Date

The following message announces a panel discussion to be held at the Egan
center in Anchorage, Alaska on February 9, 2000. More information on the
panel discussion can be obtained at http://www.akero.org.
Additionally there is information about a two year impact study of Alaska
oil and gas development on the North Slope.
People interested in more information about the study can contact
Ted Rockwell of EPA
907/271-3689

rockwell.theodore [at] epa.gov

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA), is providing funds to the
National Academies of Science for the National Research Council (NRC), to
conduct a two year cumulative impact study of North Slope of Alaska oil and
gas development. This project is in the very beginning stages and will
include public meetings with the NRC in Alaska. These meetings have not yet
been scheduled and there will be public notification once meeting location
and time are established.

Prior to the initiation of the formal process, EPA is sponsoring a Panel
Discussion to take place at the Alaska Forum on the Environment on
February 9, 2000
from 10:00 - 11:45 am
in Room 11/12 of the Egan Convention Center in
Anchorage, Alaska.

Panel Discussion on the National Academy of Science Study "Cumulative
Impacts of North Slope Oil and Gas Development"

Panelists Include:
* Ted Rockwell, Environmental Protection Agency
* Marilyn Heiman, Department of Interior
* David Policanski, National Academy of Science/National Research
Commission
* Paul Stang, Minerals Management Service
* Thomas Napageak, Alaska Eskimo Whaling Commission
* Steve Taylor, British Petroleum
* Peter Van Tyne, Trustees for Alaska
* John Schoen, Audubon Society
* Tony deGange, Fish and Wildlife Service
* Ken Taylor, Alaska Department of Fish and Game

Panel presentation followed by open public discussion and comment

For more information see http://www.akero.org or contact
Ted Rockwell
907/271-3689

or

Michael Baffrey
907/271-4399

The Panel Discussion will focus on providing EPA with an understanding of
the concerns and issues that should be included in the NRC Study. An opening
presentation by Dr. David Policansky, NRC program manager will provide an
explanation of the NRC study process. A panel representing diverse interests
will then make short presentations followed by open public discussion and
comment from the audience. All people who are interested are encouraged to
attend this session.

IMPORTANT
It is most important to note that this session is not the only opportunity
to provide input to the Study. There will be public notices for the other,
scheduled opportunities.

For more information about either this session or the NRC study please contact:
Ted Rockwell of EPA
907/271-3689
rockwell.theodore [at] epa.gov