Story perspectives

Judge Cuts Greenpeace Damages in Pipeline Protest Case

11/1/2025

Summary

Story summary

A North Dakota judge reduced Greenpeace's damages to about $345 million from $667 million for Dakota Access Pipeline protests.
The jury found Greenpeace liable for orchestrating protests in 2016 and 2017.
Judge James D. Gion cited technicalities, noting Energy Transfer failed to prove land ownership in trespass claims.
Greenpeace's interim general counsel Marco Simons said remaining claims are unfounded and Greenpeace will appeal if a new trial motion is denied.

History

Historical Context

The Dakota Access Pipeline protests began in April 2016, led by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and supported by over 200 tribal nations. Activists opposed the pipeline's route under Lake Oahe, which threatened their water supply and sacred sites. The protests, which resulted in over 700 arrests, highlighted ongoing struggles for indigenous rights and environmental protection, influencing future activism and legal battles.

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Story summary

A North Dakota judge reduced Greenpeace's damages to about $345 million from $667 million for Dakota Access Pipeline protests.
The jury found Greenpeace liable for orchestrating protests in 2016 and 2017.
Judge James D. Gion cited technicalities, noting Energy Transfer failed to prove land ownership in trespass claims.
Greenpeace's interim general counsel Marco Simons said remaining claims are unfounded and Greenpeace will appeal if a new trial motion is denied.

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