I wanted to write and thank you for providing me a copy of your June 11, 2001 letter to Senator Ted Stevens regarding climate change and the integrity of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline (TAPS). Those issues are certainly of mutual concern. We share a common goal - the safe operation of TAPS - and I was pleased to read your reassurance that, despite warnings from many renowned scientists including Dr. Margaret Leinen of the National Science Foundation, the integrity of the pipeline is not threatened. As you note, the Joint Pipeline Office is closely monitoring the situation, as evidenced by the recent Comprehensive Monitoring Program Report on the TAPS Maintenance Program 1999/2000 (January 2001) which states that "warming climatic trends are likely to expand the active zone throughout regions of Alaska's permafrost [which] could affect pipeline foundations and more than 25,000 VSMs currently subject to movement" (15). Please do not for a moment think that we do not appreciate the time and effort you and your staff have devoted to briefing us on various issues. While the Alaska Forum and Alyeska may disagree on the substance of those issues, we certainly respect the seriousness with which Alyeska regards pipeline operations. It is unfortunate that you feel our recent expression of concern regarding climate change and the above-ground support system of TAPS somehow impugned your integrity and that of Alyeska Pipeline Service Company.

Sincerely,

Ross Coen
Executive Director