Carter signs bill to keep Alaska 'crown jewels'

President Carter signed into law the Alaska lands bill, saying it strikes a balance between preserving the nation's scenic "crown jewels" and the development of Alaska's valuable resources. The measures sets aside over 100 million acres -- an area larger than California -- for national parks, wildlife refuges, and wilderness.

Calling for strong conservation programs after Ronald Reagan succeeds him in the White house, Mr. Carter said he would leave office satisfied that he had kep commitments to environmental quality. The President also emphasized the importance of protecting the environment.

"We cannot let our eagerness for progress in energy and technology outstrip our care for our land, water, and air, and for the plants and animals that share them with us," he said.