The ARA will evaluate the ability to operate Alaska’s oil and gas infrastructure safely for another generation. This comprehensive, engineering-oriented assessment will report on the status of the existing infrastructure, components, systems, or hazards.  The ARA will identify and rank risks based on consequences to State revenue, safety, and the environment, and recommend mitigation measures for agency consideration.

Governor Palin announced this three-year, $5 million initiative in May 2007. The input of state and federal agencies, local government, industry, environmental groups, and the public will be actively sought and incorporated at key points throughout the project. In June 2008, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation contracted with a team of Emerald and ABS Consulting to design and implement the project.

The actual scope of the project will be determined in Phase 1. Existing oil and gas infrastructure including the North Slope, TAPS, and Cook Inlet will be considered. For more information, see What's Included.