Natural Resource Damages

Motley Rice attorneys represent state agencies in natural resource damages cases. Government entities file these cases to recover damages for injuries to a state's natural resources after environmental contamination occurs from the release of oil and other hazardous materials. Damages are used to restore public land after the cleanup process is completed, as well as to compensate for losses in the area of conservation or recreation services.

Natural resource damage claims are outlined in several federal laws, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) and Oil Pollution Act (OPA). These claims are a powerful tool available to state governments and municipalities to reduce contamination and improve state land and property for years to come.

Motley Rice understands the public interest, evidentiary and baseline elements of natural resource damage cases. As public concern regarding environmental safety and conservation continues to grow, we are prepared to represent agencies through natural resource damage claims.

Our attorneys have decades of experience working with Attorneys General and other government agents on public health and safety litigation, including tobacco, asbestos, and lead poisoning, and currently represent the State of Pennsylvania in natural resource damage cases.

To discuss potential natural resource damage claims, contact attorney Fidelma Fitzpatrick by email or call +1 800.768.4026.