The status of comprehensive water planning in Georgia: an interim report

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The Status of Comprehensive Water Planning in Georgia: An Interim Report
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Table of Contents
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................1 Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee .....................................................................................1 Water Plan Advisory Committee....................................................................................................................2 Proceedings of the Study Committee and Advisory Committee....................................................................2 Recommendations......................................................................................................................................... 5 Appendix A: Senate Resolution 142 ..............................................................................................................6 Appendix B: Membership of Georgia Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee ........................10 Appendix C: Membership of Georgia Water Plan Advisory Committee ......................................................12 Appendix D: Summary of Meetings of Georgia Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee.........14 Appendix E: Summary of Meetings of Georgia Water Plan Advisory Committee .......................................20 Appendix F: Study Methods.........................................................................................................................24 Appendix G: Water Issues Facing Georgia .................................................................................................26 Appendix H: Vision Statement, Guiding Principles and Water Management Goals....................................28

The Status of Comprehensive Water Management Planning in Georgia An Interim Report
Introduction
Georgia has traditionally been considered a "water rich" state, receiving on average about 50 inches of precipitation annually. Accessibility to abundant water resources has allowed the development of many waterintensive activities in the state. Among those activities are pulp and paper production, textile and chemical manufacturing, irrigated agriculture, as well as thermo- and hydroelectric power production. These activities benefit the citizens of Georgia in many ways and provide the state with a strong economic backbone.
Georgia's water resources also provide life-sustaining sustenance to a diverse wildlife population and support a wide array of aquatic species. From Cherokee darters in the Broad River watershed to rare mussel species in the Flint River, Georgia's water resources are teeming with life. The state's water resources allow our citizens and millions of tourists to boat, fish, and swim, as well as experience breath-taking scenic vistas.
In stewardship of the state's water resources, the Georgia General Assembly adopted laws beginning in 1964 providing for the control of water pollution, as well as a system for allocating the state's water resources among various users. However, since the early 1960s much has changed. The growth in population and economic activity in Georgia is placing increasing demands on the state's water resources. The state is experiencing increasing water demands both for offstream uses (i.e., public supply, industrial use, thermoelectric power production, and agricultural and other rural uses) and instream uses (i.e., navigation, hydroelectric power production, waste assimilation, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreation). Those water resources once considered virtually limitless are now subject to intense competition among various users. In addition to the increasing demands, the drought that began in May 1998, underscores the value of water to both Georgia's economy and natural systems.
Along with addressing expanding water supply demands, there is mounting interest in maintaining or improving water quality to protect drinking water and to ensure that water is safe for recreational purposes and supportive of aquatic life. Balancing the multiple demands for water supply and water quality in an equitable manner requires the state to comprehensively plan for a more effective water management program to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee
In response to the water resource challenges facing Georgia, Governor Roy Barnes proposed and the General Assembly adopted Senate Resolution 142 (SR 142)(Appendix A) during the 2001 Session. SR142 created the Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee, hereinafter referred to as "Study Committee." The twentythree member Study Committee is composed of members of the Georgia House of Representatives and Senate, state agency directors and citizens appointed by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the House. A complete list of members is included in Appendix B. The Study Committee is co-chaired by Representative Bob Hanner, Chairman of the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee and Senator Hugh Gillis, Chairman of the Senate Natural Resources Committee.
Senate Resolution 142 charged the Study Committee to:
! Consider existing policy, laws, rules and programs to manage water resources; ! Recommend a process and schedule to prepare the details of a comprehensive water plan; ! Develop the principles for a comprehensive water plan; ! Undertake a study of the water resources issues, including water quality and quantity, facing Georgia;
and ! Recommend any other action or legislation the study committee deems appropriate.
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The Study Committee has until September 2002 to complete its work. It is anticipated that legislation to structure the planning process will be considered during the 2003 Session and, if legislation is enacted and the process funded, the planning process will most likely begin in July 2003.
Water Plan Advisory Committee
In addition to creating the Study Committee, Senate Resolution 142 established the Water Plan Advisory Committee, hereinafter referred to as "Advisory Committee." The fifty-two member Water Plan Advisory Committee is composed of representatives of the scientific, academic, business, agricultural, and commercial fisheries communities, environmental advocacy and outdoor recreation groups, representatives from the state's fourteen river basins, as well as people with expertise in water resource management. The members of the Advisory Committee were appointed by the Co-Chairmen of the Study Committee. A complete list of Advisory Committee members is included in Appendix C.
The Advisory Committee's responsibilities include:
! Gathering information; ! Preparing briefing documents; ! Preparing recommendations; and ! Evaluating proposed recommendations.
Representative Hanner and Senator Gillis appointed Dr. Jim Kundell, Director of the Environmental Policy Program at the University of Georgia's Carl Vinson Institute of Government (CVIOG) as Chairman of the Advisory Committee. The Carl Vinson Institute of Government is also providing staff support for the Study Committee process.
Proceedings of the Study Committee and Advisory Committee
The Study Committee has met on the following dates since its inception: May 31, 2001 in Athens, July 18-19, 2001 in Savannah, and November 9, 2001 in Dawsonville. The Advisory Committee has met on the following dates: May 31, 2001 in Athens, July 11, 2001 in Macon, September 13, 2001 in Macon and November 8, 2001 in Albany. A summary of each Study Committee and Advisory Committee meeting is included in Appendices D and E, respectively.
May 31, 2001
The focus of the initial meeting in Athens was to organize the Study Committee and Advisory Committee for business and to provide the members with background information and pertinent materials on Georgia's water resources. Mr. Ed Martin, Chief of the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) Georgia District office and Mr. Brad McCallum of his staff provided a presentation on USGS water resources monitoring activities in the state.
Mr. Harold Reheis, Director of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, made a presentation on the Board of Natural Resources' (BNR) Water Issues White Paper. The White Paper suggests a framework for development of the State Comprehensive Water Management Plan and summarizes water issues facing the state. Issues identified by the BNR as requiring statutory changes for improved management include interbasin water transfers, resale of water allocated to private entities, agricultural water allocations and authorization of user fees.
Dr. Jim Kundell informed the committees of the various factors that the committees must consider in the development of a comprehensive state water management plan. These include the development of a vision statement, guiding principles and goals for the state's water management program. Dr. Kundell also provided a thorough review of the state's water resources management statutory and regulatory history.
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July 11, 2001
The Advisory Committee was initially charged with developing recommendations on the vision statement, guiding principles and water resources management program goals. The Advisory Committee met on July 11 in Macon to begin its task. The Vinson Institute of Government (CVIOG) staff prepared drafts if the vision statement, guiding principles, and water management program goals for consideration by the Advisory Committee. The CVIOG staff also prepared information on selection of a lead agency, development of an interagency coordinating committee and establishment of a public participation process for development of the water management plan. After considerable discussion and deliberation, the Advisory Committee adopted recommendations on the vision statement, guiding principles, and water management program goals, but deferred recommendations on the lead agency, interagency coordination and public participation process.
July 18-19, 2001
At the July 18-19 Study Committee meeting in Savannah, Mr. Reheis outlined the highlights of the Board of Natural Resources Water Issues White Paper and offered to answer questions about the issues raised. Members of the Study Committee raised questions about instream flows, agricultural water use, priorities for water use during shortage, interbasin transfers, and funding and staff resources needed to implement an effective water management program.
Dr. Jim Kundell, Chairman of the Advisory Committee, then provided the recommendations on the vision statement, guiding principles, and water management program goals. Several members of the Study Committee sought clarification of terms and concepts used. After extensive discussion, the Study Committee decided to refer the Advisory Committee recommendation to a Study Committee Subcommittee for consideration. It was suggested that a glossary of terms may be helpful in clarifying some matters. The Study Committee briefly discussed the current process for conducting its business. Co-Chairmen Hanner and Gillis requested members of the Study Committee to submit any water management issues needing to be considered to them. The Advisory Committee was further charged with looking at priorities for water use during times of shortage and compiling a list of water issues facing Georgia.
September 13, 2001
The Advisory Committee met on September 13, 2001 in Macon to identify water issues facing Georgia and to receive a presentation from the Study Committee Subcommittee on its revisions to the vision statement, guiding principles and water management program goals. Based upon the Board of Natural Resources Water Issues White Paper and a paper by Dr. Stephen Draper, "Effective Georgia Water Policy for the 21st Century," the CVIOG staff developed a proposed list of water issues facing Georgia. After lengthy discussion, the Advisory Committee decided to remove the categories of issues because of overlap among the categories and decided not to prioritize the list. The list was forwarded to the Study Committee for consideration.
In discussing efforts on making a recommendation regarding a lead water planning agency, several Advisory Committee members proposed the creation of a Subcommittee to develop a skill set needed for water management planning. Dr. Todd Rasmussen was appointed Chairman of the Lead Agency Skill Set Subcommittee.
Dr. Stephen Draper presented the revisions to the vision statement, guiding principles and water management program goals. Several members of the Advisory Committee offered further comments on the documents. Dr. Draper pledged that the Subcommittee would consider these comments.
Dr. Jim Kundell briefly reviewed the status of research on the priorities on water use during shortage. He noted that CVIOG staff had looked at statutory and regulatory aspects of how this issue was dealt with in other states. The results show a number of different approaches. He further noted that the Georgia Drought Management Task Force was also looking at the issue from the prospective of drought management planning. They would be requested to provide information on their results later.
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Between the July and September Advisory Committee meetings, Dr. Kundell appointed two subcommittees: the Data and Information Management Subcommittee and the Public and Stakeholder Information and Involvement Subcommittee. Dr. Jim Hook was appointed Chairman of the Data and Information Management Subcommittee. That Subcommittee received the following charge:
! review the sources and types of water-related data currently collected and methods by which those data are managed;
! identify accessibility issues of current water-related data and data management systems; ! identify options for effectively managing water-related data and information; and ! identify options for making data and information accessible across state agencies and to the general
public.
Dr. Becky Champion was appointed Chairperson of the Public and Stakeholder Information and Involvement Subcommittee. This Subcommittee was charged with proposing cost-effective public information and involvement options that could be used during the state comprehensive water planning process.
Both subcommittees held their organizational meetings following the September 13 Advisory Committee meeting.
September 20, 2001
The Study Committee was scheduled to meet on September 20-21, 2001, but that meeting was cancelled due to the Special Legislative Session on Reapportionment.
November 8, 2001
The Data and Information Management Subcommittee and the Public and Stakeholder Information and Involvement Subcommittee met on the afternoon of November 8 in Albany.
Following the subcommittee meetings, the Advisory Committee met to review the revisions made to the vision statement, guiding principles and water management program goals. Dr. Elizabeth Blood delivered the presentation on behalf of the Study Committee Subcommittee. After discussion, the Advisory Committee members again proposed revisions to the documents. The revisions were accepted by the Subcommittee. The documents with the revisions would be presented to the Study Committee on November 9.
The Advisory Committee also reviewed the revised draft list of the water issues facing Georgia. Following discussion on several issues, a new issue was added regarding "water for energy production," thus bringing the list to encompass forty-one issues. The list was adopted for submission to the Study Committee.
No recommendations were available from the Lead Agency Skill Set Subcommittee.
November 9, 2001
The Study Committee convened its third meeting on November 9 in Dawson. Co-Chairman Hanner recognized Dr. Kundell to provide a presentation on the proposed process for the remainder of the Study Committee's effort. Dr. Kundell reiterated the charges of the Study Committee and Advisory Committee and proposed a timeline for completion of the work. Major policy decisions can be divided into two areas: establishment of a planning framework and establishment of a policy direction on specific water issues. He elaborated on several potential study methods that could be used to reach these decisions. Among those study methods were white papers and working groups (Appendix F).
Co-Chairman Hanner noted that the Senate Resolution 142 required the Study Committee to submit an interim report by December 1, 2001. Because the Study Committee was still in the process of analyzing issues, there would be no recommended actions or legislation in the interim report. Without objection, the Co-Chairmen were approved to submit the interim report.
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Dr. Kundell was further recognized to provide Advisory Committee's recommendation on the list of water issues facing Georgia. Dr. Kundell identified each issue and provided a brief explanation. Following discussion, the Study Committee added "water security" to the list and adopted it (Appendix G). Co-Chairman Hanner noted that after discussions with Dr. Kundell, Mr. Reheis and others, three issue areas were identified as needing to be addressed in the Study Committee's process, while others would be included for consideration in the planning process. Issues identified for consideration in the Study Committee process included the following:
! Water Rights Structure (comprised of the following issues) ! Water as a public resource versus a market commodity; ! Allocating /reallocating water among users, including public supply, industrial, agricultural, energy production, assimilation capacity and instream uses; ! Allocation of state water to private entities for resale; ! Legal status of water withdrawals, permits and transfers; and ! Legal status of water in aquifers while in the ground and following withdrawal.
! Interbasin Water Transfer and Basin-of-Origin Protection ! State and Substate/Regional Water Management Options (comprised of the following
issues) ! State and substate/regional water management options; and ! Interagency coordination.
To study these three issue areas, as well as to develop the planning framework for the comprehensive water management plan (e.g. lead planning agency, interagency coordination, schedule, funding, public involvement and approval/revision process), the Study Committee created four working groups. These working groups will conduct their efforts over the next few months in order to make a report in the summer of 2002. Ms. Christi Lambert presented the recommendations of the Study Committee's subcommittee on the vision statement, guiding principles and water management program goals. Members of the Study Committee discussed several provisions. Following the discussion, several changes were proposed and adopted and a final version was adopted (Appendix H). The CVIOG staff was given leeway to conform the changes and to edit the documents for readability.
Recommendations The Study Committee makes no recommendation for legislation or other action in this interim report.
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Appendix A Senate Resolution 142
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Georgia General Assembly
01 SR142/AP Senate Resolution 142 By: Senators Thompson of the 33rd, Stokes of the 43rd, Tanksley of the 32nd, Walker of the 22nd and Johnson of the 1st ADOPTED
A RESOLUTION
Creating the Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee; to create the Water Plan Advisory Committee; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, the task of securing sustainable water sources for Georgia while improving and preserving the quality of rivers, lakes, and ground water is very important; and
WHEREAS, since 1964, the General Assembly has passed laws relating to water quality protection and water quantity allocation; and
WHEREAS, these laws and subsequent programs form a strong foundation for water policy in Georgia; and
WHEREAS, recent stresses to Georgia's water resources mandate are examination of Georgia's water policy in Georgia; and
WHEREAS, the potential for saltwater intrusion into the Floridan Aquifer in coastal Georgia is a major concern and is the subject of the interim strategy of the Environmental Protection Division of the Department of Natural Resources for groundwater withdrawal reduction and is the subject of ongoing scientific studies funded jointly by the State of Georgia and the private sector; and
WHEREAS, agricultural water use in the Flint River in southwest Georgia has the potential to harmfully deplete the flow of the Flint River in drought years and the Environmental Protection Division is preparing a water development and conservation plan for this area; and
WHEREAS, Georgia has been negotiating water allocation formulas with the States of Alabama and Florida under interstate water compacts for the Coosa, Tallapoosa, Flint, and Chattahoochee River Basins, and the results of these negotiations will most likely establish the basis of future water management in these basins; and
WHEREAS, the droughts of 1998, 1999, and 2000 had profound negative impacts on agriculture and on drinking water systems in Georgia; and
WHEREAS, there are many potential methods to augment water supply sources to reduce water shortages in future droughts; and
WHEREAS, there are many potential methods to reduce water demands in Georgia during drought and nondrought periods; and
WHEREAS, the Georgia Municipal Association and the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia have developed recommendations for improvements in water resource management; and
WHEREAS, the quality of Georgia's rivers and streams is diminished by pollution from stormwater runoff; and
WHEREAS, this pollution, called "nonpoint source" pollution, cannot be corrected only by the treating of stormwater runoff but will involve new approaches to stormwater management and new approaches in land development; and
WHEREAS, many local governments are performing watershed assessments to identify and correct water
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pollution problems coming from stormwater runoff; and
WHEREAS, the Environmental Protection Division is preparing total maximum daily loads which allocate pollution loads in river basins; and
WHEREAS, implementation of total maximum daily load solutions will require close coordination and cooperation between state government, local government, agriculture, and business; and
WHEREAS, the metropolitan Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Regional Business Coalition convened a task force and made suggestions for a regional approach to water quality issues in metropolitan Atlanta; and
WHEREAS, the Environmental Protection Division prepared a Water Resources Summary Document in 1986 which included plans to meet Georgia's water needs until the year 2000; and
WHEREAS, many local governments have implemented water source enhancement reservoirs and wells and water conservation as outlined in the 1986 document; and
WHEREAS, additional actions are necessary to provide safe and secure water supply for predicated population growth at least 20 years into the future; and
WHEREAS, in light of the above issues it is now time to prepare a new comprehensive water plan for Georgia.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA that there is created the Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee to be composed of 23 members consisting of four members of the Senate to be appointed by the President of the Senate, four members of the House of Representatives to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and, as ex officio members, the chairperson of the Senate Natural Resources Committee and the chairperson of the House Committee on Natural Resources and the Environment who shall be co chairpersons of the study committee. The President of the Senate shall appoint two additional members, one each from the following: county government, and agricultural interest groups. The Speaker of the House of Representatives shall appoint two additional members, one each from the following: city government, and wildlife conservation groups. The Governor shall appoint five additional members. The director of the Environmental Protection Division of the Department of Natural Resources, the Commissioner of Natural Resources, the Commissioner of Agriculture, and the executive director of the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission shall all serve in ex officio capacities as members of the committee. Either chairperson may call meetings of the committee. Such appointments shall be made by May 15, 2001, with the first meeting of the study committee to occur by June 15, 2001.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the committee shall undertake a study of the water resource issues, including water quality and quantity, facing Georgia. The committee shall consider the existing policy, laws, rules, and programs to manage water resources. The committee shall recommend a process and schedule to prepare the details of a comprehensive water plan, develop the principle for a comprehensive water plan, and recommend any other action or legislation the study committee deems appropriate.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that there is created a Water Plan Advisory Committee, consisting of members of the scientific community, business community, agricultural community, environmental advocacy groups, professions with expertise in water quality and management, the academic community, representative citizen groups in each of the state's river basins, the outdoor recreation community, and the commercial fisheries community to be selected by the cochairpersons of the Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee. The study committee cochairpersons shall appoint an advisory committee chairperson who shall be a faculty member of the University System of Georgia specializing in the natural sciences. The Water Plan Advisory Committee shall assist the study committee, as requested, in gathering information, preparing briefing documents, preparing recommendations, and evaluating proposed recommendations. The Water Plan Advisory Committee may be divided into subcommittees at the discretion of the advisory committee chairperson.
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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the study committee may conduct such meetings at such times and places as it may deem necessary or convenient to enable it to exercise fully and effectively its powers, perform its duties, and accomplish the objectives and purposes for this resolution. The legislative members of the study committee shall receive the allowances authorized for legislative members of interim committees but shall receive the same for not more than ten days unless additional days are authorized. The funds necessary to carry out the provisions of this resolution shall come from funds appropriated to the Senate and House of Representatives. No allowance shall be paid for other members of the committee. The study committee shall make a report of its findings and recommendations, with suggestions for proposed legislation, if any, prior to December 1, 2001. The study committee shall make a final report of its findings and recommendations with suggestions for proposed legislation, if any, prior to September 1, 2002. The study committee shall stand abolished on September 1, 2002.
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Appendix B Membership of Georgia Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee
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Membership of Georgia Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee
Representative Bob Hanner: Co-Chairman Senator Hugh Gillis: Co-Chairman

Member
Mayor Boyd Austin Commissioner Lonice Barrett Dr. Elizabeth Blood Mr. Brad Currey Dr. Stephen Draper Mr. Fred Greer Senator Jack Hill Mr. Richard Holmes Commissioner Tommy Irvin Ms. Christi Lambert Mr. Graham Liles, Jr.
Representative Tom McCall Commissioner Martha McDaniel Mr. George McIntosh Senator Michael Meyer von Bremen Mr. Harold Reheis
Representative Carl Rogers Representative Richard Royal Representative Lynn Smith Senator Terrell Starr Senator Charles Walker

Appointing Authority
Speaker of the House Dept of Natural Resources (Ex officio) Governor Governor Governor Speaker of the House Lieutenant Governor Governor Commissioner of Agriculture (Ex officio) Governor Executive Director, Soil & Water
Conservation Commission (Ex officio) Speaker of the House Lieutenant Governor Lieutenant Governor Lieutenant Governor Director, Environmental Protection Division
(Ex officio) Speaker of the House Speaker of the House Speaker of the House Lieutenant Governor Lieutenant Governor

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Appendix C Membership of Georgia Water Plan Advisory Committee
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Membership of Georgia Water Plan Advisory Committee
Dr. Jim Kundell: Chairman

Member
Dr. Merryl Alber Dr. Bruce Beck Mr. Gary Black Dr. Marsha Black Mr. Andrew R. (Sonny) Cato Dr. Becky Champion Mr. Don Cope Mayor Keith Dixon Mr. Jack Dozier Mr. Paul English Mr. Jimmy Fleming Mr. Bobby Flowers Mr. Roger L. Folsom Mr. Robert Fountain Ms. Laurie Fowler Dr. David Gattie Dr. Aris Georgakakos Mr. Hal Haddock, Jr. Mr. Bucky Heys Mr. Chris Hobson Mr. Gene Holcomb Dr. Jim Hook Dr. Phyllis W. Isley Mr. Harry Jue Dr. Andy Keeler Mr. Don Koehler Mr. David Kubala Mr. Jerry Lee Mr. Edward H. Martin Mr. Vernon Martin Mr. Jimmy Matthews Mr. Jim McBrayer Mr. Jerry McCollum Dr. Judith L. Meyer Mr. Hugh Mitchell Mr. Rick Moss Dr. Virgil J. Norton Mr. Ron Papaleoni Dr. Todd Rasmussen Dr. Bill Segars Mr. Wes Shannon Mr. John Sibley Mr. Garland Stewart Dr. David Stooksbury Dr. Terry W. Sturm Mr. Lindsay Thomas Mr. Billy G. Turner Mr. Mike Vaquer Mr. John Wallace Mr. Jimmy Webb Mr. Mickey Whittington

Affiliation/Representing
School of Marine Sciences, UGA School of Forest Resources, UGA Georgia Agribusiness Council Environmental Health Sciences, UGA Savannah River Basin Chattahoochee River Basin Dalton Utilities St. Marys River Basin Georgia Water & Pollution Control Assn. Georgia Peanut Producers Assn. Vulcan Materials Company Georgia Green Industry Assn. Oconee River Basin Georgia Farm Bureau Institute of Ecology, UGA Dept. of Biological & Agricultural Engineering, UGA Georgia Water Resources Research Institute Flint River Basin Satilla River Basin Georgia Power Company Ocmulgee River Basin College of Agriculture & Environmental Science, UGA Ogeechee River Basin Wastewater Department, City of Savannah River Basin Science & Policy Center, UGA Georgia Peanut Commission Water & Sewerage Authority, Cherokee County Wight Nurseries U.S. Geological Survey Coastal regional Development Center Georgia Rural Water Association Tallapoosa River Basin Georgia Wildlife Federation Institute of Ecology, UGA Tennessee River Basin Ochlockonee River Basin Albany State University Coosa River Basin School of Forest Resources, UGA College of Agriculture & Environmental Science, UGA Suwannee River Basin The Georgia Conservancy Georgia Council of Trout Unlimited State Climatologist School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, GTU Georgia Chamber of Commerce Columbus Water Works International Paper Georgia Shrimp Assn. Flint River Water Planning & Policy Center Altamaha River Basin

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Appendix D Summary of Meetings Georgia Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee
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Summary of Meeting of Georgia Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee
and Georgia Water Plan Advisory Committee
May 31, 2001 Athens, Georgia
The first meeting of the Study Committee and the Advisory Committee was held on May 31, 2001 in Athens. The focus of the meeting was to organize the Study Committee and Advisory Committee for business and to provide the members with background information and pertinent materials on Georgia's water resources.
Mr. Ed Martin, Chief of the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) Georgia District office, provided a presentation on USGS water resources monitoring activities in the state. USGS has been active in Georgia since the 1890's. The agency maintains the following three types of statewide networks in Georgia: streamflow measurement, ground water monitoring and water quality monitoring. Data collected by USGS generally fall into two categories, discrete (individual) measurements and continuous data. Most data collection activities are cooperative efforts between USGS and a state agency or private party. USGS is also participating in several scientific studies around the state. These include the Sound Science Initiative and work on surface/ground water interactions in southwest Georgia and water quality in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river basins. Brad McCallum of the USGS District Office elaborated further on the monitoring networks and provided a demonstration using USGS's on-line databases.
Mr. Harold Reheis, Director of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, was recognized for a presentation on the Board of Natural Resources Water Issues White Paper. The White Paper suggests a framework for development of the State Comprehensive Water Management Plan and recommends statutory and regulatory changes for water resources management. The White Paper also summarizes water issues facing the state and describes funding needs for the Department of Natural Resources. Among the concerns identified in the presentation were saltwater intrusion, water for agricultural irrigation, interstate conflicts over shared water resources, and drought. Issues identified as requiring statutory changes for improved management included interbasin water transfers, resale of water allocated to private entities, agricultural water allocations and authorization of user fees. Regulatory changes are contemplated in dealing with instream flows, water conservation, erosion and sedimentation and other issues. General needs for funding for various state and local water resources management programs were discussed.
Dr. Jim Kundell provided a presentation on development of a comprehensive state water management plan. Dr. Kundell reiterated many of the issues identified by the previous speaker, as well as the charge to the Study Committee under SR 142. Dr. Kundell provided a thorough review of the state's water resources management statutory and regulatory history. He informed the committees about water management strategies, like regional water management used in other states and how those may be effective in certain cases in Georgia. Dr. Kundell further discussed various components of a comprehensive water resources plan, such as the vision statement, guiding principles and goals for the state's water resources management program.
Neither the Study Committee nor the Advisory Committee took any final action at this meeting.
Materials distributed:
Developing a Comprehensive State Water Management Plan: A Framework for Managing Georgia's Water Resources by James E. Kundell, Terry A. DeMeo and Margaret Myszewski
Whose Water Is It? Major Water Allocation Issues Facing Georgia by James E. Kundell and Diana Tetens
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Protecting Stream and River Corridors: Creating Effective Local riparian Buffer Ordinances by Seth Winger and Laurie Fowler The Regulated Riparian Model Water Code, Joseph W. Dellapenna (ed), American Society of Civil Engineers "Georgia Water Resource Policy: A Call for Action" by Association County Commissioners of Georgia and Georgia Municipal Association "Effective Georgia Water Policy for the 21st Century" by Stephen E. Draper, Ph.D., P.E., J.D. "Water Issues White Paper" by Georgia Board of Natural Resources, May 2001. "Briefing Papers" on various water resource planning issues by Terry A. DeMeo
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Summary of Meeting of Georgia Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee
July 18-19, 2001 Savannah, Georgia
Convening its second meeting in Savannah, Chairman Gillis of the Study Committee recognized Mr. Harold Reheis of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) to initiate a discussion of the Board of Natural Resources Water Issues White Paper. Mr. Reheis highlighted several issues in the paper and offered to answer questions about any issues in the paper. Mr. Reheis noted that the Plan framework would have to consider existing laws and regulations, particularly federal laws and requirements. Other large issues elaborated on included funding, interbasin transfers, allocation of water for agricultural use, water conservation, instream flows, water use priorities during drought, private water supply systems and the need for regional reservoirs, particularly in North Georgia.
Members of the Study Committee raised questions about instream flows (7Q10 v. 30% mean annual flow), the recommendations for changing the priorities for water use during shortage, interbasin transfers, factors placing stress on Georgia's water resources, problems with privately-owned water supply systems, regional water management and funding and staff resources needed to implement an effective water resources management program.
Dr. Jim Kundell, Chairman of the Advisory Committee, then provided the recommendations on the vision statement, guiding principles, and water resources management program goals. Several members of the Study Committee expressed concern over some terminology (e.g. equitable, practical) and sought clarification of those terms and related concepts. Members of the Study Committee expressed concern over the need for benchmarking to determine progress, as well as systems to adequately manage water resource information and data to support decision-making.
Several members made comments regarding the "quality of life" provision in the Vision Statement. Some members of the Study Committee expressed concern over the "wordiness" of the guiding principles and goals. Some members also supported simplification of the guiding principles and goals, if possible. After further discussion, the Study Committee decided to refer the Advisory Committee recommendation to a Subcommittee of its members for revision. It was suggested that a glossary of terms might be helpful in clarifying and using terms consistently.
The Study Committee briefly discussed the current process. Members of the Study Committee were requested to submit any water resource management issues they believed needed to be considered to the Co-Chairmen.
Actions:
The Study Committee referred the Advisory Committee recommendation to a Subcommittee of its members for revision consistent with the Study Committee discussion.
The Advisory Committee was charged with looking at priorities for water use during shortage and compiling a list of water issues facing Georgia.
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Summary of Meeting of Georgia Joint Comprehensive Water Plan Study Committee
November 9, 2001 Dawson, Georgia
The Study Committee convened its third meeting on November 9 in Dawson. Chairman Hanner opened the meeting with a clarification regarding the dual roles that Dr. Kundell occupies as staffing the Study Committee process and as Chairman of the Advisory Committee.
Chairman Hanner recognized Dr. Kundell to provide a presentation on the proposed process for the remainder of the Study Committee's effort. Dr. Kundell reiterated the charges of the Study Committee and Advisory Committee and proposed a timeline for completion of the work. Major policy decisions can be divided into two areas: establishment of a planning framework and establishment of a policy direction on specific water issues. He elaborated on several potential study methods that could be used to reach these decisions. Among those study methods were white papers and working groups.
To obtain input on the planning framework or specific water issues, the Study Committee adopted the following procedures for anyone desiring to submit a "white paper."
# The purpose of white papers is to share information and perspectives on water issues facing Georgia. # White Papers can be written by Study Committee members, Advisory Committee members and
others interested in the development of the State Comprehensive Water Management Plan. # White Papers should be no more than two (2) pages in length but additional material can be included
as attachments. # The name and affiliation of the author and the focus of the white paper (Title) should be identified at
the top of the first page. # White Papers should be sent in electronic form to: Josey@cviog.uga.edu.; # White Papers will be put in PDF format and placed on the website of the Vinson Institute of
Government (www.cviog.uga.edu).
A working group will consist of an equal number of members from the Study Committee and the Advisory Committee and will be chaired by a Study Committee member. The working groups will be appointed by the Co-Chairmen of the Study Committee and will be charged with developing recommendations on a specific topic or topics for consideration by the Study Committee and the Advisory Committee. Since there are more Advisory Committee members than Study Committee members, some Advisory Committee members will not be appointed to serve on a working group. Working group meetings will be open to attendance by any member of the Study Committee or Advisory Committee.
Dr. Kundell was further recognized to provide Advisory Committee's recommendation on the List of Water Issues Facing Georgia. Dr. Kundell identified each issue and provided a brief explanation. It was recommended that one additional issue be added, water security. The Study Committee adopted this recommendation. Following discussion by the Study Committee the list of issues was adopted.
Chairman Hanner noted that after discussions with Dr. Kundell, Mr. Reheis and others, three issues were identified as needing to be addressed in this process, while others would be included for consideration in the planning process. Issues identified for consideration in the process included the following:
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# Water Rights Structure (comprised of the following issues) # Water as a public resource versus a market commodity; # Allocating /reallocating water among users, including public supply, industrial, agricultural,
energy production, assimilation capacity and instream uses; # Allocation of state water to private entities for resale; # Legal status of water withdrawals, permits and transfers; and # Legal status of water in aquifers while in the ground and following withdrawal.

# Interbasin Water Transfer and Basin-of-Origin Protection

# State and substate/regional water management options (comprised of the following issues)

#

State and substate/regional water management options; and

#

Interagency coordination.

To study these three issue areas, as well as to develop the framework for the comprehensive water resource planning process (e.g. lead planning agency, interagency coordination, schedule, funding, public involvement and approval/revision process), the Study Committee created four working groups. These working groups will conduct their efforts over the next few months in order to make a report in Spring or early Summer 2002.

Ms. Christi Lambert presented the recommendations of the Subcommittee on the vision statement, guiding principles and water management program goals. Members of the Study Committee discussed several provisions. Following the discussion several changes were proposed and adopted. The CVIOG staff was given leeway to conform the changes and to edit the documents for readability.

Actions: The Study Committee approved a list of 42 water issues facing Georgia.

The Study Committee approved the further study of issues in the following areas: water rights structure, interbasin transfer and basin-of-origin protection, and state and substate/regional water management options.

The Study Committee approved the creation of working groups to address the above-delineated issues and the establishment of the planning framework.

The Study Committee adopted the vision statement, guiding principles and the goals for the water management program.

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Appendix E Summary of Meetings Georgia Water Plan Advisory Committee
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Summary of Meeting of Georgia Water Plan Advisory Committee
July 11, 2001 Macon, Georgia The Advisory Committee met on July 11 in Macon to begin the task of developing recommendations on the vision statement and guiding principles for the state comprehensive water management plan and goals for the water management program. The Vinson Institute of Government staff prepared draft materials outlining options on the vision statement, guiding principles, and water management program goals for consideration by the Advisory Committee. The CVIOG staff also prepared information on selection of a lead agency, development of an interagency coordinating committee and establishment of a public participation process for development of the water plan. Dr. Richard Milford of CVIOG served as facilitator for the meeting. The Advisory Committee began deliberations on the vision statement, which was followed by the guiding principles and the goals statement. After considerable discussion and deliberation, the Advisory Committee adopted recommendations on the vision statement, guiding principles, and water management program goals, but deferred recommendations on the lead agency, interagency coordination and public participation process pending information on the Joint Study Committee process and the issues. Action: The Advisory Committee approved a recommendation to the Study Committee on the vision statement and guiding principles for the state comprehensive water management plan and goals for the water management program. A detailed report of this Advisory Committee meeting is available.
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Summary of Meeting of Georgia Water Plan Advisory Committee
September 13, 2001 Macon, Georgia
The Advisory Committee met on September 13, 2001 in Macon to identify water issues facing Georgia and to receive a presentation from the Study Committee Subcommittee on their revisions to the vision statement, guiding principles and water management program goals. Based upon the Board of Natural Resources Water Issues White Paper and a paper by Dr. Stephen Draper, "Effective Georgia Water Policy for the 21st Century," the CVIOG staff developed a list of proposed water issues facing Georgia. The Staff categorized the issues and identified whether the technical, financial, educational or stakeholder aspects were the subject of primary, secondary, tertiary state actions. The categorization also identified those issues that would likely require legislation or legal actions to be further addressed. After lengthy discussion, the Advisory Committee decided to remove the categorization and elaboration on the various aspects of the issues. Several issues were added to the list and without any prioritization, the list was forwarded to the Study Committee for consideration.
In discussing efforts on making a recommendation regarding a lead water planning agency, several Advisory Committee members proposed the creation of a Subcommittee to develop a skill set needed for water resource management planning. Dr. Todd Rasmussen was appointed Chairman of the Lead Agency Skill Set Subcommittee.
Dr. Stephen Draper presented the revisions to the vision statement, guiding principles and water management program goals. Dr. Draper covered those areas where the Study Committee Subcommittee had made significant changes or added material. Several members of the Advisory Committee offered further comments on the documents. Dr. Draper pledged that the Subcommittee would consider these comments.
Dr. Jim Kundell briefly reviewed the status of research on the priorities on water use during shortage. He noted that CVIOG staff had looked at statutory and regulatory aspects of how this issue was dealt with in other states. The results show a number of different approaches. He further noted that the Georgia Drought Management Task Force was also looking at the issue from the prospective of drought management planning. They would be requested to provide information on their results later.
Between the July and September Advisory Committee meetings, Dr. Kundell appointed two subcommittees: the Data and Information Management Subcommittee and the Public and Stakeholder Information and Involvement Subcommittee. Dr. Jim Hook was appointed Chairman of the Data and Information Management Subcommittee. That Subcommittee received the following charge: # review the sources and types of water-related data currently collected and methods by which those data
are managed; # identify accessibility issues of current water-related data and data management systems; # identify options for effectively managing water-related data and information; and # identify options for making data and information accessible across state agencies and to the general
public.
Dr. Becky Champion was appointed Chairperson of the Public and Stakeholder Information and Involvement Subcommittee. This Subcommittee was charged with proposing cost-effective public information and involvement options that could be used during the state comprehensive water planning process.
Both subcommittees held their organizational meetings following the September 13 Advisory committee meeting.
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Summary of Meeting of Georgia Water Plan Advisory Committee
November 8, 2001 Albany, Georgia
The Data and Information Management Subcommittee and the Public and Stakeholder Information and Involvement Subcommittee met on the afternoon of November 8 in Albany. Following the subcommittee meetings, the Advisory Committee met to review the revisions made to the vision statement, guiding principles and water resources management program goals. Dr. Elizabeth Blood delivered the presentation on behalf of the Study Committee Subcommittee. After discussion, the Advisory Committee members again proposed revisions to the documents. The revisions were accepted by the Subcommittee. The documents with the revisions would be presented to the full Study Committee on the following day. The Advisory Committee also reviewed the revised draft of the Water Issues Facing Georgia. Following discussion on several issues, a new issue was added regarding water for energy production, thus bringing the list to encompass forty-one issues. The list was adopted for submission to the Study Committee on the following day. No recommendations were available from the Lead Agency Skill Set Subcommittee. Action: Advisory Committee approved recommendation on List of Water Issues Facing Georgia for submission to the Study Committee.
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Appendix F Study Methods Adopted by the Georgia Joint Water Plan Study Committee November 9, 2001
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Study Methods
Among the various methods available to study issues identified at the November 9, 2001 meeting as facing the Study Committee were the following: Working Groups
! The purpose of the working groups is to explore specific policy or planning topics and to develop draft options for the Advisory and Study Committees' consideration.
! Working groups will be composed of an equal number of members from the Study Committee and the Advisory Committee.
! Working groups will be chaired by a member of the Study Committee. ! Chairpersons and members of working groups will be appointed by the Co-chairpersons of the Study
Committee. ! A schedule will be developed and distributed to Study Committee and Advisory Committee members
identifying the time frame and date for presenting each working group's recommendations to the Advisory Committee and the Study Committee for their consideration and deliberation.
White Papers The Study Committee and Advisory Committee will focus their efforts on the planning framework and the three identified water issue areas. To allow for input on any issue on the list of water issues facing Georgia, the Study Committee adopted procedures for anyone desiring to submit a "white paper." ! The purpose of white papers is to share information and perspectives on water issues facing Georgia.
! White Papers can be written by Study Committee members, Advisory Committee members and others interested in the development of the State Comprehensive Water Management Plan.
! White Papers should be no more than two (2) pages in length but additional material can be included as attachments.
! The name and affiliation of the author and the focus of the white paper (Title) should be identified at the top of the first page.
! White Papers should be sent in electronic form to: Josey@cviog.uga.edu.
! White Papers will be put in PDF format and placed on the website of the Vinson Institute of Government (www.cviog.uga.edu). A disclaimer will be placed on the website that white papers reflect the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the Vinson Institute of Government,
the Study Committee or the Advisory Committee.
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Appendix G Water Issues Facing Georgia
Adopted by the Georgia Joint Water Plan Study Committee
November 9, 2001
26

Water Issues Facing the State of Georgia
1. Wastewater Capacity in Growth Areas 2. Improvement of Old Water and Sewer Infrastructure 3. Attaining Water Quality Standards/TMDLs 4. Cost-Effective Stormwater Solutions 5. Septic Tank Installation and Maintenance 6. Protection and Management of Georgia's Aquifer Recharge Areas 7. Source Water Assessment/Protection 8. Protection, Conservation and Restoration of Wetlands, Marshlands and other Aquatic
Ecosystems 9. Water as a Public Resource versus a Market Commodity 10. Allocating/Reallocating Water Among Users 11. Allocation of State Water to Private Entities for Resale 12. Legal Status of Water Withdrawals, Permits and Transfers 13. Legal Status of the Water in Aquifers while in the Ground and Following Withdrawal 14. Interbasin Water Transfer and Basin-of-Origin Protection 15. Water for Agricultural Use 16. Statewide Water Conservation and Efficiency 17. Water Reuse 18. Consumptive Use Measurement and Reduction 19. Instream Flow Protection Standards and Strategy 20. Priorities for Water Use During Drought 21. Irrigation Efficiency and Research 22. Overdraft of the Floridan Aquifer/Salt Water Intrusion 23. Water Supply Reservoirs 24. Aquifer Storage and Recovery 25. Flood Mitigation, Floodplain Management and Dam Safety 26. Lake Protection and Management 27. Development/Implementation of Erosion and Sedimentation Control Improvements 28. State and Substate/Regional Water Management Options 29. Privately-Owned Public Water Systems 30. Interstate Water Issues 31. Real-Time Water Management 32. Water Management with Increased Variation in Weather Patterns 33. Interagency Coordination 34. Enforcement 35. Water Quality, Quantity and Biotic Integrity Monitoring 36. Data Management Systems 37. Public Information and Involvement 38. Statewide Watershed Management and Assessment Information/Standards 39. Increase Funding and Personnel for Water Resources Administration, Including Monitoring 40. Availability and Use of Federal Funding for Water-Related Activities 41. Water for Energy Production Systems 42. Water Security
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Appendix H Vision Statement, Guiding Principles and
Water Management Goals Adopted by the
Georgia Joint Water Plan Study Committee November 9, 2001
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Georgia Comprehensive State Water Management Plan

Vision Statement

To ensure the water resources of Georgia are used, managed and conserved so that economic, environmental, public health, and cultural values can be supported indefinitely, the Georgia Comprehensive State Water Management Plan is developed with a 50-year horizon. The Joint State Water Plan Study Committee proposes the following as its water vision for Georgia.

Georgia manages water resources in a sustainable manner to support the state's economy, to protect public health and natural systems, and to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.

Guiding Principles for the Comprehensive State Water Management Plan

The study committee proposes the following principles to guide the development of the state water plan.

1.

Effective water resources management protects public health, safety and welfare of Georgia's

citizens.

2.

Water resources are managed in a sustainable manner so that current and future generations

have access to adequate supplies of quality water that supports both human needs and natural

systems.

3.

All citizens have a stewardship responsibility to conserve and protect the water resources of

Georgia.

4.

Water management efforts recognize that economic prosperity and environmental quality are

interdependent.

5.

Water quality and quantity and surface and ground water are interrelated and require integrated

planning as well as reasonable and efficient use.

6.

A comprehensive and accessible database is developed to provide sound scientific and economic

information upon which effective water management decisions can be based.

7.

Water resource management encourages local/regional innovation, implementation, adaptability

and responsibility for watershed and river basin management.

8.

Sound water resources management involves meaningful participation, coordination and

cooperation among interested and affected stakeholders and citizens as well as all levels of

governmental and other entities managing and/or utilizing water.

9.

Periodic revisions of the plan are required to incorporate new scientific and policy insights, as well

as changing social, economic, cultural, and environmental factors.

Goals for Georgia's Water Management Programs

1.

Georgia invests in interdisciplinary water education for professionals and citizens.

a.

Specific efforts are made to inform, educate and train citizens, stakeholders and leaders

about water resources.

b.

Education and cooperative action at the regional level are the foundation of

comprehensive water planning that responds to the physical conditions and water issues

of the specific region.

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2.

Georgia's water programs manage water resources as an integrated system.

a.

A comprehensive approach is used that recognizes the physical realities of water, to

include the interrelationship of atmospheric, surface and ground water and water quality

and quantity.

b.

Watersheds, river basins, and aquifers are used as the geographic and hydrologic basis

for water planning and management programs.

c.

The interrelationship between land use and water resources is recognized in all water

planning and management.

d.

It is recognized that droughts, floods and other catastrophic events are occurrences for

which contingency policies and procedures are necessary.

3.

Georgia's water management programs are designed to protect, maintain and improve the quality

of water resources consistent with federal, state and local water laws.

a.

All Georgians have affordable access to safe, high quality drinking water.

b.

The treatment of wastewater is professionally planned and coordinated on a local/regional

basis, using the treatment tools of properly installed, operated and maintained wastewater

treatment systems, including onsite septic systems when necessary.

c.

Stormwater is managed to protect water quality and, where feasible, to augment water

supplies.

d.

Incentives and financial assistance are provided to local governments to effectively

collect, treat, reuse and/or discharge wastewater, recognizing the need for regional

cooperation.

e.

Water quality protection by all sectors is achieved through using appropriate incentives

and regulatory requirements.

f.

Adverse impacts of land use activities on water resources are minimized to protect water

quality and natural systems.

4.

Georgia's water management programs allocate water and encourage efficient water use.

a.

The use of water resources is regionally planned and coordinated.

b.

Water resources are allocated while protecting other water users and the environment.

c.

Public water systems consistently provide adequate amounts of safe, high quality water to

Georgia's citizens.

d.

Conservation, efficiency and water reuse are encouraged while considering the impacts of

consumptive use and return flows on other water users and the environment.

e.

Conservation and efficiency are achieved through using appropriate incentives and

regulatory requirements.

f.

The practical and economic needs of Georgians are met while maintaining, protecting and

improving the state's natural systems.

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5.

Georgia's water programs are effectively administered.

a.

Meaningful participation including cooperation, coordination, communication and

collaboration among federal, state and local units of government, other water

management entities, interested and affected stakeholders and citizens is emphasized

during all stages of water planning and management.

b.

With local involvement, water management programs consider intrastate and/or, when

and where appropriate, interstate watershed and river basin options.

c.

State and local water management programs are adequately funded and implemented

through financially sound programs that focus available resources on priority needs,

provide incentives and encourage multi-jurisdictional approaches.

d.

A performance-based system that focuses on outcomes and innovative approaches is

established to accurately monitor the effectiveness of water management programs and

efforts.

e.

Federal and state laws and regulations are implemented and enforced so that public

health and natural systems are protected.

6.

Georgia's water programs base water management decisions on accurate and reliable

information.

a.

Data and information needs are identified and monitoring, research, technology

partnerships and other efforts funded and implemented to address those needs.

b.

Research, planning, standards and decision-making in all water resources programs are

supported by water information systems that are broadly accessible, comprehensive and

based on the best available technical and scientific data, information, principles and

management practices.

c.

Timely and effective information, education and involvement strategies for the general

public, permittees, advocacy groups and other stakeholders are included as part of the

state's water management program.

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