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Environmental Law
Endangered Species Act
Oil-Spill Dispersants

Center For Biological Diversity, Surfrider Foundation and Pacific Environment v. Lisa Jackson, Environmental Protection Agency, Robert J. Papp and United States Coast Guard

Published: Jun. 13, 2013 | Result Date: May 28, 2013 |

Case number: 3:12-cv-1920 Settlement –  Equitable Settlement

Court

USDC Northern


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Catherine W. Kilduff
(Center for Biological Diversity)

Deirdre McDonnell


Defendant

Kevin W. McArdle


Facts

The Center for Biological Diversity filed suit against the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Coast Guard, seeking injunctive relief to protect sea turtles, whales, and other endangered species off the coast of California. In particular, the plaintiffs sought review of the California Dispersants Plan, which authorizes the use of chemicals in the event of an oil spill. The dispersants break down the oil, making it easier to dilute. The Center for Biological Diversity, however, argued that the dispersants were harmful to marine ecosystems and could affect endangered wildlife.

Result

The parties settled. The Coast Guard, along with the EPA, agreed to analyze the California Dispersants Plan and to ensure that the dispersants would not harm endangered species and their habitats.


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