Lincoln Calls on Obama Nominee to Protect Natural Resources, Support Alternative Energy Sources
Press Release
Lincoln Calls on Obama Nominee to Protect Natural Resources, Support Alternative Energy Sources
U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) today called on President-elect Obama's choice for Interior Secretary to protect and conserve our nation's natural resources while also supporting alternative uses of energy and responsible ways to increase our domestic production of traditional fuel sources.
"Natural resources play a vital role in our nation's heritage, recreation and economy. It is critical that we do all we can to conserve the resources currently at our disposal, but we must also lead our country toward energy independence. The Department of the Interior is entrusted with this responsibility," said Lincoln, who last year was a part of the bipartisan group of Senators known as the Gang of 10,' which developed a proposal to help lead our nation toward greater energy independence.
Lincoln questioned Obama's Interior Secretary Designate, Senator Ken Salazar (D-CO), during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
In the hearing, Lincoln stressed the importance of the federal government's investment in recreational lakes for local economic development.
"I believe that our federal lakes and reservoirs have an immense recreational value that not only bring enjoyment to our communities, but also revenue into our local economies," said Lincoln. "One way to encourage and expand our local economies is to ensure that recreation is given a higher priority in the management of our federal lakes. There are many federally controlled lakes, dams and reservoirs in the State of Arkansas, which are a great source of economic development and tourism dollars."
Lincoln also discussed Salazar's commitment to addressing Endangered Species Act challenges and his plans to expand and improve the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which provides matching grants to state and local governments for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities, provide clean water, and preserve wetlands. In addition, the Committee pressed Salazar on his commitment to ethics and accountability within the Interior Department.
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