Pacific NorthWest LNG has completed 3D modeling regarding the potential impacts the Lelu Island terminal could have on Flora Bank and the report submitted to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency indicates there would be virtually no impact.
The study was undertaken using Delft3D model technology using baseline conditions and looking at a five year period as well as wave conditions in a 20 and 50 year storm event.
“The Delft3D model results indicate little change to the overall morphology patterns with the marine structures in place, relative to modelled baseline results. The project’s marine terminal is to be located on a dynamic site and it is not expected to result in changes to the natural conditions based on the modelled hydrodynamics and resulting morphology. While small increases in erosion and deposition occurred over Flora Bank in the model, these changes are consistent in scale with the naturally occurring bedform variations on Flora Bank,” reads the summary report.
“In conclusion, modeling does not indicate a net change in erosion or deposition patterns, nor does the model suggest long-term loss of sand or increased sedimentation of Flora Bank by fine silt materials.”