Environmental groups appeal New Jersey Gov. Christie's $225 million deal with Exxon Mobil

Four environmental groups want an appeals court to let them intervene in New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's $225 million settlement with Exxon Mobil over contaminated sites across the state.

New Jersey Sierra Club Director Jeff Tittel said Monday the groups are seeking additional natural resources damages.

A state Superior Court judge approved the deal last month despite earlier damages estimates of $8.9 billion.

Under law, about $50 million will go toward site cleanup. Another roughly $50 million will go toward the state's private legal costs, with the rest slated for the general fund.

The groups seeking intervention are the New Jersey Sierra Club, Clean Water Action, Delaware Riverkeeper and Environment New Jersey.

Messages seeking comment from the state attorney general's office and Irving, Texas-based Exxon Mobil weren't immediately returned Monday.