Proposal Protects South Atlantic Communities, Marine Life from Offshore Drilling

The Obama Administration today released the newest version of a proposed five-year plan for offshore oil and natural gas drilling. The proposal does not include plans for oil and natural gas leasing activity in the Southern Atlantic region. More than 100 coastal communities and nearly 1,000 local businesses expressed opposition to offshore drilling along the Southern Atlantic coast, a region stretching from Virginia to Florida.

 “The plan recognizes that Southern Atlantic waters are home to globally important marine life and biodiversity. It’s a region that should remain off limits to offshore fossil fuel development. This proposal will continue to provide essential protection for wetlands, estuaries, fish habitat, marine mammals and other aquatic species.

 “In communities along the Southern Atlantic coast, the livelihoods, values, and traditions of local residents are intimately linked to the coastal environment and abundant natural resources that characterize the region. EDF welcomes the decision to continue protections that help preserve the Southern Atlantic for future generations. EDF will remain strong advocates for the restoration of coastal environments already impacted by offshore drilling, such as those in the Gulf of Mexico.”

 ·        David Kelly, EDF Policy Manager