The ANWR Leasing Decision By Trump Is Not A Good Idea

The ANWR Leasing Decision By Trump Is Not A Good Idea

BERNARD SPIT, AK - UNDATED: FILE PHOTO shows a young polar bear stands on its hind legs on the ... [+] barrier island of Bernard Spit, along the eastern arctic coast of Alaska. PHOTOGRAPH BY Steven Kazlowski / Barcroft Media (Photo credit should read Steven Kazlowski / Barcroft Medi via Getty Images)



Barcroft Media via Getty Images

The Administration has announced plans to offer oil leases in the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), one of the most remaining areas that has potential for undiscovered conventional oil and gas resources. Some in the industry, and conservatives more generally, have pushed for this for many years, arguing it will contribute to the U.S. economy, government revenues, union jobs, and/or energy independence. Environmental and conservation groups staunchly oppose it, fearing an unspoiled area will be, well, spoiled, and that caribou herds who use the area for calving will be negatively affected.

I have no expertise regarding the ecology of the area, and I suspect that it is possible the industry could operate there (with appropriate oversight) in a manner that would not create significant negative effects for the wildlife. Nor do I know how much oil