Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling Block 12 –Iraq Al-Muthanna Province

PRDC Environmental Impact Assessment of one Exploration Well Drilling Block 12 –Iraq Al-Muthanna Province

Prepared by Ministry of Oil-Iraq Pertoleum Research & Development Center (PRDC) Environment & Corrosion Department Iraq- Baghdad/Waziriyah /Near the Petroleum Institute [email protected]

for BASHNEFT INTRNATIONAL B.V. March-2016

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling Block 12 -Iraq Prepared By Ministry of Oil-Iraq Pertoleum Research & Development Center PRDC Environment & Corrosion Department for BASHNEFT INTERNTIONAL BV

March-2016

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

BASHNEFT INTERNATIONAL B.V Document Type EIA Report

AL-Muthanna Province ,IRAQ No. of Pages 152

Environmental Impact Assessment Version Final Report of 1 Exploration Well Drilling

Approved By Dr.Karim A.Alwan PRDC Director and Study team Adviser (Ph.D. Petroleum Engineering )

Reviewed By Zaydoon K.Kramed Manager of Environment & corrosion Department (M.SC. Industrial Chemistry)

EIA Teamwork

Thabit Abbas Ahmed (Chemist) Teamwork Leader

Rusul M. Khazaal (Environment Engineer ) Teamwork Member

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Safaa Dawood Abdulkareem (Chemist) Teamwork Member

Ihab Sami Hasan (Geologist ) Teamwork Member

Dr.Mohammad Ibrahim Nasir (Chemist ) Teamwork Member

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Disclaimer:

This report has been achieved by PRDC, one of the Iraqi MoO establishments. It was reported by the teamwork based on the acquired experience and skills concerning the environment issues via conducting many former studies .The topics of this report were decided by client company, BASHNEFT INTERNATIONAL(B.V.) according to the signed contract with PRDC dated in February 2016. The environmental data of this report was obtained from the official centers in Iraq and the published researches and studies.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Table of Contents

Page NO. Title NO.

List of Abbreviations & Acronyms 9

List of Tables 12 List of Figures 14 1 Introduction 17 2 Execution Summary 17 3 Target of the project 18 4 Project Description 19 4.1 Exploration Drilling 19 4.2 Drilling Site 21 4.3 Drilling Mud 23 4.4 Manpower of the exploration drilling activities 24

4.5 Support Facilities for Rig Site Exploration Drilling 26

4.6 Utilities for Rig Site for Exploration Drilling 27 5 Reviewing and Analysis of Baseline Study Block 12 27 5.1 Block 12 28 5.2 Prevailing Environmental Conditions on Block -12and the Adjacent 31 Territory 5.2.1 Climate 31 5.2.1.A Temperature 31 5.2.1.B Precipitation 33

5.2.1.C Relative Humidity 35 5.2.1.D Wind 35 5.2.2 Geomorphology 37

5.2.3 Geology 38

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.3.A Remote sensing 39 5.2.4 Hydrology 40 5.2.5 Hydrogeology 42

5.2.6 Landscape 43

5.2.7 Soils 43

5.2.8 Land resources 45

5.2.9 Vegetation 45

5.2.10 Agricultural production 45

5.2.11 Desert plant of the region 46

5.2.12 Wildlife 50

5.2.13 Aquatic biological resources 53

5.2.14 Animal Breeding 54

5.2.15 Radiation 54

5.2.16 Environmental restricted zone 55

5.2.16.A Cultural and Archeological sites in Al-Muthanna province 55

5.2.16.B Holly Sanctuaries 56

5.2.16.C Mosques (Masjeds) 58

5.2.16.D Sawa lake 58

5.2.16.E Archeological building of Al-Salman prison 59 5.2.17 Man- Made load areas 59 5.2.18 Social Economic Environment on Block-12 and the adjacent territories 59 5.2.18.A Cities and Towns 60 5.2.18.B Demography 62 5.2.18.C Religion and Culture 66 5.2.18.D Economy and Income 67

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.18.E Employment 71 5.2.19 Infrastructure 73 5.2.19.A Health Infrastructure 73 5.2.19.B Electricity 73 5.2.19.C Sanitation system 74 5.2.19.D Airports 75 5.2.20 Maps 75 5.3 Analysis of baseline study 76 6 EIA (Exploration Well Drilling) 76 6.1 Environment regulatory framework 76 6.1.1 International Environmental Standards 76 6.1.2 Environmental Law of the Republic of Iraq ,Law of Environment and 76 Protection of the Environment 6.1.3 International Conventions and Protocols on Environment Protection 77 6.1.4 Convention of Environmental Impact Assessment in Transboundary 79 context (Espoo , Finland,on 1991 6.1.5 Iraqi Archeological law No.55 of 2002 Article (a) of the 2002 Iraqi 81 Archeological law. 6.2 Environmental Impact Assessment of one Exploration Well Drilling , 81 Block 12 6.2.1 General Description 82 6.2.2 Criteria to determine the significance of the expected impacts 82 6.2.3 Potential Impacts on Ambient Air Quality 82 6.2.3.A Fuel Combustion Process 84 6.2.3.B Fugitive Gases and Odors 84 6.2.3.C Air Born Particulates 86 6.2.4 Impact on Soil 86 6.2.5 Impact on Vegetation 87 6.2.6 Impact on Natural Water sources 87

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

6.2.6,A Surface Water 87 6.2.6,B Ground Water 87 6.2.7 Impact on Socioeconomic Life 88 6.2.8 Impact Assessment for Production and Consumption of Waste 89 6.2.8.A Wastewater Discharges 89 6.2.8,B Solid Waste Generation and Disposal 91 6.2.8.C Cuttings generated by exploration well drilling activities 91 6.2.8.D Hazardous Waste 93 6.2.9 Potential Impact of Noise & Vibration 93 6.2.9 Summarization of Environmental Impact Assessment 94 7 Impact Assessment for Emergencies and Accidents 96

7.1 Hazard Identification 96 7.2 Potential accident during oil well drilling activities 97 8 Environmental Management Plan ( EMP) of exploration well drilling 98 99 8.1 Ambient Air Quality

8.2 Water Resources Quality 100 8.3 Soil Quality and Landscape 102 8.4 Vegetation and Wildlife 106 9 Recommendations for Environmental Control and Monitoring Plan 107 during well drilling 9.1 Environmental Management Procedures 107 9.2 Organization (Roles & Responsibilities) 108 9.3 International Environmental Standards 111 9.3.1 Ambient Air Quality 111 9.3.2 Deviation between Ambient Air Quality Standards 114 9.3.3 Air Emission limits 115 9.3.3.A Fuel combustion process 122 9.3.3.B Fugitive gases and odors 122

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

9.3.3.C Airborne particulates 123 9.3.3.D Quantitative Analysis of Air 123 9.4 Water Resources 124 9.4.1 Surface Water 124 9.4.2 Underground Water 124 9.5 Soil and landscape 127 9.6 Biodiversity 129 10 Conclusion 130

11 Public Hearings 130

12 References 132 13 The official offices that have been visited by the study team during the 134 time of conducting Baseline and EIA study 14 Appendixes 135

List of Abbreviations and Acronyms

2D Two Dimensions 3D Three Dimensions Ac Actinium API American Petroleum Institute As Arsenic ASRs Air Sensitive Receptors BIBV Bashneft International B.V bbl Barrels BC Before Christ C Carbon

C6H6 Benzene

CH2O Formaldehyde CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild Fauna

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

and Flora Cl- Chloride CMC Carboxy methyl cellulose CMS Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals Co Centigrade CO Carbon Monoxide CPF Central Processing Facility Cr Chrome Cu Copper dB Decibel dia diameter DPSC Development and Production Service Contract DST Drill stem test E East EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMP Environmental Management Plan EP Extreme pressure Fe Iron h Hour

H2S Sulfur dioxide HCl Hydrogen chloride HCs (non- Non methane Hydrocarbons methane) HF Hydrogen fluoride HSE Health, Safety & Environment ID Iraqi Dinar IFC International Financial Corporation Km Kilometer KSA Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

l liter mg Milligram mg/Nm3 Milligram per normal cubic meter ml Milliliter mm Millimeter m2 Square meter MoE Ministry of Environment MoO Ministry of Oil ng nanogram N North NE North East

NH3 Ammonia Ni Nickel NOx Nitrogen Oxides NSW New South Wales NTU Nephelometric turbidity unit NW North West P Pressure 2P Proven + probable 3p Proven + probable+possible Pb Lead PIC Prior Informed Consent PM 2.5 the fraction of particulates matter in air of very small size (<2.5µm)

PM10 the fraction of particulates matter in air of very small size (<10 µm) POPs Persistent Organic pollutants PRDC Petroleum Research & Development Center QC Quality Control RC Rotterdam Convention regs regulations

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

RL Receiver Line RP Receiver Point S South Sb Antimony Sec Second

SiF4 Silicon fluoride

SO2 Sulphur Dioxide SP Source Point SW South West TDS Total Dissolve Solids TEQ Toxic Equivalents TOC Total Organic Carbon TSP Total Suspended Particles UNFCCC United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change UTM Universal Transverse Mercator V Vanadium VSP Vertical Seismic Profile VOC Volatile Organic Carbon W West WHO World Health Organization WMP Waste Management Plan List of Tables Table No. Table Title 1 Constituents of water base mud 2 Block-12 Corners UTM coordinates 3 Monthly & Annually of minimum temperature average in Al-Samawa region (2000-2013) 4 Average monthly of Maximum temperature in Al-Samawa region 5 Monthly Average Temperature (C°) In Al-Salman Station (2000-2013

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

6 Monthly Rainfall (mm) for Al-Samawa Region (2000-2103) 7 The annual rains falling in Al-Muthanna 8 Relative Humidity (2011-2013) 9 Wind Rose Diagram at the Baghdad International Airport (2009-2011) 10 Prevailing wind in Al-Samawa (2000-2013) 11 Mean Wind speed (m/sec) in Al-Samawa (2000-2013) 12 The average concentration of the natural radioactive isotopes in Iraqi soils (Bq /Kg) from (2009-2011) 13 The population area and location data in Al Muthanna 14 Distribution of Al Muthanna population according to Age 15 Marital status of Al Muthanna household heads 16 percentage of Age categories for Al Samawa according to urbanization 17 Geographical distribution of the number of livestock (2005) 18 The unemployment rate in Iraq 19 Work status of Al Muthanna residents 20 Electricity sources 21 Sanitation methods used by the residence of Al-Muthanna 22 Education levels of the residents of Al-Muthanna

23 IFC Guideline

24 Iraqi laws and regulations list 25 International Conventions and Protocols 26 Quantities of flue gases emitted from the combustion of engines using diesel fuel 27 Quantities of flue gases that emitted from the combustion of drilling engines, vehicles and generators using gasoline fuel 28 Camp Wastewater generation rates

29 Exploration well Design summary

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

30 Summary of the project Expected Environmental Impacts Assessment 31 Ambient air quality standard

32 Comparison of International and National Standards

33 Maximum allowable emission limits of air pollutants from stationary sources 34 Maximum allowable emission limits of air pollutants from hydrocarbon fuel combustion sources. 35 Maximum allowable emission limits of air pollutants from solid waste incinerators. 36 Ambient air parameters 37 Water parameters 48 Soil Parameters

List of Figures Figure No. Figure Title 1 Exploration well Drilling Stages 2 Typical Exploratory Well Drilling Rig 3 Site of Exploration Drilling 4 Study area landscape 5 sub angular off - white limestone 6 Grooves on the boulder surface 7 location of Block-12 in Iraq 8 Cities & Borders of Al Muthanna Province 9 Precipitation Map of Iraq 10 Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq 11 Faidaht (Feberuary-2-2014)

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

12 Faidaht (Feberuary-2-2014) 13 Buttes (February -3-2014) 14 Rock debris (Feberuary -3-2014) 15 Irrigation well (Feberuary-2-2014) 16 Truffle product 17 Fungi (Mushroom) 18 Haloxylon ammodendron 19 Rhanterium Epapposum 20 Lycium 21 Tamarix nilotica 22 Atriplex 23 Thuga 24 Paeonia officinalis 25 Poa bulbosw L 26 Tragopogon porrifolius 27 Malva parviflora 28 Trigonella foenum-graecum 29 Borage officinalis 30 Hordeum vulgare 31 Matricaria recutita 32 Schanginia aegyptiaca 33 Bustared MacQueen 34 Bar-tailed Lark 35 Ammomanes deserti 36 Eurasian Eagle 37 Hyena 38 Honey Badger 39 Desert Monitor 40 Spiny-tailed Lizard

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

41 Sheep grazing 42 Camels grazing 43 Uruk Ancient City 44 Ibrahim bin Abdullah 45 Al Khidhir Sanctuary 46 Shape of Sawa Lake 47 Nograt Al-Salman prison 48 Distribution of population in Iraq 49 Gender of household head 50 Poverty in AL Muthanna Province 51 (Religious Rituals in Al-salman) 52 Artesian well for irrigation and animal watering in Al-salman 53 Employment and Unemployment rate in Al- Muthanna/Source: WFP VAM (2007)

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

1 Introduction Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is the official appraisal Process to identify, predict, evaluate and justify the ecological, social, and related biophysical effects of a proposed policy, program or project on the environment. It provides insight on alternatives and measures to be adopted before any commitment, thus helps in important decision- making. The overall objective of the EIA is to design developmental projects and activities taking into consideration the environmental perspective. This report contains a desktop environmental study achieved by Petroleum Research and Development Center (PRDC) for Bashneft International BV (RUSSIA) concerning one exploration well drilling in BLOCK 12 which lies in the desert of Al-Muthanna Province. The information reported in this technical report was obtained from the former data baseline study and environmental impact assessment for Block 12 achieved by PRDC and assistance of official scientific centers in IRAQ in addition to the visiting of teamwork to the BLOCK 12 which is located in the southern west part of IRAQ .This location is expected to be highly promising in terms of petroleum exploration. The scope of work that has been applied in this study was depended on the experience of PRDC members. The preparation and reviewing of the final report talked about less than two months before submission to Bashneft International BV.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

2 Execution Summary Under the petroleum industry development in Iraq, the ministry of oil (MoO – Iraq) had the power to divide the land of Iraq into Exploration Blocks .Few years ago; these blocks were offered for what is called Development and Production Service Contract (DPSC) .Bashneft (Russia) won the tender of DPSC related to Block-12 in Al-Muthanna province in the southern west of Iraq. Hydrocarbon exploration has two distinct phases, Phase one deals with data collection of the subsurface geological structures of the exploration area through seismic method while phase two is about exploratory drilling. The proponent (Bashneft) finished 2D& 3D seismic exploration activities in Block-12 after obtainment EIA license. Exploratory drilling is done through drilling of sample points that help to provide more information about data on hydrocarbons situation since seismic surveys are not exactly occlusive. These requires activities including site preparation, transport of Rig to site ,drilling and the base camp for the workers in the Rig ,all these leave a negative human footprint to the environment, hence the need for conducting EIA study . 3 Target of the project The main target of the project is drilling one exploratory well in Block-12 in the southern west of Iraq based on the results of 3D seismic survey .The Contractor who will undertake the exploratory drilling will carry out drilling one exploration well (including geotechnical survey, coring and analysis, logs, (VSP, comprehensive fluid sampling and analysis, drilling supervising, etc.).The well is a planned vertical with proposed total depth of 4500 m and it is expected to be drilled and tested in 235 days ( source: Master Drilling Program prepared by Weatherford for Bashneft International B.V) . Study of the geologic framework and petroleum potential of the penetrated sedimentary succession, poroperm, lithologic and petrographic. The expected result of drilling exploration may lead to discover a new oil and gas field. Maturing resources into 2P and 3P reserves.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

4 Project Descriptions 4.1 Exploration Drilling The drilling of exploratory well process includes multistage, Figure (1) illustrates these stages:

Figure (1): Exploration well Drilling Stages

Exploratory drilling activities follow the analysis of seismic data to verify and quantify the amount and extent of oil and gas resources from potentially productive geological formation. All wells that are drilled to discover hydrocarbons are called exploration wells commonly known by drillers wildcats . The location of exact drill site in the focus areas depends on the characteristics of the underlying geological formations as shown by seismic data. It is generally possible to balance environmental considerations with logistical needs, and the need for efficient drilling. A pad is constructed at the chosen site

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

to accommodate drilling equipment and support services. A pad for a single exploration 2 well occupies between 4000-15000 m .The types of pad construction will depend on terrain, soil conditions and seasonal constraints. The drilling rig and support services are transported to site, typically in modules and assembled. Typical drilling rig modules are shown in figure (2) include a derrick, drilling and handling equipment, power generators, cementing equipment and tanks for fuel and water.

Figure (2): Typical Exploratory Well Drilling Rig

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

4.2 Drilling Site According to the seismic acquisition study, Bashneft Company has selected the site of exploratory well drilling within Block 12(Exploration area) with the coordinates as bellow: 44ο 44´49, 09"E. 30°22´34, 81" N (WGS-84) 302234,81 North Latitude and 444449,09 East Longitude (WGS-84) Y=3360514,785X=475688,356(UTM ZONE 38N) By using Google map, the following figure shows the selected site of the exploration drilling well:

Figure (3): Site of Exploration Drilling

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

The selected spot of exploration well drilling located in the southern west of Al-Salman district (about 54 Km) (40 Km by using 8m width paved road that begins from Al-Salman), then 14 Km by off-road (not clear desert road) to the east.

The crew of drilling Contractor has to construct a road in the desert area for transportation.

The surrounded area for the selected site to drill the exploratory well is locally called Kuakha. The area is generally characterized by flat landform with a little undulation resulted by scattered flat topped isolated small hills, see figure (4). It is characterized by climatic fluctuations between arid and semiarid. At the precipitation, soil of the small hills will be wash down by rainwater and deposit on more gently slopped land to form out wash deposits which consist of very fine sediments. Precipitated water finally forms a small wet land (water basins) which is locally called Faidhat and ephemeral stream (Shuaib is the locally common name) which represent the main source of surface water at this area. Surface sediments consist of very fine sediments and carbonate gravel. Carbonate gravels consist of moderately sorted, sub angular to angular limestone and dolomitic limestone, see figure (5). Some of these gravels have grooves on the upper surface resulted by the erosion of carbonate rocks see figure (6).

Figure 4: Study area landscape.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Figure 5: sub angular off - white limestone.

Figure 6: Grooves on the boulder surface.

4.3 Drilling Mud The drilling mud (fluid mud) has a number of factions. It imparts hydraulic force that assist the drill bit for a cutting action and it cools the bit, removes cutting rock from the wellbore and protects the well against formation pressures. It basically comprises inert earth materials like bentonite, with several additives to give mud weight, fluidity and filter cakes characteristics while drilling.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

There are two types of drilling muds, oil base mud and water base mud .The common use type is water base mud which has the constituents shown in table (1) below. Table (1): Constituents of water base mud

No. Chemicals No. Chemicals 1 Barite 7 Weighting Spotting Fluid 2 Bentonite 8 EP Lube 3 Carboxy Methyl Cellulose 9 Drilling Detergent 4 Mud Thinner /Conditioner 10 Caustic Soda 5 Resinated Lignite 11 Potassium Chloride 6 Non-Weighting Spotting 12 Soda Ash Fluid

4.4 Manpower of the exploration drilling activities: A general description of the manpower distribution of the exploration drilling activity is as follow:

. Drilling Rig:  Manager;  Drilling supervisor (2 persons);  Well site geologist (2 persons);  Superintendent;  Tour pusher (2 persons);  Driller (6 persons);  Safety officer;  Senior rig mechanic; and  Senior rig electrician; . Cementing and Pumping Service:

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

 Cement service engineer; and  Cement technician; . Surface and Down hole Testing:  Surface well testing engineer;  DST specialist;  Slick line specialist; and  TSP specialist;

. Directional Surveying Services, Wire line Logging and Perforating Services:  Survey engineer;  Wire line technician;  Engineer; and  Leader operator; . Mud Logging Services:  Mud logging data engineer (2 persons); and  Mud logging data operator (2 persons);

. Coring Services:  Coring specialist; and  Coring operator;

 Cement Retainers, Bridge Plugs, Packers, Liner Hanger and Whip stock Services:  Tools engineer: and  Workshop supervisor.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

4.5 Support Facilities for Rig Site Exploration Drilling  For the drilling of each exploration well, a rig site will be established with the following facilities and equipment:

 Water tanks for water storage for mud mixing and fire water;  Water tanks for storage of filtered potable water (non drinkable water which is used for washing, showering, etc.);  Waste oil storage area with a surrounded membrane;  Chemicals storage area for chemicals;  Diesel storage area for diesel;  Flare pit;  Mud pit;  Water pit (if necessary);  Rig camp;  Rig camp for leading personnel (accommodation, offices and other utilities);  Guard house at rig site entrance;  Security fence around outer perimeter; and  Necessary facilities for oil mud base drilling (if required). The location of the rig camp will be determined as part of the preliminary rig site reconnaissance. The following list describes equipment and requirements for the rig camp:

 Accommodation and facilities for Drilling Contractor, security/guard personnel, Contractor and subcontractor personnel. The approximate number of permanent personnel is 31 on-site personnel plus 14 visitors;

 Office facilities to be provided for Site Manager, Drilling Contractor representatives at rig site and senior personnel;

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

 Kitchen and messing facilities for all staff.

 Laundry, housekeeping and other site camp services for all personnel.

 Cold food storage facilities (deepfreeze and refrigerator) with capacity for one week total rig camp food consumption.

 Dry food storage facilities with capacity for one week total rig camp food consumption.

 Storage rooms for catering, laundry, housekeeping equipment and consumables.

 Noise level to be in compliance with HSE requirements; and

 Lighting around outer perimeter of rig camp and illumination throughout all camp areas to insure compliance with HSE requirement for safe work 24 hours a day. 4.6 Utilities for Rig Site of Exploration Drilling The water requirements for the rig camp and the drilling operations will be obtained from existing local sources in the area (e.g., water channels, rivers, deep wells). The actual sources will be determined during initial rig site reconnaissance. If necessary, the drilling of one or two water wells near the rig site is also considered. Power at the rig site will be sourced from diesel generator sets. The oily water will be evacuated in vacuum trucks by an authorized company. Other waste water can be treated at rig site, either also evacuated in vacuum trucks by an authorized company. Solid wastes must be buried in onsite lined landfill and should be covered in appropriate manner after the work completion for the rehabilitation purposes. 5 Reviewing and Analysis of Baseline Study-Block 12 A comprehensive baseline study of block 12 was studied by PRDC and submitted to BASHNEFT concerning EIA 2D & 3D seismic study approved by ministry of

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

environment (MoE),Iraq in 2014 .The information discussed herein will include the major objects mentioned in aforesaid study . 5.1 Block 12 Block-12 is one of twelve Iraqi unexplored oil areas that cover a total area of 81,700 km2 having a mix of oil and gas prospectively, eight of the twelve blocks are situated in western Iraq along the borders with Syria, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.

Russian Bashneft International BV is the invested Company in Block-12 with an area of 7,680 km2 of almost regular shape of parallelogram, the center point coordinates of the block is 38N: 3,370,000 N and 450,000 E in UTM system. Table (2) shows the corner point coordinates of the Block boundaries which are straight lines connecting these points: Table (2): Block-12 Corners UTM coordinates

corner Points Northing Easting A 3,400,000 360,000 B 3,400,000 490,000 C 3,340,000 536,000 D 3,340,000 410,000

Block-12 is located in the underexplored Al-Salman city zone, part of Al- Muthanna Province in the southern part of Iraq (the population is approximately 11839 people), 305 km south of Baghdad city, and the capital of the Iraq. On 80 km NE of the Block there is Al Samawa town, the administrative center of Al- Muthanna province, and on 130 km E of the Block there is Nasiriyah town, see Fig. (7). NE of the Block there are operating oil-and-gas pipelines Kirkuk - Basra. There are oil refineries in Basrah, Baghdad, Baiji, etc.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Fig (7): location of Block-12 in Iraq

AL-Muthanna is the second largest Iraq‟s province after Al-Anbar with a total area of 53022 Km2 (11.9% of Iraq), but also it is the second least populated and total population of (692,700 people) (2% of Iraq population). Al- Muthanna Province has four large cities: Al-Rumaitha, Al- Khithir , Al Salman and Al- Samawa (Al Muthanna's Capital). Al- Muthanna is a neighbor to four other Iraqi provinces: Al-Najaf, Al-Qadissiya, Thiqar and Al-Basrah . Al- Muthanna Province borders

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from the south. Fig. (8) Shows Al- Muthanna Province and its cities and borders.

Saudi Arabia

Fig. (8): Cities & Borders of Al- Muthanna Province

The landscape of Al- Muthanna is dominated by desert, with natural water sources confined to the northern areas around the Euphrates River. Euphrates River is considered to be the only source of surface water in the province which passes through Al- Samawa City Center. About 65% of Al- Muthanna people use the river in irrigation.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

The major dominant economical activities in the region are agriculture, textiles, oil production and refining, salt production, poultry, animal Breeding and fishing. Al- Samawa has an oil refinery, reopened in May 2005 after being destroyed in 1991durin the second Arab gulf war. The refinery has a capacity of 20,000 – 27,000 barrels per day. The facility is linked by pipeline to the new Kifl oil field in Al- Samawa that has an initial capacity of 40,000 bbl/d (6,400 m3/d). The major advantage of the refinery is that it is designed for processing heavy crude oil, allowing the light crude to be exported.

5.2 Prevailing Environmental Conditions on Block -12 and the Adjacent Territory

5.2.1 Climate

The Metrological Organization and Seismology (MOS) – Ministry of Iraqi transportation has many metrological stations distributed on the Iraqi provinces to monitor and record the parameters of the climate. The following climate statistics were recorded in Al-Samawa station. 5.2.1. A. Temperature As illustrated in Tables (3, 4) which represent the monthly average of minimum and maximum temperatures respectively in Al-Samawa region from 2000 to 2013.

Table (3): Monthly & Annually of minimum temperature average in Al-Samawa region (2000-2013)

YEAR JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY JUN. JUL. AUG. SEP. OCT. NOV. DEC. Annually Average 2000 4.4 4.6 10.1 20.1 22.7 25.2 29.9 28.1 22.6 16.4 9.7 8.2 16.8 2001 5.5 6.4 12.5 17.1 21.6 24.0 26.1 28.3 22.1 18.2 9.1 8.7 16.6 2002 4.4 6.5 11.5 16.5 22.4 25.3 27.0 25.7 24.3 19.1 20.3 MISS 18.4 2003 MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS 23.2 MISS MISS MISS ……… 2004 MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS ……… 2005 MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS MISS 18.4 10.9 9.4 ……… 2006 7.1 10.5 14.0 19.1 25.2 27.0 28.5 28.2 21.5 22.8 10.7 4.7 18.3 2007 4.0 8.9 12.0 17.1 26.0 27.1 28.2 28.3 23.4 19.7 11.6 7.0 17.7 2008 3.4 7.1 14.5 19.7 23.8 27.0 27.5 28.8 24.5 20.0 12.9 6.3 17.4 2009 4.1 9.9 12.6 17.6 24.7 28.1 27.9 28.1 26.0 20.7 13.2 10.2 18.7

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

2010 8.4 11.2 15.0 19.1 24.6 28.2 28.2 28.3 24.6 20.6 12.2 9.2 19.2 2011 6.4 8.7 12.0 18.3 24.2 27.6 29.2 28.2 23.2 19.8 12.1 9.1 18.2 2012 6.3 5.4 10.6 20.0 25.9 28.0 30.0 28.3 25.0 21.8 15.1 10.3 18.9 2013 8.3 10.1 14.4 18.9 23.6 26.8 28.3 27.9 25.0 17.6 15.2 7.7 17.8 Monthly Average 5.7 8.1 12.6 18.3 24.1 26.7 28.2 28 23.8 19.3 12.7 8.4 18 Table (4): Average monthly of Maximum temperature in Al-Samawa region

YEAR JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY JUN. JUL. AUG. SEP. OCT. NOV. DEC. Average 2000 16.4 19.4 25.1 34.3 39.4 42.6 47.6 46.8 41.3 31.9 23.6 18.3 32.2 2001 17.4 21.2 28.3 33.2 38.2 43.1 45.4 46.9 40.8 35.9 25.6 20.5 33 2002 16.0 22.4 27.8 29.9 38.9 43.1 46.0 44.1 42.6 35.1 36.4 miss 34.7 2003 miss miss miss Miss miss miss miss miss 41.8 miss miss miss ……. 2004 miss miss miss Miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss …….. 2005 miss miss miss Miss miss miss 44.4 44.3 42.0 33.8 23.6 22.2 ……… 2006 17.5 20.2 28.2 32.7 40.1 45.0 44.4 44.5 40.4 35.7 24.0 14.7 32.3 2007 12.6 21.0 24.2 30.3 40.6 43.8 44.0 45.6 41.1 36.7 26.7 19.0 33 2008 13.6 20.1 30.6 34.7 38.7 42.8 45.2 46.2 41.9 34.3 25.2 19.8 32.7 2009 17.7 22.4 26.0 30.7 38.8 43.7 43.7 45.0 42.2 35.5 24.9 21.6 29 2010 21.6 23.3 29.1 33.3 39.2 43.6 43.8 45.1 40.4 36.6 24.8 20.5 33.4 2011 17.7 19.8 25.5 31.4 38.2 43.8 43.7 45.2 41.0 33.5 24.6 20.6 32.1 2012 17.6 19.4 24.2 34.0 40.1 45.0 47.0 45.6 41.9 36.2 25.6 19.6 33 2013 18.2 22.8 27.5 32.3 35.3 41.9 44.4 44.5 40.8 32.8 24.0 17.0 31.8 Monthly Average 17 21.1 27 32.4 38.9 43.5 45 45.3 41.4 34.7 26.2 19.4 32.5

Table (5): Monthly Average Temperature (C°) In Al-Salman Station (2000-2013)

TEMPERATURE TEMPERATURE MONTH AVERAGE (MAX.) (MIN.) JAN. 17 5.7 11.3 FEB. 21.1 8.1 14.6 MAR. 27 12.6 19.8 APR. 32.4 18.3 25.3 MAY 38.9 24.1 31.5 JUN. 43.5 26.7 35.1 JUL. 45 28.2 36.6 AUG. 45.3 28 36.65 SEP. 41.4 23.8 32.6 OCT. 34.7 19.3 27 NOV. 26.2 12.7 19.4 DEC. 19.4 8.4 13.9 Annually Average 32.5 18 25.25

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.1. B. Precipitation

Rainfall in Iraq varies from less than 100 mm per year in the southwest, 140 to 200 mm per year in the central part (i.e. Baghdad to Mandali) to more than 1000 mm per year in the northeastern mountain areas. The western desert of Iraq mostly receives <100mm of rain per year. Over half of Iraq lies within the arid and semiarid zones with less than 150 mm per year rainfall. Figure (9) shows the precipitation map of Iraq.

Figure (9): Precipitation Map of Iraq

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

The data related to the precipitation in the study area are reported in Tables (6) and (7).

Table (6): Monthly Rainfall (mm) of Al-Samawa Region (2000-2103)

YEAR JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUN. JUL. AUG. SEP. OCT. NOV. DEC. TOTAL 2000 39.6 11.2 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.0 0 0 0.0 14.6 25.6 21.6 115.0 2001 9.0 6.8 20.4 9.0 6.6 0.0 0 0 0.0 0.0 3.1 21.3 76.2 2002 23.0 1.8 18.8 27.2 0.001 0.0 0 0 0.0 0.6 2.3 8.9 82.6 2003 miss miss miss Miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss 2004 miss miss miss Miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss 2005 miss miss miss Miss miss miss miss miss miss 0.001* 10.8 0.4 miss 2006 17.9 26.9 10.4 0.6 2.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.1 19.6 85.4 165.9 2007 7.9 1.0 19.5 16.0 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 17.6 62.3 2008 24.1 2.4 0.5 0.2 2.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 24.1 2.3 0.0 57.0 2009 0.001 6.5 8.7 5.0 6.0 0.001* 0.0 0.0 0.0 8.5 1.7 17.7 54.1 2010 0.6 6.2 3.4 18.5 10.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.001 0.6 7.1 47.0 2011 8.6 23.7 4.8 20.5 0.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4 0.001* 0.001* 58.4 2012 7.6 5.3 3.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 13.8 41.0 33.7 104.5 2013 21.5 0.6 1.2 0.001 58.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2 164.8 1.1 247.9 Average 14.5 8.4 8.3 8.9 8.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 5.4 22.7 17.9 97.4 * (o.oo1): means drops of rain Table (7): The annual rains falling in Al-Muthanna

Month Rain Fall out Average January 14.5 February 8.4 March 8.3

April 8.9

May 8 June 0 July 0 August 0

September 0.2 October 5.4 November 22.7 December 17.9

Annually(Total) 94.3

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2. 1.C. Relative Humidity The relative humidity data obtained from Al-Samawa station for climate seismology is illustrated in the table (8).This data is recorded from (2011- 2013):

Table (8): Relative Humidity (2011-2013)

Humidity% Humidity% Humidity% Month 2011 2012 2013 JANUARY 60 61 62 FEBRUARY 56 49 53 MARCH 37 33 36 APRIL 37 38 27 MAY 33 21 39 JUNE 25 19 19 JULY 23 22 21 AUGEST 25 19 20 SEPTEMBER 29 26 24 OCTOBER 34 35 38 NOVEMBER 45 59 63 DECEMBER 46 67 61

5.2. 1.D. Wind

Figure (9) shows the wind-rose diagram at Baghdad International Airport for the years 2009 to 2011. Baghdad International Airport is situated in the west of Baghdad. The wind rose shows that the dominant wind direction is northwest.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Figure (9): Wind Rose Diagram at the Baghdad International Airport (2009-2011)

Prevailing Wind in Al-Samawa City:

The following tables (10, 11) illustrate the prevailing wind and the mean wind speed in Al- Samawa city (2000-2013):

Table (10): Prevailing wind in Al-Samawa (2000-2013)

YEAR JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY JUN. JUL. AUG. SEP. OCT. NOV. DEC. 2000 NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW/W NW 2001 NW NW=W NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW 2002 NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW W miss 2003 miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss NW miss miss miss 2004 miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss 2005 miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss NW NW NW NW 2006 NW NW/E NW NW NW NW NW NW NW E NW W 2007 W NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW 2008 SW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NE S/N N N/NW 2009 S S S/N N N N N N N N N S 2010 S S S/N S N/S N NW NW N NW NW NW 2011 S NW NW S NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW 2012 S NW NW NW NW NW NW/N N NW NW NW NW/N 2013 S NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW NW N NW

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

YEAR JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY JUN. JUL. AUG. SEP. OCT. NOV. DEC. Average 2000 3.3 3.9 4.5 4.7 4.4 6.2 4.4 5.1 5.5 3.7 1.8 2.9 4.2 2001 2.3 3.8 4.3 5.6 6.9 7.6 5.6 4.9 4.5 4.0 3.2 3.2 4.7 2002 3.0 3.8 4.3 5.0 4.6 5.7 4.4 5.7 3.9 2.6 2.4 miss 4.1 2003 Miss miss miss Miss miss miss miss miss 5.1 miss miss miss 5.1 2004 Miss miss miss Miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss miss 2005 Miss miss miss Miss miss miss miss miss 3.8 3.2 2.8 2.4 3.1 2006 2.6 3.1 3.8 4.2 4.3 4.3 4.1 3.0 3.3 4.6 4.5 3.8 3.8 2007 5.2 4.4 4.3 5.3 5.2 5.8 4.5 4.1 3.4 2.6 3.0 3.9 4.3 2008 3.4 3.8 3.3 3.7 3.1 5.0 3.8 2.5 2.3 2.6 1.6 2.5 3.1 2009 2.5 3.0 3.2 3.6 3.3 3.9 4.5 2.9 3.1 3.0 1.9 2.0 3.1 2010 3.2 3.2 3.5 3.6 3.9 3.6 3.8 2.6 2.7 2.9 2.3 3.2 3.2 2011 3.3 3.2 3.5 4.1 4.2 3.8 3.8 2.6 3.4 3.2 1.9 2.2 3.3 2012 3.2 4.4 4.2 3.6 4.6 4.3 4.2 4.0 3.4 3.0 2.5 3.0 3.7 2013 3.0 3.9 3.5 3.1 3.3 4.2 3.6 2.8 2.9 2.9 2.8 3.0 3.3 Average 3.2 3.7 3.9 4.2 4.3 4.9 4.2 3.7 3.6 3.2 2.6 2.9 3.7

Table (11): Mean Wind speed (m/sec) in Al-Samawa (2000-2013)

5.2.2 Geomorphology

The present surface of the southern desert is attributed to rejuvenated plateau which originated from influence of the destruction and construction processes, due to two continental phases. The first phase which commenced after the Oligocene Uplift, formed the older plateau. The prevailing characteristic is denudation processes in a semiarid climate as well as beginning of subterranean hollows and caves. The second phase, which started after the last Alpine movements, included the Pliocene and Quaternary periods, formed the younger plateau. The characteristic climatic fluctuations are varied between wet, arid and semiarid, which induced denudations in places and deposition in others.

Block 12 is in the part of the southern desert of Iraq; tectonically it is a part of the North East of the Arabian shield. The exposed rocks are mainly of Tertiary age except in vales there are a Quaternary and recent deposits. The topographic elevation map (see MAP A from the Article of MAPS in Appendix 2 ) shows that the area is elevated about 400 m above sea level and it is slopped from the West toward the East and North- East to be about 100m above sea level. The terrain within the block is almost flat with scattered flat- topped isolated hills. The desert is locally incised by dry rivers (wadies). These valleys

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

(wadies) which interspersed the desert are filled with water only during the rainy seasons (winter and spring).

There are some sand dunes at the North- Eastern part of Block 12, (see MAP B). It is a type of fixed dunes which contains the domed-shape and elongated type of dunes that formed due to variation in the prevailing wind direction. The topography, geology, wind direction and vegetation cover affected the shape and arrangement of dunes and their extension in W- SE orientation.

5.2.3 Geology

Block- 12 is located in the SW part of Iraq, on the territory of Al-Najaf and AL- Muthanna provinces, 350km south of Baghdad city the capital of the country. The block has almost regular shape and the area of 680km2.Earth coordinates of the center of the block in UTM system zone 38. Below are the corner point coordinates of the block boundaries which are straight lines connecting these points. Corner point N E

A B A 3,400,000 360,000

D C B 3,400,000 490,000

C 3,340,000 536,000

D 3,340,000 410,000

There is only a small town (Al-salman) at the center of the block. The area generally dipping down from the west toward east. The highest elevation is about 400m. at the west and about 100m at the east.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

u The older Fn. Um-Er-Radhuma Fn. (pal2 in MAP C) of Paleocene age and recystlline shelly and dolmitic limestone facies. Exposed at mostly south-eastern part of the block lower member of Dammam Fn. (퐸표푐1푑 in MAP C) of Eocene age and marl and Nummulitic limestone facies, appears at the north-western part of the block and still toward the south. At the mostly middle part of the block, the mliddel member of Dammam Fn. (퐸표푐2푑 in MAP C) of Eocene age and Nummulitic limestone partly phosphatic had exposed. Toward the eastern, the upper member of Um-Er-Radhuma Fn.(퐸표푐3푑 – MAP C) of Eocene age and limestone with marl and chert nodules facies had exposed, in some hills the Ghar Fn. of Miocene age (푚푖표1푔푕 MAP C) and calcareous sand. Conglomerate and sandy limestone facies had exposed. There is a little occurrence of Zahra Fn. (pli − 푝푙푒z - MAP B) of the middle Miocene age and fine clastic and limestone exposed at the area, and also at the south-eastern part of the block.

The exposed rocks of the eastern part of the block it mainly represented by the Middle member of Dammam fn. (Eoc2d - MAP B) is interspersed by Recent sediments which covered the whole depressions and wadies (MAPS B, C).All MAPS (A,B,C and D) are attached in Appendix 2).

5.2.3. A. Remote Sensing

The land sat image (MAP D) of the American landsat-7(ETM) using the Enhancement Thermal Mapper with wave length bands (7-4-1) and resolution power of (30m) appears that the reflection of Um-Er-Radhuma fn. and Dammam fn. members which clarify the differentiation of the chemical and mineralogical component of these formations.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.4. Hydrology The main rivers of Iraq are Tigris and the Euphrates (Figure 10) that cross its territory from the northwest to the southeast. Both have their sources in Turkey and are mainly fed predominantly by snow and partially by rains in the high-mountain region of the Eastern Anatolia . Their watershed basins are located in extensive low areas limited by the Anti- Lebanon and Taurus Mountains in the west, by the Pontic range of mountains and Ararat plateau in the north, and by the Zagros Mountains bordering with Iran. The catchment area of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers is 784,500 sq. km with the area of 359,300 sq. km located within the Iraqi borders, 162,200 sq. km in Turkey, 70,900 sq. km in Syria, 146,500 sq. km in Iran, and 45,600 sq. km in Saudi Arabia. The regime of rivers is characterized by great instability; disastrous floods usually alternated with periods of sharp decline in levels and flows. As a rule, rivers have two floods - in spring and in the late autumn. Spring flood is considered as a maximum level of the river.

Figure (10): Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

The Euphrates River is the largest river in the Middle East in terms of catchment area and length, and the second largest in terms of water volume. It originates in the mountains of Turkey on the Armenian plateau at an altitude of 3,000-3,500 m above sea level. Al- Muthanna Province natural water sources are confined to the northern areas around the Euphrates River, where the river crosses Al- Muthanna in Al- Samawa City only. Rainfall water is considered to be the only source of surface water in the study area, it usually form surface ponds and fill the seasonal valleys when it heavily rains. However, these water valleys will not last for a long time due to dominant climate conditions and the high rate of evaporation in the area. In addition, large quantities of these waters will rapidly move down towards the ground water due to the high permeability characteristics of the area soil. Low basins represent the best rainfall collective spots in the study area especially in Al- salman region, where basins from a large area extend to Saudi Arabia Country through Iraqi borders. Residents of Al-Salman City use this water for grazing purposes especially in the winter season ,see figure (11,12) where they can‟t use it for agricultural purposes because its existence is temporally and usually it does not last more than one or two months. The low basins are called locally Faidaht.

Figure (11): Faidaht (Feberuary-2-2014) Figure (12): Faidaht (Feberuary-2-2014)

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.5 Hydrogeology

Ground water is considered to be the main source of water in the study area due to the lack of precipitation and considering the seasonal water basins (Faidaht ) as the only source of surface water. Ground water reservoirs in the study area are supplied with water by several sources, such as the Euphrates River water and rainfall water where large quantities of it usually precipitate down the ground level through earth weak points represented by land cracks, segregations and joints, in addition to the caves and moats formed by the dissolution of the limestone which are dominant of the rock cover in the study area. Prior Studies and researches indicated that the renewable storage of the ground water in the southern Bedouin Desert of Iraq is estimated to be 250 million m3 annually. The southern desert of Iraq has three main formations containing ground water: Al- Dammam, Ardhma and Tayarat Formations. Al- Dammam Formation is the dominant formation in the southern Bedouin Desert of Iraq which is considered to be the main ground reservoir in the region; its maximum thickness is estimated to be 150 m.

Ground water depths varies according to the land topography and the thickness of the formation that contains the ground water, where well depths increases towards the southern parts of the desert and varies between the shallow (20 m in the north) and deep (230 m in Al- Salman region near the borders of Al -LSaudi Arabia).

The Quality of the Ground water also varies, where the ground water salinity in the drilled wells in Al- Salman City is up to 2000 ppm and it increases towards the north direction. The sites of drilled water wells in the study area as pointed in the topographic (see MAP A in the Article of Maps).

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.6 Landscape The terrain within the Block is almost flat with scattered flat-topped isolated hills (buttes) (Figure 13) and plateaus, covered mainly by gravel and rock debris (Figure 14); sand dunes are found locally. The desert is locally incised by dry riverbeds (wadis), filled with water only in winter or spring during the rainy season. This area is also characterized by the presence of sand levees, quick sands, escarpments and depressions.

Figure (13): Buttes Figure(14):Rock debris (February -3-2014) (Feberuary -3-2014) 5.2.7 Soils

Soil of the study area is considered to be a recent formed desert soil, where it comprises of different types and sizes of materials depending on the nature of the original mother rocks, where some of them had suffered the climatic conditions through time forming certain types of soils eventually. Other types of soils had formed by the erosion process on the original rocks and the transportation and sedimentation of the carried rocks by surface water runoff or wind, especially in valleys and low level lands.

According to the previous mentioned sources of soils, soils in Al- Salman region can be classified into two main types:

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

1. Mixed Gypsum desert Soil: is very dominant in the northern part of Al salman region. This type of soil is characterized as sandy or mixed sandy soil of coarse and moderate grained texture. It consist of approximately 2% - 50% gypsum and 2000 - 6000 ppm salts. In the bottom of valleys and low level lands, this type of soil will be found in a mixed sandy texture or mixed silt texture where calcite forms 19.8% of the soil. 2. Gravel and Stone Desert Soils: covers the southern part of Al Salman Region and considered to be the most common type of soils in Al Salman. This soil has grey or brown color where it comprises of calcite, dolomite and granite Stones. Most of these rocks have sharp endings due to its mechanical erosion origin formation. This soil is 10 cm average depth and has permeability of 10 mm/hr. Wide areas within this region of have no soils because of the continuous wind erosion transporting the soil to other places leaving only rocks and stones. Hence, these areas have a high rate of permeability and are not suitable for agriculture. Gravel and stone desert soils have two sub-types:  Low land soil: is a sedimentary soil formed by valleys sediments that collect Rainfall water. It has a mixed clay and mixed sandy texture, and it is the only sub-type of this soil that can be used for agriculture purposes. This type covers small areas in the north of Al Salman.  Sand Dunes Soil: This type of soil can be seen in eastern north and southern parts of Al Salman in long shaped lines parallel to the sedimentary plateau. It has a coarse grained texture and high rate of permeability. It comprises mostly of sands and that is the reason of its instability due to wind erosion effect. It has low level vegetation cover where its organic content is very low.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.8. Land Resources (land users, type of land used) The desert covers the large part of the land in the study area and the vicinity area but there is some agricultural lands belong to Ministry of Finance and its leased to the farmers according to regular contracts. These lands are irrigated by the water of wells (Figure 15) and spread in different sites.

Figure (15): Irrigation well (Feberuary-2-2014)

5.2.9. Vegetation Natural vegetation is widely spread in the studied area with various species types. All region plants are of the desert type which is adapted to the hard environmental conditions of high temperatures, lack and fluctuation of rainfall. The southern parts of the region, especially Al-Salman region (within the study block); are considered to be rich pastures due to the availability of water sources and fertility of soil, making it a good destination for herds. 5.2.10. Agricultural production The study area and the adjacent territories are distinguished with a wide world natural product called Truffle (Figure 16) and also another product which is Fungi (Mushroom) (Figure 17).These two products grow naturally in desert lands during the winter season and everybody can pick it from the land after removing the surfaces layer of the sand to be used as a food for human consumption.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Figure (16): Truffle product Figure (17): Fungi (Mushroom)

Malt and Wheat represent the major agricultural production of Al-Salman territory. The agricultural lands in Al-Salman occupy about less than 20 % of the total area while the other land of the Block -12 is considered as desert lands.

5.2.11. Desert Plants of the Region The plants can be classified into:

A. Perennial and Annual Shrubs: Perennial and annual shrubs are plants with wooden and semi- wooden stalks. They are adjusted to the hard climate conditions of the region through many ways, where it contains a large network of roots and thorns. These shrubs represent a good source for grazing in summer season where the green fodder is very uncommon to exist and, in addition to the places where Grasses and herbs do not grow. Some of these Perennial and annual shrubs grow in the region are: Tamarisk, santolina, Thuja, Rhanterium Epapposum, Lycium, Haloxylon ammodendron, Tamarix nilotica, Atriplex. Figs(18), (19 ),(20),(21),( 22),(23) show the region plants.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Fig (18):Haloxylon ammodendron Fig (19): RHANTERIUM Epapposum

Fig(20):Lycium Fig(21):Tamarix nilotica

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Fig (22): Atriplex Fig(23): Thuga B. Perennial Grasses and Herbs These plants have the advantage of the rapid response for autumn Rainfall where they grow fast, offering the animals good pastures in early time of the year. In addition, this type of plants plays an important role in protecting the soil from erosion due to its small intensive network roots. Some of the Perennial grasses and herbs grow in the region are: Poa bulbosw L., Paeonia officinalis, Tragopogon porrifolius, Chrozophora plicata. Fig.(24), (25), (26) show Perennial grasses and herbs of the region.

Fig (24 ):Paeonia officinalis Fig ( 25 ):Poa bulbosw L.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Fig (26): Tragopogon porrifolius

C. Annual Grasses and Herbs The Annual Plants are known with its short life cycle, where it starts in rainfall seasons and ends after forming seeds to be ready to grow again the next year. Some of these annual grasses and herbs are : Malva parviflora, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Borage officinalis, Hordeum vulgare, Matricaria recutita, Schanginia aegyptiaca. These natural plants have a special importance for grazing, where animals prefer them the most as their feed.

Fig (27):Malva parviflora Fig (28):Trigonella foenum-graecum

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Fig (29):Borage officinalis Fig (30):Hordeum vulgare

Fig (31): Matricaria recutita Fig (32): Schanginia aegyptiaca

5.2.12. Wildlife Al- Muthanna province lies within the desert part of Iraq which constitutes up to 50% of the total country area. This region was known to contain many important mammal species such as wolves, hyenas, gazelles, wild boars, fox, bats and others. Several species have

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

probably been eradicated from the area such as Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) ,Asiatic Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) and Spiny-tailed lizards (Uromastyx sp).

Some of the common desert birds found in this region include: Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis), Bar-tailed Lark (Ammomanes cincture), Temminck's Lark (Eremophila bilopha), Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo), Macqueen‟s Bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii), Spotted Sandgrouse (Pterocles senegallus), Cream-coloured Courser (Cursorius cursor), Desert Wheatear (Oenanthe deserti), and Desert Finch (Rhodospiza obsoletus). Breeding birds in this biom include SaroArabian Breeding communities as follows: Ammomanes deserti, Pycnonotus leucoti, Turdoides altirostris, Oenanthe lugens and Rhodospiza obsoletus. Reports indicates that in the area an active hunting of the Macqueen‟s Bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii) is taking place.

Near the Euphrates River where many wetlands occur, many species of waterbirds including: Sterna hirundo and S.albifrons that breed on islands within flooded areas around Euphrates and Cursorius cursor, Merops superciliosus and Pycnonotus leucotis that breed in the surrounding area. Large numbers of Platalea leucorodia occur in winter. A wide selection of waders, gulls and terns uses the area on passage. Wintering species include several waterfowls of Anser anser, Tadorna ferruginea, Mergellusalbellus, and Grus grus.

Al -Salman Region provide good habitat for resident and migrant desert birds because of the relatively good plant cover in the wadis. Accoding to the local reports, large numbers of raptors also utilize the area. The flat, non-rocky parts provide good habitat for Macqueen‟s Bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii (Vulnerable), which is hunted extensively here each season.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Other Important Fauna: According to frequent reports of locals and hunters, Honey Badger (Mellivora capensis), Striped Hyena (Near Threatened), and Grey Wolf (Canis lupus) occur along with other common species. Gazelles used to be found in the western parts of this area, but it is not clear whether they still occurt. Reptiles include Desert Monito (Varanus griseus), Spiny-tailed Lizard (Uromastyx aegyptia), and (Laudakia nupta). Figs. (33),(34),(35),(36),(37),(38),(39),(40) show some of previously mentioned common fauna species of the region.

Fig (33): Bustared MacQueen Fig (34):Bar-tailed Lark

Fig (35):Ammomanes deserti Fig (36 ):Eurasian Eagle

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Fig (37): Hyena Fig (38):Honey Badger

Fig (39): Desert Monitor Fig (40): Spiny-tailed Lizard

5.2.13. Aquatic Biological Resources The investigation about the water resource prove the absent of water bodies in the specific area and the adjacent territories, so there is not aquatic biological resources.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.14. Animal Breeding During the winter season the pastures of sheep and camels are spreading in the study area and the other surrounding areas that are covered with grasses and herbs .The pictures (41), (42) show the sheep and camels grazing respectively.

Figure (41): Sheep grazing Figure (42): Camels grazing (Feberuary-2-2014) The grazers depending on the rain collected water in low basins for watering the animals .In the summer reason there is a shortage in water, the major source of water becomes the drilled wells water.

5.2.15. Radiation In Iraq, ministry of environment (MoE) - Radiation Protection Center is the official foundation responsible for the situation of radiation all over the country. The experts of this foundation conduct the researches and monitoring the level of radiation in different samples of water, soil and air. The average concentration of the natural radioactive isotopes in Iraqi soils including Al-Muthanna governorate indicate the acceptable limits according to the international agency for the atomic energy (see Table 12).

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Table (12): The average concentration of the natural radioactive isotopes in Iraqi soils (Bq /Kg) from (2009-2011)

5.2.16 .Environmental Restricted Zones:

5.2.16 .A. Cultural and Archeological sites in Al-Muthanna Province: Uruk is the most famous archeological sites of Al Muthanna Province, it lies about 18 Km away from the center of Al Muthanna within Al Samawa City. The site has the ruins of the ancient Sumerian city of Uruk which dates to 4000 BC. It was the largest city in Sumer ancient civilization, extending for an area of over 2 km². Uruk was not only the largest conurbation of the first urban civilization on earth, but it is also the place where the first written script in the world was discovered, the oldest dating back to 3300 BC. Fig. (43) Shows of the remains of Uruk City.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Fig. (43): Uruk Ancient City

3.2.16. B. Holly Sanctuaries Al- Muthanna province has a number of holly sites that are visited by people of the province and people from the whole country. The study area and adjacent territories contain three sanctuaries as follow:

1. Al Alawia Kadhimia Sanctuary: it lies about 40 Km from Al Samawa between Al Najmi and Al Rumaitha district. 2. Kefaya Sanctuary. 3. Saed Dekheel Sanctuary .

The other sanctuaries in Al-Muthanna province which are relatively far from the study area are:

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

4. Ibrahim bin Abdullah bin Al Hasan Al Muthanna Sanctuary: it lies in Bani Aridh about 10 Km from Al- Rumaitha City. Fig.(44 ). 5. A-l Khidhir Sanctuary: it lies about 32 Km away from Al Samawa City. See Fig( 45). 6. Ahmed bin Musa Al Kadhim Holly Shrine: it lies about 20 km from Al Samawa City. 7. Saed Nasir Al -Awais Sanctuary: 20 Km from Al Samawa. 8. Saed Mohamed bin Ali Sanctuary: it lies in the Al- Najmy district, 20 Km from Al Rumaitha City. 9. Saed Haider abu Ghnaima Holly Shrine: it lies 1 Km from Al- SamawaCity. 10. Saed Ali Al Dhahir Sanctuary: it lies in the entry of Al Samawa City.

Fig (44):Ibrahim bin Abdullah Fig (45):Al Khidhir Sanctuary

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.16. C. Mosques (Masjeds):

- Masjed Al-Rasoul

- Masjed Al-Salman

5.2.16. D. Sawa Lake: Sawa Lake lies in south-west of Al-Samawa city (about 30 km) and 110km in the north of Al-Salman district. Its shape from the top view like a duck or a pear (Fig.46).

Fig (46): Shape of Sawa Lake It is located in an area of 12.5 km2 and a length of approximately 4.75 km and displayed in a wider area of 1.75 km. Its depth is unknown, and it is surrounded by the cliff of confluent deposits of sand dunes. It is one of the strangest lakes in the world and the most important landmarks in Iraq, where it's located in the desert and does not have a stream fed .It depends on the flow of water underground come across cracks.

3.2.16. E. Archeological Building of Al –Salman Prison:

Al –Salman Prison (locally common name is Nograt Al-Salman) is one of the oldest prisons in Iraq. It is established by the united kingdom occupation forces in twenties of the last century to exile the people who adopt the political opposition .In the sixties ,the

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Iraqi government established a new other prison on one of the hills near the old one for the same purposes. After the dramatic political changes in Iraq in 9- April- 2003, the prison has neglected and knows it is just an archaic building. (Figure 47: Nograt Al- Salman).

Figure (47): Nograt Al-Salman prison

5.2.17. Man –Made load Areas The study and adjacent areas do not include any industrial activities .The industrial obvious thing are some small stone crushes machines (3 machines). These machines are spread individually in the area and also there are communication towers .There are five towers located along the distance between Al- Samawa and Al-Salman.

5.2.18. Social - Economic Environment on Block-12 and the adjacent territory:

5.2.18. A Cities and Towns

Al- Muthanna Province has four large cities, see Table (13):

1. Al- Samawa City, the capital of the province (358,000 populations). The city is located in the midway between Baghdad and Basra, at the northern edge of the province and 280 Km southeast of Baghdad.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

2. Al- Rumaitha City (235,700 people), it has four townships (Al Warkaa, Al Majd, Al Hilal and Al Najmi Town). The city lies 25 Km North of Al Samawa City and has one of the Euphrates River branches, that causes the prosperity of cultivating palm trees and grains around the region. 3. Al- Khithir City (90,000 people), it has one township (Al Daraji Town). 4. Al- Salman City (11893 people depending on official statistics).It has one township (Al Bassia Town). The city lies in the region of the southern Iraqi desert to the south of the three other cities. Al- Salman City lies within Block-12 exactly.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Table (13)- The population area and location data in Al Muthanna

Al Samawa Al Khithir AL Rumaitha Al Salman

center Swair center Daraji center Najmi Hilal Majid Warkaa center Basyia City South South South North North Location center East East East East west Distance from 12 17 13 17 200 CityCenter (Km) Distance from province Center 12 30 52 25 44 25 18 19 145 360 (Km) Sub- 300,000 58,000 75,000 15,000 93,000 17,500 17,000 36,500 71,700 3000 6000 Population City Number City 358,000 90,000 235,700 9000 (person) province 692,700 Sub- 680 125 1260 1950 106 561 321 145 978 22396 24500 City Area 2 City 805 3210 2111 46896 (Km ) province 53022

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.18. B. Demography The total population of Iraq according to the last estimated census was 32.6 million people in 2012; Figure (48) shows the distribution of population in Iraq. Al- Muthanna Province has a population of 692,700 representing 2% of total Iraqi population.

Fig. (48): Distribution of population in Iraq

a) Gender Al Muthanna population has a sex ratio of 50% Male and 50% Female, Most households are headed by men due to the community nature of Iraq in general. Household are often headed by men. Fig. (49) Shows the gender of household head.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Fig. (49): Gender of household head

b) Age Most of household heads are of (21-30) years old. Some of them are (Lees than 20) years old. Table (14) shows also the age groups in some districts more than the Prevailing age group, especially in the agricultural & rural areas, this is because of social nature for this area that imposes the old person with responsibility of household. The table shows the distribution of Al- Muthanna population according to age.

Table (14): Distribution of Al- Muthanna population according to Age Age 0-14 15-29 30-44 45-59 60 plus Population Percentage 39.5% 29.8% 16.6% 9.2% 4.9% % (c) Marital Status The prevailing category of married are according to Iraq community nature, normally, the married man is responsible for house-holding. The average number of persons per family is (8), this average vary from city & sub- city between (7-11) persons

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

with rang (23) persons, the highest number is (25) and the lowest number is (20), noting that the average number of family persons in the rural areas is more than that is in the urban. Table (15) shows marital status of Al- Muthanna household heads. Table (15): Marital status of Al- Muthanna household heads

Status Married Single Widowed Divorced Population 85% 7% 7% 1% Percent %

(a) Urbanization status Many of Al Muthanna‟s inhabitants are Bedouin nomads where 56% of the people are considered to be Rural and 44% are Urban and most of them are suffering from the poverty, see Fig. (50).

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Figure (50): Poverty in AL Muthanna Province Al- Samawa City is considered as the major city of population in Al Muthanna Province, the percent of Al- Samawa population is distributed as in Table (16).

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

% % % % Rural Alsamawa Almuthanna Category Urban Rural Alsamawa Almuthanna Urban Region Province Region Province

0-14 537.2 43.49 29524 49.82 83226 45.54 112470 46.97 15-64 65141 52.76 27070 45.68 9221 50.46 212084 48.55 65 and 4569 3.46 2594 4.77 7163 3.92 18605 4.26 more

Totality of the 123475 100 59265 100 182740 100 436825 100 Population

Table (16): percentage of Age categories for Al Samawa according to urbanization

5.2.18. C. Religion and Culture The Arabs account for 75 percent of the national Iraqi population, the Kurds for 18 percent, and the Turkmen, Assyrians, Armenians and other minor ethnic groups for 7 percent of the population. The overwhelming number of the Iraqi population (95 percent) follows Islam as their religion. Al Muthanna Province is mainly occupied by Arab Muslim (Shia represent the majority of the population and Sunni is the minority)and a small population of Assyrian Christians. Historically, Jews lived in the province till most of them drove out into exile in the 1940s and 1950s by political issues. People of the region are committed to religious habits and mores should be respected like Islamic prays and other religious rituals (see Figure 51). Most of people of this area (Al-Muthanna cities) are distinct with their generosity despite their limited income.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Figure (51): (Religious Rituals in Al-salman)

5.2.18. D. Economy and Income

Al Muthanna is a large producer of dates and various types of salt used in the production of food salts and Sawa Lake in Al Samawa City is considered to be the main sources for these salts, which can be utilize to produce cement too. The largest cement establishment in Iraq is located in this province, although today operating at a reduced capacity.

About 70% of Al-salman district people are working in grazing and the other are working as official employees (civil employees, soldiers, policemen).The monthly average of the employee's salary is about one million I.D.

a) Agriculture The Agriculture lands in Al Muthanna extends within two regions, the first one is parallel to the desert plateau at its connection point with the Euphrates plain with 10 Km width and 80 km long. This agriculture region has an estimated area of 250,000 Acres and is considered to be the most important region in the province due to water availability and

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

it's Proximity from Al- Samawa City, making the marketing process easier. The cultivated crops are various such as Wheat, barley and maize.

Due to the dry climatic conditions of this region, Farmers used springs and artesian wells for irrigation (Figure 52). In addition, they took advantage of floods and surface running water in the valleys during the rainfall. Channels were dug and simple dams were constructed on some of the valleys to distribute water to the agricultural areas. The excess of the water were discharged into low lands to avoid the accumulation of salts on the soil surface in the summer season. The cultivated crops in this region are wheat and barley.

The second agriculture region extends from the first region crossing Al- Salman City, where the agriculture area is estimated to be 150,000 acres in the form of scattered areas. Water in this region has low level of salts, the farmers depend on rain waters and well waters for irrigation using electrical pumps. Most of the farmers are using the flood irrigation method which has many disadvantages such as dissolving the gypsum forming cavities in the soil.

Figure 52: Artesian well for irrigation and animal watering in Al-salman

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

b) Industry

The city (Al-Muthanna) , in spite of the lack of high-value natural resources such as oil and gas and a lack of central government investment, has managed to maintain lively small-scale industrial, agricultural and alternative sectors. One of the most important factories is the southern cement factory in central Samawa.

Samawa had the largest cement factories in the Middle East during the 1970s with a total production capacity of 2.85 million tons a year. Its productivity has fallen due to disrepair, exacerbating the unemployment situation, although the southern cement factory, the oldest, reopened in 2005.

Five new cement factories with a capacity of 9 million tons a year are under construction on the outskirts of Al-Samawa and will provide employment for several thousand skilled and unskilled workers as well as filling 45% of Iraq's total cement needs.

A small oil refinery was reopened in Samawa in 2005 after being idle for 15 years. The existing 10,000 bbl/d facility's capacity was doubled to 20,000 bbl/d (3,200 m3/d) in 2006 and was to have increased to 30,000 bbl/d (4,800 m3/d) by 2007. The facility is linked by pipeline to the new Kifl oil field in Al-Samawa province that has an initial capacity of 40,000 bbl/d (6,400 m3/d). The major advantage of the refinery is that it is designed for processing heavy crude oil, allowing the light crude to be exported.

C) Grazing Grazing is very dominant in the study area and considered to be an important income source for the people. Shepherds work during all seasons; they usually change their place in summer looking for water and precipitation especially during the period from October to May of every year.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Due to the lack of precipitation in the region, lands of Al Salman across to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia lands have become the main region for grazing where vegetation grows naturally with rainfall. In addition, the availability of potable well water in this region for human and animal need. Areas to the north of Al- Salman City have low level of natural vegetation, hence; it doesn‟t considered to be a grazing region.

The geographical distribution of the number of livestock according to the Agriculture Directorate of Al Muthanna Province indicates a moderate level of livestock; see Table (17); where most of it lies within Al Salman City. Practically, these statistics are much more during the rainfall season where a large number of animal herds come from the near provinces such as Qadissiya, Thiqar and Najaf.

Table (17): Geographical distribution of the number of livestock (2005) Region Sheep goats camels Al Salman 356,000 35,000 17,000 Basiya 160,000 23,000 Total 516,000 58,000

The system of grazing in the study area is the free grazing as the shepherds move with their herds without restrictions or determine of the number of their animals behind water and pasture. Due to that many of pastures in the study area are suffering of stress, depletion of vegetation and the inability to be renewed, where pastures take over a year to be renewed naturally.

The excess grazing in the region caused the depletion of some important natural vegetation species for grazing where other undesirable natural plants such as thistles grew instead. In

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

addition, excess grazing caused the reduction of soil cohesion and put it in the danger of erosion.

5.2.18. E. Employment Though the unemployment rate in all Iraq reduced from 70 percent at the height of the USA invasion, it still remains high (15.2 percent in 2010). This is explained by the majority of industrial enterprises standing idle and also some that were destroyed during air forces attacks see Table (18). According to the estimates of international humanitarian organizations, over 40 percent of doctors, engineers and other qualified labor force have left Iraq.

Table (18): The unemployment rate in Iraq

Unemployment Percent Date of Year Rank rate Change Information

2005 25.00 % 158 2004 est.

2006 25.00 % 167 0.00 % 2005 est.

2007 25.00 % 170 0.00 % 2005 est.

2008 18.00 % 155 -28.00 % 2006 est.

2009 18.20 % 160 1.11 % 2008 est.

2010 15.20 % 151 -16.48 % 2008 est.

Al- Muthanna Province has a high level of unemployment rate due to the lack of functioning industries and the reduction of agriculture activities because of the low precipitation level and the increase of constructed dams over Iraq's rivers by the neighboring countries, in addition to the destruction of many infrastructures during wars

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

over the country. Fig (53) shows the employment and unemployment rate in Al Muthanna Province, where Table (19) illustrate the percentage and work status of Al Muthanna residents.

Table (19): Work status of Al Muthanna residents

Public Private Status Profession Worker Unemployed Retired Student Housewife Other Sector Sector

% 11 1 5 21 44 5 1 7 5

Fig (53): Employment and Unemployment rate in Al Muthanna/Source: WFP VAM (2007)

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.19 Infrastrucutre

5.2.19.A. Health Infrastructure There are three main hospitals in Al-Muthanna Province:

- Al- Khithir General Hospital - Al- Rumaitha General Hospital - Al- Hussein Educational Hospital

Samawa's medical facilities have improved greatly since 2003. The renovation of the central hospital with the aid of Japanese development funds lead to an improvement in medical status for the residents of the province. Five new medical centers have been recently constructed:  Endocrinology and Diabetes Specialized Center  Disabled Rehabilitation Center  Dental Specialized Specialist Center  Advisory Clinics Complex  Public Health Laboratory

3.2.19. B .Electricity

Although, all houses are supplied with electricity, but it is suffering from cuts and instability. About 82% of the houses are linked with electricity sources. Some of the houses is not linked to electricity sources, especially in far-off areas as Al– Salman and Bsayah. In addition, there are many cases of illegal linking with percentage between 5- 20%.Table (20) shows electricity sources.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Table (20): Electricity sources

Percentage % of residence houses

Sites Legal Illegal Absence

Al Samawa 93 8 0

Al Rumaitha 82 32 13

Al Khithir 87 8 5

Al Salman 68 6 26

Electricity is provided to the Al-Salman district by electrical generators installed by the governorate authority and liked with electricity distribution columns.

5.2.19. C. Sanitation System

The prevailing system of sanitation is septic system; some houses in Al-Samawa city center and Al-Rumaitha district are linked with the sewage system. Many houses in different areas are suffering of lack both services and septic facilities system. Al- Salman City has no sewage or drain system. Scattered houses make it difficult to construct any system there. Table (21) shows Sanitation methods used by the residence.

Table (21): Sanitation methods used by the residence of Al-Muthanna

Percentage % of residence houses Sites Public Sewage Septic System Absence

Al Samawa 22 78 0 Al Rumaitha 4 92 4 Al Khithir 8 83 10 Al Salman 0 89 11

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.19. D. Airports Al-Muthanna province has no airport. Before the invasion of USA military to Iraq in 2003, there was a military airport (20 Km SW of Al-Salman) that has been destroyed by air force attacks .The airport is just a ruin now.

5.2.19. E. Education

It is obvious that 41% of the population of Al-Muthanna sample is illiterate and the same percentage is of primary education. B.Sc. Holders are very few in rural areas where experience in agriculture is more important than education (as they think). In the city center B.Sc. holders are of 24%. Lack of education is the main reason of unemployment. Table (22) shows the Education levels of the residents of Al-Muthanna. Table (22): Education levels of the residents of Al-Muthanna. Percentage % of residence houses primary Higher Sites Illiterate secondary B.Sc. intermediate Education Al Samawa 35 36 17 12 0

Al Rumaitha 49 38 11 2 0

Al Khithir 38 40 18 4 0

Al Salman 33 55 9 3 0

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

5.2.20. Maps: This section includes four maps as follow:

- MAP A: TOPGRAFICAL ELEVATION MAP of BLOCK-12. - MAP B: GEOLOGICAL MAP of SUQ AL-SHYUKH QUARDANGLE. - MAP C: GEOLOGICAL MAP of AL--SALAMN QUARDANGLE. - MAP D: LAND SATIMAGE OF BLOCK-12.

All maps reported in Appendix (3).

5.3. Analysis of Baseline Study

After reviewing and studying the contents of baseline EIA study for block 12, the most important points are analyzed and reported in Appendix (2).

6. Environmental Impact Assessment Activities (Exploration Well Drilling)

6.1 Environmental Regulatory Framework:

6.1.1. International Environmental Standards: When limitation/regulation are missing (not available), it is proposed to follow international guideline of International Financial Corporation (IFC). IFC applicable items on Block-12 Project are the followings:

Table (23): IFC Guideline IFC Environmental, Health and Safety guidelines Last up Date

General EHS guidelines: environmental air emissions 30/04/2007 and ambient air quality Onshore Oil and Gas Development 30/04/2007 Water and Sanitation 10/12/2007

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

6.1.2. Environment Law of Republic of Iraq; law of Improvement and Protection of the environment: In order to protect and improve the environment of Iraq from different industrial activities, the Iraqi Government legalized the “Law No. (27) Of 2009 Protection and Improvement of the Environment”. Seventh Branch of this law “Protection of the Environment from Pollution Resulted from the Exploration and Extraction of Petroleum and Natural Gas” where article 21 shows the obligations should be taking into consideration by the related entities. The regulatory agency responsible for the application of the law and the various rules, regulations and guidelines issued on environmental protection is the Iraqi Ministry of Environment (MoE); the current establishment is ministry of Health and Environment after the decision of merging the two ministries. The basic law on environmental protection in the Republic of Iraq is the “Protection and Improving the Environment Law”, law No.3 first issued in 1997. The various national (Iraqi) laws and regulations on environment identified and available in English are summarized in chronological order in the following Table:

Table (24): Iraqi laws and regulations list

1 Regulation No. (25) of 1967 “Preservation Of Rivers and Public Waters from Pollution” 2 Law No. (99) of 1980 “Protection from the Ionic Radiations” 3 Public Health Act No. (89) of 1981, Article 3, Paragraph 6 & 7 “The Professional Heath Instructions to Protect Workers From Vibrations” 4 Instructions No (2) of 1984 (Chemical Carcinogens) 5 The Hydrocarbon Preservation Law No. (84) of 1985 (Articles related to the environment only) 6 Instruction No.(4) of 1989 Safety in Storing And Handling Chemical Materials

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

7 Instructions: No. (7) for the year 1993 on the lighting in the work Environment 8 act No.B (2) of 2001 Amendment Iraqi regulation for the preservation of water sources 9 Iraqi Legislation No. (417) of 2001 Standard Specification for Drinking water 10 Law No. (27) of 2009 “Protection And Improvement of the Environment” 11 The determinant of National Emissions activities: “Maximum allowable emission limits of air pollutants emitted from stationary sources” 12 Specification of Sanitary Landfill of Wastes, 1980 13 Environmental instruction for the Industrial Projects 14 Adopted of Ambient Air Quality standards 15 Technical Service Contract, Article 41, Protection of the environment, April 23, 2009 16 Soil remediation policy must use the Holland soil remediation intervention values, “regulations for soil/sediment and groundwater indicative levels for serious contamination and target values” according to „Risk Management [Omgaan met risico‟s], The risk-based approach in environmental policy (Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment (VROM), Lower House of Parliament, parliamentary proceedings 1988-1989, 21 137, no. 5). Other valuable standards and regulations to be considered. These are presented in the Circular on target values and intervention values for soil remediation presented in the Holland Convention, Version, February 4th, 2000. 17 (IFC,EHS Guide line for Onshore –oil & Gas Development) \ 2007 are to be considered during the development of this project. 18 Standards for equipment design (API), fire protection (NFPA), and the emergency response (IPIECA) , standards are to be implemented during development of this project. 19 Implementation of the “Environmental and safety management standards “according to the regulation of the “International Standards Organization “(ISO 14000, ISO 18000 series) are to be achieved whenever possible during the development of this project.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Iraqi Government legalized “Law No. (27) Of 2009, Protection and Improvement of the Environment”. This law aims at protecting and improving the environment through removing and treating the already existing damages or that which may happen and saving the public health, natural resources, the biological diversity and the cultural and natural heritage in cooperation with competent authorities to accomplish the sustainable development and to achieve the international and territorial cooperation in this field.

6.1.3. International Conventions and Protocols on Environmental Protection: Iraq is a signatory to several regional and international conventions and protocols on environment, presented below.

Table (25): International Conventions and Protocols

Convention DATE TYPE

Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict with Regulations for the Ratification Execution of the Convention. The Hague, 14 May 1954. 21/12/1967

Protocol to the Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict. The Hague, 14 Ratification May 1954. 21/12/1967

Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. Paris, 16 November 1972. 05/03/1974 Acceptance

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 10/12/1982

Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone

Layer 22/03/1985

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat 02/02/1971

Protocol concerning Marine Pollution resulting from Exploration and Exploitation of the Continental Shelf 29/03/1989

Protocol for the Protection of the Marine Environment 21/02/1990 against Pollution from Land-Based Sources Convention on the Environmental Impact Assessment 25/1/1991 in Transboundary Centex (Espoo, Finland, 1991).

Convention on Biological Diversity 05/06/1992

International Convention to Combat Desertification in those Countries Experiencing Serious Drought and/or 17/06/1994 Desertification, particularly in Africa Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of 21/05/1997 International Watercourses Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework 11/12/1997 Convention on Climate Change Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that 03/12/1999 Deplete the Ozone Layer Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat. Ramsar, 2 February 17/10/2007 Accession 1971. Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible 06/01/2010 Ratification Cultural Heritage. Paris, 17 October 2003. Rotterdam Convention (RC) on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous and International Trade (PIC) . Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic pollutants

(POPs). Basel Convention on eth Control of Trans boundary

Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal. United Nation Framework Convention on Climate

Chang (UNFCCC). 1994.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Convention of Transboundary Effect on Industrial

Accident . Helsinki .1992. Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of

Wild Animals (CMS), Bonn, 1979. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).Washington, D.S, 1973.

From http://www.ecolex.org/

6.1.4 Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in Transboundary Context (Espoo, Finland, on 1991): About the Convention:

The convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context (informally called ESPOO convection) is a United Nations Economic Commission signed in Espoo ,Finland ,in 1991 that entered intoforce in 1997.The convention sets out the obligations of parties – that is state have agreed to be bound by the convention – to carry out an EIA of certain activities at an early stage of planning .It also lays down the general obligations of states to notify consult each other on all major projects under consideration that are likely to have a significant adverse environmental impact across boundaries.

6.1.5. Iraqi Archaeological Law No. 55 of 2002 Article (9) of 2002 Iraqi Archaeological law: This law stipulates that in case of any conflict between a specific and important project and an antiquity site, the Antiquity Authority shall be Committed to undertake excavations, which shall be financed by the Executive Authority),to a timetable that must be acceptable from both the scientific and project time schedule point of view. The total cost of the excavations shall be listed in the project‟s budget before the initiation of digging.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

6.2. Environmental Impact Assessment of one Exploration Well Drilling - Block 12:

6.2.1. General description

Exploratory wells drilling activities produce localized impacts on the area where the drilling is actually done. The impacts on the environment should be analyzed mostly based on the activities .The sources of impacts include operation machinery, crew and support staff within the camp.

The environmental impact assessment is conducted to determine possible impacts to the environment and nearby communities as a consequence of Project activities. A number of factors are relevant to impact prediction, including:

 Resources and receptors: their nature and the activities they are engaged in and their proximity to the Project activities;  Magnitude of aspect/change: the magnitude of the aspect causing the impact in quantitative terms;  Method: the prediction methods used mainly comprise qualitative assessment and expert judgment. The assessment differentiates between:  Positive and negative impacts;  Temporary and permanent impacts; and  Standalone and cumulative impacts, where the effects of the Project combine with those of other nearby projects.

6.2.2. Criteria to determine the significance of the expected impacts: The criteria can be determined by answering some questions regarding the factors affecting the significance. This will help the EIA stakeholders, the practitioner in Particular, to determine the significance of the identified impacts eventually. Typical examples of such factors include the following:

� Exceeding of threshold Limit: Significance may increase if the threshold is exceeded. For e.g., Emissions of particulate matter exceed the permissible threshold.

� Effectiveness of mitigation: Significance may increase as the effectiveness of

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

mitigation measures decreases. e.g., control technologies, which may not assure consistent compliance to the requirements. � Size of study area: Significance may increase as the zone of effects increases. �Incremental contribution of effects from action under review: Significance may increase as the relative contribution of an action increases. � Relative contribution of effects of other actions: Significance may decrease as the significance of nearby larger actions increase. � Relative rarity of species: Significance may increase as species become increasingly rare or threatened. � Significance of local effects: Significance may increase as the significance of local effects is high. � Magnitude of change relative to natural background variability: Significance may decrease if effects are within natural assimilative capacity or variability. � Creation of induced actions: Significance may increase as induced activities also highly significant. � Degree of existing disturbance: Significance may increase if the surrounding environment is pristine.

For determining the significance of impacts, it is important to remember that secondary and higher order effects can also occur as a result of a primary interaction between the project activity and local environment. Where a primary effect is identified, the practitioner should always think if secondary or tertiary effects on other aspects of the environment could also arise.

The EIA should also consider the effects that could arise from the project due to induced developments, which take place as a consequence of the project. Ex., Population density and associated infrastructure and jobs for people attracted to the area by the project. It also requires consideration of cumulative effects that could arise from a combination of the effects due to other projects with those of other existing or planned developments in the surrounding area. So the necessity to formulate a qualitative checklist is suggested to test significance, in general.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

6.2.3 .Potential Impacts on Ambient Air Quality:

6.2.3. A .Fuel Combustion Process The main source of gaseous emissions during the drilling activities (cleaning up ,acidizing stages , testing the well ), will be from the following :

 Combustion sources from power and heat generation.  Use of compressors, pumps, and reciprocating engines (turbines, and other engines).  Flaring and venting of hydrocarbons.  Fugitive emissions. Combustion sources from power and heat generation: Because there is no available data from the investing company in the specific field, so the following data (As an Assumption) have been established for the combustion of fuel (diesel and gasoline) in the internal combustion engines of both vehicles and generators, which produce flue gases such as CO2, SO2 and steam are presented in Tables (26) and (27) respectively, sample of calculations are explained in Appendix (1). The emission of these gases may change the balance of oxygen in the air and cause environmental pollution. Table (26): Quantities of flue gases emitted from the combustion of engines using diesel fuel Volume m3/hr Seq. Equipment Description CO2 H2O SO2 N2 1 Generator 16 KW 513.8 430.6 4.5 3154.3 2 Drilling Rig 8564.3 717.9 74.8 52572.0 5 Lander(Bulldozer) 5576.7 4665.0 48.6 34171.8 5 Man Rig 4282.1 3588.4 37.4 26286.1 7 Trucks 12789.2 10717.5 111.6 7807.6 8 Personal Carriers 12789.2 10717.5 111.6 3807.6 9 Double Pickup 31973.6 26793.8 279.1 196269.0 10 Armed Pickup 7993.3 6698.4 69.8 49067.2

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

11 Fuel Tanker 1598.6 1339.7 13.9 9813.5 12 Truck with Crane 1598.6 1339.7 13.9 9813.5 13 Water Tanker 3197.3 2679.4 27.9 19626.9

Table (27): Quantities of flue gases that emitted from the combustion of engines, vehicles and generators using gasoline fuel.

Volume m3/hr Seq. Equipment Description CO2 H2O SO2 N2

1 Ambulance 490.3 384.7 1.0 15252.7

2 Armed pickup 2942.3 18564.1 6.3 15161.9

3 Single pickup 2942.3 18564.1 6.3 15161.9

Note: these emissions are calculated regardless of the vehicle or turbine exhauster capturing.

Venting and flaring: Associated gas brought to the surface with crude oil during oil production is sometimes disposed off at onshore facilities by venting or flaring to the atmosphere. Flaring or venting are also important safety measures used on onshore oil and gas facilities to ensure gas and other hydrocarbons are safely disposed in the event of an emergency, power or equipment failure, or other plant upset condition. The principal emission gases include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic carbons. The principal emissions of sulphur dioxides and hydrogen sulphide might occur and depend upon the sulphur content of the fuel, particularly when used as a power source.

As for BLOCK-12, since the closest people settlements (Al-salman distinct) are located in a distance of about few 35 km away from the project site, the potential environmental

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

effects of the project of well drilling exploration activity site on public health and safety is low.

6.2.3. B. Fugitive Gases & Odors

Fugitive gases from fuel storage such as CH4, C2H6, C3H8 and C4H10 gases arise mostly from gasoline. Fugitive gases and odors may arise also from sewage such as CH4, CO2,

NH3 and H2S due to the biological decomposition of sewage.

6.2.3. C. Airborne Particulates

Airborne particulates from soil disturbance and from vehicle traffics may affect plant and animal communities directly. This impact can be limited by speed restricting to minimize dust generation.

As all together, potential of emissions from drilling operations is not to cause serious atmospheric impacts and accordingly the impacts are considered low.

6.2.4. Impact on soil

Only top soil within the rig site will be compacted and also the base camp under normal drilling activities .Poor water infiltration and higher soil erosion will be a result to the soil compaction. Soil may be polluted by possible oil spillage and the waste of camp (litter, organic waste …etc).Opening new road for cars and trucks will compact the soil.

Significant rating: low

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

6.2.5. Impact on Vegetation Referring to the nature of the selected site for installing the tolls and other drilling facilities, and as the area is a semi-arid environment with scattered bushes hence low vegetation displacement is expected. Desertification of the rig and base site may occur because of hoeing some bushes and plants which leads to soil compaction and erosion.

Significant rating: Medium

6.2.6. Impact on Natural Water Sources:

6.2.6. A. Surface water The closest and only surface water near the region is the Euphrates River and it is considered to be far from the drilling activities site where it enters and crosses only Al- Samawa City (it is about 130 km away from the drilling site). Therefore, it is not likely that the project will have any negative impact on it.

6.2.6. B. Ground water During the exploration well drilling, the main risk of impact to groundwater quality is from drilling fluid losses due to inadequate sealing or casing, or leakage from the cuttings pit. However, the drilling mud to be used is water-based and of low inherent toxicity. During well testing, produced water may contain oil and gas products that could potentially contaminate groundwater resources if not properly controlled using adequate waste management techniques. The risk to groundwater in the event of a spill or release of potentially contaminative material is partly dependent on the depth of groundwater and the permeability of the intervening materials (except in the case of a release at or below the water table, which may occur during drilling). In the event of a blow-out there could be a considerable threat to groundwater quality due to the infiltration of potentially large volume of liquid hydrocarbons. In the

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

event of a fire or explosion, some of the hydrocarbon materials may be burnt off, but some may be released onto the desert surface allowing infiltration. However, moderate impact assessment is expected from the project activities to the groundwater due to the low level of water table in Al Salman Desert Region where it ranges between (150- 230 m).

6.2.7. Impact on Socioeconomic Life: The expected duration for achieving one well exploration drilling by Contractor is 4-5 months and this is relatively short time to impact on stakeholder socially and economically but on the long term, the comprehensive project operations that BASHNEFT intend to do (production of oil and gas form Block 12) are likely to induce some economic and social changes. The extent of these changes is especially important to local groups, particularly indigenous people who may have their traditional lifestyle affected. The key impacts may occur include changes in:

 Availability of, and access to goods and services such as housing, education, healthcare, water, fuel, electricity, sewage and waste disposal, and consumer goods brought into the province by get benefits from the revenues of oil and gas production and exporting .  Transportation systems

The most important positive changes are:

. Local employment and staff development and training opportunities;

. Local business development.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Where, demographic existing conditions would be expected to change in the area because of the high unemployment rates. In turn, the per capita income and poverty levels would be expected to improve.

Positive impacts also can be expected due to the temporary increase in trade where food, water, fuel and possibly spare parts may largely be sourced from nearest cities. This will produce a positive effect in terms of the local economy and prosperity of traders, although the effect will be short-term.

However, Al-Salman Region is sparsely populated having only 3000 people in Al Salman center. Block-12 seems to have no residence except some Bedouin and grazers around, where the nearest settling from the project is about (140) Km from the Block, and about 35 Km from Al-salman therefore; the socioeconomic impact is expected to be low.

6.2.8. Impact Assessment for Production and Consumption of Waste: 6.2.8. A. Wastewater Discharges: Wastewater (sewage) discharge, from camping activities may result in pollution of ground and surface water, and since no surface water bodies are found within and around the contract area, no impact will be expected on surface water. As for ground water, there will not be a possibility of water quality deterioration since ground water is not less than 150 m deep in most wells. Because there is no available data related to the number of workers that will be camped to carry out the well drilling ,so the calculation of maximum water consumption rate for one person will depend on an assumption number of total workers (about 45 workers accordance to the manpower of the exploration drilling activity reported in the literatures concerning similar former activity ) generating about 5.4 m3 a day , this amount of discharged water will either be collected in a septic tank of

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

appropriate size to be transported to waste infiltration /evaporation pond, and/ or to use Al- Muthanna Province waste treatment facilities. The accumulated sludge produced would have to be placed in a landfill. This landfill could be on-site or the waste could be taken to an existing off-site landfill. Table (28) illustrates wastewater discharged from various camp purposes: Table (28): Camp Wastewater generation rates (Frank, 2003) Purpose Quantity liter/ capita/ day (l/ C/ day) Cooking and washing 10 – 12 Flushing in W.C 30 – 40 Bathing and washing 40 – 60 Other needs 10 Total 90 - 122

Calculations: Total number of workers in the drilling operations = 45 Total max. water consumption rate = 122 l/C/day * 45

=5490 l/day =5.49 m3/day

There will not be a possibility of water quality deterioration caused by camping since ground water level is not less than 150 m deep and the quantities of wastewater generated is considered to be minimum, therefore, it is a moderate level impact assessment.

Note: These calculations are assuming a number of workers (man power) based on a former similar exploration well drilling literatures.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

6.2.8. B. Solid Wastes Generation and Disposal: Typical solid wastes generated by campers will include paper, plastic, glass, wood, food waste, and miscellaneous. These wastes will be collected separately from the industrial waste in a specific area for storage. Biodegradable and non bio-degradable wastes such as glasses and plastics shall be buried on-site to minimize scavenging by wild life and to prevent insects gathering. The discharge of biodegradable wastes if any occurred might result in localized increases in nutrient levels, which may stimulate microbial activity and therefore act as a food source for birds and animals. Soil and ground water would not be significantly affected by solid waste leach because the waste dumping will kept dry due to local hot climate and it should be gathered or collected in specified lined area. Recording Quantities of waste generation and disposal should be kept by the Contractor. All wastes will be governed by the Waste Management Plan where the camp should be adopting environmental practices and programs that bring about a positive environmental awareness among campers and staff. The impacts associated with Waste Generation and Disposal are considered to be Moderate; however, if managed correctly should be short-term and reversible.

6.2.8. C. Cuttings Generated by Exploration Well Drilling Activities:

During the exploration well drilling activities (4-5 months duration), an amount of cuttings is generated as a result of the drilling activities. These cuttings are a mixture of chemical materials such as Bentonite, barite, CMC…etc. and the deposits of the soil drilled. Cuttings amounts can be estimated based on Master Drilling Program prepared by Weatherford as in table (29) as the following:

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Table (29): Exploration well Design summary

String Hole Size (mm) Base (m) conductor 762 30 Surface string 660.4 195 Intermediate string 444.5 1380 Casing 311.2 2500

Production Liner 215.9 4200 string

liner 152.4 4500

휋 푑푖푎. 푤푒푙푙 푣표푙푢푚푒 = . [ ]2. depth 4 1000

Applying the above equation to each section of the hole drilled, the total amount of cuttings generated is estimated to be 254.477m3.

Where the consumed mud during the drilling process can be estimated by using the equation:

Mud Volume (ft3) = a * b * c + d + (r2*π)/144 *depth (ft)

Where:

a: length of drilling mud basin(ft)

b: width of drilling mud basin(ft)

c: height of drilling mud basin(ft)

d: surface pipes volume(ft3)

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

r: radius of hole size(inch)

Assuming the values of a,b,c, are 20,14,12 ft respectively and the value of d is 23 ft3 ,the estimated volume of consumed mud will be 12,369.855 ft3 (350.27 m3)

Note: The estimation calculation does not include the following:

o Losses of mud in the formation. o Mud cake during drilling. o Bad separation of mud via shaker.

The volume of drilling cuttings and mud is considered to be low and therefore; its environmental impact is considered to be moderate.

6.2.8. D. Hazardous Waste:

Hazardous (industrial) wastes will consist of scrap metal, used oil, oily sand, filters and rags, used batteries, vehicle tires and others. All these wastes should be collected separately by type, stored and transported for recycling wherever is possible or for authorized land filling in special waste disposal facilities. All the transportation and transferring of the wastes should be documented. The impact resulting from these wastes is expected to be low, where; industrial wastes amounts are minimal and will be transported out of project area, but there might be an impact at the land filling site which should be under appropriate control of the facility custodian. 6.2.9. Potential Impact of Noise & Vibration Limited noise and vibrations are expected to produce during the drilling activities to the environment. The vibrations are localized and only limited to the point of drilling .The

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

impacts of noise can only impact negatively to the operation crew and this already can be mitigated by using of operational safety gear. As for Al-salman district(the nearest urban settlement to the project ) , since the closest people settlements are located in a distance of about more than 35 km away from the drilling project site, The potential environmental effects of the project on Public Health and Safety in relation to changes in sound quality are irrelevant. Noise level excepted from any project source can be calculated as follows:

db = 20 log (p/p0) where: p: sound pressure (µbar) p0 : constant = 0.0002 µbar Range of sound pressure for diesel engines is (2 – 20) µbar

6.2.10. Summarization of Environmental Impact Assessment:

The environmental impact assessment for drilling one exploration well in the selected area is summarized in table (30) bellow:

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Table (30): Summary of the project Expected Environmental Impacts Assessment

Environmental Impact Assessment Environmental Component Low Moderate High

Access roads for cars and

trucks Drilling of the Exploration Soil Well Camp preparation Solid Wastes Generation

and Disposal Exploration well drilling

Landscape sites Access roads Fuel Combustion Air Quality Processes Fugitive Gases and Odors

Airborne Particulates Natural Water Ground Water Resources Surface Water Faidhat Waste Water Discharges Vegetation and

Wildlife Socioeconomic

Life

production and Hazardous Waste consumption waste

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

7. Impact assessment for Emergencies and Accidents:

7.1 Hazard Identification:

Hazards and Risks Although hazard and risk are often used interchangeably in everyday vocabulary, it is useful to make a conceptual distinction between a "hazard" and a "risk" as follows:  Hazard - the potential for harm arising from an intrinsic property or disposition of something to cause detriment.  Risk - the chance that someone or something that is valued will be adversely affected in a stipulated way by the hazard. An alternative and simple definition of risk is "the possibility of danger". Irrespective of the precise definition, "risk" has two key components:  Likelihood or frequency component (representing the extent of the chance or possibility).  Consequence or severity component (representing the extent of the adverse impact or danger) Risk is the product of these components (which can be summed for all potential accident scenarios associated with a system, operation or process). The sources and forms of harm are broadly - people, equipment, materials and environment; People: commit unsafe acts, are infectious or violent. Equipment: Plant, machinery and tools have four broad categories of hazard associated with them – mechanical, chemical, electrical and physical. Materials: can cause harm because they might hazardous to health, combustible, heavy, and cause slips and trips. Environment: the environment can cause harm due to poor lighting, extreme temperatures, enclosed workspace or work at height.

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Risk assessment is not only concerned with injuries in the workplace but also possible occupational health problems. Health hazards fall into four categories; . Chemical: paints, solvents and fumes . Biological: bacteria e.g. leptospirosis, viruses . Physical: noise, vibration and radiation. . Psychological: occupational stress

7.2. Potential accidents during oil well drilling activities:

Potential impacts to worker and public health and safety during the drilling/development phase would be similar to other projects that involve earthmoving, use of large equipment, transportation of overweight and oversized materials, and construction and installation of industrial facilities. The risks of serious accidents or injuries associated with oil and gas production apply primarily to well site workers. Potential for occupational accidents and mortality would be highest during peak drilling periods and would likely drop in proportion to the decline in drilling and development activities. The development of oil and gas includes the potential for well fires or explosions. Well blowouts are rare but can be extremely dangerous (e.g., they can destroy rigs and kill nearby workers). They usually occur during drilling but can also occur during production (especially during well work over operations). If natural gas is in the blowout materials, the fluid may ignite from an engine spark or other source of flame. Blowouts may take days to months to cap and control. Also, increased human activity and increased public access could result in a higher potential for wildfires in the production area. Workers could also be exposed to air pollutants and could have body contact with product or other chemicals. Reckless driving by oil or gas workers would also create safety hazards. In addition, health and safety issues

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

include working in potential weather extremes and possible contact with natural hazards, such as uneven terrain and dangerous plants, animals, or insects.

In locations where NORM-bearing produced water and solid wastes are generated, occupational and public health risks may occur if the wastes are not properly managed.

8. Environmental Management Plan (EMP) of exploration well drilling:

This chapter provides an EMP to deal with the potential environmental risks that may arise from project operations and intended appropriate mitigation measures to reduce occupation risk and health to operation workers and the environment in the affected areas.

The Contractor of exploration well drilling is committed in implementing this EMP and to comply with the relevant requirements of Iraqi Law. They are committed to integrate environmental considerations into all aspects of their operations with the aim of preventing environmental impacts and conserving natural resources.

The environmental management procedures during the implementation of the project phases are illustrated as the following:

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

8.1. Ambient Air Quality

Activity Nature of Impact

Site Preparation

Well Drilling Activity Dust Cloud

Camp layout and activities Gases Emission

Demobilization

Procedures:

Generator sets and other equipment to be deployed on site should have the necessary permits (i.e. registrations, emission tests, etc.; ) Equipment should comply with best available emission control technology, whenever possible. Generator equipped with necessary emission control should be preferred (i.e. with catalytic converter); Regular maintenance of all vehicles and equipment should be carried out; Emission sources, particularly the generator sets which are stationary, should be located as far as practicable from the identified ASRs. It should be located at the downwind direction of the ASRs; When practicable, low sulphur fuel should be used for all vehicles, equipment and machineries; Vehicles and machineries should be turned off when not in use and time of idling should be minimized; Appropriate training should be provided to relevant personnel with regards to gaseous emission control and management;

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Transportation route for the project activities should minimize, if cannot be avoided, passing through residential areas; Appropriate vehicle speed limits (25 km/h) should be established and enforced, particularly on unpaved roads and near residential areas; Mechanical stabilization of access roads, i.e. compaction and using clayey materials for bonding; Water dampening of unpaved access roads should be carried out as necessary, particularly access roads near residential areas; and Covering or water dampening of all material stockpiles and excavated materials should be carried out as necessary. The flare pit should be constructed at about 200 m distance from the rig site and also the wind direction should be taken into consideration.

8.2. Water Resources Quality:

Activity Nature of Impact Site Preparation

Well Drilling Activity Surface and Ground Water

Camp layout and activities Contamination

Demobilization

Procedures:

Fresh water used for domestic needs (at the sanitation facilities) will be tested by qualified laboratory to ensure there is no bacteriological contamination and quality is suitable for the camp water supply network.

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Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Quality of potable (drinking) water provided to personnel will be in compliance with the Iraqi Legislation No. (417) - 2001 Standard Specification for Drinking Water. Workforce (including Sub contractor) will be educated to minimized the usage of and ensure proper disposal of all liquid wastes. Sewage will be disposed into the infiltration/evaporation pond located at a distance not less than 50 m to the camp in downwind direction or to be transported to Al Samawa Centre wastewater treatment plant. A sample of discharged sewage will be taken once while camp is operational to analyze the content of the fluid (BIBV responsibility). At the demobilization stage the evaporation pond will be buried in such a way that the area returned to its original state as much as practicable. The location of the sewage disposal pond will be photographed before making the pond, once while it is in use and after decommissioning. Toilets and sanitary facilities to be deployed should be provided with underground collection tanks (or a septic tank) appropriately sized based on the actual number of personnel to be deployed on site; Sanitary facilities (toilets, kitchens, etc.) should be located as far as possible from the rivers or any water bodies; If an underground collection tank (septic tank) is installed, sewage in the collection tanks should be regularly emptied and disposed to an approved disposal/treatment facility; Collection tanks should be regularly inspected for any leaks and any overflow. Any tanks with leaks should be repaired or replaced immediately; Drilling activities and handling of bentonite and drill cuttings should be carried out by competent personnel with proper training;

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Drilling team should ensure that the size of the earthen pit is suitable to hold the volume of used bentonite from each shot holes; Any excess or accidentally spilled bentonite clays on the ground should be recovered by the drilling team; Volumes of inventory of fuel/chemical on site should be at minimum, as far as possible; Fuel and chemical storage area should be provided with impermeable surface and secondary containment .The containment area should be designed to contain 110% of the capacity of the biggest storage tank on site; Fuel and chemical storage areas should be located as far as possible from the rivers or any water bodies especially the Faidhat; Spill containment kit and equipment should be provided at the fuel storage areas; Spilled chemicals should be collected immediately and disposed off as hazardous waste. Training workers on correct transfer and handling of fuels and chemicals and on the appropriate response to spills. 8.3. Soil Quality and landscape:

Activity Nature of Impact Site Preparation

Well Drilling Activity Bush Clearing

Soil Erosion Camp layout and activities loss of grasses Demobilization

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Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

The impacts to the landscape during the project are unlikely to be highly significant. The following measures should help to minimize potential adverse impacts on geomorphology and landscape:

Procedures:

Use existing routes and already disturbed areas whenever possible when considering the creation of access routes; Consider the fate of the routes after project completion: if it is considered that a route may encourage wider access and lead to further degradation of the landscape, then consideration should be given to removing or blocking the route. If, on the other hand, the establishment of a route serves to reduce travel on a number of alternative routes then its continued use may be encouraged; Where disturbance is necessary, clear only the minimum to facilitate safe access and working; Avoid Faidhat , wadis and natural drainage features when defining the access route. If avoidance is not possible, minimize the disturbance and design site reclamation procedures to return the land to its initial conditions; Adhere to a „single track‟ policy except in areas where this would cause more significant impact than running parallel tracks; Control vehicle movements and plan to minimize journeys; Minimize the use of bulldozers; Ensure workforce is aware of environmental sensitivities; Make photographic records of areas to be disturbed before development, to assist in after-use site restoration; Practice progressive site clean-up through the life of the project; and

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Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Mechanical stabilization of access roads, i.e. compaction and using clayey materials for bonding; Drilling team should ensure that earthen pits of wastewater disposal and solid wastes disposal are properly backfilled upon completion of drilling activities. Sites should be restored to its original conditions, as much as possible; Any excess or accidentally spilled bentonite clays on the ground should be recovered by the drilling team; Volumes of inventory of fuel/chemical on site should be at minimum, as far as possible; Fuel and chemical storage area should be provided with impermeable surface and secondary containment .The containment area should be designed to contain 110% of the capacity of the biggest storage tank on site; Spill containment kit and equipment should be provided at the fuel storage areas; Spilled chemicals should be collected immediately and disposed off as hazardous waste; and Training workers on correct transfer and handling of fuels and chemicals and on the appropriate response to spills. Provision of sufficient number and size of waste bins and skips at strategic locations within the work sites and camp. These waste containers should have appropriate lid/cover; Establishment of a designated temporary storage area at the camp provided with impervious flooring; Waste segregation scheme that includes labeling and color coding of waste bins and skips as follows: Green – general construction wastes, scrap metals, cuttings, woods, etc.; Blue – domestic wastes / kitchen refuse; and

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Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

Yellow – hazardous wastes (oily rags, greasy paper, etc.) Waste re-use and recycling scheme. The type of waste that can be re-used and recycled should be identified. Buy-back scheme with key suppliers, where possible, should be adopted to allow return of any unused and surplus materials or chemicals; Provision of signage encouraging waste reuse and recycling of wastes; Waste generated on site should be disposed through a licensed waste contractor. Documentation of waste handling and disposal to allow monitoring the type and volume wastes generated on-site ; Storage areas should be properly maintained and transport vehicle (from storage to site) should also have appropriate containment to avoid spills; Storage area should be located as far as practicable from any body of water within the area of drilling. The generated drilling cuttings and muds should be managed through putting them in a lined pit to prevent toxic materials like heavy metals to prevent infiltration to the ground water. During the demobilization phase, the evaporation pond and the solid waste disposal pit of the camp should be refilled or buried by its original tumulus in appropriate manner after the work completion. In order to rehabilitate the drilling area, the following steps should be used: - The well head and all casing strings are cut off to a minimum depth of 3 m below the ground level. - All concert structures are broken up and the debris are disposed of in a safe manner. - All fencing and access gates are to be removed from the rig area and base camp. - All pits are filled up with soil.

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Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

8.4. Vegetation and Wildlife:

Activity Nature of Impact Site Preparation

Well Drilling Activity Desertification

Death of fauna Camp layout and activities Migration of fauna

Demobilization

Procedures: BIBV must limit vegetation clearing to absolute minimum during the site preparation for drilling activities in order to reduce soil erosion, bush clearing and loss of tress. BIBV must provide and enforce use of protective gear during site preparation. BIBV and the proponent (SOC) must notify and alert pastoralist on rig activities. BIBV and the proponent (SOC) must keep livestock and wildlife away from rig activities. The drilling process will be in a desert land so the desertification is not valued. The activities of drilling has the largest potential to impact on faunal habitat, these activities include site preparation, construction of the drilling rig, and construction of the camp and streets. This is an indirect impact mainly related to changes in the landscape and the potential disturbances to nests or dens. The potential direct impact to fauna is hunting. Animal communities can also be affected by noise, extraneous light, and dust. The effects can be manifested by changes in an animal immunity‟s habitat, foraging, Breeding and migration habits. In general, animals shy away from human activity and therefore the risk of impact

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Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

may be considered as low. However, the opposite case can occur, particularly where animals may be attracted to the water pit, or by inappropriately disposed of, or uncovered, food waste at the rig and camp sites. Wildlife contact with waste or hazardous material could result in disease or even death depending on the type of waste or material. There is also the potential for animals to become a disease vector. These impacts may also result from site restoration procedures that are not adequate or not properly implemented. As with flora, non-routine events such as leaks and spills, fires and explosions and blowouts are unlikely to affect fauna as their effects would largely be limited to the area of the camp site and drilling pad. About the aquatic biological resources, there are no surface water bodies in the area; subsequently there is no affect from the drilling of exploration well.

9. Recommendations for Environmental Control and Monitoring Plan during well drilling: To implement the EIA elements successfully, the following points should be taken in consideration: 9.1 Environmental Management Procedures: The environmental management procedures aim to minimize impacts arising from various activities related to the implementation of the Project. Environmental control measures that are integral part of the Project (i.e. those measures that are specified in the Project documents) are not further discussed in this section, however, implementation of the same should be ensured.

The procedures mentioned in Article (8).

9.2 Organization (Roles & Responsibilities):

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Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

 BIBV Role

. Ensuring that the overall objectives of the environmental mitigation measures are met;

. Overseeing the activities of other personnel with environmental responsibilities;

. Facilitating the integration of issues into project management decisions, which will be made within the combined BIBV and Drilling Contractor teams;

 Leading ongoing consultation and communication with government and other stakeholders.  Exploration Well Drilling Contractor Role:

. Ensuring compliance with all relevant legislations as well as adherence to all environmental controls and mitigation measures specified in the EIA report (summarized within this EMP). Drilling Contractor will also be responsible under the contract for minimizing the potential environmental impacts of all contract activities;

. Identify individuals responsible for overall environmental management;

. Brief Drilling crew staff on the requirements of the EMP;

. Undertake regular environmental inspections and provide reports that enable BIBV to monitor and evaluate performance against the measures and objectives established in the EIA, In this regard, performance of Drilling Contractor in complying with the EMP will be monitored and audited by the BIBV team.

. Keep the environmental records, including feature sites pictures, audit results; waste management records etc.

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Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

 Training and Awareness : Awareness training should be provided to ensure that all personnel to be involved in the implementation of the proposed project are aware their responsibilities. A detailed environmental induction and training procedures should be developed. This should include all relevant environmental requirements identified in this EIA Report, together with relevant local regulations. Further, it is recommended that the following aspects should also be covered in the environmental awareness training to ensure that all persons involved in the implementation of the Project are aware of their responsibilities:  Potential environmental and social impacts associated with the project implementation, as outlined in this EIA Report;  Drilling Contractor staff and subcontractor‟s responsibilities and procedural requirements;  Reporting environmental and social issues; and  Emergency preparedness and response. All personnel to be involved during the Project implementation, including subcontracting staff and visitors, should be inducted on environmental requirements that are relevant to their specific activities. The Project‟s Environmental In-charge is responsible for conducting staff inductions and ensuring that all staff has received the environmental induction.

 Monitoring

The monitoring program provides the framework for early identification of environmental risks and for triggering the appropriate corrective actions and has the following specific aims:

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Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

 To provide an early indication of the failure of any environmental control measure or practice to achieve acceptable performance standards;  To monitor the performance of the Project and the effectiveness of the mitigation measures;  To determine the Project‟s compliance with local and any relevant international regulatory requirements; and Take remedial action if unexpected problems or unacceptable impacts arise.

 Sampling Plan

A well-developed Sampling & Analysis Plan (SAP) plays a critical role in ensuring the collection of data that have sufficient quality from which to make defensible decisions. Planning is a necessary component of any environmental data collection program. The SAP should clearly state the purpose of the project, identify the type, quality, and quantity of data needed to accomplish project goals, and openly acknowledge any underlying assumptions or sources of uncertainty that could significantly impact the quality of the data. For Block-12 project, the sampling plan will be determined according to the location of drilling rig and the camp construction as the following:

- Air Monitoring:

Regarding that the nearest settlement residential is in Al- Salman which is about 35Km from the selected spot for drilling; little monitoring locations can be chosen to represent the area (5-7 locations, a monthly frequent sampling for air monitoring in the surrounding of the battery limit of drilling is expectable).

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- Ground Water Monitoring:

4 to 5 wells may be drilled to monitor the quality of water during the drilling activities. 2-3 frequent during the period of drilling and decommission. One litre sample is enough to do total analysis.

- Soil Monitoring:

Five different locations are recommended to monitor the quality of soil. Due to the fact of the homogeneous type of soil in the project area, a simple random sampling is to be conducted to provide statistically unbiased estimates of the mean, proportions, and variability. One Kg of grinded soil and 2mm sieved soil sample is enough to do the total analysis.

9.3. International Environmental Standards:

When limitation/regulation is missing or not available), it is proposed to follow international guideline from International Financial Corporation (IFC).

IFC applicable on the Block-12 Project are the following:

9.3.1. Ambient Air Quality:

All new facilities within the scope of the study area shall comply with the ambient air quality standards that have been established of Exploration Well Drilling project. These are shown in Table after.

A comparison has been made of these standards:  Iraqi National Standards for ambient air quality issued by MoE.  World Health Organization (WHO) Standards as adopted by the IFC.  EC Directive. The following table (31) represents the ambient air quality standard.

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Averaging IFC EC / UK bench Iraqi ambient air quality Notes Pollutant 3 period µg/m3 mark µg/m µg/m3 ppm Annual average 51 0.018 20 WHO appears more stringent than 24 hrs (Note &1) 125 113 0.04 SO2 Iraqi regs 1 hr 350 282 0.1 10 minutes 500 8 hr 100 120 Ozone O 3 1 hr 127 0.06 8 hr 10000 12300 10 CO 1 hr 43200 35 Annual average 40 40 81 0.04 WHO more stringent than Iraqi regs

NO2 / NOx 24 hrs 101 0.05 1 hr 200 200 Annual average 20 40 PM 10 24 hrs 50 50 150 WHO more stringent than Iraqi regs 24hrs 65 PM 2.5 Annual average 15 24hrs 350 TSP Annual average 150 10 t/km2/month Dust 30 days (residential) 20 t/km2/month (industrial) HCs (non- 3 hrs 160 0.24 methane) Lead 24 hrs 2

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Averaging IFC EC / UK bench Iraqi ambient air quality Notes Pollutant 3 period µg/m3 mark µg/m µg/m3 ppm 3 months 1.5 Annual average 5 1 Benzenee Annual average 0.003 mg/m3 Dioxin Annual average 0.6 pg/m3 Table (31): Ambient air quality standard

WHO guideline is 20 µg/m3 but interim target is 125 µg/m3.

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9.3.2. Deviation between Ambient Air Quality Standards:

Due to the somewhat significant difference between Iraqi regulations and accepted international standards, a comparison of the deviations between the figures was undertaken.

Note: all figures in µg/m3 and rounded to nearest significant figure. Table (32): Comparison of International and National Standards

National Pollutant Criteria Deviation WHO Comment regs

WHO guideline is 20 µg/m3 but interim target is 125 µg/m3. WHO have upper and lower assessment levels and the 24 hour WHO 20 hourly limit threshold of 70% of the standard (i.e. SO2 average 113 5 x > Interim 140 µg/m3) should not be exposure target:125 exceeded for more than 18 times in the calendar year and the annual limit should not be exceeded more than 80% of the limit value (32 µg/m3)

Annual NO 81 2 x > 40 2 average

24 hour PM 150 3 x > 50 10 exposure

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9.3.3. Air Emission limits

National air emission limits of pollutants are differentiated in 3 categories:  Emission limits of air pollutants for stationary sources.  Emission limits of air pollutants for hydrocarbon fuel combustion sources.  Emission limits of air pollutants for solid waste incinerators. They are given in the following tables (33, 34, and 35). Table (33): Maximum allowable emission limits of air pollutants from stationary sources MAX. ALLOWABLE EMISSION SOURCES SYMBOL SUBSTANCE LIMITS (mg/Nm3) 250 Combustion sources Visible Emissions None other sources 20% All sources Opacity 500 All sources CO Carbon Monoxide Combustion sources Nitrogen Oxide 1000 material producing NO (expressed as nitrogen 1000 industries x dioxide) other sources 500 Combustion sources material

2000 producing industries other SO2 Sulphur dioxide 1000 sources Sulphur trioxide 150 material producing industries Including Sulphuric SO 50 other sources 3 Acid Mist (expressed as sulphur Trioxide) 250 Combustion sources Cement industry: Total Suspended 150 - Exist TSP particles 100 - new 150 other sources Ammonia and 50 material producing Ammonium compounds 10 industries other sources NH 3 (expressed as ammonia)

5 All sources C6H6 Benzenee 100 Iron& steel foundries Fe Iron

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MAX. ALLOWABLE EMISSION SOURCES SYMBOL SUBSTANCE LIMITS (mg/Nm3) Lead and its 5 All sources Pb Compounds (expressed as lead)

Antimony and its 5 material producing Sb Compounds (expressed 1 industries other sources as Antimony)

Arsenic and its 1 All sources As Compounds (expressed as arsenic)

Cadmium and its 1 All sources Cd Compounds (expressed as cadmium)

Mercury and its 0.5 All sources Hg Compounds (expressed as mercury)

5 All sources Cr Chrome

5 All sources V vanadium

Nickel and its 1 All sources Ni compounds (expressed as nickel)

Copper and its 5 All sources Cu compounds (expressed as copper)

All sources 5 Material producing H2S Hydrogen sulphide 10 industries

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MAX. ALLOWABLE EMISSION SOURCES SYMBOL SUBSTANCE LIMITS (mg/Nm3)

200 Chlorine works Cl- Chloride 10 other sources

200 Chlorine works HCl Hydrogen chloride 20 other sources

2 All sources HF Hydrogen Fluoride

10 All sources SiF4 Silicon fluoride

Fluoride and its 20 Aluminum smelters compounds including F- 50 other sources HF & SiF4 (expressed as fluoride)

Material producing 20 industries CH O Formaldehyde 2 2 other sources

Material producing 250 industries C Carbon 50 Waste incineration

Total Volatile Organic Compounds (expressed 20 All sources VOC as total organic carbon (TOC))

1 (ng TEQ/m3) All sources Dioxins & Furans

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Notes: 1- The concentration of any substance specified in the first column emitted from any source specified in the third column shall not at any point before admixture with air smoke or other gases exceed the limits specified in the fourth column. 2- “Nm3”means normal cubic meter being that amount of gas which when dry occupies a cubic meter at a temperature of 25 degree centigrade and at an absolute pressure of 760 millimeters of mercury (1 atm). 3- The limit of “Visible Emission” does not apply to emission of water vapor and a reasonable period for cold start-up, shutdown or emergency operation. 4- The total concentration of the heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, Hg, Cu, As & Sb) must not exceed 5 mg/Nm3. 5- VOC limits are for unburned hydrocarbons (uncontrolled). 6- The emission limits for all the substances exclude “Dioxins and Furans” are conducted as a daily average value. 7- “Dioxins and Furans” Average values shall be measured over a sample period of a minimum of 6 hours and a maximum of 8 hours. 8- Adopted in measuring the concentration of any substance the first column the method adopted by EPA as a way of measuring a reference or equivalent methods of measurement of the global reference.

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Table (34): Maximum allowable emission limits of air pollutants from hydrocarbon fuel combustion sources.

MAX. ALLOWABLE SUBSTANCE SYMBOL SOURCES EMISSION LIMITS (mg/Nm3)

Visible All sources 250 emissions Fuel combustion Nitrogen units: 350 Oxides Gas fuel 500

(expressed as Liquid fuel NO nitrogen x Turbine

dioxide (NO )) units: 2 70 Gas fuel 150 Liquid fuel Sulphur SO All sources 500 Dioxide 2 Total Suspended TSP All sources 250 Particles Carbon CO All sources 500 Monoxide Notes: 1- The concentration of any substance specified in the first column emitted from any source specified in the third column shall not at any point before admixture with air, smoke or other gases, exceed the limits specified in the fourth column. 2- "Nm3" means normal cubic meter, being that amount of gas which when dry, occupies a cubic meter at a temperature of 25 degree centigrade and at an absolute pressure of 760 millimeters of mercury (1 atm). 3- The limit of “Visible Emission” does not apply to emission of water vapor and a reasonable period for cold start- up, shutdown or emergency operation.

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4- The “NOx” emission limit of any existing turbine units operated by gas fuel, prior to the issuance and adoption of this regulation will be 125 mg/Nm3. 5- Adopted in measuring the concentration of any substance the first column the method adopted by EPA as a way of measuring a reference or equivalent methods of measurement of the global reference.

Table (35): Maximum allowable emission limits of air pollutants from solid waste incinerators. MAX. ALLOWBLE EMISSION 3 LIMITS (mg/Nm ) SUBSTANCE (symbol) Incinerator capacity Incinerator capacity less than 3 ton/hour 3 ton/hour or more Total suspended particles (TSP) 100(daily 30(daily average) average)

Carbon Monoxide (CO) 100(daily 100(daily average) average)

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) 350(daily 300(daily (expressed as nitrogen dioxide (NO2)) average) average)

Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) 500(daily 300(daily average) average)

Hydrogen Chloride (HCl) 30(daily 20(daily average) average)

Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) 4(daily 2(daily average) average) Total Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) 20(daily 20(daily (expressed as total organic carbon average) average) (TOC))

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Nickel (Ni) and its Compounds (expressed as Ni) Total (1) Total (1) Arsenic (As) and its Compounds Total (1) Total (1) (expressed as As) Cadmium (Cd) and its Compounds (expressed as Cd) Total (0.2) Total (0.1) Mercury (Hg) and its Compounds Total (0.2) Total (0.1) (expressed as Hg) Lead (Pb) and its Compounds (expressed as Pb) Chrome (Cr) and its Compounds Total (5) Total (1) (expressed as Cr) Total (5) Total (1) Copper (Cu) and its Compounds Total (5) Total (1) (expressed as Cu) Total (5) Total (1) Manganese (Mn) and its Compounds (expressed as Mn) 0.1 0.1 Dioxins and Furans 3 (ng TEQ/m3) (ng TEQ/m )

Notes: 1- The concentration of any substance specified in the first column emitted from the incinerator shall not at any point before admixture with air, smoke or other gases exceed the specified limits. 2- "Nm3" means normal cubic meter being that amount of gas which when dry, occupies a cubic meter at a temperature of 25 degree centigrade and at an absolute pressure of 760 millimeters of mercury (1 atm) 3- The total concentration of the heavy metals( Cd,Hg,As,Cr,Cu,Pb,Mn,Ni,V) shall be measured over as ample period of minimum of 30 min and a maximum of 8 hours. 4- "Dioxins and Furans" Average value shall be measured over sample period of a minimum of 6 hours and a maximum of 8 hours. The emission limit value refers to the total concentration of dioxins and furans are calculated using the concept of toxic equivalence.

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Adopted in measuring the concentration of any substance the first column the method adopted by EPA as a way of measuring a reference or equivalent methods of measurement of the global reference.

9.3.3. A. Fuel Combustion Process:

Combustion processes can directly affect air quality such as the emissions that resulted from diesel engines and gasoline engine. The principal emission gases include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic carbons. Emissions of sulphur dioxides and hydrogen sulphide might occur and depend upon the sulphur content of the fuel, particularly when used as a power source.

Because there are no available data provided by the working company related to the types and number of internal combustion engines (diesel and gasoline), so the proposed used engines and the volume of emission gases is as shown earlier in Table 26, 27. The sample of calculations is exposed in Appendix 1. The emission of these gases may change the balance of oxygen in the air and cause environmental pollution.

Where possible, emissions from engines and power generators will be minimized by means of optimizing fuel efficiency and conducting regular maintenance and checks.

9.3.3. B. Fugitive Gases and Odors:

Fugitive gases from fuel storage such as CH4, C2H6, C3H8 and C4H10 gases, which arise mostly from gasoline and fugitive gases and odors, may arise from sewage

such as CH4, CO2, NH3 and H2S due to the biological decomposition of sewage.

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9.3.3. C. Airborne Particulates:

In general the fugitive gases and airborne particulates impacts considered to be low due to restricted emission amounts and the large distance between the project site and the nearest population settlements which is more than 14 Km distance from all directions and the lack of flora and fauna in the project site. As all together, potential of emissions from drilling operations is not to cause serious atmospheric impacts and accordingly the impacts are considered low. 9.3.3. D. Quantitative Analysis of Air:

Table (36) illustrates the air parameters that should be monitored: Table (36): (Ambient air parameters) Short Accuracy Parameter Limits Test Method / Number Name Required of Samples

Sulfur Dioxide SO2 40/100 ppb 10 ppb

Carbon Monoxide CO 9/35 ppm 10 ppm Direct on site measurements for Ozone O3 60/75 ppb 10 ppb continuous 24 hours by specialized tester for Nitrogen Oxides NOx 50/40 ppb 10 ppb each parameter.

Hydrogen sulfide H2S 10 ppm 1 ppm Daily means and Hourly Maximum are required Hydrocarbons CxH2x+2 0.24 ppm 10 ppb to be measured.

3 3 Benzenee C6H6 0.1 μg/m 0.1 μg/m Series of 3 measurements shall be 0.06 0.01 conducted under the Dioxin different weather 3 3 pico g/m pico g/m conditions. Falling Dust 1 t/km2/month 1 t/km2/month

Particulate Matter 3 3 24-hour sampling of PM10 PM10 150 g/m 10 g/m concentration suspended dust (through filter) followed

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Particulate Matter by laboratory analysis. 3 3 PM2.5 PM2.5 35 g/m 10 g/m concentration Series of 3 sampling of 24 hours conducted under the different weather conditions. At Total Suspended least 2 filters shall be Particulates TSP 350/150 g/m3 10 g/m3 taken in parallel while concentration each of 3 samplings – to estimate the accuracy.

Direct on site measurements for 15 minutes each. Noise – Sound Series of at least 3 Pressure Level SPL 40/75 dB(A) 1 dB(A) measurements conducted under 3 different weather conditions

9.4. Water Resources: 9.4.1. Surface Water:

None of the surface water bodies are found within the selected area for drilling activates. 9.4.2. Underground Water: The leaks of fuel and oil from vehicles and equipment at storage area should be inspected visually and instrumentally to prevent the probable contamination of the ground water. The leaks of fuel and oil from vehicles and equipment at storage area should be inspected visually and instrumentally to prevent the probable contamination of the ground water. The parameters and accuracy required of water are shown in Table (37).

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Table (37): Water parameters

Parameter Short Limits * Accuracy Tester / Method Name Required

Physical Tests: Color

On site test through the Taste expertise of the sample takers. Smell

Turbidity NTU 5 units Turbidity-meter pH 6.5 – 8.5 0.1 pH-meter

Temperature 1 0C Thermometer

Total Hardness 500 mg/l 10 mg/l Quantitative chemical analysis

or specialized tester

Alpha radioactivity 0.1 Bq/l 0.001 Bq/l Dose-meter with corresponding probe Better radioactivity 1 Bq/l 0.01 Bq/l

Anions:

Nitrate NO3 50 mg/l 100 g/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Nitrite NO2 3 mg/l 100 g/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Fluoride F 1 mg/l 100 g/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Chloride Cl 250 mg/l 1 mg/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Sulphate SO4 250 mg/l 1 mg/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Total Cyanides T-CN 0.02 mg/l 1 g/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

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Other dissolved substances:

Surfactants MBAS 0.3 mg/l 1 g/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Total Dissolved Solids TDS 1000 mg/l 1 mg/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Total Suspended Solids TSS 1000 mg/l 1 mg/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Phenol C6H5OH 0.002 mg/l 0.1 g/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Carbon-chloroform Extracted 0.3 mg/l  Quantitative chemical analysis 10 g/l or specialized tester

Hydrocarbons 0.01 mg/l 0.1 g/l Quantitative chemical analysis or specialized tester

Trace and other Metals:

Aluminum Al 0.2 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Arsenic As 0.01 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Barium Ba 0.7 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Cadmium Cd 0.003 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Calcium Ca 50 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Chromium Cr 0.05 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Copper Cu 1.0 mg/l 0.1 g/l Mass Spectrometer

Iron Fe 0.3 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Lead Pb 0.01 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Magnesium Mg 50 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Manganese Mn 0.1 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Mercury Hg 0.001 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Nickel Ni 0.02 mg/l 0.1 g/l

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Sodium Na 200 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Selenium Se 0.01 0.1 g/l

Zinc Zn 3 mg/l 0.1 g/l

Bacteriological analysis:

1.1 MPN/ o Coliform Inoculation for 24hr at 35 C 100 ml

1.1 MPN/ o E.coli Inoculation for 24hr at 44 C 100 ml

None in Escherichia coli Inoculation for 24hr at 35oC 250 ml

None in Plate count Inoculation for 24hr at 35oC 1ml

* – There is no limits for ground water quality set up by Iraqi regulations. The limits from the Iraqi Legislation No. (417)-2001 “Standard Specification for Drinking Water” are put in the table because the ground water might be used as a source of domestic water supply (after treatment).

9.5. Soil and landscape: The zones of different landscape type will be evaluated from satellite image interpretation. The soil sample will be taking from each zone, the proper technique of getting the average/representative sample to be applied. The water and solvent extracts from each the soil sample will be analyzed according to the below table. The expected number of samples is about 10, independently of soil classification and zones 2 samples will be taken from the each of the points: CPF location and operator permanent camp. The soil parameters that should be test are included in Table (38).

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Table (38): Soil Parameters Parameter Short Accuracy Name Required

Physical Tests: pH 0.1

Alpha radioactivity 0.001 Bq/kg

Better radioactivity 0.01 Bq/kg

Gamma radioactivity 0.01 Bq/kg

Salts and others:

Nitrate NO3 0.1 mg/dryKg

Nitrite NO2 0.1 mg/dryKg

Chloride Cl 1 mg/dryKg

Total Dissolved Solids TDS 1 mg/dryKg

Hydrocarbons 1 mg/dryKg

Polycyclic Aromatic PAHs 1 mg/dryKg Hydrocarbons

Trace and other Metals: Aluminum Al 0.1 mg/dryKg

Arsenic As 0.1 mg/dryKg

Barium Ba 0.1 mg/dryKg

Cadmium Cd 0.1 mg/dryKg

Calcium Ca 0.1 mg/dryKg

Chromium Cr 0.1 mg/dryKg

Copper Cu 0.1 mg/dryKg

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Iron Fe 0.1 mg/dryKg

Lead Pb 0.1 mg/dryKg

Magnesium Mg 0.1 mg/dryKg

Manganese Mn 0.1 mg/dryKg

Mercury Hg 0.1 mg/dryKg

Nickel Ni 0.1 mg/dryKg

Sodium Na 0.1 mg/dryKg

Selenium Se 0.1 mg/dryKg

Zinc Zn 0.1 mg/dryKg

9.6. Biodiversity: The field inspection team will be conducted by the biological experts specialized in flora and fauna of the area. While performing the survey the experts will look at the types of the plants existing in and around the study area. They will describe the flora important for feeding of wildlife.

The experts will search for the traces of the mammals, birds, snakes and insects which might be met in and around the area. The survey will include identification and description of rare spices, if any found. The report of the researches will include mapping of the animal paths, feeding reproduction and other sensitive places.

The biodiversity observation report will recommend if there are any sensitive places are found in the area which require particular treatment e.g. limitation of access or avoidance of facility construction.

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10. Conclusion: Based on the environmental impact assessment of the study area, the quantities of discharges and emissions (air pollutants, noise, effluents and solid wastes) associated with the implementation of the project are expected to be minimal and manageable through implementation of appropriate control measures. Although some of the impacts are assessed to have cumulative effects (i.e. land-use alteration and disturbance), their contributions to the deterioration of the existing baseline environmental condition are deemed as insignificant. None of the environmental aspects and impacts of the Project are deemed significant primarily because of the following specific conditions and project characteristics:  The site of the drilling activities is situated in a desert area.  The site of the drilling activities is far away from the residential communities.  The short period of drilling activities.  Neither industrial activities nor establishments are found in the area.

11. Public Hearings To explain and hear the relevant parties and persons in Al- Muthanna province about the exploration well drilling project in Al- Samawa desert, some of EIA teamwork members have met Mr.Aous M. Alkhateeb, The Direct Office Manager of Al- Muthanna Governor, Mr. Faris Abdulameer , head of EIA section in Al-Muthanna Environment Directorate and Mr. Emad Fahad, head of Al Salman Pastures. Most of discussions with these parties focused on the production of oil and gas in Al Muthanna province and how the new project will assist to raise the level of livelihood of the province residential by providing new jobs and other development projects; in the other hand, it was discussed the EIA issues reported in the scope of work and the necessity of the drilling contractor commitment with the environmental management plan that prepared to mitigate the adverse impacts of well

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drilling during the period of project execution. Pictures (1, 2) shows team meeting during the visiting of Al Muthanna Province.

Picture (1): EIA teamwork with Direct Office Manager of Al- Muthanna Governor

Picture (2): EIA teamwork with Head of EIA studies in Al- Muthanna Environment Directorate

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12. References:

1. Tara Mohamed Anwar Omer, "Country Pasture/Forage Resource Profiles, Iraq",2011, Food and Agriculture Organization FAO. 2. "Identifying Basic Needs of Al-Muthanna Governorate"

3. Adnan K. Al Shaibani, "Al Samawa Climate properties and its effects on resedents",2000, Al Muthanna University/Geography Dept.

4. Ross Hughes, "ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT", 1998, INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT (IIED).

5. Abbas J. Al Faissal, "The Classification of Iraqi Aquatic Livings", 2010, Basra University/ Marine Science Centre / vertebrates Navy Dept.

6. Raad A. Mohammed,"Natural environmental data for the Western Plateau In Al Muthanna province and its impact on the practice of farming and herding my activity", 2008, Al Muthanna University.

7. "The Iraqi Environmental Legislations and instructions", 2009, Ministry of oil.

8. Safaa J. Al Dulaimi, Hussein J. Hadhud, " Al Sulaibat Marsh: A Biological Environmental Natural Study", 2011, Al Qadissya University/ Geography Dept. 9. IAU, OCHA, "Muthanna Governorate Profile", March 2009.

10. MoO/PRDC, "ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASESSMENT OF 3D SEISMIC ACQUISITION IN THE BADRA OILFIELD, IRAQ", 2010.

11. EPSCO, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)Pre-Seismic and Drilling Activities , 2008, Apache Egypt.

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12. Center of Environment & Water, "ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTCONTRACT AREA A IN NORTHERN PART OF RUB AL- KHALI", 2005, Luksar Energy Limited/Al-Khobar, LSaudi Arabia.

13. Nature Iraq, Ministry of Environment, "Key Biodiversity Survey of Iraq", 2010 Consolidated Consultants, "ENVIRONMENTALAND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT STUDY (ESIA) OFTHE REHABILITATION OF EXPRESSWAY NO. 1 IN IRAQ", 2013, MINISTRY OF CONSTRUCTION AND HOUSING.

14. Review of Environmental factors for Carrona Exploration Program EL6505 3D Seismic Survey 2010.

Prepared by : Umweit (Australia )pty Limited on behalf of coal mine ,Australia pty Ltd. 15. HSE Risk Assessment in Seismic Data Acquisition Activities: Threat & Mitigation.(WWW.nord-stream.com/download/document/75/?...en. 16. 3D/2D Seismic Survey of Iraq Block 8 EIA Report, January2014. Prepared by : Dome HSE Consulting. 17. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)- Preseismic and drilling activities /…/Apache_EIA.pdf . 18. Environmental Impact Assessment of 3D seismic Acquisition In the Badra Oil Field .prepared by The Iraqi Moo-PRDC, Oct; 2010. 19. .Oil gas and drilling /teeic.indianaffairs.gov/ er /oil gas/impact/driller/ 20. Technical guidance manual for offshore and onshore oil and gas exploration ,development and production

Prepared for ministry of environmental and forests, government of India by Il & FS Ecosmart Limited Hyderabad ,September, 2009.

21. Environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) study report of the proposed onshore hydrocarbon exploratory drilling area in block 1 EL WAK District , Mandera County

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13. The official offices that have been visited by the study team during the time of conducting Baseline and EIA study:

 Ministry of Iraqi Oil (MoO)/ Directorate of Studies, Planning & Follow- UP/Department of HSE.  University of Al-Muthanna /Desert & Sawa Lake researches center.  Directorate of Environment of Al-Muthanna Province.  Al-Salman District.  Ministry of Transport /Iraqi Metrological Organization & Seismology.  Radiation Protection center / Iraq.

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14. Appendixes Appendix (1): Fuel consumption calculation

The Composition of both diesel fuel and Gasoline fuel can be represented in table (A) .

Table (A): Composition of diesel and gasoline fuel

Fuel Type Specific Gravity % C % H % S Diesel Fuel 0.89 86 12 2 Gasoline Fuel 0.80 88 11.5 0.5

The Volume of fuel gases which emitted from the operation of diesel fuel and gasoline fuel engines can by the following procedures

Assume: (1) Basis 100 kg of fuel.

(2) Ideal combustion process.

Evaluation of O2 Required The combustion equations are shown as follows:

C + O2 CO2 …………………… (1)

H2 + ½ O2 H2O (g) ……………………. (2)

S + O2 SO2 ……………………. (3)

By stochiometric evaluations for diesel fuel combustion:

From eq. (1) weight of O2 required = 7.16 * 32 = 229.12 kg

From eq. (2) weight of O2 required = 3*16 = 96 kg

From eq. (3) weight of O2 required = 0.0625 *32 = 2 kg

Total weight of O2 required = 229.12 + 96+2 = 327.71 kg

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Total air required = 327.12 * 100/21 = 1557.1 kg

3 Total Volume of O2 required = 327.12 * 22.4/32 = 228.9 m Total Volume of air required = 1557.71 * 22.4/29 = 1203.19 m3

The volume of fuel gases produced evaluated as follows:

- Weight of CO2 = 7.16 * 44 = 315.04 KG 3 Volume of CO2 = 315.04 * 22.4/44 = 160.38 m

- Weight of H2O = 6*18 = 108 kg 3 Volume of H2O = 108 * 22.4/18 = 134.4 m

- Weight of SO2 = 0.0625 * 64 = 4 KG

Volume of SO2 = 4.22.4/64 = 1.4 m3

- Weight of N2 = 1557.71 – 327.12 = 123015 kg 3 Volume of N2 = 1230.15 * 22.4 /28 = 984.5 m

100000 Total of 100 kg diesel fuel = = 112359.55cm3 0.89

= 112.63 Liter

Similar to Stochiometric evaluations can apply for gasoline fuel combustion and gives the following results:

Volume of 100 kg gasoline fuel = 125000 cm3

= 125 liter

Where:

X = Volume of fuel required (liter)

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Y = weight of fuel required (kg)

Z= volume of fuel gas produced (m3)

(푋)(100) Y = ……. (4) (Diesel) 112.36

(푋)(100) Y = ……. (5) (Gasoline) 125

(푦)(푉표푙푢푚푒 표푓 푔푎푠 푝푟표푑푢푐푒푑 푓푟표푚 100 푘푔 푓푢푒푙 ) Z = 100 ……. (6) By applying equations (4) , (5) and (6) on data listed in table (A.1) , the volume of fuel which emitted from combustion of diesel fuel can be illustrated in Table 36, while volumes of fuel gases which emitted from combustion of gasoline fuel can be illustrated in Table 37.

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Appendix (2): Analysis of Baseline Study:

Parameter Remark

 The UTM coordinates for study area are : Corner point Northing Easting A 3,400,000 360,000 B 3,400,000 490,000 C 3,340,000 536,000 D 3,340,000 410,000  Block -12 with an area of 7,680 km2 of almost regular shape of parallelogram.  Block-12 is located in the underexplored Al-Salman city zone, part of Al- Muthanna Province in the southern Exploration part of Iraq (the population is approximately 11839 people), 305 km south of Baghdad city, the capital of the Iraq. On 80 km NE of the Block, there is Al Samawa town, the administrative center of Al Muthanna Area province, and 130 km E of the Block there is Nasiriyah town.

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 The increase in the temperature means increase in amounts of heat gained and that due to increase in the angle of the sun rays falling as well as increase in the hours of the days. All these factors are responsible for the high temperatures in summer session. After that, there are decreases at all months fellows (November, December, January, February and March) to be 19.45 ° C, 13.9 ° C, 11.35 2 ° C, 14.6 ° C and 19.8° C, respectively.  The decrease in temperature are due to decrease in the angle of sun rays and the decrease in the days times as result of the moving of the sun south of The equator which decrease the amount of heat reaching the earth.

 The same table illustrated the maximum average temperatures shows a large difference between the two Climate Temperature sessions. The maximum average temperatures for the summer

are 42.8 ° C. While the maximum average temperatures between 32.4 ° C in April and 45.3° C in August which is the highest in this session. In winter the average temperatures reach 14.8 ° C, while the maximum average temperatures in this session between 26.2 ° C in 17 November and 17 in ° C January. In the case of minimum average temperature it shows a large difference between the two sessions. In summer session, the minimum average temperature 24.8 ° C and its differ from month to month. Its 18.3° C in April and 28.2° C in July. While the minimum average temperature in winter is 8.7°C. It's between 12.7 ° C in November and 5.7 ° C in January. 139

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

 The annual rains falling in the area are about 94.3 mm. It is mostly a winter rains starting from October which about 5.4 mm and then increases to be 22.7 – 17.9 mm in the months of November and December, respectively (Table 6).

 It reaches the highest amount at November at 22.7 mm. Then the amount of

Precipitation rains decreases to be at 0.2 and 5.4 mm for the months of September and October respectively. These decreases in the amounts of rains are due to the deceases of low pressure winds coming to the area specially and to Iraq in general.

 The average relative humidity reported in Al-samawa station for (2011- 2013)

Relative is 37.3%.

Humidity  The minimum and maximum relative humidity reported in Al-samawa station for (2011-2013) are 20.3% and 63.3 % respectively. These percentages were calculated from Table 7.  Generally the prevailing wind is northwest. Wind The average wind speed reported in Al-samawa station for (2000-2013) is 3.7 m/sec (Table 9).

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 The present surface of the southern desert characterized by climatic fluctuations between wet, arid and semiarid, which induced denudations in places and deposition in others.  The area elevation about 400 m above sea level and its slop from the West toward the East and North_ East to be about 100m above sea level (see MAP A from the Article of MAPS in Appendix 2).  The block is almost flat with scattered flat- topped isolated hills.  The desert is locally incised by dry rivers wadies filled with water only in winter or spring during the rainy season. Geomorphology  There are some sand dunes at the N-E part of Block 12 (see MAP B), which include

domed-shape and elongated types.  The topography, geology, wind direction and vegetation cover affected the shape, and arrangement of dunes and their extension in W-SE orientation.

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Parameter Remark

 There is only a small town (Al-Salman) at the center of the block 12.  The area trend and dip down from west to the east.  At the S-E part of the block recrystallized and dolomitic limestone facies of Um-Er- Radhuma Fn.  (Paleocene age) exposed (pal2u in MAP C), lower member of Dammam Fn.  Eocene age of marl and Nummulitic limestone facies appears at the N-W part of the block toward the south (Eocld in MAP C), to the middle part of the block, the Nummulitic limestone of middle member of Dammam Fn. Geology  Eocene age had exposed (Eoc2d in I MAP C), limestone with marl facies of the upper member of Um-Er-Radhuma Fn.  (Eocene age) exposed to the east of the block (Eoc3d MAP C) and the S-E the eastern part of the block represented by the middle member of Dammam fn.  (Eoc2d - MAP B) is interspersed by recent sediments which covered the whole depressions and wadies.  At some hills Ghar Fn. (Miocene age) of calcareous sand exposed (miolgh MAP C) and there is a little occurrence of Zahra Fn.  (pli - plez - MAP B) (Middle Miocene age) of fine clastic and limestone exposed at the area (MAPS B, C). All maps (A, B, C and D) are attached in Appendix2.

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Parameter Remark  Al Muthanna Province natural water sources are confined to the northern areas around the Euphrates River, where the river crosses Al- Muthanna in Al- Samawa City only.

 Rainfall water is considered to be the only source of surface water in the study area, it usually form surface ponds and fill the seasonal valleys when it heavily rains.  These water valleys will not last for a long time due to dominant climate conditions and the high rate of evaporation in the area.  Large quantities of these waters will rapidly move down towards the ground water due to the high permeability characteristics of the area soil. Hydrology  Low basins represent the best rainfall collective spots in the study area especially in Al Salman region, where basins from a large area extend to Al Saudi Arabia Country through Iraqi borders.  Residents of Al Salman City use this water for grazing  purposes especially in the winter season, where they can’t use it for agricultural purposes because its existence is temporally and usually it does not last more than one or two months. The low basins are called locally Faidaht.  Sawa Lake lies in south-west of Al-Samawa city (about 30 km) and 110km in the north of Al-Salmam district.

 Ground water reservoirs in the study area is supplied with water by several sources :  Euphrates River water Hydrogeology  rainfall water  Al Dammam Formation is the dominant formation in the southern Bedouin Desert of Iraq 143

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

which is considered to be the main ground reservoir in the region; its maximum thickness is estimated to be 150 m.  Depth of ground water varies (20 m in the north) and deep (230 m in Al- Salman region near the borders of Al LSaudi Arabia).

 Block 12 is almost flat with scattered flat-topped isolated hills (buttes) and plateaus, covered mainly by gravel and rock debris; sand dunes are found locally.  The desert is locally incised by dry riverbeds (wadis), filled with water only in winter or Landscape spring during the rainy season.  This area is also characterized by the presence of sand levees, quicksand, escarpments and depressions.  Soils in Al Salman Region can be classified into two main types: 1- Mixed Gypsum desert Soil: is very dominant in the northern part of Al salman region. This type of soil is characterized as sandy or mixed sandy soil of coarse and moderate grained texture. It consist of approximately 2% - 50% gypsum and 2000 - 6000 ppm salts. In the bottom of valleys an d low level lands, this type of soil will be found in a mixed sandy texture or mixed silt texture where calcite forms 19.8% of the soil. 2- Gravel and Stone Desert Soils: covers the southern part of Al Salman Region and Soil considered to be the most common type of soils in Al Salman. This soil has grey or brown color where it comprises of calcite, dolomite and granite Stones. Most of these rocks have sharp endings due to its mechanical erosion origin formation. This soil is 10 cm average depth and has permeability of 10 mm/hr.  Wide areas within this region have no soils because of the continuous wind erosion transporting the soil to other places leaving only rocks and stones. Hence, these areas have a high rate of permeability and are not suitable for agriculture.

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 Gravel and stone desert soils have two sub-types:  Low land soil: is a sedimentary soil formed by valleys sediments that collect Rainfall water. It has a mixed clay and mixed sandy texture, and it is the only sub-type of this soil that can be used for agriculture purposes. This type covers small areas in the north of Al Salman.  Sand Dunes Soil: This type of soil can be seen in eastern north and southern parts of Al Salman in long shaped lines parallel to the sedimentary plateau. It has a coarse grained texture and high rate of permeability. It comprises mostly of sands and that is the reason of its instability due to wind erosion effect. It has low level vegetation cover where its organic content is very low.

 There is some agricultural lands belong to the Ministry of the financial and its leased to the Land farmers according to regular contracts. Resources  These lands are irrigated by the water of wells and spread in different sites.  The southern parts of the region, especially Al Salman region (within the study block); are considered to be rich pastures due to the availability of water sources and fertility of Vegetation soil, making it a good destination for herds.  Natural product is used for human consumption :

 Mushroom

Agricultural  Truffle production  The agriculture production is :  Malt  Wheat 145

Environmental Impact Assessment of One Exploration Well Drilling, Block 12 - Iraq

 Perennial and Annual shrubs  Tamarisk, santolina, Thuja, Rhanterium Epapposum, Lycium, Haloxylon ammodendron, Tamarix nilotica, Atriplex

Desert Plants  Perennial grasses and herbs Of the Region  Poa bulbosw L., Paeonia officinalis, Tragopogon porrifolius, Chrozophora plicata.

 Annual Grasses and Herbs  Malva parviflora, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Borage officinalis, Hordeum vulgare, Matricaria recutita, Schanginia aegyptiaca.

 Mammal species :  Wolves, hyenas, gazelles, wild boars, fox, bats and others.  Common desert birds:  Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis), Bar-tailed Lark (Ammomanes cincture), Temminck's Lark (Eremophila bilopha), Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo), Macqueen’s Bustard (Chlamydotis Wildlife macqueenii), Spotted Sandgrouse (Pterocles senegallus), Cream-coloured Courser (Cursorius cursor), Desert Wheatear (Oenanthe deserti), and Desert Finch (Rhodospiza obsoletus).  Breeding birds  SaroArabian Breeding communities as follows: Ammomanes deserti, Pycnonotus leucoti, Turdoides altirostris, Oenanthe lugens and Rhodospiza obsoletus.  Reports indicates that in the area an active hunting of the Macqueen’s Bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii) is taking place. 146

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 Water birds including - Sterna hirundo and S.albifrons that breed on islands within flooded areas around Euphrates and Cursorius cursor, Merops superciliosus and Pycnonotus leucotis that breed in the surrounding area. - Large numbers of Platalea leucorodia occur in winter. A wide selection of waders, gulls and terns uses the area on passage. - Winter species include several waterfowls of Anser anser, Tadorna ferruginea, Mergellusalbellus, and Grus grus. - The flat, non-rocky parts provide good habitat for Macqueen’s Bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii (Vulnerable), which is hunted extensively here each season. - Other fauna : Honey Badger (Mellivora capensis), Striped Hyena (Near Threatened), and Grey Wolf (Canis lupus) occur along with other common species. Gazelles used to be found in the western parts of this area, but it is not clear whether they still occurt. Reptiles include Desert Monito (Varanus griseus), Spiny-tailed Lizard (Uromastyx aegyptia), and (Laudakia nupta).

Aquatic  No aquatic biological resources. Biological Resources Animal Breeding  Sheep ,Goats & Camels  The average concentration of the natural radioactive isotopes in Iraqi soils including Al- Radiation Muthanna governorate indicate the acceptable limits according to the international agency for the atomic energy.

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Parameter Remark

 Uruk is the most famous archeological sites of Al Muthanna Province. Cultural &  It lies about 18 Km away from the center of Al Muthanna within Archeological Al Samawa City.  The study area and adjacent territories contain three sanctuaries as follow :  Al Alawia Kadhimia Sanctuary: it lies about 40 Km from Al

Environmental Holly Sanctuaries Samawa. Restricted  Kefaya Sanctuar  Saed Dekheel Sanctuary . Zones

 Masjed Al-Rasoul Mosques (Masjeds)  Masjed Al-Salman  Al –Salaman Prison (locally common name is Nograt AL- Archeological Salman) is one of the oldest prisons in Iraq. Building  In the sixties ,the Iraqi government established a new other prison on one of the hills near the old one.

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Parameter Remark  Uruk is the most famous archeological sites of Al Muthanna Province. Cultural & Archeological  It lies about 18 Km away from the center of Al Muthanna within Al Samawa City.  The study area and adjacent territories contain three sanctuaries as follow :  Al Alawia Kadhimia Sanctuary: it lies about 40 Km from Al Environmental Holly Sanctuaries Samawa.  Restricted Kefaya Sanctuar  Saed Dekheel Sanctuary . Zones

 Masjed Al-Rasoul Mosques (Masjeds)  Masjed Al-Salman  Al –Salaman Prison (locally common name is Nograt AL- Salman) is one of the oldest prisons in Iraq. Archeological Building  In the sixties, the Iraqi government established a new other prison

on one of the hills near the old one.

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Parameter Remark  The study and adjacent areas do not include any industrial activities.  The industrial obvious thing is some small stone crushes machines (3 Man –Made load Areas machines).

 There are five towers located along the distance between Al- Samawa and Al-Salman.  Al Samawa City  Al Rumaitha City Cities & Towns  Al Khithir City  Al Salman City : Al- Salman City lies within Block-12 exactly  About 70% of Al-salman district people are working in grazing and the other are working as official employees (civil employees, soldiers, Economy and Social – policemen).The monthly average of the employee's salary is about one Economic Income million I.D. Environment  There are two regions of agricultural areas in Al-Muthanna :  The first one is parallel to the desert plateau at its connection point with the Euphrates plain with 10 Km width and 80 km long. This Agriculture agriculture region has an estimated area of 250,000 Acres  The second agriculture region extends from the first region crossing Al Salman City, where the agriculture area is estimated to be 150,000 acres in the form of scattered areas

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 Samawa had the largest cement factories in the Middle East during

the1970s with a total production capacity of 2.85 million tons a year.  Five new cement factories with a capacity of 9 million tons a year are under construction on the outskirts of Al-Samawa and will provide employment for. Industry  Several thousand skilled and unskilled workers as well as filling 45% of Iraq's total cement needs.  A small oil refinery was reopened in Samawa in 2005 after being idle for 15 years

 Grazing is very dominant in the study area and considered to be an Grazing important income source for the people.  Al Muthanna Province has a high level of unemployment rate due to the lack of functioning industries and the reduction of agriculture activities because of the low precipitation level and the increase of Employment constructed dams over Iraq's rivers by the neighboring countries, in addition to the destruction of many infrastructures during wars over the country. The unemployment rate in Al Muthanna Province about 44 %.  There are three main hospitals in Al Muthanna Province: - Al Khithir General Hospital Health - Al Rumaitha General Hospital Infrastructure Infrastructure - Al Hussein Educational Hospital - Five new medical centers have been recently established in Al-Samawa.

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 Some of the houses are not linked to electricity sources, especially in far-off areas as Al– Salman and Bsayah. Electricity Electricity is provided to the Al-Salman district by electrical generators installed by the governorate authority and liked with electricity distribution columns. No airport in Al-Muthanna province Airports

 The prevailing system of sanitation is septic system; some houses in Al- Samawa city center and Al-Rumaitha district are linked with the sewage system.

Sanitation System  Many houses in different areas are suffering of lack both services and septic facilities system.  Al Salman City has no sewage or drain system. Scattered houses make it difficult to construct any system there It is obvious that 41% of the population of Al-Muthanna sample is Education illiterate and the same percentage is of primary education.

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Appendix (3):

Maps (A, B, C, D)

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