Montana Forest Fuel-Reduction Project Nixed by Federal Judge

The US Forest Service unlawfully approved a logging project in Custer Gallatin National Forest, a federal judge in Montana ruled, in a win for environmental groups that said the agency failed to fully consider its effects on lynx, grizzly bears, and elk.

The Greater Red Lodge Area Vegetation and Habitat Management Project—which includes logging, burning, and road construction—will displace protected animals, Alliance for the Wild Rockies and the Native Ecosystem Council said in a lawsuit.

Judge Dana L. Christensen of the US District Court for the District of Montana agreed with the groups that the Forest Service relied on a ...