We recently told you about an internal memo from the Department of Interior that was leaked and is now being used by some members of Congress to accuse the Obama administration of backroom deals and of leaving the American people out of a discussion about our public lands. This has resulted in efforts by a small group of congressman to limit the President’s authority under the Antiquities Act. This is one of the nation’s most important tools for conservation and talk of limiting use of this tool is ill-informed and inappropriate.

With the arrival of President Obama, the Copenhagen climate talks approach a  dramatic climax.

On Thursday Secretary of State Clinton breathed new life into the talks by joining with other developed countries in helping to raise the funding needed to prevent destruction of the world's forests, to adapt to global warming, and to deploy clean technology.

The climate debate vaulted onto the international stage Dec. 7, when delegations from across the planet gathered in Copenhagen to discuss next steps for an international climate plan.

Important progress can be made if the U.S. demonstrates climate leadership in Copenhagen — and recent events give us reason to for hope. President Barack Obama has confirmed that he will attend these critical discussions, showing the world that the United States has finally gotten serious about addressing climate change.

Following eight years of unbalanced, exploitative policies toward wildlands, the opening days of President Barack Obama’s administration appear to be a promising start in a new era of wildlands and wildlife protection.

In his first 100 days, President Obama reversed or put on hold a number of misguided Bush administration policies, signaling a more balanced use of public lands. He also put muscle behind campaign promises to reinstate science in federal decision making and to advance a clean energy future.

President Obama has reversed a last-minute Bush Administration policy that would have undermined the Endangered Species Act.

The move shows a restored respect for science in federal decision-making and a welcome new direction for the stewardship of our land, water and wildlife.

Obama announced the decision March 3, during a celebration of the Department of the Interior’s 160th Anniversary.