Last week we asked you – our Inletkeepers – to stand up for Lower Cook Inlet and say “no” to the proposed oil and gas lease sale in Lower Cook Inlet. If you haven’t already signed the petition, please do so at inletkeeper.org/ls258 – and then share with 5 friends (or five more friends!)!
Many of you have reached out to ask what more you can do to stop this lease sale, which we deeply appreciate. And we have some ideas for you!
You can attend a public hearing next week and share concerns or simply your position on the lease sale with the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management.
You can register to attend the zoom hearings here:
Tue, Nov. 16 – 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM: Registration Link
Wed, Nov. 17 – 2 PM to 4 PM: Registration Link
Thu, Nov. 18 – 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM: Registration Link
Sometimes we hear from members and supporters that you aren’t an “expert” so you don’t feel qualified to testify; but you are experts in your experience. You are Alaskans and you know what you want: for future generations, your state, and your Inlet.
Fishermen in Cook Inlet know how challenging it is to work in Lower Cook Inlet with the tides, currents, and sea ice. Business owners know how their business would be impacted by oil and gas infrastructure drastically changing the landscape and character of Lower Cook Inlet. Birders know how devastating an oil spill would be in important migratory areas. Alaskans and visitors alike who enjoy watching our whales, belugas, and sea otters know the concerns for these species. You know how climate change is impacting your life and your community. You know Hilcorp’s abysmal record of worker safety. You know your truth.
You can speak your truth. You can speak from your heart. And you can ask for Lower Cook Inlet to be protected.
But if you want some help preparing, Inletkeeper has resources for you! Talking points are on our website along with more information. Inletkeeper is hosting a virtual event on November 12th from noon to 1 to provide support and answer any questions you may have about the lease sale, the process, or testifying. If you can’t attend live, a recording will be sent out to all who register for viewing at a later date.
Finally, if public comment isn’t your thing, consider writing an op-ed. Find some guidance on writing LTE/op-eds as well as media contacts here.
But most importantly, use your vision of the future of Cook Inlet to stop Lease Sale 258!