Cases

Challenging Inadequate Protections for Salmon in the Northwest Forest Plan

Earthjustice successfully challenged an attempt by the Bush administration to hamstring salmon protection in Northwest forests.

Clients

Conservation NorthwestInstitute for Fisheries ResourcesKlamath Forest AllianceKlamath-Siskiyou Wildlands CenterOregon Wild

Attorneys

Patti Goldman

Regional Office / Program

Northwest Office

Case Overview

The Northwest Forest Plan was written to balance timber demand with wildlife needs. One part—the Aquatic Conservation Strategy—aimed to protect salmon and clean water. The Bush administration drastically weakened the strategy, and on March 30, 2007, a federal court found that administration acted illegally by suppressing scientific evidence.

Sockeye salmon.
Sockeye salmon. (Xuanlu Wang / Shutterstock)

Case Updates

An up angle photo of a large mossy tree in a foggy forest.
November 14, 2024 Press Release

U.S. Forest Service Releases Environmental Study for Northwest Forest Plan Amendment

The Forest Service must center the strongest possible protections for forests, rivers, fish, and wildlife and support meaningful tribal involvement in forest management

November 20, 2007 Press Release: Victory

Feds Throw in Towel on Effort to Strip Key Salmon Protections

This after court found Bush administration misrepresented views of key scientists

April 2, 2007 Press Release: Victory

Court Ruling Protects Salmon and Clean Water from Harmful Logging

Court finds Bush administration misrepresented views of key scientists

See More

Case page created on May 27, 2004.