Environmental Impact Assessment and 3-D Seismic Geophysical Evaluation of an Oil Mining Area in Degema and Brass, South-south Nigeria

Assessment of shallow water offshore and 3D seismic data acquisition were carried out in Akuku-Toru, Degema and Brass to assess the feasibility of hydrocarbon production under existing environmental condition. Samples were taken at defined intervals for laboratory inference on the condition of the area. Changes in the acoustic properties reflected towards the surface of each rock layer. Hydrophone nodes on the sea floor received this reflected energy. The study has shown the fault line is longitudinal across its profile, while the horizons are showing deep dissection across the strata. Existing environmental condition showed measured ocean currents were observed at the surface with magnitude of 1.1 m/s. The total annual rainfall in the area is more than 2,203mm with high relative humidity. The maximum Air temperature values recorded was 31.350°C-31.960°C. Longshore current recorded speed averaged 0.2 m/s. The tide levels in the project area ranged between 0.15m and 1.57m and air quality was quite good for the area. Surface water microbiology recorded mean counts of 2.18 x 102cfu/m. The study concluded that the area of study is environmentally favorable under its existing condition for the hydrocarbon exploration, production, construction and fabrication of oil and gas platforms for maximum hydrocarbon production.