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6.0 Impact Considerations Version :27.10.4 <br /> Sheltered Tidal Flats <br /> • Description <br /> . Sheltered tidal flats are composed primarily of mud with minor amounts of sand <br /> and shell. <br /> . They are usually present in calm-water habitats, sheltered from major wave <br /> activity, and backed by marshes. <br /> . The sediments are very soft and cannot support even light foot traffic in many <br /> areas. <br /> . There can be large concentrations of bivalves, worms, and other invertebrates in <br /> the sediments. <br /> . They are heavily used by birds for feeding. <br /> • Predicted Oil Behavior <br /> . Oil does not usually adhere to the surface of sheltered 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 will not penetrate the water-saturated sediments, but could penetrate <br /> burrows and desiccation cracks or other crevices in muddy sediments. <br /> . In areas of high suspended sediment concentrations, the oil and sediments <br /> could mix, resulting in the deposition of contaminated sediments on the flats. <br /> • Biological impacts may be severe. <br /> • Response Considerations <br /> . These are high-priority areas for protection since cleanup options are limited. <br /> . Cleanup of the flat surface is very difficult because of the soft substrate; many <br /> methods may be restricted. <br /> • Low-pressure flushing and deployment of sorbents from shallow-draft boats <br /> may be attempted. <br /> Shell Supply and Distribution 6-47 Stockton Terminal FRP <br /> ©2019 Witt O' Brien's Revision Date:October, 2019 <br />