Earthworks Industries Inc. - CORTINA UPDATE

Executive Summary

• Earthworks Industries’ U.S. subsidiary, Cortina Integrated Waste Management Inc., filed a complaint challenging the IBIA’s order that sought to cancel its lease with the Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation.
• A stipulation was entered on October 16, 2025, vacating the hearing scheduled for October 27, 2025, and placing all summary‑judgment motions under submission pending future court action.
• The delay is due to a lapse in U.S. Department of Justice appropriations; the parties will seek a new hearing date once federal funding is restored.

Key Details

• Parties Involved: Cortina Integrated Waste Management Inc. (wholly owned subsidiary of Earthworks Industries) vs. United States Department of the Interior’s Board of Indian Appeals and the Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation.
• Legal Issue: Challenge to the IBIA order that purportedly cancels the federally approved lease for the Cortina Rancheria site in California.
• Stipulation Date: October 16, 2025; approved by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California.
• Effect of Stipulation: Hearing set for October 27, 2025, is vacated; Plaintiff’s Motion for Summary Judgment and Defendant‑Intervenor’s Cross‑Motions are placed under submission.
• Reason for Delay: Federal appropriations that fund the U.S. Department of Justice expired on September 30, 2025; without a continuing resolution, DOJ attorneys cannot work on civil cases.
• Future Proceedings: Court retains authority to reopen the matter for additional briefs or oral arguments; parties will request any rescheduled hearing be set as soon as funding permits.
• Company Outlook: Earthworks Industries anticipates a successful affirmation of the lease’s validity and enforceability by the court.

Notable Quotes

“The Company looks forward to a successful affirmation by the Court of the validity and enforceability of the lease at Cortina.” – David Atkinson, President/CEO, Earthworks Industries Inc.