5/6/10 From day one, drilling proponents have said that “new technologies make it safe” and that oil spills shouldn't be of concern.
I have always opposed drilling for oil off the coast of Northern California, and for good reasons. First, there isn't enough recoverable oil to benefit our needs vis-à-vis the risk. But that hasn't stopped some from pursuing leases to explore and drill. Second, our coast is rich in marine life and is one of only four major upwellings in the world. Damage to this fragile ecosystem would devastate not only our district, but an incredible amount of marine habitat throughout the Pacific Coast. Third, our tourism industry is the life-blood of many communities in Northern California and visitors don't buy rooms, dinner, or shop in areas devastated by oil spills or cluttered with off-shore oil drilling equipment. Our fishing communities, tourism communities and related businesses up and down the coast generate billions in economic activity, and should not be put in jeopardy by drilling off shore.
