--> Abstract: Barrow Island Oil Field--25 Years of Exploration and Development in an Australian Nature Reserve, by R. D. Lagdon; #91012 (1992).

Datapages, Inc.Print this page

ABSTRACT: Barrow Island Oil Field--25 Years of Exploration and Development in an Australian Nature Reserve

LAGDON, RUSSELL D., West Australian Petroleum Pty. Limited, Australia

Barrow Island, off the northwest coast of Western Australia, was declared a Class "A" Nature Reserve for the protection of flora and fauna in 1908. Since 1963, West Australian Petroleum Pty. Limited (WAPET) has conducted oil exploration and production operations on the island, producing over 235 million barrels of oil. The introduction of exotic plants and animals has been prevented, the island's full suite of native species remains intact, and the conservation values of the nature reserve have been maintained--all as the result of a rigorous environmental program.

The initial field activities occurred well before the proclamation of environmental protection legislation in Australia, and WAPET had no model on which to base its management program.

Through experimentation and experience, the management program was developed, and it is still being continually refined. The six seismic surveys and the five drilling programs illustrate this progression from a lack of environmental sympathy to benchmark accomplishments

in arid zone exploration and development. Similar progress has also been made in the areas of gravel extraction, rubbish disposal, and work force education.

The dynamic nature of the program and the positive approach by WAPET management have been the cornerstones of this environmental management system. The operation demonstrates that, with proper management and planning, the oil industry and conservation are not incompatible.

 

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91012©1992 AAPG Annual Meeting, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, June 22-25, 1992 (2009)