February 6, 2010, Juneau, Alaska – Governor Sean Parnell issued the following statement today on the Corps of Engineers decision to deny ConocoPhillips and Anadarko a permit to construct a drill pad known as CD-5 in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska.

“Just in the last six months, we’ve fought the federal government for tying up Outer Continental Shelf leasing, and for adding bureaucratic nightmares and costs with Endangered Species Act listings and critical habitat area designations. We’ve seen the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Environmental Protection Agency show reluctance to approve anything related to jobs in Alaska.

“And then -- first, by delay, and now, through their decision -- the Corps of Engineers continues to set back our nation's chances for economic recovery, domestic energy production, and Alaskans' prospects for jobs.