conditions. Seismic acquisition will be undertaken 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

The activity will be undertaken by an experienced seismic contractor utilising a purpose-built seismic vessel, towing equipment along a series of pre-determined seismic lines within the survey area. The vessel will, while acquiring seismic, travel at an average speed of approximately 8–9 km/h (4–4.5 knots). As the vessel travels along the survey lines, a series of acoustic pulses activated at 18.75m or 25m intervals3 (approximately every 9-11 seconds) will be directed down through the water column into the seabed via two source arrays. These acoustic pulses transmit through the subsurface; reflect at geological boundaries and transmit back to the surface where they are detected by sensitive hydrophones, arranged along a number of cables (streamers) towed behind the survey vessel. Data collected by the hydrophones is stored in on-board computers for processing and analysis, allowing the structure of the underlying geological strata to be mapped and potential hydrocarbon reservoir targets to be identified.

The seismic equipment will comprise of a dual source array, of volume 3250in3 operating at pressures of 2000psi and towed at approximately 6m water depth. Reflected sound waves will be detected by hydrophones spaced along up to twelve (12) streamers of length up to 7000m. Streamers will be separated by approximately 100m, towed at a depth of approximately 8m behind the seismic vessel. These hydrophone streamers will be solid streamers (with small amounts of Isopar liquid). The MSS vessel will traverse the survey area along defined seismic lines approximately 500-720m apart (dependent on number of streamers). The La Bella MSS will have an average seismic line length of approximately 40km and will run in a WNW-ESE direction

The towing diagram, for a two source array/twelve streamer configuration, is provided inFigure 3-1.

Figure 3-1: Typical Two source array/Twelve streamer 3D MSS Towing Diagram

3 This depends on final parameter selection.



of 28

Prior to commencement of MSS operations, WHL (via the Australian Hydrographic Office (AHO)) will issue a Notice to Mariners for the program, to notify vessels of the activity which may be operating in nearby waters. Additionally, the MSS vessel and streamers will display appropriate navigational safety measures such as day shapes, lights and reflective tail buoys to indicate that the vessel is in tow and restricted in its ability to manoeuvre. A visual and radar watch will be maintained on the bridge at all times by trained and competent crew (STCW95).

Either Portland or Port of Geelong will be used as a logistics/supply base for the operation. During the MSS there will be up to two (2) vessels servicing the seismic vessel for logistical, safety and equipment management support. Where possible these vessels will be sourced locally. The main function of these support vessels is to escort the MSS vessel; to scout ahead of the MSS vessel for marine hazards; to maintain a safe distance between the towed array and other vessels; to manage interactions with shipping and fishing activities; to act in an emergency-response capacity and, on a secondary basis, supply the MSS vessel with logistical supplies. The vessels will not anchor at sea unless required in an emergency. Refuelling of vessels at sea will not occur unless there is an emergency that would require such an action4.

Although a crew change may not be required during this 30 day survey (crew changes occur every 35 days), one crew change could be necessary. The crew change will preferably occur during a port call however vessel or helicopter transfer may occur. Helicopter transfer from Portland/Melbourne will only occur during daylight hours wherever possible and in acceptable wind and sea conditions, however night transfer may be required in the event of an operational emergency, medical evacuation or other non-routine circumstance (i.e. impending bad weather conditions). There will be no helicopter refuelling on-board the seismic vessel.

The seismic vessel will operate under an approved Shipboard Oil Prevention Emergency Plan (SOPEP) which details actions to be taken in the event of a shipboard emergency or oil spill in accordance with MARPOL 73/78 Annex I requirements.

4 This has been included as a contingent activity in this Environment Plan.



| Revision: 0

4 Receiving Environment

4.1 GeneralThe La Bella MSS area is located in the Otway marine bioregion (NOO, 2002). This bioregion extends from Cape Otway (Vic) to Cape Jaffa (South Australia) and includes the western islands of Bass Strait such as King Island.

The characteristics of the Otway coastline and marine environment include very steep-moderate offshore gradients, high wave energy and cold temperate waters subject to upwelling events (i.e. the Bonney Upwelling) (IMCRA, 1998). The upwelling water is nutrient rich and corresponds with increases in the abundance of zooplankton which attracts Baleen Whales and other species (including EPBC-listed species) which feed on the plankton swarms. Shoreline habitats of the Otway coastline include penguin colonies, fur seal colonies and bird nesting sites (refer Figure 4-1).

Figure 4-1: Environmental Sensitivities of the Otway region (APASA, 2012)

There are no areas of high conservation significance present within the La Bella MSS area. The nearest Commonwealth marine conservation areas to the La Bella MSS area are:

The Apollo Marine Protected Area (MPA) located approximately 65km east of the closest MSS boundary (GA, 2012); and

The Zeehan MPA located approximately 75km south of the closest MSS boundary (GA, 2012).

Apollo MPA

Zeehan MPA



of 28

The nearest Victorian State Marine Reserves5 are:

The Twelve Apostles Marine National Park located approximately 37km NE;

The Arches Marine Sanctuary, located approximately 35km NE (adjacent to Port Campbell);

The Merri Marine Sanctuary located approximately 40km north; and

Marengo Reef Marine Sanctuary located approximately 70km east.

4.2 BathymetryThe southern shelf or coastal boundary of the Australian mainland is a maximum width of 200km in the central GAB which narrows to 20km south of Western Australia and on the Bonney coast of South Australia/Victoria (Butler et al, 2002). Bass Strait, to the east of the Bonney coast, consists of a broad shallow region, bordered on the eastern and western sides by very deep waters of the continental slope. The depth of the shelf at the Bonney coast increases gradually to 100m where a distinct increase in steepness is observed (Butler et al, 2002). The continental slope and abyssal plain (between 1000-5000m) along the Eyre Peninsula and Bonney Coast are connected by 20 very large and steep canyons which are thought to contribute to upwelling events (Butler et al, 2002).

The La Bella MSS area is located on the outer edge of the Australian continental shelf and shelf break area. The seabed slopes gradually upwards in a northerly direction across the shelf to a depth of about 30m within 1km of the coastline. The Otway coastline generally comprises of steep cliffs fronted by narrow sandy beaches and inter-tidal platforms (Woodside, 2003). The seabed within the MSS area is expected to comprise of a patchwork of flat pavement type limestone with patches of coarse mobile sand, large sand waves and higher outcrops of limestone reef (Woodside, 2003).

4.3 Marine FaunaThe La Bella MSS area comprises of temperate marine flora and fauna species (IMCRA, 1998) influenced heavily by the current regimes which operate in the region. In general, southern Australia is notable for large numbers of endemic organisms including the most diverse benthic flora in the world (62% of macro-algae is thought to be endemic) and 600 species of fish fauna of which 85% are believed to be endemic and 11% shared only with New Zealand (NOO, 2004). Marine invertebrates include a variety of groups such as sponges, crabs, sea-stars, anemones, octopus, squid and molluscs (NOO, 2004). Collectively, marine invertebrates outnumber vertebrates (fish, birds and mammals) (NOO, 2002).

Marine species composition in the region also varies with increasing depth on both the continental shelf and slope. Vegetated habitats generally disappear below approximately 40m due to light availability limitations (NOO, 2002).

Nineteen (19) species of fish and seven (7) species of invertebrates are consistently targeted by fisheries in Commonwealth waters (Larcombe et al, 2002; cited in Butler et al, 2002).

Table 4-1 details the EPBC listed threatened and migratory species which may have a presence in the La Bella MSS area.

5 All measured from the nearest La Bella MSS Boundary.



| Revision: 0

Table 4-1: EPBC listed Threatened & Migratory Species in the La Bella MSS Area (SEWPC, 2012a)

Status: Likelihood of Occurrence:E: Endangered LO: Species or species habitat likely to occur in areaV: Vulnerable MO: Species or species habitat may occur within areaM: Migratory FMO: Foraging/Feeding may occur within area

FKO: Foraging/Feeding known to occur in areaFLO: Foraging/Feeding likely to occur in areaKO: Known to occur in area

Species Type Scientific Name Common NameEPBC Status

Type of Presence

Marine Mammals

Balaenoptera musculus Blue Whale E, M FKO

Eubalaena australis Southern Right Whale E, M KO

Megaptera novaeangliae Humpback Whale V, M LO

Balaenoptera bonaerensis Antarctic Minke Whale M MO

Balaenoptera edeni Bryde’s Whale M MO

Caperea marginata Pygmy Right Whale M MO

Lagnorhynchus obscurus Dusky Dolphin M MO

Orcinus orca Killer Whale M MO

Physeter macrocephalus Sperm Whale M MO

Marine Birds Diomedea epomorphora epomophora

Southern Royal Albatross V MO

Diomedea epomophora sandfordi

Northern Royal Albatross E MO

Diomedea exulans amsterdamensis

Amsterdam Albatross E, M MO

Diomedea exulans exulans Tristan Albatross E, M FMO

Diomedea exulans gibsoni Gibson’s Albatross V, M MO

Diomedea exulans (sensu lato)

Wandering Albatross V, M MO

Halobaena caerulea Blue Petrel V MO

Macronectes giganteus Southern Giant Petrel E, M MO

Macronectes halli Northern Giant Petrel V, M MO

Phoebetria fusca Sooty Albatross V, M MO

Pterodroma mollis Soft Plumaged Petrel V MO

Thalassarche bulleri Buller’s Albatross V, M MO

Thalassarche cauta salvini Salvin’s Albatross V, M MO

Thalassarche cauta cauta Tasmanian Shy Albatross V, M MO

Thalassarche chrysostoma Grey-headed Albatross E, M MO

Thalassarche melanophris Black-browed Albatross V, M MO

Thalassarche melanophris impavida

Campbell Albatross V, M MO

Sharks Isurus oxyrinchus Shortfin Mako M LO

Carcharodon carcharias Great White Shark V, M MO

Lamna nasusPorbeagle, Mackerel Shark

M LO

Reptiles Caretta caretta Loggerhead Turtle E, M LO

Dermochelys coriacea Leatherback Turtle E, M LO

The Bonney Upwelling (Cape Otway to Robe) is a key temperate feeding area for the Blue Whale during November-April. Within the Bonney upwelling, feeding aggregations normally occur at surface in shallow shelf waters (10-300m) enriched by seasonal cold water upwelling (SEWPC, 2012b). Each season is unique and the exact timing and location of the first appearance of Blue Whales in the area varies. Gill et al (2011) studied the Blue Whale’s habitat in the Bonney Upwelling between 2001 and 2007 with the following observations for the eastern zone (i.e. the La Bella MSS area):

Blue Whales are generally restricted to the western and central Bonney upwelling area in November, entering the eastern area in December. However during November/December 2012 encounter rates were higher in the eastern zone with the overall total of 70 Blue Whales sighted in early December (P. Gill, pers.com, 2013);



of 28

In the eastern zone Blue Whale encounter rates peak in February and March and decline in April and May;

Eighty percent of Blue Whales are encountered at depths between 50-150m and 93% of sightings occur in water depths<200m in the eastern and central zones.

Southern Right Whales are present along the Otway coastline between mid-May and mid-November and use areas around Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland for breeding in the austral winter and early-mid spring (SEWPC, 2012c). Peak periods for mating occur from mid-July through August (SEWPC, 2012c). Pregnant females generally arrive during late May and early June and depart with calves in September-October. During calving, the whales are generally within 2km of the shoreline with calving occurring in waters less than 10m deep (SEWPC, 2012c).

Other species known to forage within the area are the Australian Fur Seal (Arctocephalus pusillius) and New Zealand Fur Seal (Arctocephalus forsteri). Fairy Penguins (Eudyptula monor) are also known to occur in the area, however the survey timeframes overlap with the species’ breeding period where foraging is observed within 20km of the coastline(SARDI, 2011).

4.4 Socio-Economic Environment

4.4.1 Commercial ShippingAMSA (2012) has identified that the main east–west and west–east international trading routes from Bass Strait to Cape Leeuwin passes through the proposed La Bella MSS area(section north of 39oS) and is a busy route by Australian standards. This traffic includes international and coastal cargo trade and passenger services (NOO, 2004).

Warnings will be issued by the AHO (Notice to Mariners) and AMSA Rescue Coordination Centre (AusCoast warning) for the duration of the survey. The La Bella survey will be acquired in an east-west/west-east direction to minimise interference with shipping.

4.4.2 Tourism & RecreationWith the exception of Portland, the Otway Coast only has fishing/recreational ports. Approximately 12 charter vessels operate out of Portland, Port Fairy, Warrnambool, Port Campbell and Apollo Bay (Larcombe et al, 2002; cited in Butler et al, 2002).

The routes of two yacht races, Melbourne to Port Fairy (Easter period (Larcombe et al, 2002; cited in Butler et al, 2002) and Melbourne to Adelaide, lead along the west Otway Coast (December) (Gardner et al, 2006).

4.4.3 Commercial FishingCommercial fishing activities along the continental shelf and upper slope/shelf are otter board trawl, squid, rock lobster, giant crab, shark and bottom set long line (Woodhams et al, 2012; DPI, 2011a; DPI, 2011b). The La Bella MSS area lies within the following commercial fishing management areas:

Victorian state-managed:

o Giant Crab Fishery operates from 15 November-31 May (female crabs) and from 15 November-14 September (male crabs). It is possible that fishermen may be present in the La Bella MSS area during the proposed MSS operations; and

o Rock Lobster Fishery (Western Zone) also operates in the area. As per the crab fishery, a closed season applies to female lobster between 1 June–15 November and male and female lobsters between 15 September and 15 November (DPI, 2009b).



| Revision: 0

Commonwealth-managed:

o Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery (logbook data has identified that fishery is not expected to be active in the La Bella MSS area);

o Small Pelagic Fishery (consultation identifies that no catch is currently taken from offshore waters along the Otway coastline);

o Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery:

Commonwealth Trawl Sector (CTS) has a low-medium relative fishing intensity in the La Bella MSS area;

Gillnet Hook and Trap Sector (GHaT) has a low-medium relative fishing intensity in the La Bella MSS area;

Both CTS and GHaT fishermen are expected to be present in the area during the proposed MSS activities.

o The Southern Squid Jig Fishery is present in waters outside Port Phillip Heads (February to March), Portland (March to June) and north of King Island (Woodhams et al, 2011; 2012). Only a small proportion of fishing effort is directed outside these traditional fishing grounds. Given the proposed timing of the La Bella MSS (November-December) interaction with this fishery will not occur;

o Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery, Skipjack Tuna and Southern Bluefin Tuna Fishery have little to no fishing effort recorded in the La Bella MSS area(Woodhams et al, 2012).

4.4.4 Cultural HeritageThere are no listed Commonwealth Heritage Places, National Heritage Places or places on the Register of National Estate within, or in the immediate vicinity of the proposed La Bella 3D MSS area.

Review of the National Shipwreck Database (SEWPC, 2012d) indicates that no shipwrecks lie within the MSS area. The closest shipwreck, the James Ormerod (1861), lies approximately 30km south-west of the La Bella MSS area and the Tubal Cain (1862), lies approximately 31km south-east of the MSS area.

4.4.5 Oil & Gas DevelopmentBass Strait is a world-class hydrocarbon producing region which generates significant revenues for government and local employment in administration, production and exploration activities (NOO, 2004). Offshore developments within the Otway Basin include the:

Minerva Development, operated by BHP Billiton, located approximately 28km NNEof the nearest La Bella MSS boundary;

Casino Development, operated by Santos, located approximately 13km NE of the nearest La Bella MSS boundary; and

Otway Gas Development (Thylacine and Geographe), operated by Origin Energy, located approximately 6km east of the nearest La Bella vessel turning area boundary.

Given the distance of the proposed La Bella MSS from these facilities, no significant impacts are expected.



of 28

5 Major Environmental Hazards and ControlsIn accordance with the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage (Environment) Regulations 2009 R14 (3) & R14 (3A), environmental hazard identification and risk assessment has been undertaken to evaluate the potential sources of environmental impact associated with the La Bella MSS activity. This included an assessment of risks arising from operational activities, unplanned events (non-routine/accident) and incident response activities and can be grouped into the following broad categories:

Mobilisation of the seismic and support vessels to the proposed survey area:

- Introduction of invasive marine species (IMS) from ballast water discharge or biofouling.

Physical presence of the Seismic Vessel:

- Disruption to commercial fishing activities and commercial shipping; and- Lighting impacts due to 24 hour activities.

Seismic acquisition:

- Discharge of acoustic source sound pulses in the proposed MSS area;- Sound from operation of vessels; and- Sound from operation of helicopters.

General vessel operations:

- Routine waste discharges from the seismic and support vessels (oily water, sewage, food-scraps); and

- Air emissions (combustion and ozone depleting substances).

Non-Routine (accidental) events:

- Accidental hydrocarbon spill due to collision with another vessel;- Chemical/oil spill through deck drain system;- Oil spill during refuelling at sea;- Solid non-biodegradable/hazardous waste overboard incident;- Seismic streamer perforation and liquid loss in the marine environment;- Seismic streamer loss in the marine environment; and- Vessel collision with a cetacean.

Implemented control measures identified in Table 5-1 ensure that the environmental risk associated with these hazards is as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP). Control measures are taken into consideration in calculating the residual risk associated with the activity of impact reflected in Table 5-1.



| Revision: 0 of 28

Table 5-1: La Bella MSS Aspects, Potential Environmental Impacts and Controls

Aspect Possible Impacts Control/Mitigation Measures Residual Risk

Mobilisation

Vessel Entry to Australian Waters (Introduction of

IMS)

Alteration of local ecosystem by IMS through Ballast Water Discharges

Prevention Controls:

Seismic Vessel during international mobilisation will adhere to DAFF Guidelines on Ballast Water Management (2011).

Mitigations:

Ballast water release unlikely during survey as there are no significant cargo transfers or exchanges (i.e. refuelling carried out on an exception basis).

Water depth of survey area is 80-1000m which is light-limited. This limits the success of IMScolonisation.

Support vessels, where possible, will be sourced locally from within Australian Waters however will adopt same protocols if sourced internationally.

Medium

Alteration of local ecosystem by IMS through Vessel Bio-fouling


Vessels entering Otway Basin waters will be risk-assessed in accordance with the National Biofouling Management Guidelines for the Petroleum Production & Exploration Industry (2009). Corrective actions identified within that risk assessment will be completed and the vessel will be considered low risk prior to entry into Otway Basin waters;

In-field equipment is cleaned between survey operations which do not occur in adjacent bioregion waters (i.e. adjacent permit areas).

Mitigations:

Water depth of survey area is 80-1000m which is light-limited. This limits the success of IMScolonisation.

Support vessels, where possible, will be sourced locally from within Australian and Otway Basin Waters.

Medium

Presence of Vessel in Permit Areas



of 28 | Revision: 0


Presence of Vessel Activities

Interference with Commercial Fishing Activities (Spatial Conflicts)


Stakeholder consultation with fisheries to advise of activity, understand issues and identify practicable controls to reduce impacts;

Dedicated Fisheries Liaison Officer to consult/communicate MSS activity with fisheries;

Streamer deployment in deep water and at location which does not impact on fishers;

Notifications to marine users prior to survey commencement and on survey completion;

Vessel activity reports to AMSA RCC who will issue shipping notifications (Auscoast) to minimise potential for marine activity conflicts;

Notice to Mariners issued by AHO for activity.

Mitigation:

Support vessels available to advise fishermen of seismic presence.

Potential impacts on catch experienced by individual members of the fishing industry, as shown by comparison between historical and actual catch statistics will be resolved to the satisfaction of those members affected.

Low

Interference with Commercial Shipping (Diversion)


Stakeholder consultation with commercial shipping to advise of activity and identify any issues to identify controls to minimise impacts;

MSS to be undertaken in an WNW/ESE direction (versus north/south) to minimise shipping interaction in the north of the MSS area;

Vessel activity reports to AMSA RCC (Auscoast) to minimise potential for marine activity conflicts;

Notice to Mariners issued by AHO for activity.

Mitigation:

Support vessels available to advise of seismic/third party presence;

Bridge manned 24/7 to identify third party vessel presence via vessel radar, radio, navigation lighting, ARPA and AIS to identify location;

Trained marine crew (STCW95);

Seismic program is short in duration (30days).

Low



| Revision: 0 of 28


Vessel LightingLight-spill interfering with behaviour of marine fauna and birds (risk assessed based on in-field spot lighting)


Vessel lighting is the minimum required for compliance with navigation safety and workplace safety requirements;

In-sea inspection activities during nightfall are minimised as far as possible (night hour inspections minimised);

Pre-mobilisation audit to identify opportunities to reduce light spill with recommendations implemented prior to mobilisation.

Mitigation:

Survey area not located within, or in proximity to, any known light-sensitive fauna aggregation areas (e.g. turtle breeding beaches). No expected change to marine species behaviour;

Survey duration is limited (30days) and vessel is constantly moving.

Low

Standard Vessel Survey Operations

Operation of Seismic Sources

Acoustic sound damage to &/or behavioural changes to marine fauna(Cetaceans, Turtles)

Prevention Controls:All field crew inducted into the environmental sensitivities of the La Bella MSS area;

Minimum source size used to acquire seismic data;

Implement & comply with requirements of the DEWHA Industry Guidelines Policy Statement 2.1 – Interaction between Offshore Seismic Exploration and Whales (2008) (includes 30minute prestart watch, 35min soft-start, 3km precautionary zone, 2km low power zone & power-down procedures (3km for Blue Whales), 500m shutdown zone & shut-down procedures; controls for start-up during periods of low visibility);

Additional program specific controls as determined by EPBC Referral 2012/6683;

Acoustic source powered down to minimum levels on line turns when not acquiring seismic data;

Four MMOs available on-board the vessel during survey with continuous monitoring during daylight hours while acoustic source is operational;

Support vessel crew inducted/trained in cetacean observation to assist with observation activities;

Sighting reports issued to SEWPC.

Mitigations:

Cetacean/reptiles species will avoid area if sound disturbance is too high;

La Bella MSS duration limited (30 days) with temporary impacts. Timing avoids ‘peak’ periods of species presence.

Low



of 28 | Revision: 0


Acoustic sound creating behavioural changes to Pinnipeds

Mitigation Controls:

Pinnipeds have localised avoidance to seismic acoustic sound;Implement & comply with requirements of the DEWHA Industry Guidelines Policy Statement 2.1 – Interaction between Offshore Seismic Exploration and Whales (2008) (provides for soft-start procedures which will alert and deter pinnipeds if present).

Low

Acoustic sound causing damage/behavioural changes to fish, shark & cephalopod species (long-term)

Mitigation Controls:

No lethal effects have been observed for adult fish, crustaceans or shellfish exposed to seismic arrays (McCauley, 1994);

Effects of seismic transitory and behavioural except for fish eggs/larvae at very close range.

Fish and cephalopod species sensitive to sound will temporarily flee areas where noise impacts are too great;

Vessel is constantly moving (i.e. not situated in one stationary area);

Implement & comply with requirements of the DEWHA Industry Guidelines Policy Statement 2.1 – Interaction between Offshore Seismic Exploration and Whales (2008) (provides for soft-start procedures which will alert and disperse fish/sharks/cephalopods).Note – no impacts to crustaceans are expected.

Low

Propulsion of all Vessels

Sound Pollution & Behavioural Disturbance to marine fauna


Sound levels emitted from vessels are below sound levels which are thought to cause damage to marine fauna;

Vessel propulsion systems to undergo preventative maintenance and inspection;

Vessels to comply with proximity distances and vessel speeds as required for cetaceans in Part 8 of the EPBC Regulations 2000. This information to be included in induction.

Mitigation:

Small area of impact given the rapid dissipation of sound in the marine environment;

Marine species will avoid area if noise disturbance is too high; andSurvey duration limited (30days).

Low



| Revision: 0 of 28


Helicopter Use (Supply/Crew Change)

Sound Pollution & Disturbance to Cetaceans


Comply with proximity distances as required for cetaceans in Part 8 of the EPBC Regulations 2000.

Crew changes to preferentially occur at port call;

All helicopter propulsions systems undergo regular preventative maintenance and are routinely inspected.

Mitigation:

Small area of impact given the rapid dissipation of noise in the marine environment;

Marine species will avoid area if noise disturbance is too high;

Helicopter flights minimised (Medevac);

Very short duration of disturbance (helicopters at low altitude for small period of time).

Low

Standard Vessel Discharges

Oily water discharges from equipment spaces (All Vessels)

Reduction in water quality (organics & toxics) with impacts to marine fauna


Discharge to comply with MARPOL Annex I requirements.

For vessels with an oil-water separation system which discharges to the marine environment:

- Oily water passes through an oil/water separator and treated to an oil-in-water content <15ppm prior to discharge in accordance with the vessel’s IOPP (as applicable);

- The oily water discharge stream, on detection of an OIW concentration greater than 15ppm, shall be automatically shut-in or directed in-board for further treatment/storage;

- Oil Detection Monitoring Equipment (ODME) is regularly calibrated and certified;- Equipment routinely maintained (Preventative/Planned Maintenance System);- Separated oil store in dedicated tank for onshore disposal.

For vessels without an oil-water separation system:

- Oily water residues are retained on-board for onshore disposal.

Mitigation:

Low volumes intermittently discharged and rapid dilution/dispersion in Southern Ocean marine waters.

Seismic survey is for a limited duration only (30days).

Low



of 28 | Revision: 0


Grey water/sewage disposal (All vessels)

Reduction in water quality (organics & visual amenity) with impacts to marine fauna


Discharge to comply with MARPOL 73/78 Annex IV requirements.

For vessels with a STP (MARPOL Annex IV (R9)):

- MSS Vessel to have a current ISPP (or equivalent for class). - STP reduces BOD /organic loadings and disinfected prior to discharge at distances >3nm.- STP routinely maintained and inspected (Vessel’s Preventative/Planned Maintenance

System);- POB strictly controlled on vessel.- On breakdown of equipment discharge directed on-board for storage until equipment

operational or discharged to onshore facility.

For vessels without a STP:

- Macerated and disinfected sewage will be discharged at distances greater than 3nm from land;

- Untreated sewage discharged at a distance of more than 12nm from land or to an onshore facility

Mitigation:

Low volume of sewage generated with small numbers of personnel on board;

High dispersal/dilution in Southern Ocean marine environment;

Seismic survey is for a limited duration only (30days); and

Survey areas not in proximity to landmass (i.e. >3nm).

Low

Putrescible waste (food-scraps) Discharges

Reduction in water quality (organics & visual amenity) with impacts to marine fauna


Waste Management on board vessel(s) in accordance with the Vessel’s Waste Management Plan with placards available advising of requirements;

Waste macerated to less than 25mm particle size in accordance with MARPOL 73/78 and discharged at distances greater than 3nm from shoreline or non-macerated food at distances greater than 12nm;

Macerator routinely maintained and inspected (via PMS);

Personnel trained in the requirements of the Vessel’s Waste Management Plan;

Breakdown of maceration equipment results in food-scraps collected in bins on-board for storage and disposal onshore until equipment operational.

Mitigation:

Low volumes discharged and rapid dilution/dispersion in marine waters;


Low



| Revision: 0 of 28


Air Emissions: Incineration of solid non-Biodegradable wastes &Equipment Combustion

Reduction in air quality (NOx, SOx, CO2) such that impacts to marine species occur & aesthetic impacts of smoke


All combustion emissions from marine utilities are compliant with MARPOL 73/78 Annex VI (R13) requirements;

MGO utilised for survey vessels (MARPOL complaint for sulphur);

Vessels carry a current IAPP;

On-board incinerator will operate in accordance with MARPOL 73/78 Annex VI (R16) requirements and wastes disposed via this method are recorded in the Garbage Record Book;

Regular equipment monitoring and maintenance undertaken on incinerator and combustion equipment in accordance with Manufacturers Specifications to ensure maximum efficiencies are obtained; and

Fuel monitoring undertaken to identify equipment inefficiencies.

Mitigation:

Low volumes generated and rapid dilution/dispersion in marine atmosphere;


Low

Air Emissions: Release of ODS

Reduction in Ozone Protection Layer


ODS systems are managed in accordance with MARPOL 73/78 Annex VI (R12) requirements;

Maintenance of closed refrigeration systems on-board the vessel undertaken by suitably qualified personnel in accordance with approved procedures;

Any repair or maintenance of equipment containing ODS is recorded in the ODS Record Book

Mitigation:

Accidental Releases are recorded in the ODS Record Book;


Low

Non-Routine Activities (Incidents)



of 28 | Revision: 0


Oil spill (MGO) due to tank perforation/leak(Spill volume –largest fuel tank is 300m3)

Toxic & Physiological impacts to marine biota (including Cetaceans, Turtles)

Prevention Controls:MSS vessels are class certified and carry appropriate safety audit documentation.Consultation with and notification to, marine stakeholders of activity;Notification to AMSA RCC who will issue Auscoast warnings;Notification to AHO who will issue a Notice to Mariners;Radio communication (MSS & support vessel), AIS and Navigation lights on vessels; Vessel operated by experienced and competent crew (STWC95) with 24/7 bridge watch;MSS seismic lines will be acquired in a WNW/ESE direction to minimise vessel interaction; Availability of a support vessel to detect third party vessels and avoid interference;ARPA tracking of vessels on MSS and support vessel;MSS Vessel can manoeuvre (change lines) to avoid collisions;MSS vessel can steer offline and dive the cables;MSS vessel sacrifices cables to avoid collision.Mitigation:Use of MGO as fuel for vessel;Availability of approved, implemented and tested SOPEP and OSCP.Oil Spill Response arrangements identified and tested for MSS.AMSA response to oil spill as Combat AgencyNo landfall impacts identified with largest spill volume.

Medium

Packaged/bulk Oil/Chemical spillthrough deck system

Localised Reduction of Water Quality with possible impacts to marine fauna

Prevention Controls:Small volumes of chemicals/oils held on-board (usually in packages of limited volume);Chemicals are isolated from the deck drainage system (bunding/containers);Information available to crew members (including training) on the handling and PPE requirements of specific chemicals and spill clean-up procedures;Spill clean-up kits are strategically placed in high risk spill locations;Deck spills are cleaned up immediately and prior to any deck washing;Biodegradable detergents used on vessels;Chemicals/oils are appropriately labelled, packaged, marked and tethered in accordance with IMDG Code;High levels of housekeeping maintained on the vessel and areas are routinely inspected.Mitigation:Availability of implemented and tested SOPEP.Low volumes generated and rapid dilution/dispersion in marine environment;Seismic survey is for a limited duration only (30days).

Low



| Revision: 0 of 28


Refuelling at Sea Fuel (MGO) transfer spill (Spill 1m3)

Water quality and marine life impacts (estimate 1m3)


Refuelling at sea will occur on an ‘exception basis’ only. Not a routine activity.

Refuelling activity is a fully supervised operation which occurs in daylight hours, good visibility and in appropriate sea-states, undertaken in accordance with approved Bunkering Procedures/Permit-to Work by trained personnel with all associated equipment routinely maintained and inspected prior to use (e.g. dry-break couplings);

Transfer area is bunded with spill kits available;

Tank levels are monitored so not to overfill;

Toolbox meetings undertaken prior to activity and permit issued;

Suitable absorbent material is held on the vessel to clean-up small diesel spills.

Mitigation:

Vessel has an approved, implemented and tested SOPEP; and

Spills will be rapidly dispersed in the high energy Southern Ocean – no impact to shoreline expected.

Low

Solid/Hazardous Waste overboard

Toxicity impacts to marine flora & faunaAlteration to SeafloorHarm to Marine Fauna by Ingestion

Prevention Controls:Vessel to operate in accordance with an approved Garbage Management Plan, Waste Management & Disposal Procedures which includes identification of waste reduction measures (at source) to prevent waste generation;Clear waste identification, segregation, containment (in skips or sealed drums) and labelling;‘No Waste Overboard Policy’;Waste storage areas are routinely inspected; All hazardous waste disposed or recycled onshore;Training and reinforcement to all crew (& other) personnel of waste management requirements.

Low

Streamer LossHazard to Vessels (Shipping & Fishing Hazard)

Prevention Controls:Streamer deployment and retrieval via approved Procedures;For streamer operations a secondary retaining device is used to prevent loss;Equipment is fit for purpose;An inspection and maintenance system checks bridles and harnesses for wear with damaged components replaced as necessary.Mitigation:Navigation buoy is attached to each streamer (locator) with radar reflectors;Solid streamers contain buoyancy devices which allows for support vessel surface retrieval if lost;In the event of a streamer loss, marine stakeholders are notified.

Low



of 28 | Revision: 0


Fluid Loss from Streamers (impact from vessels, etc.)

Toxicity impacts to marine flora & fauna

Prevention Controls:Vessel collision preventative controls (as above);Low environmental hazard chemical contained in fluid sections of streamer;Streamer is solid with only small sections of the streamer containing fluid;Streamers maintained and inspected for integrity.Mitigation Controls:Rapid dispersion in the marine environment

Low

Collision with Marine Cetaceans

Damage/Death to Individual Cetacean

Prevention Controls:Comply with proximity distances as required for cetaceans in Part 8 of the EPBC Regulations 2000. This includes (within caution zone – whales (300m) & dolphins (150m)):

Operate vessel at constant speed of 6knots & minimise noise; Vessel not to drift closer than 50m (dolphins) & 100m (whales); Make sure the vessel does not restrict path of cetacean and the vessel does not pursue

cetacean.Mitigation:Cetaceans deterred from high noise areas.

Low



of 28 | Revision: 0

6 Summary of Management ApproachWHL, as the ‘Environmental Operator’ of the La Bella MSS activity, is accountable for the environmental outcomes from the proposed MSS and will ensure the activity is managed in accordance with the accepted La Bella Environment Plan (EP). The selected seismic contractor will undertake the survey operations on WHL’s behalf and, under contractual arrangements with WHL, will implement and comply with all environmental controls and procedures nominated in the accepted Environment Plan.

WHL is committed to protection of the environment in all activities it undertakes. Activities are undertaken in accordance with relevant legislated standards and wherelegislated standards do not exist, responsible standards are adopted. Successful environmental outcomes are achieved by understanding how proposed activities interact with the environment, identifying possible and foreseeable impacts, and implementing management controls which eliminate or reduce the environmental risk to ALARP.

Environmental performance objectives have been defined for each environmental aspect. Control measures adopted to manage the environmental risk to a level which is ALARP have been assigned measureable performance standards to ensure controls are meeting their environmental outcomes. Environmental performance and control measure implementation are monitored and verified throughout the activity by the WHL Offshore Representative.

Key elements of the implementation strategy include:

Definition of specific roles and responsibilities as they relate to environment protection and EP implementation;

Induction activities to educate personnel of specific environmental aspects of the MSS including the environmental sensitivities within the region, control measures which require implementation, monitoring and reporting requirements; and ongoing awareness/communication sessions to reinforce requirements and identify/resolve possible issues;

Incident reporting and investigation of environmental incidents;

Compliance assurance of the MSS activity and its adherence to Environment Plan requirements through auditing and inspection activities; and

Environmental performance review at the completion of MSS activities.

WHL adopts a philosophy of continuous improvement. Learning’s from seismic survey performance, incident investigations and field activity reviews are documented and incorporated as improvement actions for future activities.



of 28 | Revision: 0

7 Consultation ProcessIn accordance with the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas (Environment) Regulations 2009 R (11A) and R14 (9), the following stakeholders and interested parties have been identified and consulted as part of the stakeholder engagement process for the survey:

Commonwealth Department or Agency

Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA)

Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA)

Australian Hydrographic Office (AHO)

Department of Defence (Defence Property Services Group)

Department of Broadband, Communication and the Digital Economy

National Native Title Tribunal

Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (part of Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forests (DAFF)

Border Protection Command

National Offshore Petroleum Titles Administrator

Department of Sustainability, Environment, Population and Communities (SEWPC)

Victorian Departments or Agencies

Department of Primary Industries

Department of Sustainability and Environment

Aboriginal Heritage Council

Corangamite Shire Council

Colac-Otway Shore Council

Shire of Moyne

Transport Safety Victoria (Department of Transport)

City of Warrnambool

Environment Victoria

Framlingham Aboriginal Trust

Portland Port Authority

Fishery-interest Groups

Commonwealth Fisheries Association (CFA)

South-east Trawl Fishing Industry Association (SETFIA)

Seafood Industry Victoria (SIV)

Southern Shark Industry Alliance

Sustainable Shark Fishing Inc.

Portland Professional Fishermen’s Association

Port Campbell Professional Fisherman’s Association

Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Cooperative



| Revision: 0 of 28

Recreational Fisherman’s Association of Victoria

Southern Squid Jig Fishery

Adjacent Oil and Gas Operators

Santos

Origin Energy

Scientific Interest Group

Blue Whale Study Group

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)

Non-Government Organisations

International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)

Migratory Wildlife Network (MWN)

Pew Environmental Group

The Wilderness Society

World Wildlife Fund

Individuals

Federal Member – Wannon

Federal Member – Corangamite

State Member for Polwarth

State Member for South-west Coast

Liberal Senator for Tasmania (Richard Colbeck)

Recreational Groups

Ocean Racing Club of Victoria

Feedback obtained in these consultation activities has allowed for the development of a communication and engagement strategy for each relevant stakeholder to determine the level, type, ‘triggers’ and schedule of on-going engagement throughout the La Bella MSS. WHL will maintain communications with stakeholders identified in this communication and engagement strategy to ensure they are informed of relevant aspects of the survey or changes that may affect them.



of 28 | Revision: 0

8 Contact DetailsFurther information associated with the environmental aspects of the La Bella MSS may be obtained from WHL by contacting the following:

Matt Fittall

WHL Energy Limited,

PO Box 1042,

West Perth, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, 6872

Telephone: +61 8 8500 0271

Fax: +61 8 9321 5212

Email: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]



| Revision: 0 of 28

9 ReferencesAsia Pacific Applied Science Associates (APASA), 2012 – Quantitative Hydrocarbon Spill

Modelling for La Bella Seismic Survey Area Victoria, APASA Project No: Q0134

AMSA, 2012 - Consultation email response from James Bond to John Hughes in relation to the La Bella MSS Program (11th October 2012)

Butler, A., Althaus, F., Furlani, D., & Ridgway, K. (2002) – Assessment of the Conservation Values of the Bonney Upwelling Area – A Component of the Commonwealth Marine Conservation Assessment program 2002-2004; Report to Environment Australia, December 2002 access on 12th December 2012 at http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mpa/publications/pubs/conservation-assessment-bonney.pdf

DPI (Victoria), 2011a - Fishery Status Reports - The Victorian Giant Crab Fishery at http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries/about-fisheries/managing-fisheries/victorian-giant-crab-fishery

DPI (Victoria), 2011b - Fishery Status Reports the Victorian Rock Lobster Fishery at http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries/commercial-fishing/fishery-status-report/victorian-rock-lobster-fishery

Gardner, S., Tonts, M., & Elrick, C. 2006 – A socioeconomic Analysis and Description of the Marine Industries of Australia’s South-west Marine region, Department of Environment and Water Resources available at http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mbp/publications/south-west/pubs/sw-marine-industries.pdf

Geosciences Australia (GA), 2012 – Australian Marine Spatial Information System accessed on 12th October 2012 at http://www.ga.gov.au/imf-amsis2/?accept_agreement=on

Gill, P. (2013) - Late 2012 Blue Whale Sightings - Personal Communication between P. Gill and J. Hughes on 17 January 2013

Gill P.C., Morrice, M.G., Page, B., Pirzl R., Levings, A.H, & Coyne, M., 2011 - Blue whale habitat selection and within season distribution in a regional upwelling system off southern Australia. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 421: 243–263. Accessed on 30th September 2012 at www.int-res.com/articles/meps_oa/m421p243.pdf

IMCRA technical Group, 1998 – Interim Marine and Coastal Regionalisation for Australia: An ecosystem-based classification for marine and coastal environments, Version 3.3, Environment Australia, Commonwealth Department of the Environment. Canberra, accessed on 2nd December 2012 at http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mbp/publications/imcra/pubs/imcra3-3.pdf

National Oceans Office (NOO), 2004 – South-east Marine Plan – Implementing Australia’s Oceans Policy in the South-East Marine Region downloaded on 12th October 2012 at http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mbp/publications/south-east/pubs/sermp.pdf

NOO, 2002 – Ecosystems – Nature’s Diversity – The South-East Regional Marine Plan Assessment Reports, National Oceans Office, Hobart

SEWPC, 2012a – EPBC Online Protected Matters Database accessed on 18nd November 2012 at http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/pmst/index.html

SEWPC, 2012b - SPRAT Database (Blue Whale) downloaded on 21st May 2012 at http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=36

http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mpa/publications/pubs/conservation-assessment-bonney.pdf

http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mpa/publications/pubs/conservation-assessment-bonney.pdf

http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries/about-fisheries/managing-fisheries/victorian-giant-crab-fishery

http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries/about-fisheries/managing-fisheries/victorian-giant-crab-fishery

http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries/commercial-fishing/fishery-status-report/victorian-rock-lobster-fishery

http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries/commercial-fishing/fishery-status-report/victorian-rock-lobster-fishery

http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mbp/publications/south-west/pubs/sw-marine-industries.pdf

http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mbp/publications/south-west/pubs/sw-marine-industries.pdf

http://www.ga.gov.au/imf-amsis2/?accept_agreement=on

http://www.ga.gov.au/imf-amsis2/?accept_agreement=on

http://www.int-res.com/articles/meps_oa/m421p243.pdf

http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mbp/publications/imcra/pubs/imcra3-3.pdf

http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mbp/publications/imcra/pubs/imcra3-3.pdf

http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mbp/publications/south-east/pubs/sermp.pdf

http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/mbp/publications/south-east/pubs/sermp.pdf

http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/pmst/index.html

http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=36




of 28 | Revision: 0

SEWPC, 2012c - SPRAT Database (Southern Right Whale) downloaded on 21st May 2012 at http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=40

SEWPC, 2012d – National Shipwreck Database accessed on 23rd September 2012 at http://www.environment.gov.au/heritage/shipwrecks/database.html

South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), (2011) – Conservation management priorities for little penguin populations in Gulf St Vincent – A Report prepared by Annelise Weibkin, SARDI and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board available at http://www.amlrnrm.sa.gov.au/Portals/2/Coast/Plans-Coast/LittlePenguinConservationPriorityPlan.pdf

Woodhams, J, Stobutzki, I, & Vieira, S. (eds) 2012, Fishery status reports 2011, Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences, Canberra downloaded on 31st January 2013 at http://www.daff.gov.au/abares/publications_remote_content/publication_series/fishery_status_report

Woodside, 2003 – Otway Gas Project Environmental Impact Assessment/Environmental Effects Statement, Woodside Energy Limited



http://www.environment.gov.au/heritage/shipwrecks/database.html

http://www.amlrnrm.sa.gov.au/Portals/2/Coast/Plans-Coast/LittlePenguinConservationPriorityPlan.pdf

http://www.amlrnrm.sa.gov.au/Portals/2/Coast/Plans-Coast/LittlePenguinConservationPriorityPlan.pdf

http://www.daff.gov.au/abares/publications_remote_content/publication_series/fishery_status_report

http://www.daff.gov.au/abares/publications_remote_content/publication_series/fishery_status_report

environment plan summary - nopsema · 2013-08-27 · 1. the seismic vessel will also execute turns...

Documents