My First Letter from Denny

I thought it would be interesting to note that I have been writing to Denny on environmental issues for many years and for some reason, so close the election time, he had finally taken a moment to answer.


Thank you for contacting me regarding energy issues. It's good to hear from you. (Why Denny, that is so kind, it is good to hear from you too, after all these years.) It is no secret that the United States does not have a coherent energy policy, either long-term or short-term. Today we are more dependent on foreign oil than ever before. (Really, well than as our leader you must be ready to help us get this monkey off our backs). The Department of Energy predicts that in less than 20 years, America will rely on foreign countries for nearly 65 percent of our energy needs. This is not only a threat to our economy, it is a threat to our national security.Unfortunately, our energy problems are not confined to oil production. Despite growing demand, our natural gas production has fallen 14 percent since 1973. The result is that natural gas prices are 20 times higher in some parts of the country than they were just one year ago. The energy problem we are currently experiencing affects virtually every aspect of our nation's economy. High energy costs have caused a number of Montana businesses to either shut down or cut back operations, which is costing Montana much needed jobs. We have got to get a handle on this problem.I believe we must increase our power generation and transportation capabilities. (Ok, well you must be thinking green and hey we know I am on board lets hear your ideas!) America has the tools to confront our energy problems, and we must use them. (yeah, wind turbine, solar, you go baby...)While energy conservation is critical, the U.S. cannot conserve its way out of this energy crunch. It is vitally important that we take steps to increase domestic energy production through access to and exploration of oil and gas prospects, (Whoa, wait a second, did I lose you on this Denny? You just said we have to kick this habit and now you want more?)and through new and expanded energy delivery infrastructure, advanced coal technology,(Oh great) solar and wind power(Ok, maybe you are still with me here.. yeah, OK talking ethanol next.... We also have to explore alternative renewable fuels, such as ethanol, which burns clean and supplies an important market for our agriculture products. America has huge deposits of natural gas, coal and oil. (No. NO DENNY! You did it again, make up your mind, are we or are we not addicted to this stuff?)In Montana alone we have several hundred years worth of natural gas and coal deposits. I support investment in developing new technologies that will make good use of our energy sources in clean and efficient manner. (But wait, am I just having a withdrawal here or didn't you just mention coal, oil and natural gas????)The bottom line is that we have the natural resources to head off this problem before it gets even worse. (OK, that's it Denny, you say one thing and then you say another, am I to believe that we can use the rest of our natural resources to head of the problem with over use and dependance on natural resources? I don't think so bucko!) But that means we need to develop a national energy policy that encourages the development of our resources in an energy efficient and environmentally friendly manner. Thanks again for contacting me. For more information and to sign up for my e-newsletter, please visit my website at http://www.house.gov/rehberg. Keep in touch. (I plan on it you piece of crap.)