Lawsuit filed over proposed gravel mine expansion

"Environmental groups filed a lawsuit Tuesday alleging that the proposed expansion of a sand and gravel mine on Maury Island could harm orcas, chinook salmon, humpback whales and other endangered animals.

The case is believed to be the first calling for better orca protections since the animals joined the ranks of federally endangered species three years ago.

The suit also comes as efforts are mounting to devise a multibillion-dollar strategy for restoring Puget Sound to better health by 2020..."