The Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma wants the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals to allow the tribe to intervene in the state of Oklahoma's lawsuit against the poultry industry.

The tribe initially asked Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson to represent its interests in the case. But Judge Gregory Frizzell said the litigation agreement was not federally-approved.

The tribe then filed a motion to intervene but Frizzell denied the request, saying it was untimely because the trial was about to start. The tribe has filed an opening brief with the 10th Circuit, seeking to overturn the judge's ruling.

At issue is whether Tyson Foods Inc. and other poultry companies are liable for pollution in the Illinois River. The tribe asserts rights to the river.

Get the Story:
Appeal may scuttle suit (The Tulsa World 10/2)

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