Secretarial order threatens the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

WASHINGTON (May 31, 2017) –Secretary Ryan Zinke has signed a signed a secretarial order pushing for further energy development in the National Petroleum Reserve – Alaska (NPR-A) and updating resource assessments for the Coastal Plain or "1002 area" of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Statement from Defenders of Wildlife Vice President of Government Relations Robert Dewey:

“Is there nothing sacred to this administration? Secretary Zinke’s order is further evidence of the administration’s push to drill in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, the crown jewel of the Refuge System. It contradicts his role as steward of our natural heritage and conflicts with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s recent scientific assessment which recommended that the Coastal Plain be forever protected as wilderness.

“The Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is one of America’s last great wild places, among the most ecologically vital ecosystems in the world. It is home for hundreds of iconic, sensitive and unique species, a place where the next generation of wildlife is born and raised. All of that will be lost the second the stampede for oil is unleashed on this pristine sanctuary.”