We are planning to issue a proposed IHA for a geophysical and geotechnical survey in Cook Inlet, AK and will need review of a draft and final EA

Overview

ID #

13245950

Document Type

Environmental Assessment

NOAA Office

National Marine Fisheries Service - Headquarters

Document Status

Complete

Last Updated

06/10/2015

Summary

AK LNG proposes to conduct a geophysical and geotechnical survey in Cook Inlet investigate the technical suitability of a pipeline study corridor across Cook Inlet and potential marine terminal locations near Nikiski. The proposed activity would occur for 12 weeks during the 2015 open water season after August 7, 2015. The following specific aspects of the proposed activities are likely to result in the take of marine mammals: sub-bottom profiler (chirp and boomer), vibracoring, and a seismic airgun. Take, by Level B Harassment only, of individuals of four species is anticipated to result from the specified activities.

The final authorization must be issued by August 7, 2015. We are hoping to issue the proposed IHA in the next two weeks.

The timeline is accelerated and Cook Inlet energy projects are generally controversial.