Wade and Teresa King, who operate King Ranch in Washington, are facing fines from the state for allegedly damaging wetlands by creating stockwater ponds for their cattle. They argue that these ponds are essential for their operations and not regulated wetlands. The Kings are appealing a court ruling that dismissed their lawsuit seeking a jury trial, and they may take their case to the U.S. Supreme Court if necessary. They believe the outcome could have significant implications for ranchers across the country.
Key facts
- The Kings were fined $267,540 by the Washington State Department of Ecology in 2023.
- They argue their stockwater ponds are not regulated wetlands.
- The Kings estimate compliance costs could exceed $3.7 million.
- A judge dismissed their lawsuit, requiring them to complete the administrative process first.
- The department claims the Kings damaged 6.37 acres of wetlands.
A short AI summary in our own words. The reporting belongs to Fox News — Latest; we don't reproduce it.