EIA of SPDC Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

THE SHELL PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY OF NIGERIA LIMITED
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) OF SPDC-EAST DIEBU CREEK EXPLORATORY WELL DRILLING
SEPTEMBER 2004
Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling
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Title: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) OF SPDC-EAST DIEBU CREEK EXPLORATORY WELL DRILLING
Originator: THE SHELL PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY OF NIGERIA LIMITED HSE-ENVE
Author:
Document Number: SPDC 2004 Date: Version: Security: Change History:

Version Final Report Date September 2004 Pages Whole Document Reason For Review
September 2004 Final Report NON-CONFIDENTIAL
TABLE OF CONTENT Table of Content List of figures List of Tables EIA Preparers Executive Summary i iii iii iv ES-1
CHAPTER ONE 1.0 1.1 1.2. 1.3 1.4 INTRODUCTION JUSTIFICATION FOR THE STUDY OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY WORKSCOPE LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK 1-1 1-1 1-1 1-2 1-2
CHAPTER TWO 2.0 PROJECT JUSTIFICATION 2-1
CHAPTER THREE 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 PROJECT AND PROCESS DESCRIPTION The Proposed Project Project Scope Project Site/Area Design of Facilities The Project Activities Operation and Maintenance Activities Decommissioning/Abandonment Oil Spill Contingency Plan Project Schedule 3 -1 3-1 3-1 3-1 3-1 3-2 3-7 3-8 3-8 3-9
CHAPTER FOUR 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 Area/ Ecological Description Climate Air Quality Noise Topography/Geology Soil Quality Vegetation Studies Plant Pathological Studies 4-1 4-1 4-2 4-3 4-4 4-4 4-6 4-8 3
4.8 Wildlife Studies 4.9 AQUATIC STUDIES 4.10 Trend in the Fisheries of the Nembe field 4.11 SOCIOECONOMICS 4.12 HEALTH ASSESSMENT 4.13 Inventory of Hazards 4.14 Perceived (Subjective) Impacts of SPDC Operations, Evaluation & Expectations CHAPTER FIVE 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS PROJECT OPERATIONAL IMPACTS ABANDONMENT Project Specific Reversible/Irreversible Effects
4-8 4-9 4 - 14 4 - 15 4 - 18 4 - 41 4 - 42
5-1 5 - 11 5 - 14 5 - 16 5 - 16
CHAPTER SIX 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 MITIGATION MEASURES/ALTERNATIVES Measures To Minimise Unavoidable Environmental Effects Waste Erosion Aquatic Ecosystem 6-1 6-4 6-5 6-6 6-6
CHAPTER SEVEN 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.8 7.9 7.10 7.11 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN GENERAL Environmental Monitoring Drilling Waste Management ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING OF PIPELINE ROUTES ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT AFTER 3 YEARS OF OPERATION RESPONSIBILITIES AND RESOURCE PERSONS IN SPDC STAFF TRAINING AND ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OIL SPILL, FIRE AND OTHER CONTINGENCY PLANNING OVERALL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMP) CONSULTATIONS FUTURE COMMITMENTS 7-1 7-1 7-2 7-6 7-8 7-9 7-9 7 - 10 7 - 10 7 - 11 7 - 14 7 - 15
CHAPTER EIGHT 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 DECOMMISSIONING AND ABANDONMENT INTRODUCTION THE DECOMMISSIONING AND DEMOLITION PROCESS PREPARING FACILITIES FOR DEMOLITION DEMOLITIONS AND SAFEGUARDING OF FACILITIES RESTORATION OF SITE 8-1 8-1 8-1 8-2 8-2 8-2
8.6 8.7
HANDOVER OF SITE SPECIFIC ABANDONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN
8-3 8-3
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 3.2 Figure 4.1 Figure 4.2 Figure 4.3 Figure 4.4 Figure 4.5 Figure 4.6 Figure 4.7 Figure 4.8 Figure 4.9 Figure 4.10 Figure 4.11 Figure 4.12 Figure 4.13 Figure 4.14 Figure 4.15 Project Schedule Population Pyramid (Study Communities), 2003 Educational status Marital Status of the Respondents Occupational status of Respondents 15years and above Average Monthly Income of Respondents above 15years Alcohol and cigarette Use Distribution of Sexual Partners Sources of treatment for Sexually transmissible Infections Knowledge of mode of Transmission of HIV Frequency of Condom Use Diseases Cases Proportional Mortality in under fives Type of meal eaten last 24hrs. Age distribution of stunting Westing and under weight Peak Flow Rate among Sampled Adults compared To standard for Age Figure 4.16 Perceived Sources of noise LIST OF TABLES Table 1.1 Table 1.2 Table 3.1 Table 4.1 Table 4.2 Table 4.3 Table 4.4 Table 4.5 Table 4.6 Table 4.7 Table 4.8 Table 4.8a Table 4.8b Table 4.9 Shell E&P HSE Manual (EP 95-0000) SPDC CASHES Guidelines; specifications and policy Waste Generation & Management strategy Distribution and Thickness Range of Sub-soil Horizons At various site Commonly used Medicinal plants Distribution of Illness Episodes among Respondents Causes of Hospital Admissions Causes of Death among children under 5years Distribution of Z scores for HFA, WFA and WFH Immunization Status among children under 5years Indicators for Safe water and sanitation in the Study communities Concentrations of Indoor Air Pollutants in the MTR Communities Concentration of out door Air Pollutants in MTR Communities Radiation Count rates and dose equivalents 13 13 36 44 4 25 4 26 4 28 4 29 4 32 4 33 4 36 4 37 4 38 39 4 18 4 19 4 19 4 20 4 20 4 21 4 22 4 22 4 23 4 24 4 29 4 30 4 31 4 32 4 34 4 37
Table 5.1 Table 5.2 Table 5.3 Table 5.4 Table 6.1 Table 6.2 Table 6.3 Table 7.1 Table 7.2 Table 7.3 Table 7.4
For studied Communities Environmental sensitivits; Swamps Impacting Activities and Agents Potential Environmental Consequences Project Activities on the Environment Noise Exposure Limits for Nigeria Impact Mitigation Measures Expected Waste at each Project Phase Control/Disposal of wastes Environmental Monitoring Programmes Discharge Monitoring Requirement for Well Drilling Operations (DPR EGASPIN 2002) Drilling waste Management Environmental Management Plan of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling activities
4 40 52 54 56 5 12 61 65 65 74 75 78 7 12
LIST OF PLATES Plate 1 Mangrove, Water, sand and Urban Areas (1960s 1980s 1990s) 47
REFERENCES EIA Preparers Dr. A. Adoki (Environmental Adviser) Mr. O. Ajibade (EIA Field Supervisor) Mr. C. Ukoko (EIA Project Leader)
Ref-1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Introduction The Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) of Nigeria Limited plans to carry out exploratory drilling in the Diebu Creek Field to improve hydrocarbon production. Diebu Creek East prospect is one of SPDCs top ranking prospects with an Expectation of over 250 MMBOE. It is located ca 5km east of the Diebu Creek field (OML 32) and in the event of success would significantly impact SPDCs oil resource volume. In line with this expectation and also to fulfil the requirements of regulating bodies such as Federal Ministry of Environment (FMENV), Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and Bayelsa State Ministry of Environment & Natural Resources as well as satisfying stakeholders expectations, SPDC has undertaken to carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study of Diebu Creek Exploratory Drilling Project. The preliminary EIA will provide information on the quality of the project environment, the interaction of the project with natural systems in the environment, potential impact of the project on the environment and mitigation measures to minimise significant negative impacts. The proposed drilling location lies in the south-eastern part of OML-32 and falls roughly within longitudes 67500 - 70000N and latitudes 412500 - 415000E. Port-Harcourt The climate of the study area is humid and typically tropical. The relative humidity is generally high especially in the wet season. Generally, rainfall characteristics of the area show that rainfall values are highest from July to September with a break around August. In the wet season the South-Westerlies are predominant. Other prevailing wind directions are from the South Easterly (SE) and Southerly (S) directions. The wind speed is more of gentle breeze in the wet season. This is followed by what can be The area is located in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, approximately 100 km Southwest of
considered as light breeze High wind speeds could be obtained during thunderstorm.
In the dry season, the NE wind is more dominant followed by the South Easterly (SE) and the Northerly (N) winds. The wind speeds are more of light breeze, followed by light air, gentle breeze and moderate breeze. For both wet and dry seasons no totally calm periods were noticed during the study periods. This is because there is always the presence of light air, light breeze or gentle breeze as a result of the coastal location of Nembe environment. The air quality is dominated by suspended particulates during the harmattan period of the dry season. In the rainy season, the air quality is good and acceptable. The gaseous pollutants are found to be generally very low and in most cases not detectable. No evidence of contamination arising from the gases is observed as shown by the concentrations of gaseous pollutants. This may be due to the fall out zone being outside the study area or more probably due to the high rate of dispersion of the pollutants from the flares occasioned by the winds in the area. The results of the noise studies show that background environmental noise in the Nembe creek field has not increased over time as a result of the number of facilities present. especially at their leisure periods. The soils in the study area are generally acidic (pH 1.5 -7.0). This is expected, as the study area is located in a mangrove environment. The electrical conductivity values showed that the soils are saline (680.0 - 20,000.0S/cm). This is supported by the results of other related parameters that show the influence of seawater in the study area. The organic carbons content in the soils are very high. The high organic carbon content observed in this area of study may be due to accumulation of vegetative matter and slow carbon mineralization in wetland soils. The total nitrogen levels generally range from moderate to very high levels (0.14 - 1.59%) in the surface soils. This suggests that the organic nitrogen in the area is capable of undergoing mineralization to give mineral nitrogen (NH4+, NO3-), the available forms of nitrogen. The total hydrocarbon content (THC) in the soils of the nearby Nembe Creek field are generally high and exceeded the biogenic threshold limit of 50mg/kg. The results suggest that the oil related activities in the area might have introduced hydrocarbon into the environment based on oil spillages that have occurred in the study area previously. This suggestion is confirmed from the results of the socio-economic and plant pathological studies. This is also evident in the high level of THC in areas reported to have been affected by oil spillage and even areas regarded as However, communities close to the facilities perceive levels of noise, which constitute a nuisance to them
control areas. Heavy metal concentrations are generally low. However microbial counts are high especially for petroleum degrading organisms suggesting the ability of the soils of the area to reasonably degrade the hydrocarbons when introduced into the environment. These microbes may have been sensitised by the generally above biogenic concentration of THC in the field. The vegetation studies show that the vegetation types existing within the Nembe creek area consist mainly of mangrove swamp forest with the red mangrove - Rhizophora racemosa as the dominant species. The plant pathological studies also show that generally, the vegetation still appears green and healthy. The results further show that older trees lodged more easily than the younger trees in areas where there had been an oil spill. Mona monkeys and some bird species were sighted directly. Tracks of five other animals were located by accompanying guides in both the central (Nembe-I) and northwest (Ewelesuo) sectors: clawless otters, genets, mongooses, the sitatunga antelope and monitor lizards. The surface water is brackish and tidal with high levels of conductivity, chloride and sulphate. Freshwater input into the system appears low in dry season. Phosphate and nitrate concentrations (<0.05 - 0.16 mg/l and 0.19 -0.28 mg/l respectively) are generally low. Dissolved oxygen concentrations (2.2 - 6.2 mg/l) are generally adequate for aquatic organisms. Dissolved oxygen concentration in water is a function of temperature and BOD. Water temperature was generally above 28oC and low DO levels were recorded for the warmer stations. Good water movement inspite of the temperature could also improve the DO levels in the stations. The results show that the concentrations of the heavy metals in the surface water are generally low or below detectable limits. These results are similar to those previously obtained for the Nembe Creek Field area and show levels that are expected for such aquatic environment. The phytoplankton results with respect to the occurring species showed over the periods that the species types are consistently similar for the seasons. The seasonal changes observed in the area include introduction of some freshwater species and somewhat higher phytoplankton densities in the dry season than in the wet season. The zooplankton data from both the previous and present studies showed comparable species
type and population densities.
The community structure based on densities of the individual
species assemblages (for the different taxa groups), despite spatial and temporal variables are almost identical for the entire field. The species types recorded for the benthic infaunal community in the present study are comparable to those of previous studies for Nembe environment. There is poor occurrence of non-polychaete forms such as amphipods, molluscs and shrimps. The poor presence of the non-polychaete benthic organisms is rather attributable to natural factors than anthropogenic. Macroalgal species showed wide distribution pattern for the entire field but biomasses varied within and between stations showing the importance of the different tidal levels on their development. The study shows diatoms dominate the epipelic algal community. the browsers that depend largely on them. The fisheries studies showed that seasonal differences in gear types and species composition were as reported in previous studies. The only change observed was the use of trigger hook around the Nembe creek I flowstation. fishermen/new gear type into the area. Apart from the fishing community observed around Nembe IV, no new communities were observed. This shows a very slow growth of new communities, the growth being more in terms of population increases in existing communities. This trend is corroborated by the presence of the new fishing gear observed at Nembe creek I flow station area. Females (53.3 %) generally dominated the population of the communities and the predominant occupation is fishing (92.5 %). Other occupations are relatively insignificant, e.g. petty trading (4.5 %) and wage labour (2.2 %). The modal educational attainment is primary level (37.9 %); secondary level and higher educational achievements account for 34.7 %. About 27.4 % lack formal education About 60 % of the residents of these settlements are Christians, inspite of the paucity of This suggests some kind of immigration of They maintained high
population densities for most of the stations. Also, biomasses were generally enough to sustain
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religious structures. The other 40 % are traditional believers, who still attach importance to local deities and shrines. Generally, housing in the fishing settlements is of low quality. Walling and roofing materials are predominantly of mud and thatch, respectively. Most of these structures lack foundations. Particularly noteworthy is the absence of public utilities-potable water and electricity in all the settlements. Settlements rely on water from nearby creeks and rainfall. These sources of water constitute disease foci for the population. Lack of potable water may be responsible for the high prevalence of communicable diseases and epidemics of gastro-enteritis, cholera, typhoid, dysentery and scabbies observed in the study area. Prevalent diseases in the area are; malaria, gastro-enteritis, diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera, skin diseases, respiratory diseases (especially cough and catarrh), measles, anaemia, worm infestation and eye problems. children. Environmental Assessment Based on the environmental sensitivities identified from the field and laboratory studies and the potential environmental consequences of the proposed project activities, a simple matrix was used to not only qualitatively describe the potential impacts but also to attempt a quantification of the impact. The analyses show that the proposed activities will exert both negative and positive effects on the study environment. Positive Impacts The Diebu Creek Exploratory Drilling Campaign will significantly improve the production of the field and therefore contribute significantly to the nation's economy. Morbidity and mortality patterns indicate high trends among
Construction activities for the project will require labour of varying trades and skill levels. A large percentage of the labour would require no specific skill or training. This would provide some employment for unskilled labour in the project environment.
Other economic activities associated with an influx of persons into an area will also benefit from 11
the project, especially during the construction phase.
Negative Impacts The construction activities of the Diebu Creek Exploratory Drilling Campaign will however, result in: i Loss of mangrove vegetation and resources although this will be minimal since the well shall be drilled from an existing slot. ii Incessant noise during construction may restrict most of the animals to a refuge for the purpose of protection and recruitment. Iii. Increased vessel movement with resultant disruption of fishing activities.
SPDC shall ensure that appropriate low noise facilities and equipment are used to reduce the effects of noise in all phases of the project cycle. Also vessels moving in the area shall as much as possible avoid fishing grounds.
Process Impacts The major process impacts will include noise from the drilling facilities and process upsets resulting in the introduction of oil into the environment.
Transportation Impacts Additional vehicular movements during construction activities are expected to result in waves that will flush the intertidal/banks of the creeks and rivers. These washings will result in increase in turbidity of the water system because of the increased sediment load. This will be a short term and localised impact since the area is tidal and has reasonable discharge capacity.
Vehicular movements can also result in washing off of intertidal pools. The juveniles in the pools will be dislodged from their normal habitats and introduced into the main water body prematurely exposing them to the activities of predators. This will result in loss of recruitment. A mitigating measure is the use of low wave producing boats (travel at low speeds).
Increased vehicular movements during construction activities will also result in erosion of the banks of the creeks and rivers. This will result in the die-back of trees and the loss of associated
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communities.
These impacts will be minimised by reducing the speed of vessels especially in narrow creeks.
Environmental Impact The sensitivity and vulnerability of some components of the habitats and resources of the field, to the proposed development are high. Alteration in the habitat can change food availability and, thus, species composition. Any pollution occurring in these areas could have far-reaching
effects. Overall, the project's specific long and short-term effects are summarised as follows:
Suspended particulate matter, CO and CO2, will generally increase in the immediate vicinity of the drilling rig.
The opening up of the vegetation will threaten the population of wildlife species in the area especially during construction.
Flight distances of wildlife will increase as a result of noise from construction equipment and movement of vehicles. Wildlife species that cannot adapt to these disturbances may migrate and some of these wildlife species may be persecuted indiscriminately during migration.
Discharges of hydrocarbons, chemicals and fuels during the well drilling activities will pollute the aquatic environment if carelessly handled or when accidents occur. Such accidents will adversely affect the water quality. Proper handling of discharges, chemicals, fuels etc. as stated in FMENV (Formerly FEPA) and DPR guidelines will reduce the expected impacts.
Socio-economic Impacts In all phases of the project cycle, there will be moderate employment, especially of low-skilled and unskilled labour. Labour force will affect the local economy (through consumption Labour force will also affect population
expenditures, demands on housing, hotels etc.).
densities resulting in such problems as erosion of privacy of local residents; perceived negative influence on local value systems, increase in crime rates and even prostitution.
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Environmental Management Based on the sensitivity of the area, appropriate environmental management programme is presented to ensure that the activities of the Diebu Creek Field Exploratory Drilling Campaign are carried out in compliance with SPDCs environmental management policy and existing legislation.
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CHAPTER ONE
1.0
INTRODUCTION
The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria, SPDC-East wishes to carry out an exploratory drilling in its Diebu Creek The various project activities will include well slot clearing and site preparation, dredging/sweeping of canals for rig movement, movement of materials and personnel, waste disposal, etc. This project is envisaged to involve the modification of the physical, biological, social, and cultural environment, and thus have the potential to create significant impacts. It is the desire of SPDC to carry out these activities in a manner that would avoid environmental pollution, conform to National and International standards, increase stakeholders satisfaction and earn revenue for the nation.
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which is the assessment of the impacts of development projects on the ecological, physical, chemical, health, social and economic environments, is the tool by which this can be achieved. In Nigeria, EIA is a regulatory requirement for all major projects.
1.1 JUSTIFICATION FOR THE STUDY
Environmental Impact Assessment is a regulatory requirement in Nigeria. Proper application of Environmental Impact Assessment studies will ensure that adverse impacts are minimized and positive impacts are enhanced during the Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling Project. Environmental Impact Assessment ensures that project development activities are carried out smoothly with co-operation of the local community and external agencies. Environmental Impact Assessment enhances reputation plus license to operate and improved access to future business opportunities. 1.2. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY To determine the current health status of the Project host communities. To identify and assess the health hazards that may be associated with the project and predict their likely health impact.
To develop effective control strategies for mitigation and amelioration of all significant adverse impact and
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To design appropriate health management plan for the project. 1.3 WORKSCOPE
The detailed workscope is presented in Chapter Three of this report 1.4 LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK
Relevant Existing Nigerian Laws and regulations In Nigeria, the relevant authorities regulating the environment of operation of the oil industry are the Federal Ministry of Environment (FMENV) and the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR). Federal Ministry of Environment (FMENV) The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act No 86 of 1992 regulates the conduct of EIA in Nigeria and vested the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA), now Federal Ministry of Environment, with the power to enforce compliance with the regulations therein. Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) Environmental Guidelines and Standards for the Petroleum Industry, Department of Petroleum Resources, 2003, stipulated in Part VIII (A) the manner of preparing EIA. Section 5 provides guideline for preliminary EIA Report. The content of the detailed EIA Report is outlined in Section 6 of the guidelines. Other Relevant Laws and Acts There are other laws and Acts before and after this Act, which equally protect and conserve the environment. Among these are:

National Inland Waterways Act of 1997, Forest Act of 1958, Land Use Act of 1978, FEPA (1991) Guidelines and Standards for Environmental Pollution Control in Nigeria, The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Section 20). Bayelsa and Rivers state Environmental Protection Agencies
SPDC regulations
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SPDC operates under the guidelines of Shell International and complies strictly with them. Some of these are (i) Shell E&P HSE Manual (EP-950000) shown in Table 1.1 and SPDC CASHES Guideline and Specifications (Table 1.2) Where local legislation is more stringent than the minimum acceptable in the Shell regulation, SPDCs policy is to comply with the local legislation. Table 1.1 Shell E&P HSE Manual (EP 95-0000)
Doc. No EP 95-0372 EP 95-0110 EP 95-0200 EP 95-0230 EP 95-0240 EP 95-0270 EP 95-0300 EP 95-0310 EP 95-0311 EP 95-0312 EP 95-0313 EP 95-0315 P 95-0316 EP 95-0319 EP 95-0330 EP 95-0350 EP 95-0351 EP 95-0352 EP 95-0370 EP 95-0371 EP 95-0375 EP 95-0376 EP 95-0377 EP 95-0380 EP 95-0381 EP 95-0385 EP 95-0386 EP 95-0387 EP 95-0390 EP 95-0391 Document Title Health Impact Assessment Management of Contractor HS Survey operations Design Construction and Commissioning General Workplace Practices, Overview Hazards and Effects Management Process Implementing/Documenting an HSE Management System and HSE Cases, Job Hazard Analysis HAZID HAZOP Guidelines on Permit to work (PTW) Systems Emergency Response Safe Handling of Chemicals Drinking Water Guidelines FIREPLAN Fire Control and Recovery Quantitative Risk Assessment Environmental Assessment Social Impact Assessment Guidelines Environmental Quality Standards-Air Monitoring Air Quality Quantifying Atmospheric Emissions Environmental Quality Standards-Water Monitoring Air Quality Environmental Quality Standards-Soil and Groundwater Monitoring Soil and Groundwater Contaminated Soil and Groundwater Waste Management Guidelines Classifying Waste
Table 1.2: SPDC CASHES Guidelines; Specifications and Policy

S/N 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Description Title Permit To Work System SPDC Recommended General Medical Standards of Fitness SPDC Safety Regulations Pre-mobilisation Procedure Enhanced HSES Management systems. ENME Contractor Guide SPDC CASHES Policy Statement Incident Notification, Investigation and Follow-up Procedure SPDC Policy on employment of Indigenous Contractors and Suppliers Community Relations Policy Community Development Policy
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12 13 14
Waste Disposal Guidelines Land Acquisition and Compensation Abandonment Policy
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CHAPTER TWO 2.0 PROJECT JUSTIFICATION
The Diebu Creek East Deep well will explore the prospective sequence beneath the Diebu Creek East Un=Appraised Development (UAD) located in SPDCs OML 32 in the Coastal Swamp Depobelt. This sequence is the stratigraphic equivalent of the prolific intervals in Agips Obama field. The Prospect is a large structural closure of about 22 km2, with a dip rollover component of 14 km2. The objective sequence lies between 12,500 ft ss and 16,700 ft ss. The Prospect has Mean Success Oil Volume (MSVO) of > 400 million barrels (MMBbls), and Mean Success Gas Volume (MSVG) of >0.9 TCF. The successful outcome of this well will significantly increase SPDCs hydrocarbon reserves and gross production level. It will also contribute towards achieving Nigerias 2010 40 Billion Barrels Reserves Base aspiration. The Diebu Creek East structure continues eastwards into AGIPs OML 63 where the objective sequence has been proven to be hydrocarbon bearing by the Pirigbene-3 and Obama Deep-3 wells. The Pirigbene-3 well was completed as an oil producer. About 8 Km to the Northeast of the prospect is AGIPs Obama field with a UR of about 200 MMBbls. There are about ten hydrocarbon levels penetrated in the Obama field, with one level, the J5, having an oil column of ca 1200 ft. The main objective of the Diebu Creek East Deep well will be to prove the westward extension of the same hydrocarbon accumulations encountered by Agips Pirigbene-3 and Obama Deep-3 wells. The well is planned to drill deviated to the total depth (TD) of about 17,000 ft ah. Sidewall coring, logging and production testing would appraise the prospective reservoirs. After production testing at the successful intervals, the well will be hooked up for production, or plugged back and suspended for future development. If unsuccessful the well will be plugged back and abandoned.
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CHAPTER THREE 3.0 3.1 PROJECT AND PROCESS DESCRIPTION The Proposed Project
The project is for oil and gas development and is basically an exploratory drilling programme for a single well with possible follow-up with an appraisal well within the Diebu Creek East area (See Attached Well Location Map). 3.2 Project Scope
The project scope includes the drilling of one vertical or slightly deviated well within the Diebu Creek East area. 3.3 Project Site/Area The area is located in the
The proposed drilling location lies in the south-eastern part of OML-32 and falls roughly within longitudes 67500 - 70000N and latitudes 412500 - 415000E. Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, approximately 100 km Southwast of Port-Harcourt. The inhabitants are Ijaws, mostly Christians, with some social amenities. The main sources of sustenance for the people come from fishing, farming, lumbering and lumbering related activities (boat building). The main method of transportation in the area is by river or creeks in speedboats or transport and fishing vessels/boats. The area is a swamp location, and is water logged all year round. It is characterised by a network of creeks in a depressed plain. The soils are grey coloured, contain extensive layers of peat, have low pH and high salinity. The vegetation is a mixture of fresh water trees and mangrove, while the surface water is generally fresh. The area has high ecological diversity and low levels of hydrocarbon degrading bacteria. 3.4 3.4.1 Design of Facilities Basis for Design
Quality Assurance of Design In a surface and sub-surface development with large spatial structural variability, such as in this project, it is imperative that certain basic parameters must be reasonably and accurately defined
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in the overall project specification to ensure that the full objectives of the project are realised. SPDC has, therefore, specified the following quality objectives for the design: Compliance with statutory requirements; The system must meet performance requirements;

Production availability Environmental and safety Operationality and maintainability Life expectancy Extendibility; and Use of innovative technology
To ensure that the above quality objectives are met, SPDC intends to adopt time-tested Standard Well Designs, employing new technology where safety and economics dictate.
Applicable Standards and Codes The engineering design, procurement and installation will be in accordance with:

Statutory codes and standards; Shell Design and Engineering Practice (DEPs) SPDC standard facility design manuals Specific design features of the development SPDC HSE Policy Applicable National and International Standards The Project Activities Pre-drilling activities: Site preparation Movement and transport of equipment, personnel and supply; Rig movement and positioning; Drilling sequence; Well completion; Demobilisation and rehabilitation Pre-Construction/Construction Activities
3.5
The specific project activities to be carried out include:

3.5.1
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Pre-Drilling Phase The activities in this phase are essentially desktop works involving feasibility, technical and financial investigations/considerations. These investigations are aimed at ensuring the viability and sustainability of the project. The results of these investigations culminated in the preparation of a detailed drilling, casing and mud programme. The operating environment was taken into consideration in deciding the type of drilling mud most suited for this activity. Consultations and meetings with regulatory bodies, host communities and contractors are also prominent features of this phase. These consultations will ensure that all stakeholders are notified and carried along, pathways and schedules clearly defined. The benefits of these meetings/consultations are to ensure that the exploratory drilling is carried out within regulatory compliance and to ensure crisis-free project execution. Site preparation Site preparation activities consist essentially of preparing/dredging access routes, well head area, rig position. Land take will be considerably small. Movement and Transport of Equipment, Personnel and Supplies The technical requirements of the exploratory drilling operation such as the drilling rig and all its associated equipment having been established, the next phase of action is to proceed with the mobilisation of required personnel, equipment and materials. Materials that shall be transported include:

The rig; Pipes and casing; Drilling chemicals; Generators; and Diesel oil
Supply boats shall be used to transport equipment & materials. Existing creeks/creeklets and river shall be used. Rig Movement and Positioning The rig is the jack-up type, supported by well-positioned legs. Generators running on diesel oil, as fuel, will supply power to the rig. The fuel oil (diesel) will be brought into the field by supply boats.
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The drilling rig has all necessary facilities on board for the drilling programme. Consequently land shall not be cleared for campsite or storage of equipment. There shall be limited dredging of the drill slot to create access routes or canal. 3.5.2 Drilling The exploratory well at Diebu Creek East shall be drilled as a vertical or slightly deviated well. Shallow gas or over pressures are not expected. Water based mud (bentonite) will be used for the top-hole sections. At the intermediate and deeper-sections, pseudo oil based mud will be used. Oil based mud shall not be used for drilling. Blow-out prevention liquid will be circulated in a closed system. The wastes expected include drill cuttings, chemicals and spent mud. The drilling and completion operations shall be managed at Diebu Creek. In the event that large quantities of hydrocarbon are produced during an optional production test, it will be evacuated in tankers/barges. The supplies shall come from SPDCs Kidney Island location in Port-Harcourt. Well Type The exploratory drilling shall be a vertical or slightly deviated well that will optimally test the objective interval. Drilling/Mud System Drilling operation requires the use of special drilling fluid (mud). The mud is continuously pumped down the drill string to the drill bit and returns to the surface through the space between the drilling string and borehole. Drilling mud performs the following functions: Exerts hydrostatic pressure on the down hole and prevents formation fluids from entering the well bore; Removes drill cuttings from the bottom of the hole and carries them to the surface and when circulation is interrupted, it suspends drill cuttings in the hole; Lubricates and cools the drill bit and drill string; and Drilling Programme
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Deposits an impermeable cake on the wall of the well bore effectively sealing and stabilising the formations being drilled
Types of mud in use are:
o o
Bentonite spud mud (circa 8000 bbls/well)

Material: Bentonite, Caustic, PACR, CMC, drilling detergent, barite, lost circulation materials Pseudo oil based mud composition
Well Completion The well shall be completed with the same rig that drilled them and flushed with brine based fluids. Drilling fluid is often not a serious concern here, and in most cases, only the casing content of the drilling fluid (about 800 1000 bbls) need to be managed. The main concerns during completion are salinity or chloride contents of the fluids. Materials are: salt (NaCl), NaOH, XC polymer. Total volume is about 2500 bbls, mainly lowdensity fluids. Special materials used for sand consolidation are diesel, iso-propyl alcohol, Shell SOL K. Drainage Discharges
Drainage discharges upon the drilling rig will occur from a number of sources including:
Clean area floor drains; Deluge drains; Machine area floor drains; Bunded areas beneath fuel or chemical storage areas; Overflow drains on diesel fuel tank system.
The first two sources contain non-oily water and are therefore discharged overboard without any treatment. The other discharges may contain oil or chemicals and would be routed to the oily water drainage and treatment system. Waste Management Strategy The expected waste from the drilling activities and their management strategies are tabulated in Table 3.1.
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Table 3.1: Waste Generation & Management Strategy
Waste
Mud
Control Measure/Management Strategies

Cuttings
Excess and used water based mud (WBM) will be re-used/reinjected or diluted to meet DPR discharge standard before disposal. Used pseudo oil based mud (POBM) will be re-used in the drilling of other wells. Spent POBM would be incinerated at the incinerator at the Bonny terminal or re-injected in dedicated approved disposal wells. Top-hole cuttings drilled with WBM will be fluidised and re-injected in dedicated approved re-injection wells. Bottom hole cuttings drilled with POBM and contaminated with POBM will be incinerated at the Bonny terminal or re-injected in dedicated approved re-injection wells.
POBM cuttings can be also processed by separating the
cutting into solid and liquid phases using shaker. The liquid shall be passed through active carbon and filters (carbon & silica) to remove contaminants. The resultant clean water is discharged or re-used. For the solids, they shall be mixed with cement and silicates and used for road tar or as land fill material.
The percentage mud on cuttings shall be kept below 10% before incineration through the use of installed high gravity shakers/dryers. Total expected volume of drill cuttings from WBM & POBM drilled sections are 158m3 and 292m3 respectively. Cement residues and returns (spud mud and cement contaminated water) generated during the top hole cementation stage will be collected and re-injected. Solids free, lightweight, non-toxic completion brine will be used. Excess brines shall be re-injected. Used or spent acids will be diluted and neutralised through the addition of dilute caustic soda. Thereafter it will be disposed off through re-injection. Used sand consolidation fluids (well fix etc.) will be collected in drums and sent for incineration or re-injected. It is envisaged that the maximum number of personnel at drilling site at any one time will be about 150 persons. Sanitary sewage produced at site will be treated on the rig sewage treatment plant as per DPR standard. The water can be re-used for flushing the system or disposed in rivers. Regular monitoring will be carried out. Industrial and domestic wastes will be segregated according to the currently operated segregation scheme which distinguishes between food waste, paper waste, scrap metals, chemical waste, medical waste etc. These will be sent to SPDC respective waste

Cement
Brine (NaCl) Discharge Acids
Sand Consolidation Fluid Sewage
Industrial and domestic wastes
25
Rig bilge
disposal facilities. Oily water discharges shall be controlled to less than 20ppm oil in water by the rig oil/water separation system.
3.6 3.6.1
Operation and Maintenance Activities General
The wellhead shall be operated in accordance with operational procedures developed through SPDC extensive experience. The project will be managed by fully trained and qualified personnel who are conversant with SPDCs HSE policy guidelines.
3.6.2 Operation
Facilities Safeguarding Philosophy Wellhead The wellhead will be maintained and safeguarded in accordance with SPDCs HSE policy and guidelines. Maintenance Philosophy Upkeep of Structures Maintenance and inspection activities will be based on periodic inspection to determine the condition of structures and performance of their protection systems. Refurbishment activity to restore the integrity of structures will be based on their condition. Coating systems applied to structures will be replaced on a time based maintenance schedule. Containment of Hydrocarbons Maintenance and inspection activity will be based on periodic inspections to determine the condition of all elements of the process fluid containment envelope. Inspection will be related not only to the containment envelope, but also to any protective coatings applied thereon. Inspection programmes for certifiable pressure vessels, pressure / vacuum relieving devices will be inspected to meet the requirements of the Minerals Oils (Safety) regulations of Nigeria. Refurbishment activity to restore the integrity to the envelope will be based on their condition. Where appropriate, economic systems to mitigate the effects of corrosion shall be put in place and their effectiveness routinely monitored. Control and Protection
26
Control and protection systems will be based on periodic inspections / calibration / testing both their input and output functions as detailed in the Maintenance Job Routes (MJR). Hazard Detection Systems Maintenance of hazard detection systems will be based on periodic inspection / calibrations / testing of both their input and output functions. Non-availability of hydrocarbon production caused by such inspections / calibrations / test will be accounted for in the production plan. 3.7 3.7.1 Decommissioning/Abandonment General
The wellhead and their ancillary installations have a life expectancy of about 25 years. The operation and maintenance procedure shall provide for monitoring the performance and the integrity of the system components. When the performance of the system scales to diminishing returns, SPDC standard procedures for decommissioning shall be invoked. A decommissioning team shall be set up to plan and implement laid down guidelines on decommissioning. The following activities are involved in decommissioning/abandonment:

Demolition and site clean-up; Disposal of wastes; Rehabilitation of site. Demolition and Site Clean-up
3.7.2
The demolition exercise shall be carried out with skill and diligence to avoid spill of hazardous liquids and damage to the environment. At the end of demolition, various solid wastes shall be segregated according to their types and then disposed of according to SPDC waste disposal guidelines. 3.8 Oil Spill Contingency Plan
SPDCs oil spill contingency plan shall be applied to the proposed drilling project. The spill contingency plan shall be based upon the location and volume of potential spill and shall address the possibilities of well blowouts in the drilling emergency plan. The spill contingency plan clearly identifies the actions necessary in the event of an oil spill including communication network, the individual responsibilities of key personnel and the procedures for reporting to the authorities and arranging the logistics of extra labour needed for
27
clean-up work. Finally, the plan shall address the disposal of contaminated waste generated by a spill. 3.9 Project Schedule
The project schedule is shown in Figure 3.1 below. The duration for the drilling of the well is specified in the project schedule. Figure 3.2: Project Schedule
Month 1 ACTIVITY Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Month 5 Month 6
SITE PREPARATION DRILLING OPERATION COMPLETION OPERATION
28
Diebu Creek Flyover 1 November 2004 Areal Basemap

6.11539 6.20532
Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd.
NENGIGBENE EKOWE
Nengigbene
SEIBIRI
Seibiri
Ekowe
no tag
OTUAGANAGU Ipirigbene Abagbene IPIRIGBENE

IPIRIGBENE
Olugbobiri Polobogu
4.67647
ABAGBENE
DIEBU CREEK-012
4.67647
OML63
OGILAGBENE
OML32 DIEBU CREEK-010

DIEBU CREEK
DIEBU CREEK-014
Ogilagbene
DIEBU CREEK-015 IKIANBIRI DIEBU CREEK-011 DIEBU CREEK-005 DIEBU CREEK-006 DIEBU CREEK-004 DIEBU CREEK-013
OML32
OTUEKPEIN OKIKI OKADI OKODI IBAKA OKODOGO IGBO IYALAKIRI Leads OKOROMA EWAMA Leads AGUDAMA EPEBU
EKPEINBIRI ELOGIAMA OKPONAM A AGUDAMA
OKPOKIRI AMADUGAMA
Concession Boun daries selection Minor River Major River Sea Fore stReserves
Legend
# !
SPD C Wells-W SPDC Wells-E
IBOBIO
RGB
Red: Band_1 G ree n: Band_2 Blue: Band_3 O il Field G as Field Marginal Oil Field Marginal Gas Field LEADS PU D iscoveries Water Bearing Structure
KIMIGBENE
DIEBU CREEK EAST-001
DBCE DIEBU CRK. E. DIEBU CR S Peremabiri DIEBU CREEK EAST-002 Diebu Creek Dredged Location DIEBU CR E DEEP NO TAG
PEREMABIRI
DIEBU CREEK-016
EMADIKE OBAKILO OBAMA

OBAMA
Diebu
DIEBU
PIRIGBENE Tukogbene Okigbene Pirigbene

OKIGBANI FONGBENE
PIRIGBENE TUKOGBENE
AGUDAMAKIRI SOUNKIRI
DIEBU CR SE1
OPUAYEGBENE
Although great care has been taken in the com pilation of this map. SPDC will not accept liability for any errors, misrepresentations or omissions
4.58654
4.58654
Ikorumogbene
IGBOMOTORU-003
OGBULUGBENE
SANGAKUBU
IGBN IGBOMOTORU DEEP

SUNDAYGBENE IGBEMATORU
DIEBU CR S2 DIEBU CR S1
DAGOGBENE
OPUBAKIRI
MBIAKPABA
Nigeria West Belt Coordinate System Transverse Mercator (Minna Datum ) False Easting: 230738.260000 False Northing: 0.000000 Central Meridian: 4.500000 Scale Factor: 0 .999750 Latitude Of Origin: 4.000000
0 0.45 0.9
1.8 km 1:53,234
Author: Theo Date: 27/10/2004 BXE-EVAW
OML33
IGBOMOTORU NORTH-001
File: oml 32 6.11539 6.20532
29
Diebu Creek Flyover (South-Southwest View) 1 November 2004 N 200m

Approximate foreground scale
Diebu Creek Dredged Location

Direction of Vision
NO TAG
PIRIGBENE TUKOGBENE DIEBU OKIGBANI FONGBENE
Tukogbene Okigbene
DIEBU CR SE1
Seibiri Creek
Tukogbene Community (Most proximal habitiation)
30
Diebu Creek Flyover (South-Southeast View) 1 November 2004 N 200m


NO TAG
Direction of Vision
Tukogbene Okigbene
DIEBU CR SE1
31
Diebu Creek Flyover (East-Northeast View) 1 November 2004 N 200m

NO TAG
Tukogbene Okigbene
DIEBU CR SE1
Direction of Vision
32
Diebu Creek Flyover 1 November 2004 Fringes of dredged area with sediment encroachment
33
Diebu Creek Flyover (North-Northwest View) 1 November 2004 N Diebu Creek Dredged Location
NO TAG
200m
Tukogbene Okigbene
DIEBU CR SE1
Direction of Vision
34
CHAPTER FOUR 4.0 Area/ Ecological Description
Baseline data presented in this document were obtained from reports of nearby SPDCs 2001 Nembe Creek field development plan EIA and Seibou-Brass Richgas Development of which Diebu Creek was a component field. Baseline data of the Diebu Creek is essentially lacking. Social systems are also similar as the fields are peopled by mainly Ijaws.
4.1
Climate The study area has climatic characteristics that could be
The dispersion and transportation of pollutants emitted are always influenced by meteorological conditions. considered as humid and semi-hot equatorial, as it is located within what is called the humid tropical zone of the Niger Delta. The climate of this area is profoundly influenced but its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
4.1.1
Rainfall
Rain is experienced for about eight to nine months in the year in what is typically known as the rainy season. The two seasons that characterise the area are thus the dry and rainy seasons. The wet season spreads from April to October while the dry season is from November to March. Rainfall values are highest from July to September (400-450 mm) with a break (the August Break). The months considered as dry are not even free from occasional rainfall. Records up to 65 mm of rain have been obtained for such dry periods. The a mean annual rainfall is above 3,500mm due to the areas proximity to the Atlantic Ocean from which the southwest trade winds bring moisture to it.
4.1.2
Temperature
For a bright sunny day during the wet season, temperature values vary from 27oC to about 32oC for the dry bulb temperature. For a typical day with very little rainfall during the dry season, the temperature values vary from 27oC to 29oC (dry bulb temperature). Monthly mean temperatures show small variations of between 24.8 and 28.1oC, while hourly temperature measurements show highs temperatures of 29oC and above between 0900 and 1400 hours. The lowest temperatures are recorded between 15000 and 0800 hours. 4.1.3 Relative Humidity
The relative humidity values are generally high and correlate with that of the rainfall in the
35
area. It ranges from about 92% in the morning hours to about 72% in the afternoon. When there is sudden rainfall, the relative humidity values in the afternoon increase. These values are very high in the rainy season and can be found to be over 90% in the rainy season with lower values ranging between 40 and 60% occurring in the dry season thus, the relative humidity values in the dry season are low compared to those of the wet season. The values vary from 46.0% to 72%. 4.1.4 Winds
Information on frequency distribution of wind speed and direction is important since it provides the basis for accurate estimation of the dispersion patterns of pollutants in the atmosphere. Wind distribution pattern for Nembe field during a typical wet season shows that the wind blows generally from the south-westerly (SW) direction. Other prevailing wind directions within the period are from the south-easterly (SE) and southerly (S) directions (Fig. 4.2). The wind speed during the wet season is usually a gentle breeze (3.4 - 5.4 m/sec). This is followed by what can be considered as light breeze (1.6 - 3.3 m/sec), and moderate breeze (5.5 - 7.9 m/sec). Winds of speed (10.8 - 13.8 m/sec) are generally rare except during a thunderstorm. In the dry season, the NE wind is more dominant followed by the south-easterly (SE) and the northerly (N) winds. The wind speeds are more of light breeze (1.6 - 3.3 m/s) followed by light air (0.3 - 1.5 m/s), gentle breeze (3.4 - 5.4 m/s) and moderate breeze (5.5 - 7.9 m/s). For both wet and dry seasons, calm periods are not generally observed. This is as a result of the coastal location of the Nembe environment. 4.1.5 Barometric Pressure
The pressure values in the wet season ranges from 1006.0 mb to about 1011.0 mb while that for the dry season ranges from 1006.0 to 1010.0 mb. This therefore indicates that there are no remarkable or sudden pressure changes in the area especially during the periods of data collection. 4.2 Air Quality
The concentration of suspended particulate pollutant (SPM) varies highly between seasons. During the rainy seasons, values as low as 8.3 - 27.8 g/m3 (4 hours) are obtained which is within the FEPA standard of 600 g/m3 whereas in the dry harmattan season, the values range from 461.0 - 1812.1 g/m3 (4 hours) with a mean value of 1166.2 g/m3. The
concentrations of gases NO2, 4.5 7.1 g/m3; SO2, 34.3 46.5 g/m3; CO2, 1.1 4.6 g/m3
36
and are within FEPA limits of 113, 260 and 11.2 g/m3 respectively). The concentration of HC was from 12.2 to 18.2g/m3. Hydrogen Sulphide was not detected.
4.2.1
Acidic Gases (NOx, SOx)
Sulphur oxides were generally not detectable (detection limit is 25 g/m3) in any of the stations in the Nembe field. The non-detectable levels are in line with the earlier observations that Nigerian crude is relatively clean with low sulphur content (Egbuna, 1987). Nitrogen oxides values observed vary from 1.1 to 19.9 g/m3 during the year and are less than the limits recommended by FMENV (75 to 113 g/m3). The values though generally low, vary with season. 4.2.2 Other Gases
Ammonia is generally not detectable in the study area except in the rainy season when traces are detected. The results show that the concentration of CO in the study area is generally low, with a maximum of 2 ppm, despite the presence of the existing facilities. This is due largely to the efficiency of the flares used by SPDC. The prevailing meteorological characteristics of the study area (heavy precipitation over much of the year and breezes) help to disperse residual CO from the flares and the contributions of wood burning, generators and boat traffic. 4.3 Noise The noise levels are lowest at Nembe IV flowstation and highest at
Noise levels in the study area are low especially in areas outside the immediate vicinities of the existing flowstation. Nembe I. The noise levels are generally below 78 dB(A) at 100 m from the facilities. In the fishing communities, levels are below 70 dB(A). Noise at source exceeds the FMEnv critical limits of less than 90 dB(A) for an 8-hr daily exposure at Nembe creek I, II and III, generator sheds. This level of noise is quickly reduced to safe limits within 10 m of source except at Nembe creek 1 flowstation where safe limits were achieved at distances slightly greater than 10 m. At Nembe creek IV, the low noise level is due to the machinery in the flowstation being new and well muffled; fewer pumps are in operation. The effect of the noise from Nembe IV was thus seldom perceived after 500 m. The quick noise dissipation with distance from source at the flowstations reduces the health risk potential of the emitted sound and if ear muffs/plugs are used by generator operators the noise impact will be further minimised.
37
Noise levels within the communities were also within the safe limits given by FMEnv. However, this does not eliminate the complaints that often arose as a result of the noise from flowstations. This is because although the 8-hour noise measurements showed safe levels in the communities, the continuous emission of noise for 24 hours makes it a nuisance for the communities. 4.4 Topography/Geology
The study area is traversed mainly by the Nembe and Brass Rivers network which empty into the Atlantic Ocean. The Nembe creek flowstations are in the lower delta plain of the mangrove swamp geomorphic formation of the Niger Delta. The stratigraphy of the sub soils underlying four sites was determined through interpretation of data obtained from boring, soil sampling, and laboratory sieving tests. clearly defined down to 12m. (a.) (b.) Horizon 1: Horizon 2: Highly spongy and peaty chicoco mud Soft darkish grey silty sands and clay (traces of peat in this layer diminishes with depth) (c.) (d.) Horizon 3: Horizon 4: Medium to coarse grained sand Firm grey clay Four horizons were
The range in thickness and distribution of these sub soil horizons at various sites in the study area are as presented in the Table 4.1 Table 4.1: Distribution and Thickness Range of Sub Soil Horizons at Various Sites. S/No. 1. 2. 3. 4. Soil horizons Spongy Chicoco Silty Sand and Clay Medium to Coarse grained sand Firm Clay Thickness (m) 1.8 - 3.0 mean 2.0 2.2 - 5.5 mean 3.0 3.0 - 10.2 mean 9.8 Below 9.8
4.5
Soil Quality
The soils in the study area are generally acidic. The surface soils (0-15 cm) pH values range
38
from 2.0 to 7.0. The subsoil (15-30 cm) pH values range from 1.5 to 5.4. At the random stations the pH ranges from 2.1 to 5.4 and 2.6 to 5.1 at surface soils and subsoils respectively. There is no definite trend with depth. The high acidity of the soils is however expected since it is typical of mangrove environment (RPI, 1985). The organic carbon content in the soils around the Nembe flowstations is high. The surface soil organic carbon value ranges from 8.25% to 26.40%. The subsoil organic carbon value ranges from 4.95% to 26.40%. At the random stations the percentage organic carbon falls within the range observed in the transects. The high organic carbon content observed in this area of study may be due to accumulation of vegetative matter and the slow carbon mineralization of wetland soils. The total nitrogen (TN) levels range from 0.14 to 1.59% in surface soils. Subsurface, the TN values range from 0.08 to 1.32%. supporting plant growth. The total hydrocarbon content (THC) in the soils of Nembe field is generally high and often exceeded the biogenic threshold limit of 50 mg/kg. 14,476.47mg/kg. They range from 3.38 mg/kg to The results show that the oil exploitation activities in the area have The total nitrogen value is adequate and capable of
introduced hydrocarbon into the environment. It is evident that the high levels of THC in areas reported to have been affected by oil spill can truly be attributed to the incidents.
The electrical conductivity values range from 680.0 S/cm to 20,000.0 S/cm. These values showed that the soils are saline. This is confirmed by the results of Na+, K+, Ca+ and Mg+ concentrations. Viable counts of total bacteria in soils varied from 2.5 x104 to 1.8 x107 in the study area. While petroleum degrading bacteria ranged from 1.4 x102 to 3.2 x105. These values give the area a healthy microbial status. The counts for petroleum degraders indicate an area that has been sensitized to petroleum hydrocarbon. In the event of hydrocarbon spill, the rate of recovery shall be fast due to the presence of these microbes. Heavy Metals Heavy metal concentrations in the soils of the area did not relate to hydrocarbon levels measured. Composite water samples were analysed forth following heavy metals; V, Bi, Cr, Pb, Zn, Mn, Cu, Fe, Cd and Hg. They were generally low and below FEPA limits, reflecting the
39
normal background values of the Eastern Niger Delta. The nickel (Ni) concentration ranges from 0.1 mg/kg to 2.1 mg/kg. The chromium concentrations were from 0.1 mg/kg to 1.6 mg/kg, and vanadium (V) values varied from non-detectable (ND) to 0.2 mg/kg. The values showed that the trace elements were within the limits expected for such areas of the Niger Delta (RPI, 1985). 4.6 Vegetation Studies
The vegetation studies show that the types of vegetation existing within the Nembe Creek Field area consist mainly of mangrove swamp forest with the red mangrove - Rhizophora racemosa as the dominant species. Associated with it, is the fern; Acrostichum aureum. The transitional woodland type of vegetation found on the fringes of old dredge spoils represents in part, vegetation succession.
The mangroves have been affected by some human activity such as slot dredging, mangrove clearing and installation of infrastructure associated with oil and gas exploration and production. Natural landcover types are water, wet mangrove, sparse mangrove, low mangrove and high mangrove (Plate 1). These cover 97% of the area in 1999. The remaining 3% of the area is occupied by landuse types sand, urban/industrial and infrastructure. The sand areas are dominantly areas of dredge spoil from slot construction. The urban/industrial areas occur around the Flow Stations associated with the Nembe Creek Field and the infrastructure is detected also at Flow Stations and Well Heads (some other metallic structures such as boats may well also contribute to the infrastructure). Although there are a number of (fishing?) settlements on the 1960s DOS maps, these are not detected on the 1990s imagery probably as the areas are not large enough and do not have enough spectral contrast with surrounding areas to be detected.
1960s Water
1988
1990s
Mangrove
Sand
40
Urban
Plate 1:
Mangrove, Water, Sand and Urban Areas (1960s 1980s 1990s)
The percentage cover of Nembe Creek Field by the various mangrove classes are and landuse are given in the table below. Percentages recorded for sand and urban /industrial cover in the table are on the high side compared with the actual situation on the ground. This could be attributed to artefacts caused by the effect of the high temperature gas flares on the SWIR (Bands 5 & 7) sensors of LANDSAT 4 Thematic Mapper. western part of the area in 1988. Areas of sand away from the flow stations indicate industrial activity mainly around dredge slots and are seen in the centre and
Analysis of 1990s landcover / landuse from SPOT Xi (1999), ERS RADAR (1996) and LANDSAT TM (1992).
Landuse 1960s% 1980s% 1990s%
Water 18.49 15.62 17.89
Wet Man Spse Man Low Man 0.00 5.79 6.53 0.00 30.76 16.88 81.38 34.98 42.93
High Man 0.00 11.69 12.91
Sand 0.00 0.84 2.58
Urban/Ind Infrastruc 0.13 0.32 0.17 0.13
Total 100 100 100
Landuse / Landcover Trends Some clear trends can be seen from Plate 1 and the table above. These are discussed here for the two natural 1960s landcover types: Mangrove Total mangrove area changed from 81.38 % of the Nembe Field in the 1960s to 83.22% of the area in 1988 and then to 79.25% in the 1990s. The apparent increase in mangrove from 1960s to 1988, combined with the concomitant apparent decrease in water areas over the same period is interpreted to be due to some spectral non-distinction between shallow water and wet mangrove. However, there is an observable overall slight decrease in mangrove areas and corresponding increase in sand and urban/industrial areas at the expense of mangrove. The area of mangrove that had changed to sand or urban / industrial areas from 1960s to 1988 was 0.85km2 or 1% of the total area. This had risen more than two fold by the 1990s to 2.39km2 or 2.80% of the total area.
41
Total area under mangrove or water in the 1960s that are sand or urban/industrial areas in the 1990s is 2.61 km2 or 3.05% of the Nembe Creek Field area. On dredge spoils a succession of vegetation types occur; terrestrial forms replace the native mangrove species. Water There are slight water area changes through the 3 epochs. In the table it could be seen that areas of water apparently decreased between 1960s and 1988 and then increased again. Much of this may be due to short term factors such as the state of the tide during acquisition of the imagery and/or spectral non-distinction between shallow water and wet mangrove. Other factors affecting the perceived water areas are: differences between mapping a water channel from distinction on imaging sensors with 20-30m GPD. progressive increase in water area through dredging of slots throughout the Nembe Creek Field. a progressive decrease in water area through dumping of dredge sand in industrial areas. 4.7 Plant Pathological Studies air photos (1960s) and its spectral
The plant pathological studies also show that generally, the vegetation is healthy and cultivated crops in farms within the study area grow luxuriantly, especially in well-maintained farms. There was no major outbreak of any disease though mosaic, leaf blight, anthracnose and brown leaf sports attacked a few crop varieties and mild chlorosis was observed on plants located around the existing flowstations. Leaves affected were randomly distributed on any plant affecting not up to 2% of the total foliage. The chlorosis could be explained by normal stress regimes of the mangrove swamp. Though the mangroves are adapted to life in the adverse water-logged saline environment of the brackish water, uptake of soil nutrients such as nitrogen could still be impeded to some extent. Older leaves on senescence also turn yellow before dropping off. Roots of older plants at spill sites were observed to be decayed. Such old trees fell more easily with high winds. Younger trees showed more resistance to spills. The pathogens identified in the laboratory included cassava mosaic virus, Collectotrichum glosporoides, Curvularia lunata and Xanthomonas campestris. These pathogens were also observed in
42
diseases of okra, banana, plantain, maize and oil palm trees. 4.8 Wildlife Studies
Information on wildlife was gathered from interviews, field observations and published literature. A wised variety of wildlife flourishes in the area and consists of macro invertebrates (snails, molluscs, termites and the larvae of the scarabeid beetle which are exploited for food) and terrestrial vertebrates (amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals). Mona monkeys and some bird species were sighted directly. The tracks of five other animals (clawless otters, genets, mongooses, the sitatunga antelope and monitor lizards) were observed by accompanying guides in both the central (Nembe-I) and Northwest (Ewelesuo) sectors. Through decades of exploitation and humaninduced habitat alteration, some species have become either threatened or endangered. To combat illegal trade of the endangered species, the Federal Republic of Nigeria promulgated the Endangered Species Control of International Trade and Traffic Decree 11 of 1985. The Niger-Delta Environmental Survey (NDES) funded by SPDC is currently carrying out systematic environmental survey of the entire Niger-Delta area. It is hoped that the survey will provide quantitative data on the abundance and distribution of the wildlife. 4.9 AQUATIC STUDIES
4.9.1 Physico-chemistry The results of the physico-chemical measurements carried out on the water samples collected from the study area are presented in Appendix 2 and show a wide range of values. The study area is a mangrove swamp of the Brass River. The water is generally brackish with freshwater input low in dry season. Nutrient (i.e. phosphate and nitrate) levels are low. While phosphate concentrations range from <0.05 to 0.16 mg/l, nitrate-nitrogen concentrations are apparently uniform in all stations (0.24 0.05 mg/l). Dissolved oxygen concentrations vary from 2.2 to 6.3 mg/l with most of the stations having values below 4 mg/l. This is adequate to support aquatic life. Suprisingly, the stations that have high DO also have high BOD. The BOD range is 0.7 4.5 mg/l with an average of 1.7 mg/l. Oil in water is not detected in all the samples. Water temperature is normal (28.2 - 30.5 C).
The results of the studies therefore show that the water quality of the study area is similar to that previously described for such water bodies (RPI 1985, IPS 1991, CORDEC, 1996).
43
Heavy Metal Concentration In Surface Water The results of heavy metal concentrations in the water samples from the study area are presented in Appendix 3. The results show that the concentrations of the heavy metals are generally low or below detectable limits which is in line with FMEnv limits. These results are similar to those previously obtained for the Nembe Field area and show levels that are expected for such aquatic environment (RPI, 1985; IPS, 1991 and CORDEC, 1996). 4.9.2 Microbiology
Analyses if microbial populations in surface water and sediment showed no significant difference in counts and is thus indicative of the good mixture of bottom and surface water. Counts for heterotrophic and petroleum degrading bacteria were generally low (2.5 x102 to 3.1 x103) while the fungal load ranged from 37 x 104 cfu/ml to 171 x 102 cfu/ml. The counts recorded for water are quite different from that found in soils of the area but do not contradict themselves when the hydrology of the area is taken into cognizance; the good mixture of surface and bottom waters means that the bacteria of the area have short residence periods and can not therefore utilize effectively the available nutrients of the Nembe Creek field. This observation is in line with results of previous studies (IPS, 1991) of the area that also show low concentrations of petroleum-utilising bacteria in water. 4.9.3 Phytoplankton
The species diversity was high and the prominent phytoplankton species in the population were Nitzschia closterium, Chaetoceros mulleri, Chaetoceros emeroli, Biddulphia lungicruris, Coscinodiscus rothrii, Pleurosigma elongatum and Oscillatoria sancta. Some species were found exclusively in brackish water areas (Biddulphia, Ceratium, Chaetoceros, Triceratium and Thalassiothrix) while the desmids and most of the green algae occurred in the freshwater areas. The density of the phytoplankton was higher in the brackish water stations than in the freshwater stations. The blue green algae, Anabaena sp and Oscillatoria, the diatom, The Coscinodiscus sp, were numerically more abundant than the other species.
phytoplankton results with respect to the occurring species showed over the periods that the species types are consistently similar for the seasons. This remarkable stability of species dominance can be interpreted to mean that there is a reasonable degree of predictability about the identity of the phytoplankton for the Nembe field. 4.9.4 Zooplankton
the zooplankton consists of many taxonomic groups, which include protozoans, rotifers,
44
nematodes, cladocerans, ostracods, and copepods. Larval stages of Crustacea, Gastropoda and Insecta were also included. The zooplankton density was higher in the brackishwater areas than in the freshwater areas with the dominating organisms being Paracalanus sp and nauplius larvae. Copepod nauplii constituted the bulk of the zooplankton population in all the stations. The zooplankton densities for the study stations in Nembe field varied from 340 to 748 individuals per litre. The next important form in the population was the cyclopoid copepod. They represented less than 15% of the population. However, in stations 8 and 10 they were 18.6 and 20.3% respectively. The calanoid copepods were common but poor in numerical abundance (0 to 9.7%), thus representing less than 10% of the zooplankton population. Economic larval forms amongst others were sparsely distributed and were present occasionally. The zooplankton data from both the previous and present studies (RPI, 1985; IPS, 1991 and CORDEC, 1996) showed comparable species type and population densities. 4.9.5 Benthos
The infaunal species list and their numerical count are presented in Appendix 4.7. Nine major forms were encountered for the study area. The polychaetes were represented by 6 species while the other organisms were represented by one species each. The dominant species amongst the polychaeta group was Nereis falsa which represented over 60% of the community. The community structure based on the percentage of total infauna shows that the polychaete constituted between 77.8 and 100% of the infaunal community. (bivalve) species were very sparsely distributed. The species types recorded for the benthic infaunal community are comparable to those of previous studies for Nembe environment (IPS, 1991). The predominance of the infaunal population by polychaetes especially Neries falsa, suggests their importance in the trophic step and other interaction with the physical environment especially opening up of soil during burrowing. The poor occurrence of non-polychaete forms such as amphipods, molluscs and shrimps, may be due to their inability to adapt to the environment or non-suitability of certain environmental variables such as texture and consistency of the sediment. However the density (abundance) values of 18 to 198 individuals/1000cm3 of sediment are similar to values obtained in previous studies within the same environment (RPI, 1985; IPS 1991). This variability in density between stations is expected in nature and may be attributed Amphipod and mollusc
45
to the micro-ecological variability of the stations due to the hydrodynamics of the area, which causes changes in sediment texture, organic matter content, porosity, and nutrient quality. 4.9.6 Macroalgae
Ten macroalgal species were found in the study area, 5 each representing the red (Rhodophyta) and green (Chlorophyta) algae. The distribution of the species suggested an even distribution within the entire habitat. dominant. 4.9.7 Epipelic Algae However, the individual abundance estimate suggests a skewed abundance with the bulk of the species scoring between common and
The epipelic algal community was represented by 46 species. Out of these, 33 species represented the Bacillariophyceae (diatoms), and the rest (13) species represented the Cyanophyceae (blue-green algae). The species that were prominent amongst the diatoms include Pleurosigma elongatum, P. angulatum, Gyrosigma scalproides, and Bacillaria paradoxa. The epipelic algal densities varied from 1086 to 4275 x104/cm2. Species encountered in the study were generally similar to those of previous studies in the area (IPS, 1991), however the number of species is lower than what has been observed for the Bonny river. The high epipelic algal densities obtained for most of the stations emphasises their importance and ability to sustain the higher organisms that depend directly or indirectly on them for food. Masking of the diatoms by blue-green algal mats may be responsible for the lower densities recorded for the diatoms in few stations. 4.9.8 Benthic Gastropod Community
The sediment samples consist of soft mud, sand clay and detrital materials. Occasionally, the sediment contained coarse sand. In most of the stations, the smallest size class (i.e. juveniles < 10 mm) are usually absent or low in number except for the stations mostly within the western arm of the flowstations. The benthos contained a variety of organisms, which include polychaetes, chironomid larvae, periwinkles, bi valve spats and fish larvae. On the whole, periwinkles (Tympanotomous fuscatus) where present, were more of the 2nd and 3rd sized classes. The abundance of the different classes varied from one sampling location to the other. The two other gastropod species have limited distribution and abundance.
46
4.9.9
Fisheries
The fish species collected and those observed in the catch of local fishermen belonged to 29 fish families and 60 species. Fishing activities were observed in all water bodies. The clupeid Ethmalosa fimbriata was also found in the brackish waters while in the freshwaters, tilapias and catfishes were prominent in the catch. Shellfish Fisheries. Dominant form of shellfish fisheries is that of periwinkle harvesting from the wild. This shellfish was not commodified; the Nembe people believe that any person who sells periwinkles would suffer from very serious maladies leading to death, as the deities of the land would punish such a person. Oyster clusters in the intertidal within the study area were generally small and made up of small individuals; during the dry season, oyster spats settled on mangrove proproots. Before they can attain commercial size, the heavy freshwater input into the system kills them off. This natural cycle of settlement and mortality makes the area unsuitable for intertidal oyster fisheries. On subtidal hard substrates such as jetty pilings, large oysters measuring up to 10cm across were found. Fishing for oysters in this zone of the ecosystem was not reported by the fishermen or observed during the study. The absence of oysters makes cockles also not common in the Nembe Field. Fishing/Fishing Gear Fishing activities were generally concentrated around flowstations because of two main reasons: Location of the Fishing Community. The construction work on a flowstation especially during the site preparation includes dredging of the immediate waterway and the resultant dredge spoil pile. Overburden from site clearing adds to this pile creating in the erstwhile swamp dry land on which most of the fishing communities in the field are located. Lack of motorized boats. The fishing boats used by the fishermen are largely unmotorized while the canoes used were either the dugout type or made of planks neatly nailed together. Paddling long distances to fish becomes burdensome when fishing can be done in the immediate water body. Thus, we find these fishing clusters around each flow station. This does not mean that good fishing cannot be obtained elsewhere. Fishing gears that were reported in earlier studies were still in use (IPS, 1991, CORDEC 1996), i.e. the gears were generally unchanged. In addition, the uses of trigger hooks, which are exotic, were observed at Nembe creek I. Two of such hooks were observed during the study period. The normal Niger delta, dry season fishing of clupeids (bonga and sardines) was also observed going on in an unrestricted manner in the open waters of the Nembe creek field.
47
Young children waded in the shallow waters throwing nets or clasping nets to collect small fishes. Women fish mainly using basket traps but sometimes they use long lines, set gill nets and lift nets. The fishermen operate different types of gears such as cast nets, gill nets, beach seines, filter nets, long lines and encircling nets in near and distant waters. Trigger hooks are generally more common in freshwater bodies of the Niger delta being employed in the capture of species as such - Papyrocranus afer, Heterobranchus spp., and even the herbivorous Heterotes niloticus. Though it was not possible to determine the target species of the trigger hooks in the area, their presence suggests the immigration of fishermen familiar with freshwater fishing techniques. Fishponds A number of new fishponds were observed along the small creek adjacent to the West of the Nembe creek I flowstation. The locations of the fishponds were close to each other such that for a distance of about 100 m, 8 clearly labelled ponds were observed. Individuals owned these ponds and because they were new, none was stocked. could as such not be ascertained. Finfish The snapper (Lutjanus sp.), croakers (Pseudotolithus spp.), shiny-nose (Polynemus quadrifilis), and the catfish (Chrysichthys spp.) were evident in the catch of long liners and fishing rod. Among the cast net fishermen, the bonga dominated the catch in open waters while mullets, tilapia, and other small sized fish dominated the catch in the creeks. Loss of finfish species reported for the Nembe Creek IV flowstation area (CORDEC, 1996), was not apparent from the catch of the fishermen. Fishing intensity around the flowstations was not reduced, but was rather given prominence by the presence of the flowstations because the workers in these facilities patronise the fishermen. The increased area of habitable land created by the deposited dredge spoil also enhanced this prominence. Tidal Pool The gobies were the most common species in the tidal pools investigated all through the study area. Tilapia, shrimps, and mullets were also present but more common in drain channels. The occurrence of these species did not follow any particular pattern or order. The high intertidal of the Nembe Creek is almost flat and well drained leading to poor tidal pool formation. The few pools that occurred are often very unstable being a function of the tide. The drain channels in the Nembe Creek field therefore also serve as nursery of the finfish; a role played Stocking species and yield
48
in the Bonny River by tidal pools. Mudskippers (Periophtalmus sp) a common feature of the inter tidal were present. The size distribution of the mudskippers was related more to the substrate than the location of the station. In areas with hard chikoko as the inter-tidal substrate, the abundance was low and the sizes were mostly small (>6.0cm Total Length) clustering around the pneumatophores of the mangroves. In areas where the substrate was softer, the mudskippers grow to larger sizes and were more abundant. The softer substrate of the inter tidal are composed mostly of silt and decaying debris deposited by the tide or washed down from the adjacent terrain. This makes the soft substrate fairly rich in nutrients allowing the growth of epipelic algae on which the mudskippers browse on directly or indirectly by preying on the macro invertebrates that come to feed on them. distribution of the mudskippers may be related to availability of food. This indicates that the
4.10
Trend in the Fisheries of the Nembe Field
From the literature available and the observations made during the field trip, the following trend is apparent: (a) very (b) Seasonal differences in gear types and species composition were obvious as reported in previous studies (IPS 1991, CORDEC 1996). The bonga fisheries were much evident in open watercourses in the field. The same gear types (longlines, rod & line, castnet, gillnet of various sizes, basketno return-valve traps) storage (smoking over firewood), and sales methods reported in earlier studies were still in use. The only change observed was the trigger hook around the Nembe creek I flowstation. superimposed (c) When the presence of this gear is on the general fisheries of the area, it becomes significant as an
index of immigration of fishermen into the area. Apart from the fishing community observed around Nembe Creek IV flowstation, no new communities had developed since 1996. This shows a very slow growth of new communities. Community growth was attributed to population increases in existing ones. This trend is corroborated by the presence of the new fishing gear observed at Nembe creek I flowstation area. Fishpond construction is a new trend that is developing in the Nembe Creek field concentrating around the Nembe Creek I flowstation area. If this trend continues, it is expected that the field will become dotted with fishponds. The above trends reveal that the fisheries of the Nembe creek field are changing very
49
minimally with time. Changes are mostly in the areas with increased population of fishermen in the communities, with the introduction of fishpond construction and ownership. 4.11 SOCIOECONOMICS 4.11.1 Socio-Demographic Aspects Previous studies in the area (already referred to) reveal that the population of the fishing settlements is predominantly young. Those aged under 21, 21 to 50, and over 50 years account for about 71.1, 27.3, and 1.6 percent of the population, respectively. The population is particularly bottom heavy and this may be attributable to several factors, including: (a) polygamy; 1 in 3 households is polygamous, giving rise to larger than normal household sizes (the average household size in the area is 8.7 in contrast to 7.0 found in similar rural locations); (b) immigrants sojourn in the fishing settlements with their young children. the main settlements of origin (e.g. Nembe) for schooling. (c) the small number of persons above 50 years of age suggests age-induced reverse migration to the main settlements to spend the retirement years. In general there were more females (53.3 percent) than males (46.7 percent) in the settlements. Amongst males, the occupation is predominantly fishing (92.5 per cent). Other occupations are relatively insignificant, eg. petty trading (4.5 per cent); and wage labour (2.2 per cent). Most women also engage in fishing, specifically shrimping and the exploitation of other mangrove ecosystem resources (periwinkles, crabs, etc). supplementary occupation amongst the women. Petty trading is an important Residents of the fishing settlements are No evidence was uncovered that school-age children are systematically sent back to
substantially literate: the modal educational attainment is primary level (37.9 per cent); secondary level and other educational achievements account for 34.7 percent. About 27.4 per cent lack formal education. The model income category amongst residents is N400 - 700 per month (55 per cent). About 22 percent earn over this amount, while the rest fall under N400 per month. At about 33 per cent, the proportion of women earning under N400 per month is higher than the proportion of persons in this category (about 23 per cent) in the general population. When fishing is good as it often is during neap tides, fishermen make as much as N15,000 in two weeks but most of
50
this income is not real as the fishing gear including boats are leased from city dwelling individuals. Most of the people (> 75 per cent) in the fishing settlements are in-migrants who have moved in (primarily within the last 10 years) to fish. The origin of most (about 85 per cent) is Nembe; there is a sprinkling (about 15 per cent) of in-migrants from Andoni, Ogoni, Okrika, Kalabari, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, and Delta State. 4.11.2 Social Organisation and Culture Elected village Heads, who are subject to the authority of the Nembe Council of Chiefs, governs the settlements with the assistance of a council of elders, into which women may occasionally be appointed. Some of the larger settlements have Community Development Committees (CDCs). Village Heads convene monthly meetings to discuss the welfare of their settlements and to settle disputes between residents. Weighty cases are referred to higher authority in Nembe. About 60 percent of the residents of these settlements are professed Christians, in spite of the paucity of religions structures. The other 40 percent are traditional religionists, who still attach importance to local deities and shrines, and the festivals that go with such worship. 4.11.3 Housing Attributes In general, housing in the fishing settlements is of low quality. Walling and roofing materials are predominantly of mud and thatch, respectively. Building technology consists of the traditional wattle-and-daub method (which entails the erection of a framework of reeds or wood on which the mud is placed). Most of these structures lack foundations. Houses of some of the more well-to-do are of corrugated iron sheets, and walling is occasionally of block work. 4.11.4 Land Tenure System All land in the Nembe Creek Field is communally owned and therefore comes under the overlordship of the Amanyanabo of Nembe. Land may be allocated or even, alienated to indigenes, and sometimes to strangers, through payments in cash and kind. 4.11.5 Social, Institutional and Physical Infrastructure Infrastructure of all types is virtually non-existent in the settlements. Particularly noteworthy is the absence of public utilities - potable water (the people depend on rivers and rainwater as their source of water for domestic purposes) and electricity in most of the settlements. Health facilities are generally absent though there are functional health centres in Ogboinbiri and
51
Peremabiri and a hospital in Brass; however, there are two elementary schools at Nembe Creek, Mile 3 and at Fantuo, though there are no educational facilities in the fishing settlements themselves. Markets are generally absent in the area. Petty traders service the settlements. Fish, the principal product of the settlements, is conveyed to Nembe and beyond for sale. Occasionally buyers, from as far away as Port Harcourt visit directly in search of bargains. There are playgrounds in the major towns for sporting activities by the youths and these are maintained by the youth. There are town halls in some of the towns e.g. Bras, Igbomatorou, and Ogbia where community meetings are held. There are many churches and these serve as places of worship for the various denominations as these are predominantly Christian communities. There are also traditional worshippers with their different denominations based on their beliefs, deities, objects, and gods/goddesses they worship. 4.11.6 Transportation The dugout canoe is the traditional means of movement between the fishing communities and for fishing trips. Hand-dug canoes are also useful for water fetching from Shell facilities and for visiting relatives in Nembe. Motorboats and speedboats of all types continuously ply the waterways of the area (that is, the Brass River and its tributaries). Larger boats (locally made) transport goods and traders from the hinterland to major cities while the smaller canoes are used to convey people from village to village. Movement by canoe has been made more hazardous by oil company - generated water traffic. There are periodic boat mishaps, though not often fatal. Oil company staffs have access to another form of transport facility - helicopters. company personnel can sometimes benefit from helicopter flights in and out of the area. 4.11.7 The Economy Fishing is the mainstay of the economy. Wage labour and other forms of economic activity are insignificant. Net repairing, mat, thatch, basket making and production of fish drying gear are important household-based crafts. The presence of oil companies in the area affects the local economy in various ways, e.g. by the generation of demand for local products and services, and through company supply of potable water to the settlements. 4.12 HEALTH ASSESSMENT Non-
52
BASELINE HEALTH DATA This chapter presents the baseline health data based on information generated from sampled groups in the study communities. The data relies heavily on self reporting and presumptions by respondents in the survey due to the general absence of health services data in the area. Comparisons have however been made with state and National data where available.
4.12.1 DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE About 39.1% of the populations studied were less than 15 years with age group 0 4 years accounting for 15.4%. These figures are less than the national average based on the National Census of 1991 but similar to the findings in the 1999 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). The age-sex distribution is in keeping with population pyramid of developing countries (Nigeria inclusive) and the NDHS (National Population Commission, 2000) where the base is typically broad typical of a young population. Overall there were slightly more males (50.8%) than females (49.2%) in the study. Fig 4.1 below is the population pyramid of the study(MTR) communities.
Fig. 4.1: Population Pyramid (Study Communities)*, 2003
Male
Female
Percent
Ambah Projects 2003
* Communities within the Nembe Cawthorne Channel Major Trunklines Route of SPDC.
53
54
4.12.2 EDUCATIONAL STATUS 66.5% of respondents had primary level education followed by those with secondary level education (17.7%) and 13% had no form of formal education.
Fig. 4.2: Educational status

70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
66.5
Frequency(%)
13
17.7 2.6 0.2

Higher degree
No Formal Education
Primary School
Secondary School
Tertiary Education
Ambah Projects (Health survey) Nov. 2003.
4.12.3 MARITAL STATUS Fig 4.3 below shows that there were about 4871 (37.6%) respondents who were married. About 2.2% were widowed.
Fig. 4.3: Marital Status of the Respondents
60 50 Frequency(%) 40 30 20 10 0 Married Single Divorced Separated Widow
Ambah projects (Health survey) Nov. 2003.
4.12.4 OCCUPATIONAL DISTRIBUTION Fishing was the commonest occupation in the studied area accounting for 14.6% while trading was the next common with a proportion of 14.1% as shown in fig 4.4 below. Of particular concern is the overwhelming level of dependants, which account for about 60%.
55
Fig. 4.4: Occupational Status of Respondents 15 years and above

Civil servant Clergy Dependant Trading Unemployed Fishing Tailoring Farming
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
4.12.5 INCOME Income levels as reported by respondents is presented. Detail measurement of income is captured in the social assessment study. Table 4.5 below shows that majority (63%) of the subjects belonged to the low income group, earning less than N9,000 per month. Only 8.4% earned above N25,000.00 per month. This data is restricted to respondents above fifteen years with established source of livelihood.
Fig 4.5: Average monthly Income of Respondents above 15 years old
<5,000 5,000 9,000 10,000 14,000 15,000 19,000 20,000 24,000 >25,000
56
4.12.6 LIFE STYLE/HABITS As shown in fig 4.6 below, about 36.8% of respondents above 15 years old drank alcohol while only 3.4% of respondents smoke cigarettes.
Chronic smoking of cigarette is a known contributing factor to poor lung function capacities and also predisposes to chronic bronchitis and bronchial carcinoma.
Fig. 4.6: Alcohol and Cigarette Use
35 30
Frequency (%)
25 20 15 10 5 0
Cigarette Alcohol
412.7 SEXUAL ACTIVITY AND KNOWLEDGE OF INFECTION
SEXUALLY TRANSMISSIBLE
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) have become very important public health concern in Nigeria. However there are no reliable locally representative data on sexual practices nor on knowledge and beliefs about HIV/AIDS and other Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs) in the study area. Therefore several questions were included in this study to ascertain the level of awareness about these health problems. Both men and women were asked about their sexual practices. (National population commission, Nigeria, 2000). They were also asked about what they believed was the mode of transmission of HIV and where they sought treatment for STIs. Condom use and availability were also reported.
57
Fig 4.7 below shows that majority (64.3%) of subjects who were sexually active had only one partner. However, keeping of two sexual partners was the most commonly practiced behavior among those with multiple sexual partners, accounting for 24.1%.
4.7: Distribution of sexual partners 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Number of partners

Respondents were asked whether they had had any sexually transmissible infection in the previous 12 months and if so where did they seek treatment, if any. Only one hundred and sixty nine (2.2%) of respondents (1.8% males and 0.4% females) reported having had STI in the past 12 months. Most of the respondents who had an STI (88% of women and 76% of men) reported that they sought treatment for it with majority (44.3%) of them seeking native/self treatment. Other sources of treatment were chemist shops and hospitals. (Fig. 4.8).
Frequency(%)
Fig. 4.8: Sources of treatment for sexually transmissible infections
Hospital Pharmacy/chemist Native/self treatment
58
About seven hundred and forty one (9.6%) of the respondents had heard of sexually transmissible infections (STIs). Similarly, about the same proportion (9.9%) had heard of HIV/AIDS as a disease entity. As shown in Fig 4.9 below, the most (41.8%) commonly known mode of HIV transmission was sexual intercourse. of sharp objects/razor blade. As a means of gauging the personal impact of HIV/AIDS, respondents were asked if they personally knew someone who has AIDS or has died of AIDS. Only about 4% of respondents reported that they knew any person living with HIV/AIDS or has died of AIDS. This is in sharp contrast to the 30% reported in the National Demographic and Health Survey ((National population commission, Nigeria, 2000). The current National sero-prevalence rates for HIV is 5.8% while Bayelsa and Rivers States (where these communities exist) have 7.2% and 7.0% respectively. Other modes known were the use of contaminated syringe and needle, sharing of barbing equipment, blood transfusion and sharing
Fig. 4.9: Knowledge of mode of transmission of HIV

45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Sexual intercourse Sharing of sharp objects Sharing of barbing equipments Blood transfusion Unsterilized needle
Frequency(%)
59
4.12.8 CONDOM AVAILABILITY AND USE Condoms serve as a good barrier to the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmissible infections. Respondents were asked about condom use. The data presented is limited to those who have ever had sexual intercourse. Condom was readily available in about 65% of the chemist stores visited, but shop owners complained of slow sales. However the average number used weekly could not be accurately verified. Survey results indicate that overall, about 24% of males and 34% of females aged above 15 years had never used condom before while about 16% of males and 5.3% females claimed they used condom only occasionally, mainly either for prevention of pregnancy or STI. Only 6.9% of sexually active males and 1.2% females use condom all the time (i.e. during every episode of sexual intercourse) (fig 4.10). Condom use in those aged above 65 is virtually absent. Amongst respondents who use condoms, majority (68% males and 76% females) were les than 30 years. Condom use was also considerably higher in those who have never married (82%) compared to those currently married (18%).
Fig.4.10: Frequency of Condom use
140 120
Percentate (%)
100 80 60 40 20 0
65+ 45-64 15-44
All the time(%)
Occassionally only(%)
Not at all(%)
AVAILABLE HEALTH SERVICES Based on records from the Bayelsa state Ministry of Health (2002), there are 21 Primary Health Centres, three secondary health center in the Nembe area. The account given below is based on survey findings. The quality of health services available in the local communities were assessed using the checklist presented in appendix 4. Many of the communities lacked any form of organized
60
health service. Generally, there were few and poorly staffed health facilities, most of which lacked basic tools and equipment A typical General (public) hospital is the one at Ogbolomabiri, (located about 10-15 minutes walking distance from the community) which is managed by the state ministry of health. It has facilities for in-patients, a small side laboratory and a mini theatre. Health personnel include one doctor and several nurses and mid wives. The average daily attendance ranged between 0-30 patients per day. Other health facilities include a comprehensive health center at Basambiri, privately owned clinics at Fantuo, Eweleso, Bille, Ke and Ido; and two nursing homes, one each at Tema and Abonnema. Local drug stores existed in all the communities. Almost all the communities who depended on generator for electricity were without power because of bad generating plant. A checklist of available amenities by location is provided in appendix 6. 4.12.9 Traditional Medical practice
The practice of traditional medicine was common in almost all the communities. Their practice commonly involved the use of herbs and bodily charms. Body massaging and scarification were also common place. Their service is shrouded in secrecy. Traditional birth attendants were quite popular. In many of the communities their services were the only functional form of ante natal and maternal services available. A list of commonly used herbs and the diseases for which they are used is given in table 4.1 below.
Table 4.2: Commonly used medicinal plants
Medicinal plant (local Use
names) Igirya Epe Dogon Yaro Idata Uchichi Okpubulu Unuru, agala Ogbuchuru Ugbola Diabetes Malaria Malaria Scabies Healing wounds Hernia Eye problems Healing wound Malaria
61
Ukwoline Udo Bitterleaf Uche,ubulu, Enyi Ewe madu Ubulu Nsikala uchichi Ikite Enyi
Eye Hernia Diabetes Malaria Hernia Malaria Stomach ache Stops bleeding Hernia Blood clot Stomach pains
PREVALENCE OF COMMON DISEASES AND CONDITIONS In an attempt to estimate the level of morbidity, respondents were asked about the illness episodes suffered in the last three months to the study. Their responses were validated by asking a series of other questions related to the reported illness. Table 4.2 shows the commonest diseases and conditions in the studied populations and their proportional morbidity Table 4.3: Distribution of Illness Episodes among Respondents
Diseases
Number of Cases
Proportional Morbidity rate
Malaria Respiratory tract Infection Diarrhoea diseases Skin diseases Typhoid Fever/Convulsions Eye problems Arthritis Hypertension Peptic ulcer Measles Sexually Transmissible Infections
343 132 139 100 32 40 60 30 40 9 13 7
28.1 10.8 11.4 8.2 2.6 3.3 4.9 2.5 3.3 0.7 1.1 0.6
62
Pregnancy related complications Tuberculosis Aneama Accident/Injuries Hernia Toothache Headache Asthma Diabetes
TOTAL
34
2.8
9 49 32 16 5 119 9 2
1220
0.7 4.0 2.6 1.3 0.4 9.8 0.7 0.2

100
* Based on self reporting by respondents in the survey. Source: HIA -Ambah projects, 2003.
Malaria was the commonest illness suffered, accounting for 24.8% with arthritis and headache coming second and third with a proportion of 20.5% and 9.8% respectively. 4.12.10 HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS
The leading causes of hospital admissions in these communities include hypertension, diabetes, malaria, diarrhoea and respiratory tract infections as shown in table 4.3 below. Hypertension had the highest proportion, accounting for 10.5%. Health Record From Bayelsa State Ministry Of Health Available records on morbidity pattern in the Nembe area for the year 2003 from the Bayelsa State Ministry of Health indicate that the reported illness were Acute flaccid paralysis, cholera, measles, cerebrospinal meningitis, malaria, tuberculosis, diarrhoea, STIs, and pertusis. Their proportional morbidity is represented in fig. 4.11 below.
63
Table 4.4: Causes of Hospital Admissions*

Types of Disease Number of Cases Proportional Morbidity rate
Malaria Trauma/bleeding Urino-genital infection Upper respiratory tract infection Haematuria Nervous problems Diarrhoeal diseases Diabetes Arthritis Accident Eye problem Asthma Hernia Typhoid Cancer Heart failure Haemorrhoid Hypertension Weak erection Dog bite Pneumonia Peptic ulcer disease
TOTAL
28 3 4 11
8.3 2.0 2.6 7.2
1 2 11 14 11 4 7 2 14 12 2 1 1 16 2 1 2 4
153
0.7 1.3 7.2 9.1 7.2 2.6 4.5 1.3 9.1 7.8 1.3 0.7 0.7 10.5 1.3 0.7 1.3 2.6
100
*Based on self reporting by respondents. Source: HIA -Ambah projects, 2003.
64
FIG. 4.11: Diseases Cases

AFP CSM MEASLES CHOLERA MALARIA TB PHEUMONIA STIS DIARRHOEA PERTUSSIS
AFP = Acute flaccid paralysis CSM = Cerebrospinal meningitis TB = Tuberculosis STI = Sexually transmissible infection
Mortality Reliable records on deaths were lacking in all the communities studied. Based on survey findings, there were 1,947 deaths in all the communities within the previous 12 months. Of this figure, maternal deaths were 387 while 705 of these deaths occurred among children under five years of age, out of which only 66 records could be verified (table 4.5). Since death is a very significant event which is not likely to be forgotten easily, it is safe to assume that the figures reported is likely to reflect a close approximation of actual mortality in the study area. Based on records from Bayelsa Ministry of health however, only 10 deaths were reported within the same period, reflecting the gross under-reporting earlier mentioned. Table 4.5:
S/N
Causes of Death among Children under 5 years.

Number of Proportional Mortality rate
Types of Disease Febrile convulsion* Measles Malaria Upper respiratory tract infection Diarrhoeal disease Anaemia Malnutrition
Cases 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 17 17 12 02 14 03 01 25.8 25.8 18.2 2.9 21.2 4.6 1.5
65
Total
66
100
* Febrile convulsion is not a disease but a symptom/sign, which may be a manifestation of most diseases listed in table 4.5 above. Therefore the proportion of causes of under 5 deaths may be higher due to these diseases. Under-five mortality is a major indicator of health status. Based on information generated in the survey, febrile convulsions appear to be the most common immediate cause of death (fig 4.12). Other causes were Measles, diarrhoea and malaria in that order.
Fig. 4.12: Proportional mortality in under-fives

30 25 20 15 10 5 0
Febrile convulsion* Measles Malaria Upper respiratory tract infection Diarrhoeal disease Anaemia Malnutrition
Health data were generally lacking in the few health facilities available within the study communities. However, considering the fact that even when such data exist, they are often either haphazardly collected or unreliable, and at best represent only the tip of the ice berg, it may be reasonably assumed that the information presented, though inherently imprecise, (since they are based on respondents subjective assessment), are a fair representation of the disease pattern in the area. 4.12.11 NUTRITION
Dietary pattern The dietary patterns of the communities consisted mainly of carbohydrates like rice, cassava, yam, cocoyam and corn, which were eaten in various forms. Proteinous food such as beans, beef, meat, bush animals, fish etc. were also consumed.
66
The diets eaten by these communities were not balanced diet. As shown in fig 4:12 below only 24.4%, 23.2% and 22.7% of children under 5 years old had carbohydrate, protein and fat included in their diet.
Fig. 4.13: Type of meal eaten last 24 hrs. 17.6 22.7

Fat Carbohydrates
12.1
Protein Mineral Vitamin
24.4 23.2
Nutritional Status in children The nutritional status of under-five children has been determined using three standard indices of child growth, namely Height-for-Age (HFA), Weight-for-Height (WFH) and Weight-forAge(WFA). To ensure comparability, the weight and height of the child is converted to an international unit known as the Z score. (The Z score gives indication in units of standard deviation how far from the reference value a given value lies; and is calculated with the use of the formula: (Actual minus Median reference value) divided by Standard deviation of the reference values). The reference values used in this study are those of the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) growth reference curves developed using data from the Fels Research Institute and US Health Examination Surveys, which is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for international use (WHO Working Group, 1986). HFA describes the child in terms of linear growth and essentially measures long term growth faltering. Any child who is less than 2 standard deviations from the standard reference value is considered too short for his/her age, or stunted; WFH reflects body proportion, or the harmony of growth, and is particularly sensitive to growth disturbances. It reflects acute undernutrition. Any child who is below 2SD of the reference is considered too thin for his/her height or wasted. WFA on the other hand represents a convenient synthesis of both linear growth and body proportion.
67
Results from this study indicate that 34 (15.4%) of children were stunted; 45(20.4%) underweight and 36(16.3%) wasted (Table 4.5). Based on WHO classification, these figures represent low stunting, very high wasting and high underweight. The highest proportion of stunted, wasted and underweight children were in their second year of life (fig. 4.14).
Table 4.6: Distribution of Z scores for HFA, WFA and WFH

Anthropometric
Z SCORES
Indices
> -2SD No Height-For-Age Weight-For-Age Weight-For187 176 185 % 84.6 79.6 83.7 No 34 45 36 < -2SD
TOTAL
% 15.4 20.4 16.3 No 221 221 221 % 100 100 100
Height
Source: Ambah Projects International, fieldwork 2003. These findings are in keeping with known patterns particularly in the developing countries where there is predominance of acute over chronic under-nutrition (National Population Commission Nigeria 2000, World Health Organization 1993). Majority of the subjects belonged to the low-income group and may not be able to afford balanced diet. In these communities, repeated acute infections of the gastro intestinal system facilitated by poor environmental sanitation and inadequate source of potable water may also play significant role.
68
Fig. 4.14: Age distribution of Stunting, Wasting and Underweight

20
Frequency
15 10 5 0
0 - 11 12 23 24 35 36 47 48 - 60
Stunting Underweight Wasting
Age (Months)
Source: Ambah projects-Health survey 2003.
4.12.13
IMMUNIZATION STATUS IN CHILDREN These
Table 4.6 below shows that the proportion of children under 5 years old immunized against DPT, BCG, OPV and Measles were 14.7%, 8.8%, 21.7% and 5.3% respectively. the other antigens in the National Programme on Immunization. Oral polio vaccine(OPV) was the most commonly received vaccine in the studied area. This may partly be due to the OPV given during the National Immunization days(NIDs) set aside by the Federal Ministry of Health through the National Programme on Immunization every year. Each child below 5 years is expected to receive two drops of OPV during each round of NID. The fact that the few health facilities available in the communities had inadequate record of immunization is an indication of the low practice of routine immunization as shown in some Niger Delta States such as Bayelsa State (Bayelsa State Ministry of Health, NPI Office, Yenegoa, 2002). Figures from the Government of Bayelsa, indicate the following levels of coverage for 2002: BCG (16%); OPV3 (13%); DPT3 (12%); Measles (25%) appendix 5). Only 3.3% of children under 5 years old had taken vitamin A supplement. Table 4.7: Immunization Status among Children under 5 years figures were below the national target of 70% (BCG and TT for pregnant women) and 65% for
69
Doses Type of Vaccine DPT BCG OPV Measles Vitamin A 217 (8.8%) 148 (6.0%) 129 (5.3%) 82 (3.3%) 179 (7.3%) 170 (6.9%) 106 (4.3%) 128 (5.2%) 76 (3.1%) 86 (3.5%) 361 (14.7%) 217 (8.8%) 532 (21.7%) 129 (5.3%) 82 (3.3%) 0 1 2 3 Total
DPT=Diphteria, Pertusis, Tetanus. BCG=Bacille Camille Guerin OPV=Oral Polio vaccine
4.12.14 4.12.14.1
FIELD ASSESSMENT OF CLINICAL FUNCTION Respiratory function
The respiratory function has been assessed using the Peak Flow Rate which is the fastest rate an individual can blow out air from the lungs after taking a breath as deep as possible. It indicates the efficiency of respiratory function. Fig. 4.15 below shows that the PFR was markedly below the reference value in all age groups tested, indicating a generally compromised lung function among the sampled adult population. This result may be due to factors such as the constant exposure to kitchen/domestic generated smoke (eg from cooking) in poorly ventilated houses, inhaled particles from flared gases, cigarette smoking vehicle/boat smoke and dusty.
Fig. 4.15: Peak Flow Rate among Sampled Adults Compared to standard for Age
700 600 500
PFR (L/M)
PFR 1 Standard
400 300 200 100 0

20-24 25-29 30-34 35-39 40-44 45-49 50-54 55-59 60-64 65-69 70+
PFR 2 Sample
AGE GROUP (YEARS)
70
4.12.15 4.12.15.1
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Sanitation Of The Living Environment
The general sanitary status of the living environments in the communities were rated as poor, fair, or good based on a set of criteria in the checklist (appendix 4). About 15 (48%) of the communities had poor level of sanitation, while about 52% had only a fair level of cleanliness. None of the communities had good or very good sanitary status of their living environments. A checklist of the individual communities by the general sanitation status of their premises is presented in appendix 7. Sewage Disposal
The most commonly used excreta disposal methods were the hanging toilet (faeces passed directly into the river) and open defeacation onto the beachside or into the river. In Basambiri, Ogbolomabiri, Idama, Bakana and Ifoko, many of the locals also have access to water cistern in their homes. A checklist of the communities by their sewage disposal methods is shown in appendix 8.
Refuse Disposal The refuse generated in the studied area were mainly kitchen waste, which included food peels or remnants (garbage), etc. The non-degradable wastes were mainly plastics, bottles, polythene bags, ashes, cans/tins etc. The commonest refuse disposal method was open dumping on land, riverside/beach and river/ocean. These disposal methods were unsanitary. Disease Vectors The common disease vectors in the communities were mosquitoes (anopheles and aedes), houseflies, cockroaches, rats, lice etc. 4.12.15.2 Water Supply And Quality
Sources of Water The major sources of domestic water supply were river/stream, well, tap/borehole, pond and rain. Some members of Kponkponkiri and Jalingo get their water from a Barge in the
71
neighboring village. The water were untreated before use. A checklist of the various sources of water by location is given in appendix 9. Quality of water sources The chemical constituents of the various water sources is given in appendix 10. The results indicate that most of the chemical constituents were within acceptable limits. Bacteriological assessment indicate that all the well samples were free of coliform bacteria. River sources had varying levels of contamination (appendix 10). The presence of Coliforms confirm recent faecal contamination.
72
Table 4.7:
S/N
Indicators for safe water and sanitation in the study communities

Indicator Unit of Communities Status WHO Standards
o 1 Quantity of water
Measurement No of litres per person per day <10 - 15 litres 50 litres / day / person <10% of the population have access to a point (Tap or Well) Chemical quality met WHO Standards Microbial quality for river water was below the WHO Standard No faecal coli in portable water
Quantity of water (access)
No of users per point (of Tap or Well)
Quality of water (compliance with standards)
% of samples compliant
Proportion of households without safe drinking water supply
Percentage (%)
>85%
< 5%
Access to safe water
Proportion with access to water within 200m of a standing tap or well
<20%
Pipe borne water should be within 200m of reach.
Sanitary Toilet
Proportion of household without sanitary toilet
80%
One latrine per family
Housing
Average no of persons per room (Adult and children)
Maximum of 2 Adults of opposite sex/room No more than 1 Adult and a Child (less than 12 years old).
Mosquito Breeding places
No. of
All Communities
site/geographic area (100%) Proximity to populated area All inhabitants lived within the breeding places.
73
Noise Noise levels Both indoor and outdoor noise levels were generally low and within acceptable limits. Indoor noise ranged between 38dBA to 57 dBA while outdoor noise ranged between 39dBA and 58dBA. Details of the noise level measurements in the respective communities are provided in appendix 11. Perceived sources of Noise The major sources of noise as perceived by respondents are depicted in fig 4.16 below. Majority (31.8%) believes that generator plants were the commonest source of noise. This was closely followed by flow station activities (31.6%).
Fig. 4.16: Perceived sources of noise

35 30
frequency(%)
25 20 15 10 5 0
Generators SPDC Helicopter Children playing Gas flaring Flow station Gun shots Communal Conflicts Vehicles Speed boat Funeral engine activities
Ambah projects (Environmental survey) Nov. 2003.
4.12.15.3
Air Quality (Indoor)
Table 4. 8a: Concentrations of Indoor Air Pollutants in the MTR Communities.
Stations
SPM g/m
3
NO2 g/m 16.4

3
SO2 g/m <6.0

3
NH3 g/m 1.5

3
VOC g/m 24.6

3
H2S g/m <0.5

3
CO ppm 1.0
Basambiri
206.5
74
Ogbolomabiri Rowka (Mile 2) Fantuo Ibidi (Brass LGA) Obioku (Brass LGA) Abonnema Kula Idama Bille Ke Harrys town Bakana Abalama FMEnv
160.3 264.5 90.4 100.0 98.8 110.6 100.0 92.5 99.4 100.0 92.3 90.4 75.0 250
18.9 20.4 25.0 18.5 17.8 29.2 30.5 26.0 19.8 22.5 31.5 26.0 18.5 75
<6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 260
1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 200
14.9 10 11 11 12.4 60.0 30.6 85.4 56.5 48.0 24.6 12.3 16.3 160
<0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <1.0 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 8
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.5 1.0 10
Table 4. 8b:
Concentrations of Out door Air Pollutants in MTR Communities
Stations
SPM g/m
3
NO2 g/m 10.5 10.9 15.0 14.6 12.5 11.0 16.6

3
SO2 g/m <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0

3
NH3 g/m 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5

3
VOC g/m 54.3 20.4 13 15 14 20.5 93.7

3
H2S g/m 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5

3
CO ppm 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0
Basambiri Ogbolomabiri Rowka (Mile 2) Fantuo Ibidi (Brass LGA) Obioku (Brass LGA) Abonnema
105.3 131.6 224.3 67.5 74.4 84.6 100.4
75
Kula Idama Bille Ke Harrys town Bakana Abalama FMEnv
75.6 88.4 70.6 86.5 80.6 78.5 64.9 250
21.3 20.6 10.0 12.8 28.8 14.6 12.4 75
<6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 <6.0 260
1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 200
59.2 202.3 83.9 62.5 44.4 19.7 25.0 160
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 8
1.5 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 10
The concentrations of pollutants measured in the area were generally low and varied with the stations. In particular the concentrations of Sulphur dioxide (SO2) in all stations and Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) in some stations were below detection limits. However the concentrations of Ammonia (NH3) in all the stations and in outdoor levels of H2S did not show any variation. Similarly the concentrations of Carbon monoxide (CO) at Bakana and Abalama did not show any variation The indoor concentrations of Suspended particulate matter (SPM) and Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in all the stations and CO in most stations were higher than the outdoor concentrations. This observation could be attributed to emissions from domestic activities and poor ventilation. On the other hand the outdoor concentrations of Volatile organic compounds (VOC) were higher than the indoor concentrations probably due to fugitive emissions from outboard engines and other automobiles. Comparing the results with permissible limits recommended by the Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv, 1991), the concentration of SPM at Basambiri (indoor) 206.5 and Rowka (indoor, 264.5; outdoor, 224.3) were enough to cause concern. VOC at Idama exceeded the permissible limits. These levels may be attributed to cooking smoke (indoor air) and the activities of the flow station and of engine boats and automobiles in the communities. 4.12.15.4 Naturally Occuring Radioactive Materials (NORM)
76
Oil spillages, gas flaring and on-shore drilling activities are commonly believed to raise the natural background radiation of the environment. The reason for this being that the by-products of hydrocarbon compounds (oil and gas), the chemicals used in sourcing for crude oil may contain radioactive particulates. Table 4.9 below show the mean count rates and the dose equivalents obtained in the study areas. Table 4.9: Radiation Count rates and dose equivalents for studied communities
Mean count rate Dose equivalent (mSv.yr )
-1
S/N 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Location Basambiri Nembe Creek Ogbolomabiri Ibidi Obioku Abonnema Kula Idama Bille Ke Obuama Bakana
(cpm) 17.124.14 15.833.98 19.234.39 15.273.91 13.013.61 13.913.73 15.183.90 17.864.23 13.563.68 13.043.61 17.664.20 18.504.30 0.750.18 0.700.18 0.850.19 0.670.17 0.570.16 0.610.16 0.670.17 0.790.19 0.600.16 0.570.16 0.780.18 0.810.19
The level of natural background radiation is generally between 1 and 2 mSv.yr-1 (Hunt, S.E. 1987). The main contribution is the gamma ray absorbed dose arising from terrestrial radon (~55%), cosmic ray (8%), natural radioactivity of environmental rocks (containing uranium, actinium, radium and thorium) and the potassium-40 activity within our own bodies (Clement A. W et al 1972). At present the cosmic ray dose varies by a factor of 3 from sea level to about 3,000 m (10,000 ft) and by 10% to 20% from 0 50o latitude (National Research Council Washington D.C 1972). Radium and thorium contents of indigenous rocks vary by about the same amount. The dose limit for all persons, other than those occupationally exposed, is 1 mSv.yr-1 (European Council for Nuclear Research, Dose limits 1995). The maximum dose accepted internationally is 5 mSv.yr-1, (National Council on radiation protection, Washington D.C 1976) which is about three times the average background of between 1 and 2 mSv.yr-1 (Hunt S. E.1987).
77
Our measurements for the twelve sites range from 0.570.16 mSv.yr-1 to 0.850.19 mSv.yr-1. The lowest value of 0.570.16 mSv.yr-1 was at Obioku and Ke communities, and the highest value of 0.850.19 mSv.yr-1 was at Ogbolomabiri. These values are comparable with the typical background value of 0.71 mSv.yr-1 (Ebong I.D.U and Alagoa K.D. 1992) at the Rivers State University of Science & Technology, Port Harcourt. They are also less than the set limit of 1 mSv.yr-1 for all persons not occupationally exposed at the European Council for Nuclear Research, CERN, 1995. The slight variation would be attributed to latitude and longitude (National Research Council, Washington D.C 1972). No human health effect is anticipated at these low levels. 4.13 Inventory of Hazards
Hazardous agents in the study area may be classified as follows: Chemical Hazards Chemical agents or hazards comprise chemical compounds released into the environment as a result of crude oil exploration e.g. those from drilling and flaring activities namely heavy metals drilling fluids, spent metals effluent discharges, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), and particulate matter. These substances contaminate and pollute the air, water, fishes and mangrove resources (e.g. crab, oysters, and other foodstuff on which human life depend. They subsequently gain entry into the human body and affect health negatively via the respiratory system, gastro-intestinal tract, and the skin (Olishifsky, 1971). Physical Hazards Physical hazards in the Nembe Creek environment consist of noise pollution from flowstation generators, radioactive substance resulting from flaring. Thermal and light pollution are also health hazards that the people in the area are exposed to. Flaring increases the temperature of the environment causing disturbances of body temperature and health breakdown e.g. heat stroke. Excessive noise pollution is known to impair hearing, while light glares on the eyes affect the sight (Egbuna, 1987). In the study area diseases associated with the eye and the ear represented 4.8% and 3.2% respectively of the causes of morbidity in the population. Respiratory problems are also among the leading causes of morbidity in the area. The
78
prevalence may be exacerbated by inhalation of hydrocarbon particulates. Biological Hazards These include dangerous snakes and insects such as mosquitoes, tsetseflies, sandflies, houseflies which were reported to be present in the area. These contribute to morbidity and mortality incidences in the area. The swampy nature of the terrain encourages the breeding of these creatures. Commercial Sex Field investigations indicate that there were no brothels in the study area, however men and women, especially young girls use their homes as a focus for commercial sexual activities. According to health personnel's report promiscuity is on the increase. Sexually transmitted diseases especially gonorrhea are seen often in the clinic among the adolescents. Factors that have increased commercial sexual activities include, inadequate provision and care for the youth people, and exposure to foreigners and visitor from oil companies and other oil related oil industries. Young ladies visit houseboats, camps and hotels where these oil workers reside. As a result of such activities pregnancies have increased. According to field reports, about 76% of the teenagers get pregnant before the completion of their secondary school education. Epidemics of Communicable Diseases According to the residents, the study area experiences epidemic of gastro-intestinal disease, malaria, cholera, measles, scabies, chicken-pox, appolo and typhoid fever. Gastro enteritis occurs every dry season when drinking water is scarce and the local wells and ponds have dried up. During such periods, the people depend largely on unreliable sources of water supplies from stream and rivers. Measles are said to be common also with dry season between November and March when airborne droplets carry the germs. This is also the presence of chicken-pox. Records of epidemic occurrences were however not available on demand. . 4.14 Perceived (Subjective) Impacts of SPDC Operations, Evaluation & Expectations Respondents were questioned extensively on:
79
(a) (b) (c) (d)
their perceptions of SPDC's operations on their environment; their opinions as to the nature of the relationship between their settlements and SPDC; their expectations from SPDC, and how they feel about SPDC's planned expansion of existing facilities in Nembe Creek Field.
Perception of the Environmental Impacts of SPDC's Operations Pollution is perceived to be a problem in the area. The residents complained of water pollution from spillages, seepages, lubricants, etc. resulting in reduced fish yields; thermal pollution, in the form of increase in ambient temperatures, especially close to SPDC facilities; air pollution arising from gas flaring; acid rain attributable to emissions from flowstations; noise pollution from the latter, and the helipad near Flowstation I. Some settlements also complained of tremors and explosions from operation sites. Relationship Between Host Communities and SPDC Residents of sampled communities were questioned as to the nature of the relationship between their communities and SPDC. The general picture that emerged was that of a lukewarm relationship between the host communities and SPDC. Probed further as to the reasons for the absence of a warm and cordial relationship between the parties, the people cited a host of reasons centering on: Alleged SPDC's indifference to the welfare of the masses as shown by failure to schools, health centres, fishing loans to women and others; at Ewelesoa, SPDC even allegedly failed to repair faulty Government-provided electricity generator after repeated appeals. Irregular water supply to communities and periodic alleged SPDC harassment of water fetchers. Failure to deal satisfactorily with victims of company-caused boat mishaps; Failure of SPDC to carry out/assist with shore protection works, even though shoreline erosion is exacerbated by company-owned river craft. Failure of SPDC to appease deities whose shrines were displaced/disturbed by SPDCoriginated oil spillages, eg at Saikiri; Non compensation of residents for cash crops (plantains, yams, cassava, pineapples)
provide
80
lost during a recent spillage in the area; and Failure of SPDC to draw unskilled labour from the army of unemployed youth roaming the fishing settlements; Community Expectations From SPDC From Small Group discussions a clear picture of residents' expectations emerged. Water is indispensable for survival, not merely for healthy living; the people of the settlements lack this valuable resource. SPDC is already helping to remedy the unsatisfactory situation by permitting residents to fetch water from base camps. However this is subject to the vagaries of supply by water barges. The people therefore crave regularity of supply. The people also desire electricity. Some reported that it is particularly frustrating to see Shell workers enjoying electricity very close to them while they remain in darkness. Social facilities such as schools and clinics are manifestly inadequate. The people request these facilities eg schools to supplement those at Nembe Creek (Mile III) and Fantuo. Clinics are also expected to be built to service groups of settlements. In some locations, the people expect appeasement of deities, whose shrines have been disturbed/destroyed by oil spillage. The people expect Shell to hire unskilled labour from amongst the unemployed in the settlements and that host community residents should also benefit from petty contracts.
81
82
CHAPTER FIVE 5.0 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
The procedures adopted for the identification of the environmental impacts of the proposed activities for the Diebu Creek Field Exploratory Drilling project are shown in Tables 5.1 to 5.3. Table 5.1 identifies the major environmental sensitivities of the study area by matching the environmental components against the processes. This is mainly based on the existing environmental conditions at the time of the study.
Table 5.2
identifies the requirements of the proposed activities that may have environmental consequences by matching impacting activities and agents.
Table 5.3
presents the potential environmental consequences of the project activities on the environment. This is based on sensitivities identified in Tables 4.1 and the potential impacts identified in Table 4.2.
83
TABLE 5.1:
ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITIES: SWAMPS
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
THE LAND: ECOLOGY 1. CLIMATE 2. HYDROLOGY
CHARACTERISTICS AND SENSITIVITIES

THE LAND USE: ECONOMY THE LAND USERS: SOCIAL AND CULTURAL VALUES
high rainfall, highly seasonal tidal, sensitive: changes in hydrology fisheries, sensitive: loss of productivity brackish, sensitive: changes in salinity Fisheries; sensitive: loss of productivity
RIVERS, CREEKS
3. WATER QUALITY
RIVERS, CREEKS muddy, peaty, fibres, hemist and saprist unsuitable for agriculture except on dredge spoils sensitive: loss of revenues
4. SOILS
SWAMPS
5. VEGETATION
low resilience high bio-diversity, sensitive: loss of species
MANGROVES
use for energy production and construction activities harvesting from nature, sensitive: overexploitation, pollution
traditional land use systems, exploitation
6. FAUNA
84
TABLE 5.1:
ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITIES: SWAMPS (CONT'D)
HUMAN ENVIRONMENT
THE LAND: ECOLOGY 7. RURAL POPULATION

CHARACTERISTICS AND SENSITIVITIES

THE LAND USE: ECONOMY THE LAND USERS: SOCIAL AND CULTURAL VALUES
GENERAL FISHERIES
populated by fishing communities rivers, creeks, ponds, sensitive: loss of productivity increase in population numbers waterways, access limited in swamp areas exploration, production, refining, sensitive: physical impacts and pollution
low quality residential houses, sensitive: overcrowding increasing pressure, sensitive: over fishing and pollution Sensitive: loss of revenue
8. URBAN POPULATION 9. INFRASTRUCTURE 10. INDUSTRY
stagnant economic conditions, lack of increase in population, sensitive: social employment tension and strife lack of maintenance, sensitive: land take, loss of production employment, revenues, sensitive: land take, loss of production communications, sensitive: impediment of communications strong presence sensitive: disturbance of operations
OIL AND GAS
85
TABLE 5. 2:
IMPACTING ACTIVITIES AND AGENTS

PROJECT PHASES DRILLING FACILITIES DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION run off hydrocarbons, production water, chemicals, industrial waste, spills, visual impact pads, flares, emissions, industrial waste, chemicals, spills, noise, visual impacts household waste and sewage camps, waste and sewage camps, permanent housing, waste and sewage OPERATION ABANDONMENT
PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
1. FACILITIES WELLS
land take, average and peak run off, visual impact mud, drill cuttings, hydrocarbons, blow-outs, additives, noise, industrial waste, visual impact, light industrial waste, traffic, forest clearing
industrial waste pads, pits, wells
PRODUCTION FACILITIES
pads, concrete footings, piles pads, piles sites changes in accessibility
OFFICES AND WORKSHOPS HOUSING
2. ACCESS TEMPORARY ROADS AND RIGHT-OFWAY (R.O.W.) PERMANENT ROADS AND R.O.W. pipelines r.o.w. pipelines r.o.w.
pipelines r.o.w.
3. CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS, WATER LATERITE, SAND WATER (FRESH)
= NOT APPLICABLE 86
TABLE 5.2:
IMPACTING ACTIVITIES AND AGENTS (CONT'D)
PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
PROJECT PHASES DRILLING

FACILITIES DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
OPERATION
ABANDONMENT
3. ENERGY AND TRANSPORTATION ENGINES, GENERATORS
fuel, emissions, noise, waste

traffic, fuel, oily waste, noise Storage, oily waste, spills
VEHICLES FUEL
Traffic, fuel, oily waste, noise Storage, oily waste, spills
traffic, fuel, oily waste, noise Storage, oily waste, spills
traffic, fuel, oily waste, noise Storage area
5. PERSONNEL
PRESENCE OF STAFF
SOCIO-ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE
Social interactions, job expectations

Shops, recreational activities, traffic, change in access Traffic, land take, contamination



6. WASTE DISPOSAL
= NOT APPLICABLE
87
TABLE 5.3:
POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF PROJECT ACTIVITIES ON THE ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENTS

CLIMATE AND ATMOSPHERE SOILS AND GEOMORPHOLOGY WATER VEGETATION AND FAUNA ECOSYSTEM HUMAN ENVIRONMENT
IMPACTING AGENTS AND ACTIVITIES
1. USE OF RESOURCES 1.1 LAND TAKE - PERMANENT Well facilities, roads, housing, offices, waste disposal 1.2 LAND TAKE - TEMPORARY Roads, corridors, offices, camps, pads, storage areas. Loosening of soil/compaction Loosening of soil/compaction Change of habitat Change of mangrove ecosystem Change in economic functions Loosening of soil/compaction Loosening of soil/compaction Change of habitat Change of mangrove ecosystem Change in economic functions
1.3 WATER USE Fresh water Aquifer depletion Change in vegetation type Freshwater ecosystem change Change in economic functions
Reservoir pressure maintenance
contamination
= NO CONSEQUENCES
= MINOR CONSEQUENCES
= MAJOR CONSEQUENCES
88
89
TABLE 5.3:
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF PROJECT ACTIVITIES ON THE ENVIRONMENT (CONTD)

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENTS CLIMATE AND ATMOSPHERE SOILS AND GEOMORPHOLOGY WATER VEGETATION AND FAUNA ECOSYSTEM HUMAN ENVIRONMENT
2.2 WASTE 2.2.1 SOLID WASTE Household Hydrocarbons Drilling mud and cuttings
Contamination
Vermin Toxicity
Land take Degradation
Contamination
Health risk Aesthetic impact Change in economic functions
Industrial 2.2.2 LIQUID WASTE AND SPILLS Production and utility water, sewage, spills of chemicals, crude oil, fuel run-off
contamination
contamination
contamination
Degradation
Change in economic functions
Change in surface water levels
2.2.3 GASEOUS WASTE AND SPILLS Hydrocarbon, carbon dioxide (CO2), produced water vapour Vehicle exhaust
Greenhous e effect, acid deposition
Smog
Nox
Acidification
Eutrophication
90
TABLE 5.3:
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF PROJECT ACTIVITIES ON THE ENVIRONMENT (CONTD).

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENTS CLIMATE AND ATMOSPHERE SOILS AND GEOMORPHOLOGY WATER VEGETATION AND FAUNA ECOSYSTEM HUMAN ENVIRONMENT
SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL INTERACTIONS
Presence of staff
Fishing, hunting
Increase in exploitation
Socio-economic infrastructure
Cultural interface Resource competition Prostitution Difference in purchasing power Dropping out from school aesthetics
Visual impact, night lighting
Noise
Nuisance
Nuisance
Nuisance
= NO CONSEQUENCES
= MINOR CONSEQUENCES
= MAJOR CONSEQUENCES
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Quantification of impacts has been carried out by assigning numbers to the potential magnitude, extent and duration of the environmental impacts. The definitions used are: Magnitude of Impact A major negative impact can, if not mitigated, affect the potential subsistence, recreational or commercial use of a Biophysical resource sufficiently that the value of that resource is reduced far below publicly acceptable values. A moderate negative impact can, if not mitigated, affect the potential subsistence, recreational or commercial use of a Biophysical resource sufficiently that the value of that resource is reduced below publicly acceptable values A minor negative impact will affect the same potential Biophysical resource use as above, but at levels publicly perceived as being inconvenient rather than unacceptable. A positive impact will increase the potential subsistence, recreational or commercial use of a Bio-physical resource Extent of Impact Site impacts are restricted to within the general project area of the proposed project. Local impacts may occur anywhere within the immediate environment of the project area. Regional impacts may extend beyond the immediate environment of the project.
Duration of Impact Short-term impacts will cease within one year of their onset. Medium-term impacts will cease within ten years of their onset. Long-term impacts will continue for more than ten years.
The assigned numbers indicate the severity of impacts based on the subjective experience of our team of scientists. The numbers were assigned according to Bisset (1992):
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Magnitude
Major Moderate Minor 60 20 10
Extent
Regional Local Site 60 20 10
Duration
Long-term Medium-term Short-term 20 10 5
Total
140 50 25
The impact values sum up to a maximum of 140 and a minimum of 25 with the impact severity increasing as the value approaches the maximum. Calculations are as presented in the table below.
C HARAC T E R IS T IC S A ir Q u a lity - D us t - SPM - G as e s 2 WAT ER (a ) - S u rfa c e D rainag e S ys te m F lo o d C harac te ris tic s F lo w V ariatio ns W ate r Q uality F is he rie s A c tivity (b ) - G ro u n d F lo w & W ate r T ab le F o rm atio n W ate r Q uality 3 L AND L and us e Mine ral R e s o urc e s S o il E ro s io n C o m p ac tio n & S e ttling S tab ility (s lid e s & s lum p s ) B uffe r zo ne s S o il Q uality 4 NO IS E Inte ns ity D uratio n R e p e titio n 5 E C O L O G IC AL (a ) F a u n a T e rre s trial S p e c ie s A q uatic S p e c ie s B arrie rs C o rrid o rs (b ) F lo ra T e rre s trial S p e c ie s A q uatic S p e c ie s T e rre s trial Hab itats A q uatic Hab itats T e rre s trial C o m unitie s A q uatic C o m unitie s 6 S O C IO E C O N O M IC E m p lo ym e nt L o c al & Ind us trial D e ve lo p m e nt P o p ulatio n D e ns ity Ho us ing & Infras truc ture Q uality o f L ife & L ife s tyle He alth S o c ial S e rvic e s 7 AE S T HE T IC S R e lie f & T o p o g rap hy O d o ur V is ual/A p p e aranc e No is e 45 25 75 75 25 25 60 90 25 90 25 25 35 25 25 25 40 90 90 50 60 40 40 25 45 60 35 100 60 60 90 35 35 25 25 75 35 35 35 45 35 45 25 40 85 25 90 60 50 60 40 60 50 60 40 45 60 35 90 60 60 25 35 90 50 35 85 25 25 85 35 25 85 100 45 100 45 100 45 30 25 30 25 30 25 70 90 70 90 70 90 70 90 50 90 50 50 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 50 50 50 50 50 50 25 25 25 25 40 30 25 25 40 30 40 30 50 50 50 50 50 50 25 25 25 50 50 50 50 50 50 40 25 40 25 40 25 90 90 90 90 90 90 40 40 40 70 90 50 90 50 50 25 25 25 25 25 25 90 90 25 60 60 45 50 50 100 100 25 25 85 25 25 90 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 50 50 25 25 25 25 90 40 40 50 50 50 25 25 60 85 50 90 50 90 90 25 25 25 25 75 25 25 75 35 45 100 50 60 25 40 75 25 60 25 35 25 25 40 40 60 60 25 35 25 25 40 25 30 50 50 90 35 35 50 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 85 35 35 35 90 75 25 25 45 60 45 90 25 60 60 50 35 85 50 50 50 50 35 25 35 35 35 35 35 25 25 25 25 25 30 85 90 30 25 90 45 45 35 25 35 45 35 25 75 35 25 45 45 100 50 60 25 35 25 35 25 25 45 90 100 35 25 25 45
100 35
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Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling 5.1 CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS
The effect of the construction activities on the environmental factors will depend on the duration, magnitude and extent of the impact as shown in Table 5.4.
5.1.1 Air Quality

The sources of emission during construction activities include exhaust fumes from boats, tractors, generators etc. The fumes will include SPM and gases (CO, CO2, NOx etc.). From the technical information for the project, the concentrations to be emitted are not expected to alter the quality of the air since background levels are very low. Impact is expected to be minimal.
5.1.2 Aquatic Environment

The tidal range in the area varies from 0.8 1.67 metres and the water is largely without waves unless when a vessel moves through it. Waves generated by marine vessels depend on the type and speed of vessel. Vessel movements during construction activities are expected to result in waves that flush the intertidal/banks of the creeks and rivers. These washings will result in increase in turbidity of the water system. This will be a short term and localised impact since the area is tidal and has reasonable discharge capacity. Vessel movements would also result in washing off of intertidal pools. The juveniles in the pools will be dislodged from their normal habitats and introduced into the main water body prematurely exposing them to the activities of predators. This will result in loss of recruitment. Through wave action, epipelic algae will also be washed off resulting in obligate epipelic feeders being starved of food. The impact of this will be a reduction in population of epipelic feeders as a result of deaths and poor growth. Waves can also dislodge oysters and other members of the attached communities from their substrates. This will also expose the young larvae to predators and affect the recruitment potential of the system. The impact of vehicular movement on the intertidal flora and fuana will be moderate, medium-term and localised.
5.1.3 Land Erosion

Increased vehicular movements during construction activities will also result in erosion of the banks of the creeks and rivers. This will result in the dieback of trees and the loss of
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associated communities.
5.1.4 Land Take

The exploratory well shall be drilled from an existing slot. This is to ensure minimal land take for the project. However, there may be unforeseen circumstances where additional land take may be required. In such situations, measures would be taken to ensure that site clearance and construction activities are undertaken without unnecessary deforestation.
5.1.5 Fauna and Flora

Site clearance activities will also permanently alter the faunal and floral species of the project site. The clearing of the trees and related flora will reduce the protection and shelter they afford to the fauna including the wildlife of the area. This will lead to the migration of the fauna away from the site as well as increasing the exploitation tendencies through hunting and fishing. In this present project, site clearance activities will be minimal; the impact on the fauna and flora is also expected to be insignificant.
5.1.6 Noise
The extent to which a given noise is unacceptable depends on the following factors, pitch, period (time) of day, irregularity, duration, rhythm, unexpectedness, or whether the noise has a meaning for the particular observer. However, there is a statutory level of sound above which harm occurs. Exposure to noise exceeding 85 - 90 dB(A) has been shown to cause hearing loss, which could be temporary and permanent. Where noise is a nuisance, hours of exposure to the noise as stipulated by FEPA (1991), presented in Table 5.5 should be complied with. In addition earmuffs should be used. Table 5.4: Noise exposure limits for Nigeria
DURATION PER DAY, HOUR 8 6 4 3 2 1.5 1 0.5 0.25 or less
PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE LIMIT dB (A) 90 92 95 97 100 102 105 110 115

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Since the construction impact end after completion, the impact will be short term and localised. Noise from piling activities may increase noise levels in the area. Noise is also likely to affect wildlife in the area especially to nocturnal animals that are not usually exposed to such levels of noise. To avoid noise becoming a nuisance to the immediate communities piling and noise generating activities should not be carried out in the night.
5.1.7 Spoils and Overburden

The construction activities will generate spoils from the cleared site. These should adequately be disposed at approved sites. The impact will be moderate, local and medium-term. The decaying leaves and pieces of wood add to the organic load of the soil.
5.1.8 Wildlife
Wildlife is abundant and evenly distributed in the Diebu Creek field area. The wildlife population ha not changed significantly over the years. However, some production-related activities can influence the wildlife characteristics. organisms. Flares attract kites by day. The light from the flares enables hammerkop birds to feed on crabs at night. These are negative impacts for the prey
5.1.9 Endangered Species

No evidence was obtained for the regular presence in the area of any species that is seriously endangered in the context of the Niger Delta (Powell, 1997, 1995, 1972). However, under Federal legislation, most species are listed as protected. The most important species, in terms of regular presence, ranking (Schedule I) and ecology appear to be the otter, (tewu), the sitatunga antelope (tubara) and the monitor lizard (abedi). The only local species ranked as globally threatened (IUCN red List) are sea turtles (Chelonia mydas, Caretta carett).
5.1.10 Dredge Spoils

Dredge spoils provide egg-laying sites for monitor lizards and perhaps may increase their population. Spoils also are visited by mammals, as shown by the frequency of tracks (paw/hoof marks), droppings and other signs. The vegetation on spoils may also provide food and shelter for wild life. The spoils are beneficial to the richness and diversity of mangrove wildlife.
5.1.11 Sensitive Areas

According to local hunters, there is no particular sector of the field that is richer in wildlife, at least for the large and common species. For birds, the richness in terms of diversity and
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population is greater near the coast. The less common wildlife species such as pangolins and red-legged squirrel utilize dense and well-developed mangroves as main habitat. The mangroves should therefore be protected where possible. Since the proposed activities are likely to be limited to already cleared areas of the field, the impact of the activities on such sensitive areas will be minimal.
5.1.12 Visual Impact

Visual impact is usually assessed in terms of aesthetic qualities. It is dependent on the type and location of the development. For, the existing facilities in the Diebu Creek Field, the principal visual elements include, the flowstation structures and equipment, radio communication masts, flowlines, illumination, smoke plums, flares, well heads and dredge spoils. In addition to these, the proposed structures in this project will have no significant visual impact due to its design. Carry-overs during production that result in black smoke will be minimized. The flare system will have a liquid knockout vessel to contain any unforeseen liquid carry over to the flare. However, flaring effect will be eliminated when flaring is completely phased out by the year 2008.
5.1.3 Socio-economic/Health Impacts

Site clearance will generate moderate employment, especially of low-skilled and unskilled labour. This impact will be local, of a short-term in nature, direct and positive. Labour force during construction phase will affect the local economy (through consumption expenditures, demands on housing, hotels etc.). This effect will be moderate direct, local, shortterm and positive (landlords and the few petty traders, shall benefit from this labour influx for its short duration). Influx of construction labour force will affect population densities. This impact will be direct, negative, short-term, minor and local due to such problems as erosion of privacy of local residents; perceived negative influence on local value systems, increased vehicular traffic attributable to project personnel and even prostitution).
5.2
PROJECT OPERATIONAL IMPACTS

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The effect of the project operation activities on the environmental factors will also depend on the

duration, magnitude and extent of the impact as shown in Table 5.4.
5.2.1 Climate
There will be no significant effect on climate or meteorological factors resulting from the operation of the proposed activities. This is because most of the expected impacts will be local and site specific. The only operational activity likely to alter climatic factor is gas flaring. The proposed Associated Gas Gathering project for the Soku Gas Plant will assist to reduce gas flaring in the field. It is anticipated that by the year 2008, flaring of gas will be phased out also leading to the elimination of the localised operational impact.
5.2.2 Air Quality

There is already an impact of current operations on the local environment as evident from higher suspend particulate matter (SPM) concentration downwind in the baseline study. The operation of the new facility will increase this impact. However, any impact will be short-lived because of the dispersive effect of the wind. The emissions from the flare source will add to the environmental load. This includes pollutants like: SPM, THC, CO2, etc. The magnitude of the impact depends on the quantity of pollutants emitted, wind speed, local climatic conditions. However the associated gas-gathering project will also reduce this impact and by the year 2008 will completely eliminate the impact.
5.2.3 Vegetation
A permanent or long-term effect is the loss of vegetation during construction of a right of way. It may disrupt soils, vegetation and other ecosystem components of the area. The clearing of the right of way and removal of vegetation will however open previously inaccessible areas. This could encourage the exploitation of flora and fauna of the area. The impact will be minimal since most of the new powerlines will follow the existing route.
5.2.4
Wildlife
Flight distances of wildlife will increase as a result of noise from operation equipment and movement of boats. Wildlife species, which cannot adapt to these disturbances, may migrate. Some of these wildlife species may be become vulnerable during migration.
5.2.5 Socio-Economic /Health Assessment

During the operation phase, new workers could increase population density and hence make
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more demands on existing utilities (not just on-site). This will represent a minor, local, longterm, negative and direct effect on utilities. Increased vehicular movement during the operation phase will affect infrastructure negatively. The effect will be local, direct, moderate and long-term. The presence of a workforce during the operation phase can affect the quality of life. Potable water can now be made available to the immediate settlements. This would be a positive development. The effect will be long-term, minor, indirect, and local. Spills and leaks; discharges and accidents, during the operational phase can impact on health. The effects may be moderate, local, direct, short-term and negative.
5.2.6 Cultural Relics

There was no site of historical, cultural, archaeological or religious importance in the project area.
5.3
ABANDONMENT
The impacts will be similar to those discussed for
During abandonment, there will be demolition of structures, transportation of materials, waste disposal and restoration activities. construction activities. They will be short term and localised. The abandonment activities may create temporary changes in employment. The impact may be minor, short-term, direct, local, and positive. Reduction in the labour force during abandonment can reduce population density. The effect will be minor, direct, local, short-term and positive the area is once more restored to its prestige status.
5.4
i
Project Specific Reversible/Irreversible Effects
Reversible effects
(a) Increased turbidity resulting from dredging; (b) Temporary displacement of aquatic biota; (c) Increase of noise level during construction period; (d) Increase of smoke during construction; (f) Interruption of mating in wildlife, arising from noise in construction sites. ii. Irreversible effects (a) Loss of forest vegetation along well slots.
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Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling CHAPTER SIX
6.0 MITIGATION MEASURES/ALTERNATIVES The mitigation measures recommended for the Exploratory Well Drilling Project are considered in relation to the major impacts associated with this project. The mitigation measures are therefore to be adopted at the various phases of the project and will ensure minimal negative effect of the project on the environment. Table 6.1 presents anticipated project impacts and mitigation measures proposed to achieve sustainable development of the field. Table 6.1: Impact Mitigation Measures
Potential Impact Mitigation Measures
Project Activity Construction Activities
Site Clearance
Alteration in air quality from Impact will be minimal. Machinery to be exhaust fumes of boats, tractors, used shall generate minimal levels of generators, etc. pollutants due to good maintenance. Increase in sediment load and Over burden shall be disposed in such a turbidity. Decrease in way as to reduce turbidity generating productivity. run-offs. Decrease in recruitment potential Vessels shall travel with minimum speed of aquatic organisms along narrow creeks to reduce resultant waves. Alteration in composition and Land take for the project shall be abundance of flora and fauna. minimal because most of it shall be on existing cleared sites. Erosion and exposure of soils. Hunting of Wildlife Site clearing shall be undertaken in dry season. Hunters in the area shall be discouraged from hunting wildlife in along ROW through education and incentives of gain through other means. by Slow speed travel of vessels shall prevent this.
Vessel movement
Dislodgement waves
of
oysters
Erosion of the banks of creeks Erosion due to waves shall be minimal and rivers. due to slow vessel travel.
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Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling Table 6.1: Impact Mitigation Measures Contd.
Project Activity
Potential Impact Noise from river traffic
Disruption to fishing
Mitigation Measures Vessels with well-muffled engines shall be used during the project. Fishing sites shall be avoided.
Pollution from waste discharges No waste discharges from vessels from river crafts especially at landing sites. Signposts would be mounted at strategic points to warn boat operators against this activity. Land take Land take for well slot - impact Land take shall be minimised expected to be minimal via use of existing location Reduction in land use area Spoils will be used in construction of flare site bound wall and sedimentary basin.
Spoils and Overburden Equipment/Machi nery Well Location construction
Noise from construction machinery. Low noise well-maintained-muffled Noise will increase flight distances engines and machinery will be of wildlife. used. Habitat destruction, Increased Movement of heavy-duty sediment load, Disruption of aquatic equipment on exposed soils to be species minimised. Increased erosion caused construction activities. by Adequate timing of construction activities to coincide with low precipitation. will be
Alteration in turbidity and decrease Surface water quality in productivity from increase in monitored regularly. sediment load Increase wildlife in flight distances
of Avoid low over-flights and noise in critical wildlife areas especially during resting and mating season.
Influx of labour force will impact on Awareness campaigns to be socio-cultural values; cultural intensified. Restrict movement of interface is difference in purchasing workers to camp and work sites. power, prostitution.
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Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling Table 6.1: Impact Mitigation Measures (Contd)
Project Activity Operational Phase Equipment operation
Potential Impact
Mitigation Measures
Noise from operation of Use of low noise machinery will equipment could be disturbing to be mandatory. communities close to the facilities. Noise will increase flight distances of wildlife As discussed in Construction As discussed in Construction Phase Phase.
Vehicular movement/ Transportation of materials Storage
Ground water contamination from Periodic audits to ensure storage of fuels, lubricants and acceptable conditions are other chemicals maintained will be carried out.
Waste Disposal & Contamination of surface and Adequate disposal of waste will Recovery ground water. be undertaken Disruption to fishing Spills, leaks and Pollution of surface and ground operational failures water. Disruption to fishing Disruption to transportation Discharges Pollution of surface water Regular monitoring of facilities. Ensure that appropriate contingency measures to contain, control and clean spills/leaks are functional. Avoid discharges into the aquatic environment. Ensure appropriate response strategies
Work force community
Influx of labour force will impact Restrict movement of visitors socio-cultural values; cultural to camp and work sites. Mount interface, include differences in awareness campaigns. purchasing power, prostitution.
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Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling Table 6.1: Impact Mitigation Measures (Contd)
Project Activity Abandonment Demolition Potential Impact Mitigation Measures
Alteration in air quality as a result Impact short term and minimal. of exhaust fumes from boats, Machinery to be used will tractors, generators, etc. produce minimal concentration of pollutants due to good maintenance. Alteration in turbidity and Wastes would not be dumped decrease in productivity from into surface water. increase in sediment load.
Transportation of materials
Decrease in recruitment potential Vessels will travel with minimal from washing off of inter tidal production of waves especially pools by waves in narrow creeks. Dislodgement of oysters by Vessels to travel at low speed waves . Erosion of the banks of creeks Vessels to travel at low speed and rivers. Noise from river traffic Low noise vessels would be used. Disruption to fishing Vessels would avoid fishing sites. Pollution from waste discharges Wastes to be adequately from river crafts disposed
Labour force
Influx of labour force will impact Restrict movement of visitors to socio-cultural values; cultural camp and work sites. Mount interface, include differences in awareness campaigns. purchasing power, prostitution, increase in drop out rates of young men. Crisis of rising expectations Contamination of surface and Avoid indiscriminate discharge ground water. of wastes through methods Disruption to fishing described earlier.
Waste disposal
6.1 i. ii.
Measures To Minimise Unavoidable Environmental Effects SPDC will ensure that excessive noise is reduced by the use of silencers. No existing drainage to be blocked during operation.
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6.2
Waste
Waste generated during the well drilling process, will be mostly the clearings of the right of way and the resultant vegetation i.e. trees and shrubs. The plant materials can simply be left to dry and decay along the right of way (on drying, such plants are most likely to be collected by the people nearby for firewood). The generated waste will be minimal since existing slot will be used. Disposal of Unwanted Waste Materials All unwanted waste materials from operational activities shall be adequately disposed of, followed by a thorough clean up of the work site. Tables 6.2 and Table 6.3 show types of wastes and various methods to be employed for different types of wastes generated during the project. Table 6.2:
Waste Type
Expected Wastes at each Project Phase

Site Preparation Constructio n Operation Abandonment
Forest cuttings Human Waste Food wastes Office papers Lube oil waste Chemicals Welding rods, metals Effluent/storm water
X = Applicable
x x x
x
x x x x x x
x x x x x
x x x x x
x x
Blank = Not Applicable
Table 6.3:
Wastes
Control/Disposal of Wastes
Disposal Method
Disposed of in an approved site Cans, bottles and plastics to be recycled (ongoing practice in SPDC) Incineration in an approved site Closed drainage system (no effluent discharge) Recycling
Forest cuttings Food wastes (cans, bottles, plastics) Chemical Oily Drains Water Metallic wastes
Refuse and debris 106
Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling All refuse and debris resulting from SPDC operations shall be appropriately disposed of. Disposal by burning shall be permitted only under the following conditions: (a) With the approval of the landowner or tenant and SPDC and as approved by Federal Ministry of Environment and Department of Petroleum Resources (FMENV and DPR). (b) (c) (d) (e) Burning shall not create a hazard or nuisance to the public. The wind velocity shall not be more than 15 km / hour. Burning shall be within built confinement to prevent fire spread Regulatory requirements on burning shall be complied with. The ashes and unburnt debris should be adequately disposed of. No refuse or debris of any kind shall be disposed of by placing in a ditch or backfill. Site Reinstatement SPDC shall rehabilitate each work site to a state close to their original conditions. 6.3 Erosion
Erosion is expected at narrow stream or riverbanks due to wave action from high-speed boats. To minimise such erosion, boats shall be operated at reduced speeds along such narrow rivers or creeks. 6.4 (i) (ii) Aquatic Ecosystem Water Quality Care shall be taken not to cause alterations to creek/river beds that might obstruct migration runs, or disturb spawning grounds of finfish. During construction, the increase in suspended solids at watercourse crossings could cause damage to the eggs of fish, invertebrates, young fish, etc. especially in the wet season, and sediment traps would be used. To minimise any impact, topsoil shall not be stored close to the watercourse
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Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling CHAPTER SEVEN 7.0 7.1 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN GENERAL For the Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Project, environmental considerations were given to well-drilling operations, project alternatives, design, construction and commissioning in line with corporate and project-specific HSE plan. To ensure that all aspects of the project life cycle are covered in the waste management plan, a systems approach is adopted which looks at components of the project life and scope of wastes generated. Monitoring and control from mobilisation, site preparation and construction to abandonment have been considered. For the purpose of sound environmental management during the course of the project, appropriate interaction is essential between environmental and engineering design teams at all stages of the project from conception through to design, construction and operation. Project construction and operation shall be subject to appropriate environmental audit/monitoring to ensure that environmental standards are met at each stage of project implementation. Environmental management practices for the Diebu Creek exploratory drilling and development shall be implemented in line with SPDC Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) policy and statutory requirements. The major project components are: (a) (b) (c) (d) Site preparation for well slots with the generation of dredge spoils. Drilling with the generation and management of drilling wastes. Generation of wastes during mobilisation, construction and operational phases of project life by workers. Abandonment when decommissioning well in the navigable water way and abandonment at the end of project life cycle. 108
Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling 7.2 Environmental Monitoring The main essence of monitoring and surveillance systems in this EIA are: (i) to detect if an impact has occurred and to estimate its magnitude; (ii) to ensure that legal standards for wastes are not exceeded; (iii) to check that mitigation measures are implemented in a manner prescribed in the EIA report or other related documents; (iv) to provide emergency warnings for accidents and oil spills/gas leaks so that actions may be taken if possible to prevent or reduce the seriousness of unwanted impact. Two types of monitoring shall be undertaken. These are impact monitoring and compliance monitoring. (a) Impact Mnitoring: Variables for monitoring shall include the following items: Flora and fauna Soil status Water Quality Status Air quality status and emissions Wastewater characteristics Groundwater monitoring
Flora and Fauna The flora and fauna in each sampling area shall be scored using basic ecological tools such as quadrats and transects. The growth of colonizing epiphytes on plants shall be evaluated as an indication of healthy state or stress. Soil Status Top and subsurface soil samples shall be collected from designated points within the treatment and reference area and tested for the following parameters: pH, electrical conductivity, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, ammonium-nitrogen, exchangeable cations, extractable 109
Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling micro-nutrients, heavy metals, moisture content, total hydrocarbons and microbial load. This shall be done on a six-monthly basis. Water Quality Status (Groundwater & Surface water) Water samples from monitoring bore-holes shall be collected monthly and analyzed for the following parameters: pH, turbidity, TSS, TDS, DO, BOD, COD, NH4+, NO3-, NO2-, SO4-2, heavy metals, total hydrocarbons and microbial load. Surface water samples shall be collected on a monthly basis from rivers and creeks and similarly analyzed. (b) Compliance Monitoring This takes the form of periodic sampling and/or continuous measurements of levels of waste discharges, noise, and other emissions to ensure that conditions laid down and standards are met. In general, compliance monitoring at the MPF and wells locations shall include the following measurements: Wastewater oil content. Periodic sampling of wastewater (24 hr composite sample) for BOD, COD, TOC (Total Organic Carbon), TSS, oil and grease, phenolics, NH3-, sulphides, Cr, pH, temperature and flow rate. Installation of monitoring wells for periodic sampling of groundwater to detect early of contamination from spills and leaks. A summary of the environmental monitoring programme is shown in Table 7.1
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Table 7.1 :
Environmental Monitoring Programmes

Impact Indicator Sampling Location Sampling/analysis methods
Environmental Timing of Impact Components Surface Water Site preparation, Construction/ Operation phase Site preparation, Construction/ Operation phase
Benefits Compliance and data bank
Monitoring Frequency
Noise
pH, Cond., TDS, BOD, Oil and Grease etc. Noise Level dB(A)
Rivers/streams within the immediate vicinity of ROW MPF maintenance and base camps, and ROW
Water sampler, Turbidimeter, pH meter, Water analyzer. Noise level meter
2 yearly
Socio-economics
Project life cycle
Attitude towards NGC and community assisted projects
Towns and NGC and community assisted projects.
Communication interviews, meeting and discussion.
Compliance and data bank, check design and specification Healthy relationship, hitch-free project execution
Monthly
Twice yearly
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DRILLING WASTE MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT To minimize the impact on environment, SPDC well engineering has a structured monitoring plan for all well engineering operations as summarized in Table 7.2. Table 7.2 Discharge Monitoring Requirement for Well Drilling Operations (DPR EGASPIN 2002)
MONITORING REQUIREMENT: PARAMETER/EFFLUENT CHARACTERISTICS Volume/discharge rate MEASUREMENT FREQUENCY
DISCHARGE TYPE
Drilling Fluid

Drilling Cuttings
Toxicity, 96-hr LC (for each mud type and major additive proposed for use. Oil content for water based mud Petroleum hydrocarbons (Aliphatic and Aromatic) for oil based mud. pH Metals e.g. Copper, Lead, Mercury, Zinc, Nickel, Total Iron, Vanadium, Arsenic, Barium, Total Chromium Grain size distribution Specific Gravity Volume/Discharge Rate
Record hourly during discharge Once per mud system Every 305 meters of well depth Once at the end of well (from the lowest section but not in the pay zone) Every 305 meters of well depth Every 305 meters of well depth Every 305 meters of well depth Every 305 meters of well depth Report daily during discharge and measure duration of discharge Every 305 meters of well depth Every 305 meters of well depth Every 305 meters of well depth Record on a daily basis Once per week Estimate and record daily Once per week Record monthly Estimate and record monthly Estimate and record monthly Once per week Once per week Once per week

Deck Drainage
pH Oil and Grease Content Metals Volume Oil and Grease content Discharge Rate Residual Chlorine Volume Volume Volume pH Oil and Grease Content Chlorides
Sanitary sewage (continuously manned by 10 or more persons Blow-out prevention (BOP) fluid Well Treatment Fluids Work-over Fluids/ Waste
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Preliminary Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling
7.3
Drilling Waste Management
There are several drilling waste management options based on the SPDC philosophy or reduction, re-use and recycling. Many of these options have undergone field trials. The options which are flexible and adaptable to meet the diverse nature of drilling wastes are fixation of cuttings, slurrification and re-injection of cuttings (CRI) flocculation of waste fluid, sub-surface injection of liquids, mud conversion to S-mix, maceration and incineration of domestic waste. The application of a technique or a combination of techniques depends on logistics and associated cost. considerations are given to the swamp environment. 7.3.2 Minimisation of Drilling Waste This shall involve the following improvements design: (a) Location design improvement include: (i) Location Drainage. Waste pits and burrow pits with permeable bottom are no longer allowed. Concrete bottom and proper drainage systems are now incorporated in location design. (ii) Reduced Location Size: New land drilling location design reduces Special
location size and minimizes run-off water volume. (iii) Clustered Location: Several wells drilled and operated from one location to minimize impact of operations on environment. (b) Well Design improvement include: (i) Slim hole wells (ii) Monobore wells (iii) Horizontal wells that improve productivity and thus minimizes the number of conventional wells. (c) Muds and Solids Control (i) Optimising solids control with state of the art shale shakers. This lowers amount of mud on cuttings. Centrifuges will keep low gravity solids down and reduce dilution requirements. (iv) Using non-toxic mud additives and environmentally friendly mud systems such as the Thermally Activated Emulsion Mud (TAME) (v) Drilling top hole with bentonite and low polymer muds. 113
(vi) Re-conditioning and re-use of drilling mud. 7.3.3 Disposal of Waste a) Water: disposal of wastewater is one of the main challenges facing drilling and work-over operations under the new environmental regime. Wastewater shall be retained in pits and tested to meet DPR/FEPA standards before injected into disposal well.
b)
Cuttings: In the swamps, the cuttings shall be collected in barges and transported to the nearby Nembe-4 Cuttings Re-injection well or to Soku.
Cuttings slurrification and re-injection has been successfully implemented in SPDC following approval by FMENV. It now provides a viable means of disposal. c) Spent mud disposed through: (i) Conversion with S-mix into cement for casing cementation and road construction. (ii) Injection down-hole.
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Table 7.3
Type of Waste Gaseous
Drilling Waste Management

Waste
Waste Management Options
Treatment and Disposal Method Swamp Special waste disposal facility/ flare. - doUse in S-mix cement for casing Collect and transport to flowstation at Soku. Incineration Re-injection into dedicated waste disposal well, collection on barge and later pumping into waste pits Slim-hole, crush and bury CRI, fix, slim hole drilling S-mix cement flocculation and injection Incineration Treatment and discharge Land Special waste disposal facility/flare -doWaste pit, improved layout design Ditto
Reduce From possible gas kick Fuel, air Liquid Rig wash water/ rain run-off Crude oil
Re-use
Recycle
Oily waste Brine and workover fluid
Incinerate Waste pit
Solid
Cuttings cement returns Mud
Slim-hole, crush and bury land fill, fix slim-hole drilling S-mix cement, inject, landfill Landfill Collection in septic tank.
Domestic waste Sewerage
S-mix CRI
= =
Slag mix into cement for casing cementation: Cuttings Re-Injection
7.4
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING OF PIPELINE ROUTES Ecological monitoring of pipeline route shall commence from the preconstruction stage through to operation, to provide information on impacts as compared to prediction. This provides advance-warning system in the event of adverse impacts on the ecosystem. SPDC will comply with DPR/FMENV guidelines in the monitoring of specific environmental sensitivity indicators. The monitoring programmes is summarized in Table 7.1. This also applies to other components of the project. 115
Also, pipelines right of way (ROW) shall be replanted with native vegetation species. 7.5 ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT AFTER 3 YEARS OF OPERATION About 3 years after implementation of the project, environmental auditing shall be carried out to ensure that applicable environmental standards are being maintained and that company CASHES policies and the environmental management plan are being followed. It shall also ensure that enforcement of company policy, procedures and standards is in line with management responsibility and compliance with environmental legislation. The environmental audit process provides an assessment of environmental performance during the construction and operational phases of a project. It acts as an internal control process to ensure that environmental protection and management procedures are being enforced. Each environmental audit shall: 7.6 Examine line management systems, plant operations, monitoring practices and data, procedures and plans. Check the predictions in the environmental assessment and ensure that recommendations are being implemented Identify current and potential environmental problems Recommend improvements to the management of the operation and Examine compliance with regulatory requirements.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND RESOURCE PERSONS IN SPDC Appropriate resources persons shall be provided to undertake the
environmental management duties. A project team approach is recommended using the combined resources of SPDC Environmental and Front-End Engineering Departments. These include project supervisor, wells and pipelines engineers, asset management planner, front-end engineer, HSES adviser, environmental adviser, community developmental officer, land supervisors and civil works engineer. These resources personnel can be supplemented by external consultants/advisers as necessary. 116
7.7
STAFF TRAINING AND ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS Environmental awareness training for operations staff is an integral part of a comprehensive environmental management policy. SPDCs Safety and Environmental Division is responsible for training/awareness seminars to such staff. Within SPDC, environmental issues are a line responsibility for which staff at all levels are accountable. Accordingly, responsibility for environmental protection lies with line management who must ensure that all environmental considerations are integrated into environmental related activities. However, SPDCs Environmental Division offers expert advice on protection measures and monitors performance. As part of SPDCs CASHES policy, general information on environmental protection and specialized training courses for dealing with environmental aspects of operations, are offered to staff and contractors to enhance environmental awareness and expertise. Specific training courses are to be attended by Environmental focal points, supervisors and operators from Production Department who are identified as directly involved with daily running of the MPF facility.
7.8
OIL SPILL, FIRE AND OTHER CONTINGENCY PLANNING In the design of facilities and well drilling, relevant standards, codes, specification, operations and maintenance philosophies, HSE and community issues have been addressed. However, in the event of any accidents due to equipment failure, negligence, sabotage and natural catastrophe, contingency, measures shall be put in place to contain the effects (spillage, fire, etc) of the accident. The essential elements of the contingency plan include advance warning, activation of plan, containment systems, evacuation procedure, notification to responsible government agencies. However, SPDC, like other oil companies 117
operates a tiered approach for oil spillage contingency planning. It has the necessary resources and facilities for dealing with minor spills up to 250 barrels in inland water, or 2500 barrels on land, coastal/offshore water. For larger spills, Clean Nigeria Associates (CNA) and the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan (NOSCP) shall be called upon for assistance as may be necessary. 7.9 OVERALL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMP) The EMP provides a delivery mechanism to address adverse impacts, to enhance project benefits and to introduce standards of good practice to be adopted for all project works. The plan is a stand-alone document covering all aspects of the project activities. The EMP also lists the requirements to ensure effective mitigation of each potential biophysical and socio-cultural impact identified in the EIA. For each impact, or operation that could otherwise give rise to impact, the following action plans are presented in Table 7.4. The comprehensive list of the mitigation measures (actions) that SPDC shall implement;
The person(s) responsible for ensuring full implementation of that action; The parameters that shall be monitored to ensure effective
implementation of that action; The timing for the implementation of the action to ensure that the objectives of mitigation are fully met. SPDC is committed to the adoption of these measures and shall carry out ongoing inspection to ensure implementation and effectiveness.
118
Table 7.4:
Environmental management plan of the Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling activities.
Action Well shall be drilled in existing slots. In case of any new acquisition, all necessary protocols and legal requirements will be implemented Responsibility Operations Manager, Construction Supervisor, Civil Engineering Supervisor, Community Liaison Officer Construction Supervisor Parameters for Monitoring Clearly defined boundaries in place. No unauthorized offsite clearance Timing Prior to onset of site preparation and drilling .
Potential Impact 1. Land-take
2. Soil erosion
Area extent of site clearance shall be minimized by staying within defined boundaries. Uprooting trees or removing undergrowth shall be avoided where possible, so as to retain land stability 3. Habitat Site boundaries for pipeline disturbance route and spoil disposal shall be marked out. Uprooting trees or other plants shall be avoided where possible 4. Drainage and It shall be ensured that: Effluent (a) drainage systems are Discharge working effectively Impacts
Site clearance
Civil Engineering Supervisor
Clear boundary markers in place
Prior to commencement of site clearance
Environment Supervisor
Evidence of impeded drainage, culvert blockage or collapse Evidence of siltation, flooding, vegetation die-back
Duration of site preparation activities
(b) no off-site siltation or flooding occurs from inadequate run-on measures (c) no off-site die-back of vegetation arising from discharges
Evidence of dieback at discharge points
119
Table 7.4 (contd)

Potential Impact 5. Fuels and Lubricants Management Parameters for Monitoring Up-to-date inventory in place. All drums and containers within the storage area
Action Strict inventory of all fuel, and lubricants brought to site shall be maintained and placed in controlled storage. All unused lubricants and fuels should be returned to base; Emergency and contingency plan shall be put in place with adequate provisions addressing potential oil leaks and spills Site-specific Waste Management Plan shall be complied which identifies and characterizes every waste arising/associated with land reclamation and disposal of each waste arising Access to forest other than for off-site inspections shall strictly be forbidden.
Responsibility Construction Supervisor, Drilling Supervisor,
Timing Duration of drilling
Environmental Officer
Facilities and inventories readily available in good working order Comprehensive Waste Management Plan in place and available for inspection on-site
Duration of drilling
6. Waste and Effluent Management
Environmental Manager, Civil Engineering Supervisor
Prior to site clearance for drilling and Plant installation.
7. Access, Security and Lighting
Security Supervisor
N/A
Duration of drilling.
Lighting shall be located and Civil directed so that it does not Engineering unduly light up off-site areas Supervisor and minimizes glare. In the event that wildlife is attracted to the well site, there shall be erection of security fence to discourage such access All spills or leaks shall be reported immediately. They shall be contained or cleaned immediately. Impervious liners shall be put in place at the chemical storage areas. Drilling Supervisor Construction Supervisor Civil Engineering Supervisor, Drilling Supervisor, All on-site Personnel, Civil Engineering Supervisor
N/A
N/A
8. Soil Contamination
Evidence of protective measures in place. No visual sign of oil spills Written spill procedure in place. Oil spill containment materials on site
Daily throughout duration of drilling.
120
Table 7.4 (contd)

Potential Impact 9. Water Quality and other Aquatic impacts 10. Noise and Vibration Parameters for Monitoring No discharge hoses in the vicinity of water courses
Action
Responsibility
Timing Duration of Drilling operation
No discharge shall be made to Civil water courses to avoid Engineering increase in suspended solids Supervisor, Drilling Supervisor Site noise shall be minimized Operations by implementing good Manager, working practices. Install Civil acoustic mufflers in large Engineering engines (where practicable). Supervisor, Equipment shall be Safety maintained in good working Supervisor. order.
No machinery running when not required. Written record of maintenance for all plant.
Prior to commencement of work by contractors on site.
7.10
CONSULTATIONS The drilling project shall involve an extensive liaison with statutory authorities and communities. The EIA also requires approval from FMEnv. These consent/consultation procedures will form an integral and ongoing part of the long-term environmental management process. HOST COMMUNITIES: The land for the Diebu Creek Exploratory Well project is within the operational confines of SPDC. However, peaceful coexistence is required with the Southern Ijaw community who own most of the forest and land. To ensure timely approvals of budgets and contracts for the project. For the supervision of operations during and after completion and to advise as appropriate. Copies of the EIA report are to be forwarded for the review process, approval and to ensure environmental compliance. Needs to be involved in all facets of the project. For approval on inland waters as necessary. Frequent contacts and consultation to be maintained especially during construction, to avoid any labour 121
NAPIMS: DPR: FMEnv:
BSEPA: DIW: LABOUR UNIONS:
union problems.
NIGERIA POLICE FORCE: To provide security in case of any disturbance and
provide escort during equipment transportation to site, when necessary . 7.11 FUTURE COMMITMENTS SPDC shall initiate the relevant technical and managerial procedures, to ensure that environmental management becomes integrated with engineering project management. Environmental performance shall be reviewed at regular intervals and appropriate lines of communication/responsibility put in place, to ensure corrective action is taken as necessary. Consideration shall be given to establishment of relevant environmental monitoring projects in order to keep an ongoing check on compliance with agreed environmental controls. A formalized Environmental Audit Program shall be established for the project. For consistency of approach and procedures, consideration shall be given to production of a project specific Environmental Auditing Manual. Specific commitments which SPDC shall implement for the project include: Initiation of relevant environmental monitoring studies during site preparation, construction and operational phases. Proper environmental supervision/management during the site
preparation phase including the production of a Code of Practice for Environmental Management to be issued to all contractors. Specification of environmental controls to minimize air, water and noise pollution into contractor's Conditions of Contract. Development of a detailed restoration and aftercare plan to appropriately re-vegetate cleared sites as soon as possible. A detailed assessment of the community impacts for all area affected by the site development will be carried out with a view to: Understanding community perceptions and concerns; Provisions of compensation payments (or benefits, e.g. water 122
supply) to affected communities; Assessing options for labour sourcing and Establishing an effective liaison/communication channels from the communities to the project execution team.
123
CHAPTER EIGHT
8.0 8.1 DECOMMISSIONING AND ABANDONMENT INTRODUCTION Facilities are designed to serve the planned useful life of the project after which they shall be decommissioned and abandoned. Abandonment shall in general be in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. exploratory well is designed for twenty years life span. Physical abandonment of the facilities is the reverse of the construction and commissioning process. The technical aspects, HSES studies, detailed normally be engineering and abandonment execution planning would The Diebu Creek
undertaken before actual implementation of abandonment. Negotiations with all stakeholders (internal and external) including communities and regulatory bodies would also have been completed. Generally, abandonment shall be carried out in a structural manner. 8.2 THE DECOMMISSIONING AND DEMOLITION PROCESS The facilities shall be taken out of operating service with isolation of all process streams and services and the removal of all hazardous materials. Temporary services may be provided during the cleaning and moth-balling of facilities. The completion of this activity results in a decommissioned facility certified safe for demolition. The DPR (2002) revised Environmental Guidelines and Standards For Petroleum Industry in Nigeria (EGASPIN) give the guidelines for abandonment. 8.2.1 Well Abandonment SPDC shall: (e) (ii) (iii) Obtain appropriate permit from the Department of Petroleum Resources; Isolate well from surface; Plug and abandon downhole according to permit criteria; 124
(iv) (v) (vi)
Place surface cement plug below cellar to allow removal of surface components; Avoid any significant adverse effect on the environment; Isolate production interval to prevent communication between aquifers of different nature.
8.3
PREPARING FACILITIES FOR DEMOLITION The drawing and inspection records for all facilities and items of equipment shall be obtained to determine their status and integrity as well as personnel, spares and special tools required to perform the demolition of the facilities. include: (i) (ii) (iii) Permit to work procedure, PTW system Permit to work in confined spaces and Permit for excavation work. All authorization for the work to be carried out safely shall be obtained. These
8.4
DEMOLITION AND SAFEGUARDING OF FACILITIES Site preparation for the demolition facilities shall include third party notification e.g. access for cranes, operations near live facilities, etc. Thereafter, there shall be phase/sequential demolition of the facilities and then removal from site. The torn down facility items and associated materials shall be disposed of in an approved manner. This may include decontamination and disposal by specialist disposal contractors. Materials shall be crated and secured for transport, left insitu or reused appropriately dependent on available technology and outlet for reuse. Some of the items with reuse potentials shall be used on other sites. The waste management principles of reduce, reuse, recycle and recover (4Rs) shall be extensively used.
8.5
RESTORATION OF SITE There shall be a survey of the site for contamination. All materials that could subsequently prove hazardous to the restoration of the site shall be treated. All contaminated material shall be disposed of in a safe and approved manner.
125
Thereafter the site shall be restored to meet environmental requirements approved by regulatory bodies or for subsequent reuse if required. 8.6 HANDOVER OF SITE On restoration, the site shall be handed over to the asset owner with a handover certificate. 8.7 SPECIFIC ABANDONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN
8.7.1 Mechanical Items All reusable items including pumps, drivers and instrumentation devices for the compressor will be disconnected and handed over to operations department, similarly, non reusable items will be carefully segregated, containerised, labelled and conveyed to SPDC scrap yard for maintenance or ultimate scrapping at approved disposal sites. Flow lines and other pipelines will be decommissioned, de-oiled, flushed clean and left in-sites or recovered and cross out for reuse at steel mills. 8.7.2 Soils Any polluted or contaminated soil will be treated in-situ or removed from site and treated/disposed of safely. The option of liming to reduce acidity and biological treatment using Petroleum Decreasing Bacteria, PDB shall be explored. 8.7.3 Concrete and Civil Structures Civil structures shall be broken up and disposed of by approved sites. Building shall not be torn drown until all equipment have been removed. Paved sites shall be re-scarified and prepared for re-vegetation. 8.7.4 Well Abandonment For drilled wells planned for abandonment, the well design will determine the suspension mechanism. Generally, the procedure serves to avoid incursions/percolations of hydrocarbon into the environment, the different levels of hydrocarbon will also be isolated from one another to avoid commingling and underground blow out. Also, the well head will be cut at seabed level to avoid 126
obstruction to traffic. In the generic sense, well abandonment is achieved by cementing in place at the producing zone. Well shall be abandoned so as to isolate effectively all potential hydrocarbon bearing formations from one another. In addition, other water bearing formations which are in pressure communication with hydrocarbons e.g. down dip of oil or gas shall also be effectively isolated. The Well shall be abandoned when it does not have foreseeable use in the future. The likely scenarios could include: (a) (b) (c) (d) When well is without hydrocarbons and without foreseen use as water, water production observation, disposal or training well. When well is considered unsafe or pose a potentially hazardous situation due to its mechanical condition. When well abandonment will require location entry or deteriorating surface conditions e.g. eroding beach line. When well has marginally completible hydrocarbon columns.
Abandonment where required, shall be planned on the basis of good housekeeping and as a stopgap measure when no other economically advantageous work over jobs are foreseen. After approving abandonment within the company, SPDC shall seek DPR approval to abandon the well. Abandonment can only be done on approval by DPR, if no approval is given, the well shall be suspended.
127
REFERENCES BISSET, R. (1992) Methods in Environmental Impact Assessment. 7th International Training Course on Environmental Assessment and Management. Centre for Environmental Management and Planning, University of Aberdeen, Scotland. UK. CORDEC, (1996) Nembe Creek IV Flowstation Environmental Evaluation Report. DPR, (2002). Environmental Guidelines and Standards for the Petroleum Industry in Nigeria. EGBUNA, D.O. (1987). The Environmental Hazards of the Nigerian Natural gas
industry. The Petroleum Industry and the Nigerian Environment. Proceedings of 1987 NNPC seminar. FEPA, (1991). Federal Environmental Protection Agency. National Interim Guidelines and Standards for Industrial Effluent, Gaseous Emissions and Hazardous Waste Management in Nigeria. FEPA (1992) Decree 86. Environmental Impact Assessment Decree. FEPA (1992) Guidelines and Standards for Environmental Pollution IPS (1991) Ecological Baseline Studies of Nembe Creek IV Flowstation. MACMAHON, B. and Thomas F. Pugh (1980) Epidemiology: Principles and Methods,
pp110 - 118. Churchill Press, London.
MAUSNER, J and S. Bahn Anita (1974) Epidemiology: An Introductory Text, pp 81, 204.
W. B. Saunders Company Philadelphia.
POWELL, C B (1995). Wildlife Study I Report to Environmental Affairs Department SPDC (East). 77pp. POWELL, C.B. (1997) Discoveries and Priorities for Mammals in the Freshwater
Forests of the Niger Delta. Oryx 31 (2): 83-85. RPI (1985) Environmental Baseline Studies for the Establishment of Control Criteria and Standards Against Petroleum Related Pollution in Nigeria.
Shell E&P HSE Manual (EP 95-0000). SPDC (2000) Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the Seibou-Brass NLG Pipeline. SPDC (2001) Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the Nembe Creek Field
128
Preliminary Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling Development Plan SPDC (2003) Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the Okoroba Field Development Plan
129

EIA of SPDC Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

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THE SHELL PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY OF NIGERIA LIMITED

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Document Number: SPDC 2004 Date: Version: Security: Change History:

September 2004 Final Report NON-CONFIDENTIAL

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

CHAPTER TWO 2.0 PROJECT JUSTIFICATION 2-1

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

HANDOVER OF SITE SPECIFIC ABANDONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

type and population densities.

The community structure based on densities of the individual

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

the project, especially during the construction phase.

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

expenditures, demands on housing, hotels etc.).

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Table 1.2: SPDC CASHES Guidelines; Specifications and Policy

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Waste Disposal Guidelines Land Acquisition and Compensation Abandonment Policy

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

CHAPTER TWO 2.0 PROJECT JUSTIFICATION

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

The specific project activities to be carried out include:

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Types of mud in use are:

Bentonite spud mud (circa 8000 bbls/well)

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Table 3.1: Waste Generation & Management Strategy

Control Measure/Management Strategies

POBM cuttings can be also processed by separating the

Brine (NaCl) Discharge Acids

Sand Consolidation Fluid Sewage

Industrial and domestic wastes

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Operation and Maintenance Activities General

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

SITE PREPARATION DRILLING OPERATION COMPLETION OPERATION

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Diebu Creek Flyover 1 November 2004 Areal Basemap

Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd.

OTUAGANAGU Ipirigbene Abagbene IPIRIGBENE

OML32 DIEBU CREEK-010

SPD C Wells-W SPDC Wells-E

DIEBU CREEK EAST-001

EMADIKE OBAKILO OBAMA

PIRIGBENE Tukogbene Okigbene Pirigbene

IGBN IGBOMOTORU DEEP

Author: Theo Date: 27/10/2004 BXE-EVAW

Environmental Impact Assessment of Diebu Creek Exploratory Well Drilling

Diebu Creek Flyover (South-Southwest View) 1 November 2004 N 200m