This is a map of Section 181, not the proposed exploitation of the USA's oceans.
... beyond what already exists. The Republicans are targeting the entire coastal USA for locations to place offshore oil drilling. That possiblity including Virginia, is not only unrealistic in today's world, but, lends itself to irresponsible government and abuse of power when considering the outer continental shelf of the East Coast of the USA has been noted to have a 'fissure' as of the year 2000-2001. The turbulence that goes along with offshore oil drilling WILL DISRUPT this fissure causing underwater landslides, earthquakes and tsunamies.
Outer Continental Shelf Opened Wide for Oil, Gas (click here)
WASHINGTON, DC, May 1, 2007 (ENS) - Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne Monday announced a federal program to increase oil and natural gas production on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf in the Gulf of Mexico and off Alaska.
Kempthorne said the energy developments could produce 10 billion barrels of oil and 45 trillion cubic feet of natural gas over 40 years, generating almost $170 billion, in today’s dollars.
Offshore energy production is one of the largest sources of non-tax revenue for the federal government; the new program will generate billions of dollars for the U.S. Treasury.
"The Outer Continental Shelf is a vital source of domestic oil and natural gas for America, especially in light of sharply rising energy prices and increasing demand for these resources," Kempthorne said. "This energy production will create jobs, provide greater economic and energy security for America and can be accomplished in a safe and environmentally sound manner."
Interior’s Minerals Management Service developed the initiative, known as the Five Year Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program, to guide domestic energy leasing on the OCS from 2007 to 2012.
The sales of any offshore property of the USA beyond Section 181 has to be stopped, now. There needs to be a moratorium placed on any additional oil and gas drilling platforms NEAR the coastal USA. This is not the answer the USA needs for it's National Security. The USA has to solve it's energy and transportation issues without continued use of fossil fuels. MUST.
