The operators of a proposed dairy farm on the Yakama Reservation in Washington failed to sway opponents at a public forum on Thursday night.

Cathy and Andy Sytsma explained their 6,000-cow operation to tribal and non-tribal members. Experts said the farm would not harm the environment.

But attendees said there was no way to ensure the operation would follow any laws on the reservation. Tribal members quoted the 1855 Yakama Treaty and said they don't want the farm on their land.

The Yakama Nation passed a resolution last month that bans new dairy operations and expansions of existing facilities. The Sytsma family wants to work with the tribe on the project.

Get the Story:
Foes remain unconvinced about dairy proposal (The Yakima Herald-Republic 8/15)

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