Thursday, Aug 11 2011 10:02AM
Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and other lawmakers recently discussed the merits of natural gas and oil drilling off the Alaskan coast for state residents.
Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar recently met with business leaders and lawmakers in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss the development of the state's energy resources.
U.S. Senators Mark Begich, Lisa Murkowski and Jack Reed joined Salazar and local industry leaders to discuss the merits of oil and natural gas exploration in the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas.
Accessing these resources, according to Salazar, could substantially assist both the Alaskan and national economies. He stated potential gas and oil projects could create many jobs for residents while meeting energy demands locally and nationally.
Additionally, Deputy Secretary David J. Hayes stated communication with tribal leaders in Alaska is essential to help the state grow its economy through responsible energy development.
"The voices of Native leaders have been instrumental in guiding our activities in Alaska," said Hayes. "An effective consultation policy will not only help restore trust and build better relationships, but it will ultimately lead to stronger, healthier and more prosperous tribal communities."