Cannery contamination case can go forward

FENNVILLE, Mich. (AP) -- A judge says some claims can go forward in a lawsuit linked to contamination from a fruit processor in western Michigan. For more than 30 years, wastewater has been used to irrigate the fields surrounding the Birds Eye plant in Fennville in Allegan County. It's led to high levels of iron, sodium and arsenic in the groundwater. Birds Eye asked Kalamazoo federal Judge Paul Maloney to dismiss key claims in a lawsuit filed by several families. In a Dec. 20 opinion, the judge said some claims will remain alive, including lost property use and value. Trial is set for Feb. 25. The cannery produces fruit fillings, sauces and glazes. In 2010, Birds Eye agreed to build a wastewater treatment system. Area homes switched to public water in 2011. Published: Mon, Dec 30, 2013