FARGO, N.D. (AP) — A legal battle by some North Dakota and Minnesota residents opposed to a Red River diversion project in the Fargo area has lasted nearly four years, but both sides are hoping to get some clarity soon.

A federal judge in Minnesota will hear arguments Tuesday on whether construction of the project should be halted until developers receive the necessary permits from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The 36-mile channel is envisioned as the solution to the frequent flooding threat to Fargo and neighboring Moorhead, Minnesota. But a group of residents sued in 2013 because it likely would mean floodwaters cover farmland outside the city instead.

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