IAGC Comments on the Release of BOEM's Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for Gulf of Mexico Geological and Geophysical Surveys
Houston, TX (PRWEB) September 28, 2016 -- Nikki Martin, International Association of Geophysical Contractors President, today issued the following statement regarding the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management announcement of its Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Gulf of Mexico Geological and Geophysical Surveys:
"The release of the Gulf of Mexico Draft Programmatic EIS for geological and geophysical (G&G) surveys is an important step in the process of ensuring the continued assessment, exploration and development of the nation’s resources in the Gulf of Mexico. This subsurface imaging is key to making informed decisions on future leasing and to reducing or eliminating any potential economic, safety and environmental risks.
"We are evaluating the Draft Programmatic EIS to ensure BOEM’s framework for permitting seismic exploration and its suggested mitigation measures are proportionate to the level of risk of potential impacts to marine life, based on sound science, and within existing legal framework. The geophysical industry has over the past 50 years consistently demonstrated its ability to operate seismic exploration activities in an environmentally responsible manner. Experience shows that seismic activities, tourism, fishing and fisheries can and do coexist successfully around the world and, in particular, in the Gulf of Mexico.
"The industry has worked in a constructive manner with regulators worldwide as they have developed policy on geophysical operations. IAGC supports science- and risk-based regulations consistent with existing practices that are proven to be effective and operationally feasible.
"Finally, the IAGC appreciates the agencies moving forward with implementing a regulatory structure so that G&G activities can continue uninterrupted into the future."
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About the IAGC
The IAGC represents more than 125 member companies worldwide from all segments of the geophysical industry and is the only trade organization solely dedicated to representing the industry. It is the leader in geophysical technical and operations expertise and for more than 45 years, the IAGC has worked to optimize the business and regulatory climate and enhances public understanding to support a strong, viable geophysical industry essential to discovering and delivering the world’s energy resources.
Gail Adams, IAGC, http://www.iagc.org, +1 7139578080, [email protected]
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