I was reading an article in the New York Times just the other day. It was about how the government wanted to put a road through the tidal plains, a national wildlife refuge. The road would serve to connect a small outpost with a municipal airport, and to aid the transport of goods. Let's consider this for a minute. How will the wildlife being "protected" be affected by this new road? Will the benefits of a shorter transportation time outweigh the detriment done to these animals?
Firstly, one must look at the area. Elk, caribou, wolves, black and grizzly bears, amoung many other species of smaller mammals and birds are living in this area. The area is also within the migratory path that many animals follow each year. As can be discerned, migrating animals do not fare well when battling semis. The increased traffic, which leads to animal fatalities, environmental pollution from run-off and exhaust, transportation of invasive species and the trash that accumulates alongside oft-traveled roads are all factors that impact an ecosystem, whether in a large way or small. It is from these things that the animals are being protected in this refuge, yet a road would certainly introduce them. All this stems from just building a road; imagine what drilling could do?
Are these human influences on one of the America's deminishing wild areas worth the one hour saved on a commute? It is now commerce versus our ecosystems. Who will be named the victor?
Firstly, one must look at the area. Elk, caribou, wolves, black and grizzly bears, amoung many other species of smaller mammals and birds are living in this area. The area is also within the migratory path that many animals follow each year. As can be discerned, migrating animals do not fare well when battling semis. The increased traffic, which leads to animal fatalities, environmental pollution from run-off and exhaust, transportation of invasive species and the trash that accumulates alongside oft-traveled roads are all factors that impact an ecosystem, whether in a large way or small. It is from these things that the animals are being protected in this refuge, yet a road would certainly introduce them. All this stems from just building a road; imagine what drilling could do?
Are these human influences on one of the America's deminishing wild areas worth the one hour saved on a commute? It is now commerce versus our ecosystems. Who will be named the victor?
1 comment:
Rachel
I really liked reading this post because you made such good points about the environment. I had also heard about this article and was confused by the consequences. What message are we sending to the children about animal protection if the government can step around the rules whenever they want?
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