There's new action being taken against a controversial lake dredging project in Suffolk County.

A group of environmentalists say it intends to sue the town of Brookhaven over a dredging project that is underway at the lower portion of Carmans River in Yaphank called Lilly Lake. The group claims those named in the lawsuit are harming the river's aquatic life with the project that is supposed to eradicate invasive plants from water.

The group also says proper state permits and approvals are not in place.

Environmentalist Doug Swesty claims Brookhaven is doing more harm than good. He also believes the dams that created the lakes back in the 1700s should be removed.

"The absolute best scenario for the health of the river and the health of the Great South Bay will certainly be to have this river running free to the sea. It would allow native fish to come and go. It would allow sediment transport downstream to naturally create sustainable marshes in our Great South Bay," he says.

Kevin McCallister, from Defend H2O, and other environmentalists gathered at the river too announce the intention to file the suit, claiming it violates the Clean Water Act.

Residents who live in the area say they want the body of water to stay the way it has been for hundreds of years.

A statement from the town says in part, "The town is committed to addressing the issues at the Yaphank lakes."

MORE: Environmentalists: Lake project has 'significant impact' on LI's native trout , Biologist says lake draining project is being done improperly