The U.S. Forest Service has issued the following statement in response to U.S. District Judge Lynn Winmill's ruling today halting megaloads on scenic Highway 12 in North Idaho: “In compliance with the Judge’s order, the Forest Service is preparing a closure order for mega-loads traveling Highway 12 between mileposts 74 and 174.  The Forest Service anticipates its study of the corridor to be completed by the end of September and it will continue to consult with the Nez Perce Tribe. We are continuing to review the decision to determine what further action, if any, to take.”

Elizabeth Slown, director of public and governmental relations for the Forest Service's northern region in Missoula, said no decision has been made as to any appeal of the ruling.