Water

Of all Georgia’s natural resources, none is more important to the future of the state than water. The wise use and management of water is critical to support the state’s economy, to protect public health and natural systems, and to enhance the quality of life for all citizens. Georgia has abundant water resources, with 14 major river systems and multiple groundwater aquifer systems. While water in Georgia is abundant, it is not an unlimited resource and must be carefully and sustainably managed to meet long-term water needs. This CNG Regional Water Plan moves the Region toward managing its water resources in a proactive, sustainable manner. 

Management Practices were selected to meet the Council’s vision and goals and to address the potential challenges identified and described in the Regional Water Plan. A prioritization and ranking process was used by the Regional Water Planning Council that resulted in the selection of 4 Administrative, 4 Water Conservation, and 3 Water Supply Management Practices. 

Administrative Management Practices 

  • AD-1: Develop/Update Local Master Plans for Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater. 

  • AD-2: Develop/Update System Maps. 

  • AD-3: Develop/Update Asset Management Plans for Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater. 

  • AD-4: Consider Promoting Utility Finance/Accounting Best Practices. 

Water Conservation Management Practices 

  • WC-1: Develop, update, and implement Water Conservation Education and Public Awareness Programs. 

  • WC-2: Encourage utilities to develop water conservation goals and programs to achieve goals. 

  • WC-3: Implement conservation rate structures. 

  • WC-4: Consider Developing Partnerships with Non-Utility Agencies Related to Cost-Sharing Programs and Agricultural Conservation-Oriented Activities 

Water Supply Management Practices 

  • WS-1: Identify / Evaluate Additional Water Supply Sources. 

  • WS-2: Encourage Beneficial Reuse to Offset Potable Demands. 

  • WS-3: Consider Local Ordinances or Minimum Development Standards Regarding Private Decentralized Water Systems. 

Related Pages

Water Related Links

Download the Regional Water Plan