The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

Conserving the Environment - How the Arctic Nationalnorthern Alaska and the Arctic Circle- the extreme
Wildlife Refuge is Preserving Our Futuretemperatures and high amounts of snow have kept
All over the world various species of animals, insects,humans and animals alike from setting up camp.
and plants are being slowly wiped out. Some mayHowever, with recent oil projects starting up in Alaska,
argue that it is the natural order of things, but humanthe ANWR's role will become more important than
involvement has certainly exasperated the issue,ever as it strives to maintain the unspoiled solitude that
causing untold amounts of damage to the worldsthe wildlife has enjoyed for thousands of years.
ecosystems. All of the world, that is, except for theThe results of this untainted lifestyle are easy to see:
Arctic Circle and Alaska.the fish are healthier and larger, the land animals graze
The Arctic is home to many different species of birds,in packs, and the hunters stalk without fear of reprisal.
bears, fish, and other animals. Much of the Arctic is stillThere is no pollution, no noise, and no intervention. Just
unspoiled, and the Arctic National Wildlife Refugenature doing what it was always intended to do.
(ANWR) intends to keep it that way. This organizationSee the Refuge
and reserve sees the value in unspoiled landscapesClose your eyes for a moment and picture the sun
and thriving wildlife.setting over the hills. A stream runs through the valley
The ANWR reserve spans over nineteen million acres,that you are standing in, and the few remaining rays of
and within its boundaries there are over 500 differentsunlight reflect off of the water, giving it a golden edge.
species of recognizable wildlife, and many more thatA flock of Geese fly overhead, their call echoing
have yet to be discovered. Some of the world's mostunchallenged throughout the landscape. A few Moose
succulent fish find their way in and out of this reserve,stand at the base of the stream, drinking the golden
and many native tribes continue to live here.water. You sense peace, and feel as if the world has
Life, Untaintedall but disappeared, if only for a few fleeting moments.
Life continues to exist and thrive without humanYou can open your eyes. Nowhere else in the world
intervention. In fact, it could be said that the biggestwill you be able to see or experience something as
attraction of the ANWR is the continuation of lifetranquil and serene. Tourists are able to see certain
cycles before the recent intervention of man. Theareas of the ANWR and experience some of the
wildlife continues to raise their young, hunt and forage,magic themselves. But remember, life here is how it
and evolve in peace.was meant to be, you may find that you won't want
This situation is particularly unique due to the climate ofto leave.