This matter involves four separate Environmental Assessments with Findings of No Significant Impact (EA/FONSI), as well as four separate decisions (Decision, or collectively the Challenged Decisions) completed by the BLM Dillon Field Office in connection with 4 watersheds. All of the Challenged Decisions provided for vegetation treatments targeting reduction of conifer encroachment in various areas within each watershed. Plaintiff filed an action in the District of Montana, seeking in part to have the BLM enjoined from conducting any activities in connection with the Challenged Decisions. The Plaintiff asserted that the BLM violated NEPA and FLPMA.
The judge entered an order granting partial summary judgment in favor of BLM on all claims except one FLPMA claim in connection with a single watershed. The court determined that the BLM failed to supplement one EA to incorporate additional analysis as required by the applicable ARMPA for sage grouse.