Alaska trade group sues over polar bear critical habitat
An Alaska petroleum industry trade group has sued the federal government over its designation of 187,157 square miles as polar bear critical habitat, claiming it covers too much territory and could cost tens of millions or more in economic effects.
The United States is setting aside 200,000 square miles (518,000 sq. kilometers) in the state of Alaska and off its coast as ``critical habitat'' for polar bears, an action that could add restrictions to future offshore drilling for oil and gas.