President Obama on Tuesday moved to protect Alaska’s Bristol Bay from oil and gas exploration without making any mention of a contentious copper and gold mine project in the area.
The executive action will help shield Bristol Bay, which supports a $2 million commercial fishing industry, from oil and gas leasing.
“I took action to make sure that one of America’s greatest natural resources and a massive economic engine for not only for Alaska but for America, Bristol Bay, is preserved for future generations,” Obama said in a video released by the White House.
“It is something that is too precious for us to put out to highest bidder,” Obama said.
“Given the lack of interest by industry and the public divide over allowing oil and gas exploration in this area, I am not objecting to this decision at this time,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska.)
“I think we all recognize that these are some of our state’s richest fishing waters. What I do not understand is why this decision could not be made within the context of the administration’s upcoming plan for offshore leasing — or at least announced at the same time,” she added.
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