Below is material that you may use to research the TRUTH about the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

The material in this section is drawn from a variety of sources and is extensive. Those linked to other sites have a (N) next to the title to indicate that a new browser window will open to display it. That will make it easier for you to return to this site, by simply closing the new window or switching back to this one.

Top 10 Oil Industry Myths

Frequently asked questions about oil industry statements regarding drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

Factual Overview of the Wildlife Refuge (N)

Prepared by Defenders of Wildlife, this extensive overview of the Arctic Refuge covers its history, animals and birds, threats to wildlife that oil will bring, expert opinions and more. Excellent section on migratory birds that may live near you part of the year and then migrate to the Arctic Refuge. They also incorporate links to the US Fish & Wildlife Service information (see next entry)

US Fish & Wildlife Department Studies (N)

The most extensive information compiled on the Arctic Refuge over a period of 40 years. The government's own information details the dangers to wildlife if oil drilling occurs in this delicate wilderness. In particular you may want to read their report: Potential Impact of Proposed Oil and Gas Development on the Arctic Refuge Coastal Plain.

Analysis of Oil and Gas Production in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (N)
This report, produced in March 2004 by the US Energy Information Agency demonstrates that oil from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge will only reduce our dependence on foreign oil about 3-4% and will have no impact on prices or overall supply issues.

US Geological Survey Study on Wildlife (N)

This 2002 study by the USGS proves that oil development on the Arctic coastal plain in the Arctic Refuge would be harmful to wildlife.

Wilderness and Issues Overview (N)

Another excellent overview by the Alaska Wilderness League covering the history of the Arctic Refuge, its animals and the Gwich'in native people who depend on the wildlife for subsistance needs.

The 'Dirty 4' Report

This report by Athan Manuel on behalf of the US Public Interest Research Groups refutes the oil companies' claim that drilling will only impact a small area in the Arctic Refuge. It details a long list of oil spills, leaks, accidents, and violations by BP Amoco, ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Phillips Petroleum in the Arctic.

Jobs and the Arctic (N)

This study by the Alaska Conservation Foundation shows that Alaska and the nation could be better off with Eco-Jobs than with Oil-Jobs.

World Resources Institute Study (N)

This study by James MacKenzie for WRI demonstrates why oil from the Arctic Refuge will not have an impact on consumption in the United States. References are to studies by the US Department of Energy.

World and US Energy Statistics (N)

Prepared by the US Geological Survey, shows how much energy, including oil, that we use. Note that the USGS includes all uses of energy in these tables, including transportation. This is different than the statistics of what oil contributes to electrical energy, which is what the current energy crisis is about. To see details of electrical energy production and use, see the US Department of Energy: Monthly Electricity Data