Rejecting arguments of environmental groups, a divided federal appeals court has backed a decision by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to issue a permit sought by the phosphate company Mosaic for expanded mining operations in Florida.

A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit on Monday upheld a decision by the Army Corps to issue a permit needed by Mosaic to discharge dredged and fill materials into waterways.