Georgia's Comprehensive State-Wide Water Management Plan

1) Resource Assessments: The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) will conduct water resource assessments to determine a sound scientific understanding of the condition of the water resources, in terms of the quantity of surface water and groundwater available to support current and future instream and offstream uses and the capacity of the surface water resources to assimilate pollution.

2) Forecasting: Forecasts of future population expectations, water demands, wastewater returns, land surface types and distribution and employment characteristics will be developed. Water use will be developed for:

3) Regional Water Planning: Ten regional water planning councils will prepare recommended regional plans called Water Development and Conservation Plans. These plans will promote the sustainable use of Georgia’s waters, through the selection of an array of management practices, to support the state’s economy, to protect public health and natural systems, and to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.

The plans will identify steps, which will be taken to ensure that the forecasted needs can be met. Implementation of the State Water Plan requires that EPD provide the regional water planning councils with technical assistance, such as contractor support, resource assessments, forecasts and guidance. After the Water Development and Conservation Plans are adopted, EPD permits and Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA) grants and loans for water projects will be guided by these regional plans.

For more information about the Georgia's State Water Plan please visit http://www.georgiawaterplanning.org/.