ABSTRACT
Environmental battles are often fought in the courts. This is particularly true of interest groups lacking the resources necessary to fight in more traditional arenas, such as legislative bodies. However, this is also true of regulated industries when they challenge regulations. Generally, environmental groups often find legal systems useful in pursuing their policy interests. The executive branch of government on the federal level is responsible for administering federal environmental regulations through various federal agencies. The resources that help provide access to the chief executive of a governmental body are similar to those resources needed by groups working with the legislative branch, such as a large or motivated membership or any resources conducive to providing electoral support. Administrators also need political support from interest groups. An important resource for influence in the administrative process is familiarity with the implementation process and the informational needs of the organization.
