RUNNING ON EMPTY.

The article discusses concerns over the impact of oil drilling on wildlife and the environment in the U.S. The energy program of President George W. Bush is said to have focused on increasing domestic oil and gas production primarily by removing bureaucratic and legal constraints to drilling on public lands. Migrating herds of mule deer, pronghorn and birds such as the sage-grouse have seen their habitat fragmented and overrun. The federal government under the next president can exercise more authority over energy development by buying back leases in wildlife-rich areas and ensuring that environmental regulations are followed.