In a landmark case brought by EPIC and Californians for Alternatives to Toxics (CATs), San Francisco Superior Court Judge David Garcia ruled that the California Department of Forestry (CDF) must evaluate the potential effects of herbicides in the agency's "Vegetation Management Program" (VMP). The January 4th, 2002 ruling prevents the program from taking effect until CDF prepares an adequate Environmental Impact Report, and for the first time forces a close look at the use of herbicides for an activity administered by CDF. (read more)