ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — An Orange County lake is suing to protect itself against development.

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It marks the first time ever an inanimate object will sue in the state.

Lake Mary Jane is arguing for the right to exist, the right to flow, the right to be protected against pollution and the right to maintain a healthy ecosystem.

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A developer wants to convert 1,900 acres of wetlands into homes, lawns and office buildings just north of the lake.

Roadwork and various other rearrangements of the landscape would entail filling in more than a hundred acres.

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On Tuesday, a hearing is expected to determine whether Orange County’s right to clean water holds up.

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VIDEO: Environmental group to fight state agency’s approval of toll road through Split Oak Forest Environmental group to fight state agency’s approval of toll road through Split Oak Forest

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