Colorado Ranchers Support Lawsuit Against Oil Companies Over Climate Change Effects

In the Rocky Mountains, prolonged periods of extreme heat and drought have significantly impacted the landscape, drying up streams that feed the Colorado River and affecting pastures for cattle ranchers. These conditions have led to challenges for ranchers, who report that their livelihoods are increasingly threatened. A group of Colorado ranchers is advocating for accountability from the fossil fuel industry as the U.S. Supreme Court considers a case involving major oil companies being sued for their role in climate change. Rancher Caleb Valdez stated, "It’s affecting us directly. I hope the lawsuit holds the largest contributors accountable for the consequences." The lawsuit originated from a 2018 case filed by the city and county of Boulder, Colorado, against Suncor Energy and Exxon Mobil, alleging that the companies concealed the dangers of fossil fuels and should contribute to the costs associated with climate-related issues such as wildfires and drought. The defendants are appealing to the Supreme Court to block the lawsuit, claiming it could lead to financial instability for the industry. Seven ranchers filed a friend-of-the-court brief supporting Boulder, stating they are experiencing the impacts of climate change firsthand and that rising temperatures threaten their way of life. Many ranchers in the region have historically been skeptical of climate science, but Valdez emphasizes the direct connection between climate change and their operations. The ranchers rely on snowmelt from the Rockies to sustain their cattle, but this year has seen record low snowfall, leading to dried springs and reduced creek flow. This has forced ranchers to purchase feed at higher prices due to insufficient hay production. Valdez noted, "Increasingly inconsistent weather patterns make an already dynamic and complex job more unpredictable and difficult to navigate." The economic implications extend beyond individual ranchers, as Valdez highlighted the importance of ranching for national food security. The lawsuit claims that climate change has caused significant financial damage, threatening Colorado's $41 billion agriculture industry and $5 billion ski industry. Last year, Colorado’s Supreme Court ruled in favor of Boulder, allowing the case to proceed. Suncor and Exxon Mobil argue that federal law prevents such claims in state courts for injuries related to greenhouse gas emissions. They also noted that similar lawsuits have been filed by numerous local governments and states. The Colorado River, a crucial water source for millions, is facing severe shortages, which the companies argue could lead to chaos if juries are allowed to impose liability. The Supreme Court is set to hear the case on October 5. The ranchers decided to support Boulder after learning that some counties were backing the oil companies. Rancher Deirdre Macnab expressed concern over the pressure ranchers face due to climate change, stating, "It’s pushing many people completely out of ranching." Other ranchers echoed similar sentiments, noting changes in snowmelt patterns and the uncertainty surrounding water availability for their livestock. They pointed out that average temperatures in Colorado have risen by 2.3 degrees since 1980, contributing to a megadrought that has diminished the Colorado River's flow. Rancher Kathleen Kelley, whose land was affected by wildfires, emphasized the vulnerability of ranchers in the current climate crisis. The ranchers argue that fossil fuel companies should contribute to mitigating climate-related disasters. They likened their situation to past successful lawsuits against tobacco companies. The ranchers advocate for recognition as part of the solution to climate change, highlighting their sustainable land-management practices. They also encourage consumers to support local beef producers to reduce transportation emissions. Veterinarian Kathryn Bedell noted the challenges of maintaining her ranch due to water shortages, stating she plans to sell most of her herd due to high feed costs. "I’ve seen climate change with my own eyes," she said. "Climate change is bankrupting ranchers."