The North Dakota Supreme Court released a unanimous opinion on Thursday allowing the state to build a controversial outlet on Devils Lake that is opposed by tribes, First Nations and the Canadian government.

Tribes in the U.S. and First Nations in Canada fear the outlet will lead to destruction of sacred sites and burial grounds. Canadian officials say the diversion will pollute their waters.

The Spirit Lake Nation of North Dakota claims the lake is within its reservation. But the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals, without deciding on ownership, ruled that the tribe waited too long to make the claim.

Get the Story:
Supreme Court OKs Devils Lake outlet (AP 6/3)
Outlet opponents disappointed (AP 6/3)
Province loses Devils Lake court battle (CBC 6/2)

Get the Decision:
People to Save the Sheyenne River v. N.D. Department of Health (June 2, 2005)

Related Stories:
Lake dispute draws Natives on both sides of border (04/07)
Tribes meet to oppose outlet for North Dakota lake (5/21)