He says the flat, narrow plane is unique because it is close to the mountains and the arctic ocean. He claims the oil companies can now complete their exploration during the winter, when the polar are hibernating and the caribou have left the area. So, the fact is 99 percent of the plane will be undisturbed and available to caribou. He points out a similar caribou herd near prudhoe. Their numbers have actually increased, even though their calving patterns have changed.
Biologists say there is no way to know for certain, unless the drilling begins.
By that time, opponents say, it could be too late to turn back.