Contact: Perry Plumart pplumart@xxxxxxxxxxx 202/861-2242 AUDUBON CEO JOHN FLICKER STATEMENT ON SENATE ARCTIC REFUGE VOTE New York, NY, March 19, 2003 ? ?This vote today rejected the backdoor attempt to use the budget process to drill in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. It is a victory for millions of migratory birds, caribou, and the vision of preserving this great wilderness. ?I hope this vote moves the debate forward to how we can provide America with an energy policy that provides real energy security and real solutions to America?s oil dependence. Scientists estimate that raising the fuel economy of cars and light trucks by about one mile per gallon saves more oil than can be found in the Arctic Refuge. ?This vote affirms the will of the American people who strongly oppose oil production in the Arctic. They know desecrating a national treasure will do nothing to reduce our reliance on foreign oil. ?The coastal plain of the Arctic Refuge has extraordinary value as an intact ecosystem. Approximately 180 bird species have been recorded in the Arctic Refuge. Oil development in the coastal plain would harm this habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. ?Audubon thanks the Senators who voted to protect the Arctic Refuge.? Audubon is dedicated to protecting birds and other wildlife and the habitat that supports them. Our national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engage millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in positive conservation experiences. # # # You are subscribed to Audubon-News. To unsubscribe, send email to audubon-news-request@xxxxxxxxxxxxx with 'unsubscribe' in the Subject field. To adjust other settings (vacation, digest, etc.) please visit, //www.freelists.org/list/audubon-news.