Outdoorsmen owe Shuler a big 'thanks' for climate bill vote

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A letter to the editor from Richard Mode, National Wildlife Federation outreach coordinator in North Carolina, thanks Rep. Heath Shuler for voting in favor of the American Clean Energy and Security Act. The author argues the bill will protect wildlife habitat and natural resources from climate change while creating jobs and reducing dependence on foreign oil. The letter cites observed climate impacts on North Carolina's outdoor resources including altered waterfowl migration patterns and changing water conditions.

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RICHARD MODE, MORGANTON • JULY 27, 2009 12:15 AM

If you're a sportsman like me or just someone who loves to get outdoors, the next time you see Rep. Heath Shuler, thank him for casting the correct vote to protect wildlife habitat and America's valuable natural resources from climate change.

Those of us who spend time outdoors know that winters start later and end earlier. Flooding is more intense in the spring, and summer droughts are harsher on N.C.'s rivers, streams and forests. Waterfowl migration patterns are changing; streams are seeing decreased flow and warmer temperatures in late summer.

As many of the world's scientists overwhelmingly agree, these effects will get only worse unless we address the impacts of a rapidly changing climate.

In a close vote, the House recently passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act, a landmark bill that will develop clean energy, cap harmful greenhouse gas emissions and reduce our dangerous dependence on foreign oil while creating millions of high-paying jobs. The bill will allow us to avoid the worst consequences of climate change while supporting American ingenuity plus the traditions and stewardship values sportsmen hold dear.

Richard Mode, Morganton

Mode is the National Wildlife Federation outreach coordinator in North Carolina for climate change.