This report is a summary of major oil shale extraction and retorting development activities. The potential impacts on the physical environment which could result from commercial oil shale development are discussed relative to sources, properties, and quantities of wastes. The report describes exdisting air, water, and land resources in northwestern Colorado and northeastern Utah. The identification of potential impacts of oil shale development on these resources, pollution control technologies and management plans are reviewed. Potential hazards associated with refining and end use of shale oil products are evaluated. The major environmental monitoring and impact studies are identified, and the scope of oil shale development projects is assessed by this document.