"The trial in a lawsuit by a broad coalition of environmental groups seeking to force BNSF to cover its coal-train loads to prevent water pollution began Monday in federal court in Seattle.

In a case with national implications, the plaintiffs contend that dust and particles from coal trains falling into water bodies are a violation of the federal Clean Water Act.

The trial is being heard by U.S. District Court Judge John Coughenour in Seattle. "

Lynda V. Mapes reports for the Seattle Times November 7, 2016. [2]