Idaho Grass Farmers

Residents who live in northern Idaho and Spokane County in eastern Washington filed a class action lawsuit against 70 farmers in Idaho who burned crops in 1999, 2000, and 2001. The suit claimed the burning polluted the air and damaged respiratory systems. Insurance companies for northern Idaho grass farmers have agreed to settle the class action lawsuit brought by area residents and set up a fund to pay claims to eligible people with respiratory problems. 70 northern Idaho farmers will pay an $891,450 class action settlement. People with cystic fibrosis will be eligible for as much as $50,000, and those with asthma or other breathing problems will get up to $1,000 each. (Nov-16-05) [SEATTLE TIMES]