1. United States
2. Mont.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to ConocoPhillips' planned oil exploration in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. The recently released draft environmental review reveals an alarming scope of activities that threaten our pristine Alaskan wilderness and contribute to the climate crisis. ConocoPhillips intends to drill four exploration wells near their Willow discovery and conduct seismic exploration across 300 square miles. This extensive operation will involve the construction of ice roads, airstrips, and the deployment of heavy equipment in sensitive ecosystems. While the company touts the creation of 900 peak jobs, we must consider the long-term environmental costs against short-term economic gains. The rushed nature of this process is deeply concerning. A mere one-week comment period for such a significant project is woefully inadequate and suggests an attempt to sidestep proper public scrutiny. This haste is unacceptable for a project with far-reaching implications for our environment and climate. I urge you to take immediate action to halt this exploration program. We need a more comprehensive environmental impact assessment and a genuine public consultation process. The potential start date as early as this month, depending on snow and ice conditions, leaves little time for careful consideration of the consequences. Our nation's wild spaces and climate future should not be sacrificed for corporate profits. Please stand with your constituents and environmental experts in opposing this reckless expansion of oil exploration in Alaska. We need leadership that prioritizes long-term environmental stewardship over short-sighted resource extraction.