Oil and Gas production and the Carbon and Water cycle in Alaska #6 Flashcards
1
Q
Where and when were oil and gas discovered?
A
Prudhoe Bay (north slope of Alaska, between Brooks Range and Arctic Ocean) in 1968.
2
Q
What were some severe challenges for development?
A
Harsh climate, darkness in winter,permafrost, melting of active layer, remoteness, poor accessibility and fragile ecosystem.
3
Q
Why did development continue despite challenges?
A
USA’s policy to reduce oil imports and high global prices.
4
Q
What years did the completion of pipelines,roads,power lines and oil plants occur?
A
1960s and 1970s.
5
Q
By the 1990s how much of the USA’s oil did the North Slope account for?
A
nearly a quarter.
6
Q
How much of the USA’s oil does the North Slope account for today and why?
A
Only 6% due to high production costs and massive growth of oil shale industry in USA.
