The Mattaponi Tribe asked the Virginia Supreme Court to block a proposed reservoir that could destroy sacred sites and fishing grounds.

The tribe cited a 1677 treaty it signed with England. The tribe says the treaty bars development within a three-mile boundary of its reservation.

The lower courts have ruled that the treaty doesn't apply to the permitting process for the proposed 12.2 billion-gallon King William Reservoir. Environmental groups are backing the tribe and asked the court to withdraw the permit for the project.

Get the Story:
Va. high court hears reservoir case (The Hampton Roads Daily Press 9/15)

Related Stories:
Mattaponi Tribe appeals treaty case to high court (10/06)
Treaty rights referred to Virginia Supreme Court (09/03)
Judge: Treaty doesn't apply to permit process (4/4)