An Arizona tribe will be able to challenge the use of treated wastewater to make snow, even on public lands.
The state Court of Appeals ruled Thursday that the Hopi Tribe can challenge the use of reclaimed wastewater for the Snowbowl ski resort in Flagstaff.
Judge Kenton Jones ruled the tribe now could make its case to a judge and jury.
The tribe has argued that use of the treated wastewater to make snow harms the environment, interfering with the ability of the public to use the San Francisco Peaks.
Jones says the tribe also alleges artificial snow will end up in springs and bodies of water used for ceremonial and utilitarian purposes.
Jessica Drum, spokeswoman for the city of Flagstaff, said its attorney was reviewing the ruling and had no immediate comment.
