DICKINSON (AP) - Landowners and the Dakota Resource Council are going to court to challenge the Stark County Commission's zoning change for a coal project.

The County Commission approved rezoning land near South Heart for a plant proposed by Australia-based GTL Energy to dry lignite so it burns cleaner and hotter.

The so-called "beneficiation" plant is to be part of an energy complex using coal reserves owned by Great Northern Power Development.

The attorney for the Dakota Resource Council and the landowners, Derrick Braaten, said the appeal alleges the county decision does not follow a comprehensive plan for the area, which includes protecting farm land.

The chief executive officer of GTL Energy, Robert French, said he had not heard of the appeal and would consult with his attorney. French said GTL is awaiting permits to start construction.