WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Biden Administration’s cancellation of oil and gas leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is a great step toward protecting the Gwich’in People, the wildlife, and the lands that are cherished by hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreationists. 

“Protecting the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is a victory for the Gwich’in People and the iconic wildlife that depend on the refuge for survival. This action will help ensure that we’re not further exacerbating the accelerating climate impacts and habitat fragmentation in the Arctic,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “We thank the Biden Administration for taking this important conservation action and urge Congress to permanently protect this crown jewel of the National Wildlife Refuge System.”