Wastewater

The surface water quality Resource Assessments described in the Regional Water Plan were performed to measure the assimilative capacity, or the ability of Georgia’s surface waters to absorb pollutants from treated wastewater and stormwater without unacceptable degradation of water quality. The Resource Assessments also highlighted the need for nutrient load reductions to Lake Allatoona, Carters Lake, and Lake Weiss to address expected future water quality issues. The Plan identifies a projected wastewater infrastructure capacity shortage, potential gaps in wastewater demand, and potential gaps in the assimilative capacity of surface waters for some counties in the Region. Additionally, all counties in the Region contain 303(d) listed impaired stream segments. Counties in the Region should consider implementation of the Wastewater Management Practices listed below and a more rigorous implementation of the Water Quality Management Practices to improve the quality of surface waters.

Management Practices were selected to meet the Council’s vision and goals and to address the potential resource gaps and shortages 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 8 Wastewater Management Practices.

Wastewater Management Practices

WW-1. Consider development of local wastewater treatment master plans to evaluate wastewater treatment and disposal options to meet future demands.

WW-2. Consider development and implementation of a local wastewater education and public awareness program.

WW-3. Promote septic system management.

WW-4. Provide sewer system inventory and mapping.

WW-5. Consider implementation of sewer system inspection, maintenance, and rehabilitation program.

WW-6. Develop a capacity certification program.

WW-7. Implement a grease management program.

WW-8. Develop a sanitary sewer overflow (SSO) emergency response program.

Related Pages

Download the Regional Water Plan