Bristol Bay in southwestern Alaska is one of America's truly pristine, remaining wild places.

Its waters provide critical habitat for some of the world's highest concentrations of whales, seals, walrus, seabirds, salmon, crab, and halibut. Bay fisheries, including the largest run of wild sockeye salmon in the world, contribute 40% of America's wild seafood, support vibrant sport fishing industries, and sustain centuries-old Native subsistence traditions. 

This natural treasure is threatened by corporations eying underwater oil and gas deposits - even though projected drilling revenues are far less than the billions generated annually by sustainable fishing.

After the disastrous Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989, the federal government bought back all oil and gas leases in Bristol Bay, but did not rule out future exploitation. In 2010, the Obama Administration temporarily prohibited new drilling through 2017, but the inevitable push to drill will resume unless permanent action is taken.  

Please urge Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar to permanently protect Bristol Bay from offshore oil and gas development. Bristol Bay's unique and stunning beauty, its wildlife, and its irreplaceable fishery should be a lasting legacy for all Americans.

Tell Secretary Salazar that some places are just too special and valuable to drill. Bristol Bay is one of them. Thank you for joining the Marine Conservation Institute in protecting wild ocean places like Bristol Bay.