Because of cronyism between President Bush and some of the large, extracting U.S. firms, 2 percent of the population is being allowed to drill, cut and lay waste to our wilderness at a rate that well exceeds most of the presidents who have preceded him.

This is happening because Bush owes them for contributions to see that he got elected. This type of cycle must be broken, or future generations will have little or no idea what wilderness is all about.

Sens. Snowe and Collins have shown their support for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in the past, and I sincerely hope they continue in any legislation that would affect that area, especially opposing any budget package if it includes drilling for oil in the refuge.

Jack Biscoe, North Turner