Environmental advocates challenge US Forest Service on Badger 2 Medicine oil drilling

On May 2, 2025, a government meeting in Missoula, Montana, hosted by the Missoula Peace Network, focused on the contentious issue of national security and the proposed oil and gas development in the Badger-Two Medicine area, a site of significant cultural and ecological importance to the Blackfeet Nation. The discussions highlighted the potential threats to endangered species and the cultural heritage of the Blackfeet people, raising concerns about the U.S. Forest Service's commitment to environmental protection.

Participants expressed strong opposition to the energy industry's plans, arguing that oil and gas development would disrupt the delicate ecosystem that has thrived for millions of years. Key speakers pointed out that species such as grizzly bears and wolves, already facing threats to their survival, would be further endangered by industrial activities. The area is seen as a critical habitat for these animals, which have been pushed into smaller territories due to human encroachment.

Critics of the Forest Service accused it of prioritizing oil and gas interests over the needs of both the Blackfeet people and the environment. They argued that the agency operates under political pressures that compromise its ability to enforce environmental laws effectively. The Forest Service's claims of compliance with regulations were challenged, with assertions that it selectively applies laws to favor drilling while ignoring broader ecological and cultural considerations.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration with federal policies perceived as favoring energy extraction at the expense of conservation and indigenous rights. Participants called for a reevaluation of national energy policies that prioritize immediate economic gains over long-term sustainability and cultural preservation.

As the discussions concluded, the urgency for a more balanced approach to land management was evident. The implications of the proposed development extend beyond environmental concerns, touching on the rights and traditions of the Blackfeet Nation, which has relied on the Badger-Two Medicine area for cultural practices for over 300 years. The outcome of this debate will likely shape the future of both the land and the communities that depend on it.