Today (Sept. 6th, 2023) John Boyle, Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, issued a statement in response to the Department of the Interior cancelling legally-issued oil and gas leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and proposing new regulations on oil and gas development in the National Petroleum Reserve – Alaska.
Once again we see the Biden Administration elevating environmental extremism over national security, energy independence, and the voices of local indigenous people who overwhelmingly support economic development in their region, said DNR Commissioner John Boyle. At a time when the American people are struggling with oppressive inflation and high energy costs, we should be looking to grow our economy and produce more energy rather than playing into the hands of despots and potentates around the world.
Alaska Dept. of Natural Resources
Juneau, AK
At-risk Alaskans can join diabetes prevention program
Alaskans across the state who are at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes are eligible to join a yearlong program to help them lose weight and improve their health.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service is offering the Zoom-based program, led by instructor Melissa Clampitt.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which developed the program, one in three Americans has prediabetes, and excess weight is a key risk factor. The program is overseen by the CDC and the Diabetes Training and Technical Assistance Center.
Participants get ideas and support from other participants and Clampitt, a trained Extension lifestyle coach. Beginning on Oct. 11, participants will meet weekly on Wednesdays for about 16 weeks and at least once monthly after that.
Two one-hour sessions are available, from noon-1 p.m. or 6-7 p.m.
Registration is available on the Extension workshop website. Please contact Clampitt at 907-745-3551 or [email protected] prior to registering to determine eligibility and discuss the program.
The fee of $150 includes a digital scale and program materials that will be mailed to participants. The deadline to register is Sept. 29.
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, AK
Resource Development Council for Alaska condemns Department of Interior’s decision to cancel legally obtained oil and gas leases in ANWR
Today, Leila Kimbrell, Executive Director for the Resource Development Council of Alaska, Inc. (RDC), released the following statement strongly condemning today’s announcement from the Department of Interior to cancel oil and gas leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). This ill-advised and potentially illegal decision not only undermines Alaska’s economic prospects but also guarantees even more energy production will move overseas.
The Biden administration claims to be committed to a clean energy future, yet they have taken the inexplicable step of locking up one of the safest, most environmentally careful locations in the world for responsible development. By shutting the door on this opportunity, the administration is doing a disservice not only to the environment but also the American people.
This decision is the latest in a string of broken promises to Alaska. Time and again, we have been assured that our voices and concerns will be heard, and our right to economic self-determination protected. However, this administration continues to lock up our lands and stifle our potential for growth and prosperity while simultaneously increasing the U.S.’s reliance on foreign oil during a time of painfully high energy costs.
This move also sends a chilling message to potential investors and industry stakeholders. It creates an atmosphere of chaos, where laws and decisions made today may be arbitrarily thrown out tomorrow depending on who wins elections. This uncertainty discourages investment in Alaska’s energy sector and results in an investment climate where capital is sidelined. Such continual upheaval jeopardizes jobs and economic growth and hinders the United States’ path to energy security.
Ironically, as the administration locks up domestic energy resources, it forces even greater reliance on energy imports from countries that lack our robust environmental standards and actively oppose U.S. interests. This is a dangerous and counterproductive move that not only jeopardizes our national security but also undermines the administration’s professed commitment to addressing climate change on a global scale. Just a few weeks ago, China and Russia sent warships to cruise off the coast of Alaska. Now is not the time to further weaken our ability to produce domestic energy, which allows the U.S. to better defend itself.
The RDC urges the Biden administration to reconsider this poorly thought-out decision and work in good faith with Alaska stakeholders to find common-sense solutions that balance environmental protection with responsible resource development. We believe it is possible to meet the nation’s energy needs, protect the environment, and foster economic growth in Alaska, all while reducing energy reliance from countries that do not share our values or interests.
RDC will be closely reviewing the draft SEIS proposing to repeal the remaining ANWR leases and the proposed rule proposing to cancel future lease development in the NPR-A during the public comment periods for these two actions. RDC encourages all Alaskans to weigh in during these public comment periods in support of responsible development of Alaska’s and America’s resources.
Resource Development Council
Anchorage, AK
