Groups appeal Stumpy Lake decision

CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY/AP) - The Chesapeake Bay Foundation and a local group are appealing a judge's ruling that upheld a state permit for a residential and commercial development.

Document: Stumpy Lake Final Ruling

It's a dispute that dates back to 2003.

The foundation and Citizens for Stumpy Lake contend that the permit granted to Tri-City Properties violates state law because the company doesn't have to minimize and avoid wetland losses.

The proposed development would be located adjacent to the Stumpy Lake Nature Preserve in Virginia Beach and would involve destroying a large area of protected nontidal wetlands in Chesapeake, according to a CBF news release.

In September, a Richmond Circuit Court judge upheld the State Water Control Board's decision to grant the permit.

The foundation says an appeal of Judge Margaret P. Spencer's ruling was filed Friday in the Virginia Court of Appeals.