Offshore drilling on the Outer Banks

This summer we saw the beginning effects of rising energy prices throughout the US.  Here on the Outer Banks it was no exception.  In early summer as gas prices began to climb to the $4 a gallon and above offshore drilling began to make the news.   Much postering was made back and forth by canidates for and against offshore drilling.  It seems  the effect of tourism dollars often are not factored into the expense of offshore drililng.

A minor oil spill could cost the Outer Banks hundreds of millions of dollars a year in lost tourism revenue.  Depending on the severity of the oil spill, cleanup could take years.  I for one am not ready to risk, guaranteed tourism money for a few pennies savings on gas.  I have to believe this is the case for most coastal communities that would be affected by drilling.

As someone who lives on the Outer Banks and experiences the severity of weather that is known to hit the islands, it is amazing that drilling is even considered off the coast of North Carolina.  Our position as the closest piece of land to the Gulf Stream has a tremendous impact of the weather that hits the islands.  Most hear of the few hurricanes or tropical storms that make the major newspapers.  The forgotten winter Nor'easters are often responsible for bringing much the same weather with little or no fanfare.  How these rigs would hold up under these conditions would need to be examined by the most ardent of drilling supporters.

With offshore drilling likely to make no initial impact on gas pump prices, it has to be deemed to risky off the coast of North Carolina.  Hopefully our elected officials can agree and find some alternative sources of power to harness the natural winds and waves off the outer Banks. 

• Rate this Post!

  Select Your Rating:

  • 5 Stars (Excellent!)
  • 4 Stars
  • 3 Stars
  • 2 Stars
  • 1 Stars (Poor)

• Share this Post

  Share With A Friend:

  Your Name Your Email

  Friend's Name Friend's Email

  Optional Message

  Send

• Print
• Social Bookmarking

  Add to Bookmarks: