The Izembek road proposal that moved forward with the passage of P.L. 111-11 (the Omnibus Public Land Management Act) would sacrifice 206 acres of high-quality federally designated Wilderness lands in exchange for about 56,000 acres of far-less-valuable non-federal lands. This exchange would sacrifice quality habitat for a greater quantity of acres. It is not a fair exchange, and should be rejected.
The Izembek National Wildlife Refuge boasts extensive wilderness and wildlife values. The refuge provides a home for birds, bears, caribou, and more. A proposed road threatens to cut through designated wilderness and reduce critical habitat for the species the refuge was established to protect.
With passage of the Wilderness Act of 1964 (P.L. 88-577; 16 USC 1131-1136), the United States charted a course new in the history of nations — to preserve some of the country's last remaining wild places in order to protect their natural processes and values from development. Today, thanks to the wisdom, foresight, and perseverance of many dedicated individuals, current and future generations will enjoy an enduring wilderness — in reality and in spirit.
