National Parks are just that: serene, picturesque parks where we can, if only for a brief moment or two, escape the ugliness and stress of the world beyond their borders. Gulf Islands National Seashore is such a place. In 1971, this sanctuary was established to ensure the Mississippi barrier islands are preserved and protected for future generations. A proposal to open up state waters to oil and gas drilling is a direct threat to a 40-year effort to conserve these exquisite sand islands for our children.
Recently, the Mississippi Development Authority, the agency tasked with promoting tourism, gave in to pressure from out-going Gov. Haley Barbour and posted a last-minute notice announcing draft regulations that would clear the way for leasing significant portions of our state’s marine waters to energy companies. As it stands now, the thousands of coastal residents and businesses that could be impacted by this complex proposal have been given only until Friday to ask questions and voice concerns to MDA officials.
On his way out the door, it appears that Gov. Barbour is once again attempting to fast track contentious public policy before anyone has a chance to challenge his authority.
We shouldn’t risk spoiling a proven economic resource like our national seashore just to provide a handout to the state’s powerful oil and gas industry. A 2005 study prepared by Dr. Jeff Bounds, originally from Gulfport, determined that allowing industrial activity such as oil and gas exploration near a popular natural attraction such as a beach or scenic area will result in a 5 percent or more reduction in tourist visits to the host community (see the full report: twelvemilessouthcoalition.com).
Gulf Islands National Seashore, along with the National Battlefield at Vicksburg and the Natchez Trace Parkway are critical to Mississippi’s growing tourism industry and the gateway cities where they are located. These exceptional places are historical, environmental and economic treasures and must be protected from any type activity with the potential to adversely impact their natural and historic value.
Although national parks account for less than one-thirteenth of one percent of our national budget, they generate significant revenue for the fortunate states where they are located. Each dollar invested in a national park results in a four dollar return to the economy, mostly through private sector jobs. Any potential oil and gas royalties MDA claims will be forthcoming to county boards of supervisors, municipalities and state agencies will be wiped out by the loss in tourist dollars, and the unknown cost to regulate and manage this very complicated and hazardous industry.
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