A Legal Detour. . .But Roadless Still Rules
On August 12th, a Wyoming federal district court judge ruled again to overturn the Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which protects roughly 60 million acres of the country's undeveloped national forests. The decision by Judge Clarence Brimmer, who also attempted to undo the Clinton-era policy in 2003, conflicts with, but does not overturn, a 2006 decision by a California federal district court that upheld the rule as the law of the land. Conservationists involved in the lawsuit are expected to quickly appeal the decision.
Bush Proposal Opens Colorado Roadless Areas to Drilling
A new report, released today by the Pew Environment Group, finds that a proposed rule expected next week from the Bush administration would allow approximately 100 new oil and gas leases to be developed in Colorado national forests that are currently protected from drilling by federal rule.
Thousands of Americans Call for Protecting Idaho's Roadless Backcountry
The U.S. Forest Service released a report on July 3rd summarizing public comments on a Bush Administration proposal that would remove current protections for millions of acres of Idaho's roadless backcountry forests. More than 95% of the comments urged greater protections for Idaho's National Forest Roadless Areas. While the comment period is closed you can still submit a letter to Idaho's Lieutenant Governor.
Over 80,000 Voice Support for Roadless Area Protection
In less than 60 days, more than 80,000 people submitted comments opposing a controversial proposal that would remove current protections for more than 4.4 million acres of Colorado's roadless national forests leaving them vulnerable to industrial development, including coal mining and new oil and gas development. For more on this overwhelming response, read a press release.
Roadless Issue Featured on NOW Television Program
The Roadless Area Conservation Rule is the focus of a recent episode of the PBS television program NOW. Robert C. Vandermark, Manager of the Heritage Forest Campaign, is featured along with other representatives from the ranching, environmental, and mining communities. Watch the program now!
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