Office of the Secretary

For Immediate Release: May 31, 2001

Contact: Mark Pfeifle 202-208-6416

Statement by Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton

Regarding the Alaska State Snowmobile Association's
Decision to Dismiss its Lawsuit Against the Interior Department

"I commend the Alaska State Snowmobile Association, Inc. and the International Snowmobile Manufactures Association, for their action to dismiss the legal challenge involving the use of snow machines in Denali National Park and Preserve. I look forward to working with the Association, members of Congress and other interested people, for their help in developing solutions that will achieve both reasonable access to, and protection for, the invaluable resources of Denali National Park.

"I have on many occasions stated that I wish to change the tone in which we talk about conserving and protecting our environment. I hope to foster a new culture of communications, cooperation and consultation - all to serve the cause of conservation. If all of those concerned will work together, there is no reason why we can't resolve this and other key conservation issues."

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