BELLINGHAM — Opposition from the Lummi tribe could prevent the Corps of Engineers from approving a permit for the proposed Gateway Pacific coal export terminal at Cherry Point in northwest Washington.
Lummi Nation Natural Resources Director Merle Jefferson says the tribe is sending a formal letter to the Corps notifying it of its opposition. Jefferson says the tribe has a strong position, based on treaty rights.
The Bellingham Herald reports the Corps has refused to process permits on other projects that tribes said would violate treaties.
The company planning the terminal, SSA Marine, says it will continue to work with the Lummi tribe to resolve concert about fishing rights and burial grounds.
