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Oil Sands Environmental Management Bibliography

The Cumulative Environmental Management Association (CEMA)partnered with the Oil Sands Research and Information Network (OSRIN) to create the new Oil Sands Environmental Management Bibliography, which includes documents relevant to the environmental management of oil sands development in Alberta. The majority of the documents focus on the mineable oil sands in the Athabasca deposit, though some documents relate to in-situ developments. This bibliography was last updated in November 2014.

Athabasca tar sands corridor study. Volume 8 Appendix: Corridors and terminals

Authors
Year of Publication: 1974

Abstract:
Contains the following chapters: SUPPLY & DEMAND - Seaton-Jordan & Associates Ltd. URBAN GROWTH IMPLICATIONS OF CORRIDOR TERMINAL LOCATION - K.C. Mackenzie Associates Ltd. IMPACTS OF PETROCHEMICALS ON ATHABASCA TAR SANDS CORRIDORS & TERMINALS - Hydrocarb Consultants Ltd. PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT OF THE ALTERNATIVE CORRIDORS FROM THE ATHABASCA TAR SANDS - Stewart Weir Stewart Watson & Heinrichs, K.C. Mackenzie Associates Ltd., Bolter Parish Trimble Ltd., Siemens Realty & Appraisal Services Limited ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION WHICH MAY AFFECT THE ATHABASCA TAR SANDS CORRIDOR STUDY - Swist & Co. COMMON CARRIERS - Swist & Co. FLOW PATTERNS - LIQUID HYDROCARBONS

Athabasca tar sands corridor study: v. 3. Appendix: The effect of existing legislation

Authors Swist, R. C., & Mackay C.
Year of Publication: 1973

Abstract:
It is the purpose of this report to examine existing legislation to determine (1) what machinery is available for the creation of a transportation corridor, (2) what problems accrue or could accrue by virtue of that legislation. Examination of this area raises several questions: (1) what is the most suitable legal structure by which to effect a transportation corridor, (2) what legislation is relevant, (3) is this legislation sufficient to ensure the proper operation of the corridor, (4) if the existing legislation is inadequate, what alterations, amendments, or new enactments are required. Since it is extremely difficult to analyze these problems in the abstract, for purposes of explanation only, we have chosen two theoretical models which shall be referred to as (1) the limited governmental role, (2) the active governmental role. It is recognized that the variety of permutations and combinations between the public and private sectors input is limitless, therefore these models are not intended to limit that choice but rather are used solely for explanatory purposes. At this juncture, it should be mentioned that the basic tools available to achieve the required objectives are (1) zoning, (2) purchase, (3) expropriation, (4) legislative enactments. Since the width, composition, and location of the corridor have not as yet been determined this report will not recommend any specific legal structure. It is intended to explain the existing law and the problems therein so that these choices can be made more intelligently.

Citation:
Swist, R. C., & Mackay C. (1973).  Athabasca tar sands corridor study: v. 3. Appendix: The effect of existing legislation. Transportation corridor study. Volume 3 Appendix: The effect of existing legislation. 94 pages. Abstract

Athabasca tar sands corridor study: v. 4. Appendix: Environment: General characteristics and conditions. Part 1.

Authors
Year of Publication: 1973

Abstract:
Contains the following sections: Environment Characteristics and Conditions - Bolter Parish Trimble Ltd. Soils - Tom Peters and Associates Wildlife - Stewart Weir Stewart Watson & Heinrichs, Ducks Unlimited (Canada) Preliminary Review and Land Evaluation - Siemens Realty and Appraisal Services Ltd.

Athabasca tar sands corridor study: Volume 7A: Appendix: Public meetings - phase 1

Authors
Year of Publication: 1974

Abstract:
The philosophy of the Study as envisaged at the outset, is to obtain the maximum useful input from all those who might be affected in any way. The basis is complete disclosure by the Consultant Group of all relevant material and ideas. In order to provide the necessary background, technical people were brought in from industry to assist with its preparation and, among them Mr. R.F. Bell of Calgary Power Ltd. joined the Consultant Group for meetings with the public, providing helpful assistance in a variety of ways. Mr. Frank Belyea, from the Department of the Environment, participated all of the meetings and provided a most useful balance to the private sector Consultant Group. Public Meetings provide a useful form of interchange of opinion, ideas and factual information with their degree of success dependent to a great extent on the preparation for them. In the subject instance a lengthy (sixteen page) questionnaire was prepared and sent to some six hundred landowners in the area from Fort Saskatchewan north to Atmore at the southern edge of the wilderness area. Considering their detailed nature, the response of over one hundred and twenty to the questionnaire is most gratifying. Public Meetings were held in: Boyle: Community Centre Thorhild: County Office Athabasca: County Office Lac La Biche: Town Office, Council Chambers Fort Saskatchewan: Town Office, Council Chambers Conklin: Northland School Fort McMurray: Community Centre

Athabasca tar sands corridor study: Volume 7B: Appendix: Public meetings - phase II

Authors
Year of Publication: 1974

Abstract:
The philosophy of the Study as envisaged at the outset, is to obtain the maximum useful input from all those who might be affected in any way. The basis is complete disclosure by the Consultant Group of all relevant material and ideas. Technical meetings were held to obtain pertinent information from these people to complete specific parts of the study: Calgary Technical Group Meeting Calgary Industry Seminar Edmonton Study Group Meeting

Athabasca tar sands development environmental impact statement matrix: Physical & chemical characteristics

Authors
Year of Publication: 1973

Abstract:
The environmental impact assessment matrix is a simple way of summarizing which impacts are considered of greatest significance. It is a checklist or reminder of the full range of actions and impacts and is aimed at separating, as far as possible, factual information on magnitude of each type impact from the more subjective evaluation of the importance of the impact. The methodology of environmental impact analyses incorporates the principle of subjective assessment of the impacts of the separate actions which comprise the project upon various factors of the environment. The significant factors relating to effects on the physical and chemical characteristics of the northern Alberta environment as a result of potential oil sands development in the Athabasca tar sands were documented according to the \"Procedure for Evaluating Environmental Impact\" - Geological Survey Circular 645. The text of this impact report was based on the sum of magnitude and importance vectors being equal to or greater than 5 for any specific sector of the physical and chemical environment. This report and possible computer data adaptation may provide for additional summation and recommendation of specific actions incurred by oil sands development as these proposals further relate to biological and cultural aspects of the environment.

Athabasca tar sands gathering system study

Authors
Year of Publication: 1973

Abstract:
This study reviews constraints that should be considered in connection with synthetic crude pipe line gathering systems and routes within the Athabasca tar sands area. Specifically the terms of reference of this study were defined as: a) Study and identify all the important constraints in locating a route for synthetic crude pipe line gathering systems in that area of the Athabasca tar sands amenable to open-pit mining. Assumed plant locations will be supplied to the consultant by the Department of the Environment. The gathering system should be considered to extend to the northern terminus of the main pipe line corridor. b) Make recommendations with respect to the feasibility and desirability of combining services supplying the plants; gas, power and water lines; and transportation systems; in the same corridor as the gathering line. c) Make recommendations which will enable the Government of Alberta to select the optimum routes or patterns for a synthetic crude gathering system and for utilities as part of a long-range tar sands development policy. The bases of recommendations were agreed to be: i) Examination of existing technology respecting pipe line, transportation, and utility corridors, extrapolated to conditions which will exist during development of the tar sands. ii) Mining and reclamation plans of companies who are, or will be, engaged in mining the tar sands. iii) A route which will have minimum destructive effects on the environment and the ecosystems involved. iv) Current planning for urban and recreational areas to minimize the potential detrimental impact of a gathering system on the human environment.

Athabasca tar sands study: Interim report on environmental constraints and research priorities for mining/hot water extraction technology

Authors Page, H. V.
Year of Publication: 1972

Abstract:
Recommendations: 1. Determine the location and capacity of natural drainage basins (if any) within the mineable area which could be dedicated to the storage of tailings without detriment to the environment. 2. In future the storage of tailings in dyked ponds on the banks of the Athabasca River should be prohibited. 3. Establish a coordinated research program to progressively alleviate the tailings problem. 4. Commence large scale field tests to simulate reclamation techniques. 5. Remove all existing restrictions on available information which is required for environmental planning. 6. Utilize the existing operation on Lease 86 to generate additional data required for environmental planning. 7. Prepare a regional plan for permissable industrial development based upon environmental considerations - with particular regard to human ecology. 8. Future applications for development should be required to demonstrate significant contributions to environmental protection. 9. Financial incentives should be provided to stimulate research and development in Alberta, by Canadians, to resolve the potential environmental problems - notably those involving tailings accumulation and reclamation. 10. Authorize the Alberta Research Council to coordinate technological research required for environmental protection and improvement. 11. Authorize a study of meteorological conditions affecting the Bituminous Sands Area. 12. Initiate groundwater measurements to monitor subterranean conditions. 13. Expand the existing program of sampling and analyzing the Athabasca River.

Athabasca tar sands study: The environmental impact of in situ technology

Year of Publication: 1973

Abstract:
Report on the demands that will be made on the environment of the Bituminous Sands Area of eastcentral Alberta by the production of bitumen by in situ methods of extraction, in situ extration implying recovery of bitumen from the pores without distribing the reservoir rock.

Athabasca tar sands: Occurrence and commercial projects

Authors Spragins, F. K.
Year of Publication: 1978

Abstract:
This chapter focuses on the Athabasca tar-sand deposit of northeastern Alberta, Canada, and the commercial developments going on there. The Athabasca tar sands are the major deposit of oil in a viscous-oil trend, stretching across Alberta, from the Alberta-Saskatchewan border near Cold Lake to a point near the town of Peace River. The Athabasca tar sands are divided into two zones: one where oil deposits are covered by oil-barren surface deposits of from 0 to 150 ft and one where these overburden deposits range from 150 ft to more than 2000 ft in thickness. A number of oil companies have undertaken several commercial projects in the area. The Syncrude project has been designed to produce 125,000 bbl/day of synthetic crude oil. In the Syncrude mining scheme, two parallel open-pit mining faces will be opened and actively mined, advancing away from each other, throughout the life of the project. Fina, representing a group of companies, has also submitted an application to the Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) for a permit to produce 122,500 bbl/day of synthetic crude oil by means of a scheme based on mining wheels, hot-water extraction, and fluid coking.

Atmospheric deposition of mercury and methylmercury to landscapes and waterbodies of the Athabasca oil sands region

Year of Publication: 2014

Abstract:
Atmospheric deposition of metals originating from a variety of sources, including bitumen upgrading facilities and blowing dusts from landscape disturbances, is of concern in the Athabasca oil sands region of northern Alberta, Canada. Mercury (Hg) is of particular interest as methylmercury (MeHg), a neurotoxin which bioaccumulates through foodwebs, can reach levels in fish and wildlife that may pose health risks to human consumers. We used spring-time sampling of the accumulated snowpack at sites located varying distances from the major developments to estimate winter 2012 Hg loadings to a ∼20 000 km2 area of the Athabasca oil sands region. Total Hg (THg; all forms of Hg in a sample) loads were predominantly particulate-bound (79 ± 12%) and increased with proximity to major developments, reaching up to 1000 ng m–2. MeHg loads increased in a similar fashion, reaching up to 19 ng m–2 and suggesting that oil sands developments are a direct source of MeHg to local landscapes and water bodies. Deposition maps, created by interpolation of measured Hg loads using geostatistical software, demonstrated that deposition resembled a bullseye pattern on the landscape, with areas of maximum THg and MeHg loadings located primarily between the Muskeg and Steepbank rivers. Snowpack concentrations of THg and MeHg were significantly correlated (r = 0.45–0.88, p < 0.01) with numerous parameters, including total suspended solids (TSS), metals known to be emitted in high quantities from the upgraders (vanadium, nickel, and zinc), and crustal elements (aluminum, iron, and lanthanum), which were also elevated in this region. Our results suggest that at snowmelt, a complex mixture of chemicals enters aquatic ecosystems that could impact biological communities of the oil sands region.

Atmospheric emissions monitoring and vegetation effects in the Athabasca oil sands region

Authors
Year of Publication: 1985

Abstract:
Atmospheric emissions from oil sands plants are regulated by government. Both Syncrude Canada Ltd. and Suncor Inc. independently operate emission and air quality monitoring and reporting systems. The systems include air quality monitoring trailers and sulphation cylinder stations. In addition to the required monitoring, both Syncrude and Suncor conduct a number of voluntary monitoring research projects to enhance the understanding of regional atmospheric conditions, and the cumulative ecological effects of emissions from oil sands plants in the area. This report presents a consolidation of the findings of four individual projects sponsored by Syncrude. The study area for this report was centred over the emission sources, and extended approximately 50 km around the plants. The additional monitoring projects included stack gas sampling, elemental analysis, and dispersion modelling. Two biological monitoring programs have also been conducted to measure vegetation stress and bioaccumulation of elements in lichens and mosses. The biological monitoring studies were initiated prior to the start-up of the Syncrude plant, and continued with repeat sampling in 1983 and 1984.

Atmospheric pressure photoionization fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry characterization of tunable carbohydrate-based materials for sorption of oil sands naphthenic acids

Year of Publication: 2014

Abstract:
Synthetically engineered copolymers are receiving growing attention for sorption and possible degradation of components in oil sands processed water (OSPW). β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) copolymers, for example, have been shown in recent studies of electrospray ionization (ESI) Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) to adsorb oil sands naphthenic acid fraction components (NAFCs). Herein, we report complementary results for atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI) for characterization of NAFCs in OSPW samples following sorption with cyclodextrin-based copolymers. The materials investigated were β-CD-cross-linked with three different types of diisocyanates, namely, (i) 4,4′-dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate, (ii) 4,4′-diphenylmethane diisocyanate, and (iii) 1,4-phenylene diisocyanate. The APPI studies revealed variable sorption for a complementary range of NAFCs with compound classes not detected by ESI. For example, sorption was observed for new classes of NAFCs: HC, N1O1, N1O2, N1O3, N1O4, N1O5, N2O1, N2O2, and N2O3, from OSPW in accordance with the nature of the cross-linker unit of the copolymer and the structure of the NAFCs. Sorption of NAFCs in general was more pronounced for β-CD copolymers cross-linked with 4,4′-dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate, particularly for the O2 class that was amenable to negative-ion APPI detection. In contrast to the 75% attenuation of O2 species observed for sorption to the copolymer cross-linked with 4,4′-dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate, little or no sorption was observed for the O2 series with positive-ion APPI. The O2 series is presumably mixtures of classical naphthenic acids and dihydroxy components with a range of different structures. The complementary nature of the APPI and the prior ESI results contribute further to the quality and understanding of the sorption mechanism of the copolymers.

Audit protocol for the Mine Financial Security Program

Year of Publication: 2012

Abstract:
The Audit Protocol for the Mine Financial Security Program was commissioned to provide a framework to assist government or third-party auditors of Annual Reports under Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development’s Mine Financial Security Program (MFSP). The Audit Protocol seeks to assist in the verification of the information provided to Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development under the MFSP by coal and oil sands mine companies. The Audit Protocol was prepared based upon the requirements of the Mine Financial Security Program Standard and the Guide to the Mine Financial Security Program, with reference to accepted auditing standards and defined reclamation requirements. The Audit Protocol has been designed to systematically enable an auditor to review and assess an Approval Holder’s MFSP Project’s: • MFSP Assets (e.g., reserves); • MFSP Liabilities (e.g., closure and reclamations costs); • Reporting requirements; • Base Security Deposit; • Operating Life Deposit; • Asset Safety Factor Deposit; and • Outstanding Reclamation Deposit. For each section of the MFSP Audit, a series of questions are presented to direct the auditor to the required information supporting the MFSP Annual Report.

Autoantibody responses of individuals in an oil sands development community

Year of Publication: 2004

Abstract:
The authors studied autoantibodies in sera from 214 individuals in an oil sands community by indirect immunofluorescence, an addressable laser bead immunoassay, and the Crithidia luciliae assay. They compared results with exposure data that included urinary metabolites, health questionnaires, and overt disease as recorded by visits to a physician or hospitalization. The prevalence of autoantibodies was 13%, compared with 10% in 30 controls from a distant community (p > 0.05). The study group had higher autoantibody titers and some disease-specific autoantibodies, but these were not associated with reported autoimmune diagnoses. There was no evidence of increased autoimmune disease or response in this petroleum development population with low levels of exposure.

Background air quality in the AOSERP study area March 1977 to March 1980

Authors Strosher, M. M.
Year of Publication: 1981

Abstract:
An initial objective of the air quality data acquisition program of AOSERP was to gather sufficient data to establish a baseline condition. The purpose of this brief report is to summarize ·the continuous data that has been collected, primarily in tabular and graphical form. The following sections present information for: 1. Frequency distribution analysis of one-half hour SO2 concentrations, in both graphs and tables. 2. Average and peak readings for NOx, NO2, NO3 and CO. 3. Metals in suspended particulate analysis. 4. Recommendations on how this information could best be utilized when future air quality assessments are undertaken. Summary of data collected, primarily in tabular and graphical form, from the air quality data acquisition program to establish baseline conditions for the area.

Background air quality Sandalta trailer May 1983 to March 1984

Authors Murray, W. A.
Year of Publication: 1984

Abstract:
The results of a baseline air quality and meteorological data collection program at a site in the Athabasca oil sands region, 65 km north of Fort McMurray, Alberta are presented. Sulphur dioxide, ozone, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide and meteorological parameters were monitored from May 1983 through March 1984, inclusive. Sulphur dioxide concentrations averaged 3 ppbv over the study period. Mean ozone concentrations averaged about 27 ppbv. Nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide concentrations averaged 0.6 ppbv and 1 ppbv, respectively. The prevailing wind direction was southerly, parallel to the Athabasca River. The fraction of the total pollutants arriving from each direction was similar to the overall wind rose. However, the average pollutant concentrations varied only weakly with wind direction. Two events were examined in detail. In one case, the air was transported from the Peace River region over the Oil Sands region. Sharp increases in pollutant concentrations were monitored as vertical mixing developed in the late morning hours. In the second case, the air mass source region was in the Northwest Territories and relatively low pollutant concentrations were recorded.

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