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Governor Parnell Presses to Open OCS  Print Now Printer Friendly

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 09-033

September 3, 2009, Anchorage, Alaska – In a major policy speech today, Governor Sean Parnell expressed strong support for exploration and development in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS).

“OCS exploration is about Alaska jobs and revenue,” Governor Parnell said. “And, it’s about reducing America’s dependence on foreign oil and gas. We currently import nearly 60 percent of our oil and as much as 16 percent of our natural gas supplies. We simply cannot afford to keep our country’s energy future in other nations’ hands.”

Governor Parnell also renewed his commitment to consult with rural communities in a respectful manner to ensure safe development.

“I have a deep love and respect for the Alaska Native people and culture,” Governor Parnell said. “From this shared ground, we can work together to ensure whale harvests and other subsistence activities will continue while offshore exploration and development is conducted safely.”

In a letter to Interior Secretary Ken Salazar today, Governor Parnell stated his strong support for a responsible OCS leasing program and urged support for a 5-year leasing plan. The governor’s letter outlined the guiding principles for responsible OCS development.

  • A comprehensive energy future must include oil and gas, in addition to conservation and greater reliance on renewable sources.

  • Development of the OCS will increase jobs and revenue for both Alaska and the nation.

  • Development of Alaska’s OCS will significantly advance U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.

  • Alaska has a long record of responsible offshore development that demonstrates sensitivity and respect for Native culture, tradition and a subsistence lifestyle.

  • Natural gas from the OCS can enhance the economic potential of the Alaska natural gas pipeline, bringing clean fuel to American homes.

  • The federal government should share a certain percentage of revenue derived from OCS development with affected coastal states, including Alaska.
A copy of Governor Parnell’s letter to Secretary Salazar can be found at: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/pdf/GovParnell-Salazar-OCS_Sept3-2009.pdf

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