Deeper into offshore drilling

Re “The distraction of offshore drilling,� Opinion, July 18

Offshore drilling is not a mistake, as Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) states. Expanded domestic drilling is essential to any long-term energy strategy, which will also include renewable resources, nuclear development and responsible individual choices.

Offshore drilling techniques have improved greatly in the last 30 years, allowing companies to tap our natural resources in a more environmentally friendly way. Domestic oil development requires leases that have a decent chance to be productive and profitable.

Lifting the congressional moratoriums on drilling in the outer continental shelf and in other places, such as coastal Santa Barbara, is a must.

John W. Burk

Santa Barbara

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The oil companies have been trying for years to convince us that they can drill -- with little damage to the environment -- and significantly lessen our dependence on imported oil.

They could make a far better case if they were to announce that they were doing it only with patriotic motives, would welcome government auditors on the scene, would only accept reimbursement for the on-site expenses, would accept no subsidy or tax benefit and would give all profits to the government.

Such an offer would remove a lot of opposition to their proposal.

Joseph Grodsky

Los Angeles