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6.0 Impact Considerations Version :27.10.4 <br /> Exposed Tidal Flats <br /> • Description <br /> • Exposed tidal flats are broad intertidal areas composed primarily of sand and <br /> minor amounts of gravel. <br /> . The presence of sand indicates that tidal currents and waves are strong enough <br /> to mobilize the sediments. <br /> . They are usually associated with another shoreline type on the landward side of <br /> the flat, though they can occur as separate shoals; they are commonly <br /> associated with tidal inlets. <br /> • Biological use can be very high, with large numbers of infauna, heavy use by <br /> birds for roosting and foraging, and use by foraging fish. <br /> • Predicted Oil Behavior <br /> • Oil does not usually adhere to the surface of exposed tidal flats, but rather <br /> moves across the flat and accumulates at the high-tide line. <br /> • Deposition of oil on the flat may occur on a falling tide if concentrations are <br /> heavy. <br /> . Oil does not penetrate water-saturated sediments, but may penetrate coarse- <br /> grained sand and coat gravel. <br /> • Biological damage may be severe, primarily to infauna, thereby reducing food <br /> sources for birds and other predators. <br /> • Response Considerations <br /> • Currents and waves can be very effective in natural removal of the oil. <br /> . The use of heavy machinery should be restricted to prevent oil mixing into the <br /> sediments. <br /> Shell Supply and Distribution 6-44 Stockton Terminal FRP <br /> ©2019 Witt O' Brien's Revision Date:October, 2019 <br />