News Flash

National Parks and Forests Sacrificed to Serve the Interests of Big Business

(Washington, July 13, 2004) The Bush administration just announced their intention to roll back the rule that protected 60 million acres of America’s National Forests. The AHA is deeply disappointed and concerned by this move, which undermines one of the most comprehensive land preservation efforts in history.

By dismantling the Clinton administration’s policy of federal protection against building roads and logging in National Forests, our National Parks and Forests are left vulnerable to commercial exploitation. Under Bush’s proposed plan, nearly a third of our national park lands would lose federal protection and states would have to petition the federal government to be allowed to maintain current protection levels.

According to the Center for Responsive Politics the forestry industry has given over thirty-five million dollars in campaign contributions since 1990. The Republican Party has received the bulk of those contributions—averaging 79% over the past 14 years—and Republican leadership now appears to be providing a financial windfall to the industry by rolling back environmental protections. The AHA opposes this anti-democratic action that places financial rewards to large donors before America’s interest in preserving our National Parks and Forests for generations to come.

The oil industry, which has given well over one hundred and fifty million dollars in campaign contributions in the last 14 years—74% went to Republicans—has also exercised its influence in Washington. Less than a week ago, the administration proposed selling 96% of the Western Arctic Reserve of Alaska to private bidders. The reserve, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife and ecosystems, would most likely be sold to the oil industry. The AHA implores current elected officials to preserve these natural treasures.

Press Room