WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), wrote to Secretary Zinke questioning his position on drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

The full letter can be read below and found here:

Dear Secretary Zinke,

As you know, Republicans are devising a scheme to open the Arctic Wildlife National Refuge—the largest protected tract of unspoiled refuge in America—to oil and gas development.

The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act states that: “Each refuge shall be managed to fulfill the mission of the System, as well as the specific purposes for which that refuge was established, and may not be used for any purpose unless it is “compatible with the purposes for which these areas are established.”

The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge was specifically created to protect the pristine habitats of iconic species like the polar bear, musk ox, and caribou. 

Do you believe that oil and gas development is compatible with the purpose for which the refuge was established, which was to protect wildlife and its habitat? 

Thank you for your prompt response to this inquiry.

Sincerely,
Maria Cantwell
United States Senator

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