The US Congress has struggled for decades with the fate of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in northeastern Alaska.
The refuge, run by the Interior Department's Fish and Wildlife Service, has been dubbed "America's Serengeti" for its caribou, migratory birds and other species. ANWR also sits atop several billion barrels of crude oil, making it one of the most promising US onshore oil prospects.
1960
One year after Alaska statehood, Eisenhower administration creates Arctic National Wildlife Range, covering 9 million acres, when Congress is unable to agree on a plan.
1980
After lengthy battle over whether more Alaskan land should be open to development, President Jimmy Carter signs law renaming area the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and doubling its size. The law also directs Interior Dept. to assess oil potential in the refuge's 1.5 million acre coastal plain area.
1987
A federal environmental impact statement says drilling in the 1.5 million acre coastal plain would affect the habitat of caribou, musk oxen and other species. The Reagan administration recommends proceeding with an oil leasing program.
1989
Exxon Valdez tanker spill in Alaska halts efforts to have Congress consider allowing drilling in ANWR.
1995
President Bill Clinton vetoes federal budget bill, which includes language to open ANWR to drilling.
1998
US Geological Survey estimates ANWR's coastal plain contains at least 6 billion barrels of technically recoverable oil. US Energy Information Administration says it would take 12 years for lease sales, permitting and development work.
2001
President George W. Bush calls for ANWR drilling.
March 2003
Senate Republicans add ANWR drilling provision to annual federal budget
resolution but full Senate kills provision. National Research Council says
drilling on Alaska's North Slope hurt whale migration and caribou
reproduction.
September 2003
Government Accountability Office says Fish and Wildlife Service lacks staff and resources to monitor US wildlife refuges that already allow oil and gas drilling.
Nov. 3, 2005
Senate votes to include ANWR drilling in government-wide bill to cut federal spending, on the basis that it would generate billions of dollars for the government from leasing fees. However, ANWR is dropped from the bill after two dozen moderate House Republicans threaten to defy party leaders and vote against entire bill.
Dec. 17, 2005
At the urging of Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens, Senate and House negotiators add ANWR drilling measure to a must-pass $453 billion annual defense spending bill.
Dec. 19, 2005
Defense spending bill, with its ANWR drilling language, is approved by the House in a vote of 308-106. Senate Democrats threaten to filibuster the defense bill unless it drops the ANWR drilling measure.
REUTERS NEWS SERVICE
