And just in time for Christmas too!
The Hudson family was being sued by the Waterkeeper Alliance for some pretty ridiculous charges relating to polluting a nearby water source.
But good news was released this week when the judge in the case found that the Waterkeeper Alliance failed to establish their burden of proof and held in favor of the Hudson family.
This is absolutely excellent news and we’re very happy for the Hudsons. Be sure to visit SaveFamilyFarms.org to make a donation for the Hudson’s (probably crazy) legal bills.
Reaction from the agriculture community has been extremely positive.
From AFBF:
“This week’s federal court ruling that the Waterkeeper Alliance failed to prove that chicken houses owned by Alan and Kristin Hudson on the Eastern Shore of Maryland violated the Clean Water Act by polluting the Pocomoke River is welcome news.
“America’s farmers and ranchers are committed to producing safe and nutritious food. We work to protect and enhance the environment, while responsibly caring for our animals, the public and our neighbors.
“This victory for the Hudson family should serve as a wake-up call for activist groups that our nation’s courts should not be used for unsubstantiated attacks on hard-working farm and ranch families.”
Maryland Farm Bureau (which is the state where the suit was taking place) said:
“We are thrilled with today’s ruling, which clearly is a resounding victory for Perdue and farm families everywhere,” said Julie DeYoung, Perdue’s spokesperson. “We congratulate the Hudsons on their long-overdue exoneration. We are also pleased that the judge upheld existing law that safeguards the contractor relationship and confirms the independence of thousands of family farms who choose to raise poultry and livestock. This is a good day for Maryland and for agriculture.”
Looks like this time the good guys won out.
Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
