Closing Arguments In Maryland Poultry Suit

BALTIMORE (AP) -- Attorneys have finished their closing arguments in a closely watched trial pitting environmentalists against an Eastern Shore farmer and poultry giant Perdue.

Nearly 100 spectators watched the closing arguments Friday in U.S. District Court. The Waterkeeper Alliance claims that Berlin-based Hudson Farm is violating the federal Clean Water Act by polluting a nearby river. And it claims Perdue should be held accountable for the actions of its grower.

Defense attorneys said the plaintiffs haven't proved their case and said a ruling against the farm could have far-reaching implications for farmers, the poultry industry and the Eastern Shore. Attorneys for the environmental group say they are only asking the court to enforce federal law.

The judge said he hopes to issue a ruling by the end of the year.

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