Evaluation of NEPA-Based Environmental Commitments at Four Geopressured Geothermal Design Wells

Abstract

This study verifies the implementation and effectiveness of environmental mitigation and monitoring commitments made by the U.S. Department of Energy in National Environmental Policy Act documents (Environmental Assessments (Eas)) prepared for four geopressure design well project, one in Texas and three in Louisiana. The evaluation was based on visits to the project sites conducted by Oak Ridge National Laboratory staff in August 1982 and April 1983, and on a review of monitoring and project activity reports provided by DOE subcontractors. Subcontractors responsible for drilling and testing activities at the well sties adequately implemented most of the mitigation measures described in each projects EA. Exception included the lack of impermeable liners for drilling mud pits at three sites and the lack of a ring levee at one site. Water quality, noise, and air monitoring were not performed as strictly as outlined in the EAs. A review of the data collected to date indicates that no significant environmental degradation has occurred. Additional or future monitoring needs, especially with regard to subsidence, microseismicity, and groundwater and soil sampling were recommended.