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Pros on Drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

Since the late twentieth century, drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge has been a topic of political disagreement. During the early part of the twenty-first century, the issue heated up election cycles, particularly due to the rising costs of gas at the pump.

Function
- According to the Bush administration, drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge would grow America's economy and create jobs in the area. Drilling would also make the country less dependent on foreign energy sources.
Size
- The actual area planned to be used for drilling accounts for only 8 percent of the refuge according to the Arctic Power organization. This is only 2,000 acres of land that would be affected by platforms.
Significance
- According to a Pew Research Poll conducted in 2008, 50 percent of Americans favor oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The same poll found that only 43 percent were opposed, so the majority of Americans support the initiative.
Benefits
- The U.S. Geological Survey, in conjunction with the Minerals Management Service, estimate that the nation contains only 21 billion barrels of oil both on land and off shore. The same organizations believe that 100 billion barrels exist within the refuge.
Considerations
- Alaskans, with one of the smallest economies in the country, benefit heavily from oil production. The state offers its residents a dividend from the revenues produced from drilling. This amount would rise if the refuge was used for production.

Rocks & Minerals