WASHINGTON -- Environmental groups today criticized the Bush administration for failing to defend the forest conservation policy before a federal court in Idaho.

Federal Judge Edward Lodge today ordered a preliminary injunction to prevent the implementation of the forest conservation policy, commonly known as the Roadless Area Conservation Rule.

To support the conclusions in his order, Judge Lodge cited the Bush administration's "own admission" that they "share plaintiffs concerns about the potential for irreparable harm in the long-term under the current rule.

"If President Bush is serious about upholding the roadless rule then his administration must appeal Judge Lodge's decision and vigorously defend the forest conservation policy for the first time," said Jane Danowitz, of the Heritage Forests Campaign.

Environmentalists say Judge Lodge's ruling is likely to be overturned on appeal, given the well-documented scientific basis for the policy, the unprecedented amount of public involvement, and the presumption of validity that courts typically accord to agency actions of this sort.

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Contact: Tony Iallonardo, NET
(202) 887-8855

The Heritage Forests Campaign is an alliance of conservationists, wildlife advocates, clergy, educators, scientists, and other Americans working together to uphold protection of our National Forests. Heritage Forests Campaign's partners include Alaska Rainforest Coalition, American Hiking Society, Earthjustice Legal Defense Fund, National Environmental Trust, National Audubon Society, Natural Resources Defense Council, US PIRG, and The Wilderness Society.