What happens in Alaska won't just stay in Alaska...

I am deeply disturbed by a recent New York Times article, "Bush Mulls Resumed Energy Drilling Off Alaska" that discusses how President Bush is thinking of opening up Alaskan oceans for oil and gas companies to drill.

The article says, "President Bush is considering whether to lift the 17-year-old moratorium on energy drilling in the waters off southwestern Alaska, a White House spokeswoman said Sunday, which would allow oil and gas companies to try to tap into more than five trillion cubic feet of natural gas that lies beneath rich fishing grounds."

Bristol Bay would be an area where drilling would happen, obstructing the habitats of sea lions, endangered whales and sockeye salmon. Many environmental groups are fighting this possible decision. "There has been widespread speculation among environmental groups and fishing industry representatives that President Bush would end the moratorium during the lame-duck session of Congress, allowing the Interior Department to proceed with its plans to market oil and gas leases in the southern section of the bay, along the north coast of the Aleutian Islands."

By using one of the last natural resources in North America for political or economical gain, one of the most pristine ecosystems could become nothing but a platform for oil. I don't think President Bush or the Interior Department get what their plans would do to the environment. All they think about is the "estimated 11,500 jobs and net benefits of $7.7 billion." The article also says the Interior Department reported that 14 oil and gas companies support the possible plan for action.

Gee, do you think the figure $7.7 billion may have something to do with those feelings?

My concern is that every last "open" space, whether it be oceans or wilderness, will be developed, drilled or destroyed all for money. While the government says it is to reduce our need for foreign oil, I say there are plenty of alternatives to traditional petroleum. Biodiesel, hybrid vehicles and electric cars are just a start.

If this plan for Alaska goes through, what's next? The Everglades?