Regional Air Litigation Targets Coal-Bed Methane, Oil and Gas, Coal, Power Plants, Trona, Cement Aggregates and Other Industries
Click map for a more detailed description of designated park and wilderness areas.
Environmental Defense et al. v. BLM et al. (D.Mont.)
Several environmental groups have filed a sweeping challenge to resource developments in Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and northern Colorado. It contends (1) that health standards and standards for protection of national parks and wilderness areas are already being violated, (2) that sources within the target areas may contribute to these violations, and (3) that regional air studies and additional control measures are required before BLM may proceed with authorization of CBM and oil & gas activities. While CBM in Montana and Wyoming are the immediate targets, the violations and analysis specified would reach virtually every source of particulate matter, SO2, NOx and other pollutants in the targeted areas outlined.
Click to view a one-page summary of the Complaint, and the Complaint itself (see particularly pages 62-73 for a list of the sources named in these areas.)
Several Holland & Hart clients have expressed a willingness to support intervention in the case as part of a broad-based group. An informational meeting will be held in Holland & Hart's offices in Billings, Cheyenne, and Denver at 2:00 p.m. on June 14, 2004. You may attend by audio or videoconference. If you would like to attend or participate in the meeting, or if you have any questions on the case, please call Ed Harris, Steve Foster, Chuck Hansberry, Bob Connery or Jim Holtkamp.
This publication is designed to provide general information on pertinent legal topics. The statements made are provided for educational purposes only. They do not constitute legal or financial advice nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Holland & Hart LLP or any of its attorneys other than the author(s). This publication is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship between you and Holland & Hart LLP. Substantive changes in the law subsequent to the date of this publication might affect the analysis or commentary. Similarly, the analysis may differ depending on the jurisdiction or circumstances. If you have specific questions as to the application of the law to your activities, you should seek the advice of your legal counsel.