Urge Congress to Permanently Protect the Arctic Refuge!

Dear Representative,

As your constituent, I am deeply concerned about the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and the treasured wildlife that lives there. That's why I strongly urge you to ensure that this national treasure is permanently protected to the full extent of the law by supporting the Udall-Eisenhower Arctic Wilderness Act (H.R. 39).

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and Rep. Jim Ramstad (R-MN), would designate the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as a wilderness area with permanent protections.

These permanent protections are especially important for America's remaining polar bears. According to a U.S. Geological Survey report, polar bears will likely be extinct in Alaska in as little as 50 years due to rapidly melting sea ice. The Arctic Refuge is one of the most important onshore denning habitats for these magnificent creatures -- and permanent protections will give them a fighting chance at survival.

This special place has long been protected from harmful new drilling operations. But year after year, big oil companies and their allies continue lobbying to open up the Refuge to new drilling.

This can only have devastating consequences for our imperiled wildlife.

Drilling and the transportation and infrastructure needed to support it could wreak havoc on the Arctic Refuge and the animals like caribou, our last remaining polar bears and the millions of migratory birds that depend on this vital habitat.

With around 400 crude oil and toxic spills each year and just 30 miles west of the Refuge, the Prudhoe oil field is testament to the destruction that the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge would face if Big Oil were allowed in.

In light of these facts, I strongly urge you to support H.R. 39 and permanent protection for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Only this type of "wilderness" designation will stop the ceaseless efforts to drill in this special place -- and give America's struggling polar bears a chance at survival.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my comments. I eagerly await your response.