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Warning Signs in Arctic AlaskaEach spring, along the coast of Arctic Alaska, vast numbers of shorebirds and waterfowl from every continent arrive to breed, creating one of the most spectacular and least studied wildlife assemblages in North America. Unfortunately, this same region is the site of the nation's largest remaining oil and gas reserves. It is also ground zero for early impacts of global climate change. The current administration has proposed opening the entire region to oil and gas development, including critically important nesting areas around Lake Teshekpuk in the National Petroleum Reserve — Alaska that were formerly off limits. At the same time, global warming is disrupting migration patterns, causing sea ice to recede more rapidly and more widely, and exposing vital coastal feeding grounds to severe erosion. The Foundation is supporting the efforts of Wildlife Conservation Society ornithologist Steve Zack and his colleagues to understand the multiple and intertwined impacts of oil and gas development and climate change, identify effective mitigation strategies, and advocate timely action to safeguard this magnificent national treasure. 
Living with the Endangered Species ActSince the Endangered Species Act became law in 1973, it has been the focus of intense controversy and conflict because of its broad and overarching regulatory authority. In the American West, anger and outrage over the intrusiveness and adverse economic impacts of the ESA have been a constant in political discourse. Despite its draconian reputation, the provisions of the ESA are inherently flexible and can provide positive incentives for protection of listed species and critical habitat, as well as eliminate uncertainty about the regulatory consequences of future species listings. The Foundation is committed to supporting efforts to apply the ESA in a manner that protects listed species and the interests of affected businesses and landowners. With our support:
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