On September 6, 2023, the Biden administration canceled the last remaining oil and gas leases issued under the Trump administration in the Arctic Refuge. The decision protects more than 13 million acres in the Western Arctic, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including polar bears, caribou, and migratory birds.
The cancellation of the leases was a major victory for environmentalists and Alaska Natives, who have long opposed drilling in the refuge. The Biden administration said that the decision was necessary to protect the environment and the climate, and to honor the culture and history of Alaska Natives.
State Wildlife Officials in Alaska Kill Nearly 100 Brown Bears in Less Than a Month
State wildlife officials in Alaska have killed nearly 100 brown bears in less than a month in an effort to protect the Mulchatna caribou herd. The herd has declined from nearly 200,000 animals to 12,000 animals in the past three decades.
The killings have been met with criticism from environmental groups, who say that they are cruel and unnecessary. The Alaska Wildlife Alliance has called the killings “egregious” and said that they are not based on science.
One of the Largest Caribou Herds in Alaska is Careening Towards Extinction
The Mulchatna caribou herd is one of the largest caribou herds in Alaska, but it is also one of the most endangered. The herd has declined from nearly 200,000 animals to 12,000 animals in the past three decades.
There are a number of factors that have contributed to the decline of the herd, including habitat loss, climate change, and predation. State wildlife officials are considering a number of options to help the herd, including predator control and habitat restoration.
US to Revisit Trump-Era Decision for Alaska Rainforest
The Biden administration is planning to revisit a Trump-era decision that opened up the Tongass National Forest, Alaska’s largest intact temperate rainforest, to logging. The decision was met with widespread protests from environmental groups and Alaska Natives.
The Biden administration has said that it is committed to protecting the Tongass National Forest, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and salmon. The administration is also considering designating the forest as a national monument, which would give it even greater protection.
As 200 Wildfires Now Burn, Why Alaska is at Extreme Climate Risk
Alaska is facing an extreme fire season, with more than 200 wildfires burning across the state. The fires have burned millions of acres of land and destroyed dozens of homes.
The fires are being fueled by a number of factors, including climate change, drought, and beetle infestation. Climate change is making Alaska’s summers warmer and drier, which is creating conditions that are ideal for wildfires.
The fires are having a devastating impact on Alaska’s environment and economy. They are also posing a serious threat to public health and safety.