I recently saw this USGS document circulated, assessing what appear to be encouraging “estimates of undiscovered oil and gas north of the Arctic Circle,” but produced with “what sort of madman would drill here!?” graphics like those used in pressure-group ads designed to block exploration in ANWR (by showing the beautiful Brooks Mountains, though they are some 200 miles away from ANWR).
Now an Alaskan sends me this email written to Gov. Sarah Palin about at least one among the federal bureaucracy up there who is taking her chances in order to keep Palin from leaving:
Re: U.S. Geological Survey takes Political and Religious Stance!
As an ex-USGS employee and scientist, I am appalled to discover that the scientific arm of the U.S. Government has taken and advocates such a stance and/or opinion.
As quoted from the Anchorage Daily News, Sunday, September 14, 2008 edition, Page A-16, under article “Anti-Palin activists stage their own rally”.
Begin Quote:
“Alison Till, a geologist in Anchorage with the U.S. Geological Survey, said issues such as energy and global warming require solid and unbiased science to make good decisions, Palin’s opposition to listing the polar bear as threatened under the endangered species act and her support of teaching creationism in public schools are not the hallmarks of someone who relies upon solid science. Till argued.
“She is unqualified,” Till said.
End Quote
I believe Till is in violation of the Hatch Act 5 U.S.C. && 7321-7326.
In the eyes of many citizens, the USGS represents unbiased, factual science, and this government agency is highly respected by professional scientists and science organizations around the world for having these attributes.
Apparently, and as will be interpreted by many, Till represents the scientific opinions and unsolicited facts as proposed by the Scientific Arm of the U.S. Government.
As an ex-USGS scientist, and, up until this point, I am very honored and privileged to have worked for such a unique and highly professional organization. I know with facts that many employees and professional scientists within this organization do not agree with the religious, global warming, and polar bear statements iterated by Till.