All over the world various species of animals, insects, and plants are being slowly wiped out. Some may argue that it is the natural order of things, but human involvement has certainly exasperated the issue, causing untold amounts of damage to the worlds ecosystems. All of the world, that is, except for the Arctic Circle and Alaska.

The Arctic is home to many different species of birds, bears, fish, and other animals. Much of the Arctic is still unspoiled, and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) intends to keep it that way. This organization and reserve sees the value in unspoiled landscapes and thriving wildlife.

The ANWR reserve spans over nineteen million acres, and within its boundaries there are over 500 different species of recognizable wildlife, and many more that have yet to be discovered. Some of the world's most succulent fish find their way in and out of this reserve, and many native tribes continue to live here.

Life, Untainted

Life continues to exist and thrive without human intervention. In fact, it could be said that the biggest attraction of the ANWR is the continuation of life cycles before the recent intervention of man. The wildlife continues to raise their young, hunt and forage, and evolve in peace.

This situation is particularly unique due to the climate of northern Alaska and the Arctic Circle- the extreme temperatures and high amounts of snow have kept humans and animals alike from setting up camp. However, with recent oil projects starting up in Alaska, the ANWR's role will become more important than ever as it strives to maintain the unspoiled solitude that the wildlife has enjoyed for thousands of years.

The results of this untainted lifestyle are easy to see: the fish are healthier and larger, the land animals graze in packs, and the hunters stalk without fear of reprisal. There is no pollution, no noise, and no intervention. Just nature doing what it was always intended to do.

See the Refuge

Close your eyes for a moment and picture the sun setting over the hills. A stream runs through the valley that you are standing in, and the few remaining rays of sunlight reflect off of the water, giving it a golden edge. A flock of Geese fly overhead, their call echoing unchallenged throughout the landscape. A few Moose stand at the base of the stream, drinking the golden water. You sense peace, and feel as if the world has all but disappeared, if only for a few fleeting moments.

You can open your eyes. Nowhere else in the world will you be able to see or experience something as tranquil and serene. Tourists are able to see certain areas of the ANWR and experience some of the magic themselves. But remember, life here is how it was meant to be, you may find that you won't want to leave.