An environmental group is accusing the Santa Fe National Forest of not doing enough to protect an endangered salamander found only in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico.
WildEarth Guardians filed suit in federal court this week. The group contends the forest failed to consult with federal wildlife managers over the effects of motorized activities on the salamander.
The group says motorized travel can damage salamander habitat and lead to direct mortality.
The lawsuit is seeking an injunction that would suspend portions of the forest's travel management plan, and it calls for forest officials to consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The Forest Service has a policy of not commenting on pending litigation.
The salamander was listed as endangered last October. The travel management plan was finalized in June 2012.
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