--> Abstract: A Successful Resolution to the Conflict between Oil and Gas Development and Environmental Concerns in the Big Cypress Swamp, by M. J. Duever and J. F. Meeder; #91012 (1992).

Datapages, Inc.Print this page

ABSTRACT: A Successful Resolution to the Conflict between Oil and Gas Development and Environmental Concerns in the Big Cypress Swamp

DUEVER, MICHAEL J., and JOHN F. MEEDER, National Audubon Society, Naples, FL

South Florida has a wet-dry season precipitation regime that in combination with the area's low topographic relief has produced an environment dominated by wetland communities. In 1939, Florida's first deep test well was drilled in the Big Cypress Swamp, and in 1943 the first producing well went into operation. Over 300 test wells had been completed in this area by the late 1960s, but few development wells were completed prior to 1964. Production during the 1970s was 1-2 million barrels of oil and 100 bcf of gas annually. The producing zone lies at 10,000-12,000 ft below the ground surface. Oil development occurs on raised drilling pads with raised roads for access. Concern among conservationists about oil development impacts in South Florida led the governor to establish the Big Cypr ss Advisory Committee in 1971. Committee recommendations are developed during visits to proposed drilling sites and access routes, when potential environmental impacts are determined. While the Committee can recommend no drilling, the normal result is agreement on an acceptable drilling site and access route. Numerous oil exploration, extraction, and transportation procedures have been standardized to deal with environmental concerns in the area. This has resulted in a more predictable situation in which the oil industry is able to conduct their activities and has satisfied the major concerns of the environmental community.

 

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