A Plea To President Trump To Save Alaska’s Wildlife Refuge: Halt Oil Leasing
Dear President Trump,
I am writing on behalf of Peace 4 Animals and World Animal News to share our heartfelt concern regarding your recent decision to open Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil leasing.
Alaska’s most cherished refuge represents one of the few remaining truly pristine landscapes on Earth. It provides sanctuary for polar bears, caribou, musk oxen, migratory birds, and countless other species that depend on its delicate ecosystem for survival. Once disturbed, this untouched wilderness can never be fully restored. The risk of pollution, oil spills, and habitat loss is too great, and the cost to future generations is immeasurable.
The recent decision to open the entire 1.56 million acres of the Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas leasing deeply concerns many Americans who treasure our nation’s natural heritage. In addition to this, Secretary Burgum announced that the Department of the Interior (DOI) has completed a land exchange allowing a road to be built through the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, fragmenting another critical habitat that countless species depend upon.
Further, the issuance of right-of-way permits and authorization for the Ambler Road project, which aims to access potential new mining areas, poses serious risks to Alaska’s wildlife and people. This project has been opposed by 88 Alaskan Native Tribes and First Nations, who have long been stewards of these lands and understand the delicate balance that sustains both wildlife and their way of life.
Additionally, the reaffirmation of the Coastal Plain leases issued to the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority, covering roughly 370,000 acres within the Coastal Plain, compounds these concerns. Collectively, these actions threaten not only Alaska’s pristine Arctic National Wildlife Refuge but the vital ecosystems that make Alaska one of the last great wildernesses on Earth.
Mr. President, we understand the importance of strengthening the U.S. economy and ensuring energy independence. However, these goals can be achieved without sacrificing one of America’s last great wild frontiers. Investing in clean, renewable energy presents an extraordinary opportunity to create sustainable American jobs, grow the economy, and position the United States as a global leader in innovation while protecting our natural heritage.
Safeguarding Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge would be a remarkable act of leadership, one that demonstrates strength, compassion, and stewardship for the future of our planet, its wildlife, and our children. Reconsidering this decision would not only preserve one of the most sacred and majestic places on Earth but also honor America’s legacy as a nation that cherishes its natural wonders.
Thank you for your time, service, and attention to this matter. We hope you will stand to protect the natural treasures that reflect the greatness and beauty of America.
Warm regards,
Katie Cleary
On behalf of Peace 4 Animals and World Animal News
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