United States Forest Service v. Cowpasture River Preservation Assn.

The Supreme Court said the Forest Service could grant a pipeline right-of-way beneath the Appalachian Trail where the trail crosses national forest land in Virginia. The justices concluded that the trail's presence did not by itself turn that land into National Park System land for this purpose.

The decision mattered for the Atlantic Coast Pipeline and for other projects that need permission to cross federal land. It also clarified that a trail crossing does not automatically shift control away from the Forest Service.

The Supreme Court has finished this docket action. Any remaining issues would be handled in lower courts or by federal agencies under the Court's reading of the Mineral Leasing Act.

Opponents said land under the trail became National Park System land, which would bar a right-of-way under the Mineral Leasing Act. The Court disagreed.

Federal land managers, pipeline companies, and environmental groups are directly affected. For example, projects crossing national forest land under the trail may still seek federal permission.

The Court finished this docket action. Any remaining disputes returned to lower courts or agencies, using the Supreme Court's reading of the law.