Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program, FY 96 annual report [1996]

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GEORGIA NONPOINT SOURCE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
FY96 ANNUAL REPORT

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GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DIVISION

GEORGIA FY96 ANNUAL REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS
(10) AGRICULTURE Introduction Milestones for Implementation (1) Strengthen voluntary soil and water conservation programs. GSWCC Nonpoint Source Control Program (2) Promote the Georgia Grazing Land Initiative. West Central Georgia Water Quality Grazing Lands Project Information Program to Promote BMP for Grazing Systems Upper Savannah River Grazing Lands Demonstration Project (3) Promote the Georgia Farm-A-Syst Program. GSWCC Nonpoint Source Control Program (4) Promote the Certified Crop Advice Program. Certified Crop Advice Program
(5) Develop GIS databases in conjunction with the River Basin
Management Planning Process. GAEPD Geologic Survey Branch
(6) .. Support state and local Erosion and Sedimentation Control
Programs in rural areas. Manual for Erosion and Sedimentation Control in Georgia
(7) Develop and implement innovative Best Management Practices.
Piedmont Lagoon Maintenance and Waste Utilization Project Upper Chattahoochee River Dairy Waste Management Project Special Water Quality BMP Demonstration Project Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling Program
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1 1 5 6
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8 9

10

11

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(20) SILVICULTURE

15

Introduction

15

Milestones for Implementation

16

(1) Continue forest water quality and wetlands education programs.

17

Forest Road Construction Demonstration Project Georgia Forestry Association Wetlands and Environmental Committee Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program

(2) Provide BMP advice in all forestry management cases.

19

Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program

(3) Investigate and mediate forestry complaints.

20

Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program

(4) Conduct BMP compliance and monitoring surveys.

21

Implementation of Level I Rapid Sic-Assessment Monitoring Regional BMP Compliance Monitoring Logging Road Construction and Partial Harvests Commercial Forestry BMP - Water Quality BMP Compliance Survey

(5) Participate in the River Basin Management Planning Process.

23

River Basin Management Planning Process

(6) Administer the Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program.

24

Memorandum of Understanding between the USFS, GFC and GAEPD Recommended Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program Local Ordinances

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(30) CONSTRUCTION

26

Introduction

26

Milestones for Implementation

27

(1) Implement the GAEPD Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program

in localities without local ordinances and programs.

28

GAEPD WPB Nonpoint Source Program and Regional Offices

(2) Process requests from municipalities and counties for delegation at

the local issuing authority.

29

GAEPD WPB, Nonpoint Source Program

(3) Overview local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Programs in

developing areas.

30

GAEPD WPB, Nonpoint Source Program

(4) Process requests for land disturbing activity permits and stream

buffer variances.

31

GAEPD WPB, Nonpoint Source Program

(5) Handle complaints in accordance with the established complaint

resolution procedures.

32

~AEPD WPB, Nonpoint Source Program and Regional Offices

(6) Conduct seminars, workshops and training sessions regarding the

administration and implementation of the Erosion and Sedimentation Act.

33

GAEPD WPB, Nonpoint Source Program

(7) Survey localities without local ordinances and programs.

34

GAEPD WPB, Nonpoint Source Program and Regional Offices

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(40) URBAN RUNOFF

35

Introduction

35

Milestones for Implementation

36

(1) Administer statewide programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution

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in urban and developing areas.

37

Chattahoochee River Basin - Grant Assistance Program Upper Chattahoochee River Basin Group Mountain and River Corridor Protection Act River Care 2000 Program Lake Standards NPDES Permit Requirements ARC Storm Water Management Task Force GAEPD WPB, Nonpoint Source Program GAEPD WPB, Nonpoint Source Program Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program

(2) Implement local watershed planning and management programs.

44

City of Atlanta - Urban Watershed Management Program Lake Lanier Water Quality Cooperative River Basin Study Big Haynes Creek Watershed Management Plan

(3) Implement local NPS management programs, streambank and stream

restoration activities, and community Adopt-A-Stream programs.

46

City of Atlanta - Bond Referendum Projects City of Atlanta - Urban Resources Partnership City of Rome - Urban Waterbody Demonstration Project Victory Park and Merritt Park Streambank Restoration Projects City of Clayton - Stekoa Creek Water Quality Improvement Project Proctor Creek Streambank Restoration and Watershed Management

(4) Develop and disseminate local watershed planning and management

procedures.

49

Peavine Creek Watershed Protection ARC - CFRDC Chattahoochee Corridor Plan Big Creek Watershed Management Plan Water Supply Watershed Protection Community Based Watershed Protection Metropolitan River Protection Act

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(5) Implement state and local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Programs.

52

Model Land Development Code Recommendations for Georgia Douglas County Development Code

(6) Prepare and disseminate technical information on best management

practices and nonpoint source monitoring and assessment.

53

Chattahoochee River - Riparian Restoration and Education Project Development of Guidelines for Urban Stream Quality Environmental Management Requirements in Steam and River Corridors Evaluation of the Effects of Soil Erosion on an Urban Stream Lake Acworth Protection Fecal Coliform Criteria Evaluation

(7) Implement NPS education programs for the general public, business and

industry, local and regional governments, and school systems.

56

Chatham-Savannah MPC Urban NPS Pollution Control Program

(8) Implement Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program.

57

Proctor Creek Watershed Management Project- Education Initiative Captain Planet Foundation - Adopt-A-Stream Programs Chattahoochee River Adopt-A-Stream Network Fulton County- Streams Alive Program Chatham-Savannah MPC Stream Monitoring Program Student/Teacher Nonpoint Source Water Quality Camps

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AGRICULTURE USEPA CATEGORY 10

INTRODUCTION

Agricultural nonpoint source pollution continues to be managed and controlled with a statewide non-regulatory approach. This approach utilizes cooperative partnerships with various agencies and a variety of programs. Agencies that form the basis of the partnerships include the following:



Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC)



Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD)



Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



University of Georgia College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES)



University of Georgia Marine Institute and Skidaway Institute of Oceanography



Farm Services Agency (FSA)



Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC)



Georgia Department of Agriculture (GOA)



Agricultural Research Service (ARS)



Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Councils

A brief description of these agencies and outline of their functions and programs should help in further understanding nonpoint source (NPS) pollution control in Georgia.

Created in 1937 by an Act of the Georgia Legislature, the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC) has been designated as the administering or lead agency for agricultural nonpoint source pollution prevention in the state. The GSWCC develops NPS water quality programs and conducts educational activities to promote conservation and protection of land and water resources devoted to agricultural uses. Primary functions of the GSWCC are to provide guidance and assistance to the Soil and Water Conservation Districts and provide oversight for the Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act. There are six (6) regional offices and forty (40) local districts.

The Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) include all counties and are governed by boards of supervisors comprised of local citizens. The SWCD , NRCS and GSWCC provide technical assistance to the agricultural community. In addition, SWCD sponsor educational programs and field days to encourage and demonstrate new and/or innovative conservation practices. Some SWCD own and make available specialized equipment such as planters and hydroseeders. They also offer assistance with waste management such as lagoon pump outs. manure composting, and the development of nutrient management plans.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) cooperates with federal, state and local units of government to provide technical assistance to landowners, cooperators, producers and special interest groups. Standards and specifications regarding conservation practices, animal waste management systems, grazing activities, plant materials, and other practices are developed and revised by a varied staff.

1

The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) includes various departments, the Cooperative Extension Service and Experiment Stations. Services provided include classroom instruction in agriculture related topics, basic and applied research, consultative assistance and information on nonpoint related impacts on water quality, water quality monitoring, pest control, and analyses of nutrients, pesticides, herbicides, and other constituents in forage, water and animal waste. Nutrient management plans for farms are often developed by CAES.
The University of Georgia Marine Institute at Sapelo Island, Georgia and the Skidaway Institute of Oceanography near Savannah, Georgia are involved in research and monitoring programs that reflect agricultural nonpoint impacts in coastal or estuarine waters. The Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve is one of 22 estuarine sites nationwide devoted to protection of the resource and study of estuarine function. Coastal aquaculture will likely become more prevalent and a consideration for prevention of NPS pollution in future years.
The Farm Services Agency (FSA), formerly known as the Consolidated Farm Services Agency (CFSA) and the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS), administers conservation cost-sharing programs for practices which improve water quality on farms. A variety of water quality improvement practices are cost-shared with rates generally between 50-70 percent of the total cost of the installation. A large portion of funds allocated are targeted for high priority watersheds with water quality problems.
The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) provides technical information and assistance regarding areas such as reforestation, forest stewardship and management, harvesting, marketing and education. Services provided by the GFC include development of management plans, timber marking, loan or rental of equipment, fire brake plowing and sales of seedlings.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GOA) administers a variety of insect and plant and animal disease control programs. The Department also enforces a myriad of Georgia laws that include inspections of agricultural products and the registration and use of pesticides. The GOA also provides guidance in location of animal waste facilities and disposal of dead animals.
As part of the United States Department of Agriculture, the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is involved in a wide variety of agricultural research projects and monitoring programs. Research on grazing land systems and irrigation methods relevant to watershed scale monitoring projects and nutrient movement in surface and ground waters are examples of work performed by the ARS.
Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Councils are groups of local citizens that are involved in a program to encourage economic development as well as the wise conservation of natural and human resources. The RC&D Councils are locally organized within geographic regions served by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) . The 1962 Food and Agriculture Act established the The RC&D Council program with USDA employees assigned to help the RC&D Councils and termed coordinators. Currently, there are ten (10) RC&D Councils in Georgia.
The federal and state agencies work closely with the Georgia agricultural commodity commissions and organizations such as the Farm Bureau Federation, AgriBusiness Council, Cattleman's Association, Milk Producers, Pork Producers Assocaation. Poultry Federation, and other producer groups and agriculture support industries to control. prevent and/or abate nonpoint source pollution.
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Since 1990, approximately $1,700,000 in Section 319(h) Grant monies have been used to fund agricultural water quality demonstration projects in Georgia. In addition to the minimum 40% required non-federal in-kind match, the NRCS has contributed over $4,500,000 in technical assistance to support these projects. The CAES, GSWCC, FSA, GFC and other agencies have also contributed significant technical assistance to support these projects.
Since 1990, the following agency programs have directed significant resources to improving and maintaining water quality in priority watersheds using best management practices (BMP) established through the Section 319(h) Grant Program:

I

Program

Agricultural Conservation Project (ACP)

Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)

PL-566 Watershed Projects

Little River/Rooty Creek HUA Project

Little River Special WQ Project

Gum Creek Demonstration Project

Upper Chattahoochee River WQ Project

Little Tennessee River Special WQ Project

Special Water Quality Funding Projects

Agricultural Education and Information

Pesticide Container Recycling

TOTAL

I

Agencies

FSA,NRCS,GFC,CAES

I I Amount
$32,500,000

FSA, NRCS, GFC

29,600,000

NRCS, CAES, GSWCC

5,200,000

NRCS,CAES,FSA,GSWCC

500,000

FSA, NRCS, CAES

800,000

CAES,FSA,NRCS

1,300,000

FSA, NRCS

1,000,000

FSA, NRCS

100,000

NRCS

2,100,000

CAES

2,800,000

GDA,CAES

300,000
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In addition, Natural Resources, Conservation Service (NRCS) special project initiatives promoting USDA nationally approved conservation practices include:



Piscola Creek Watershed Project - Animal Holding and Management Areas



Five Points Watershed Project - Animal Holding and Management Areas



Turkey Creek Watershed Project - Crop Production



Upper Fifteenmile Creek Watershed Project - Crop Production



Lower Little Tallapoosa River Watershed Project - Animal Holding and Management Areas



Water Quality Incentive Projects- Cost Share/Incentive Projects

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The Farm Services Agency (FSA) Water Quality Incentive Projects (WQIP) promoting the use of USDA nationally approved conservation practices during Federal FY96 include:

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Upper Apalachee River Watershed ($219,600)

Barrow, Gwinnett, Oconee and Walton Counties

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Upper Little Ocmulgee River Watershed ($186,800)

Blackley, Dodge and Twiggs Counties

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Piscola Creek Watershed ($219,500)

Brooks and Thomas Counties

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And the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GOA) special project initiatives includes:

Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling Program Agricultural Pesticide Application Certification Program

The cost-share programs require a 25% - 50% farmer in-kind match. Many best management practices have a maximum dollar amount which often increases the local cost-share. In addition, the RC&D Councils have individual plans/programs that address water quality issues. The RC&D Council projects are often in watersheds addressing nonpoint source issues as described above. An example of a RC&D Council project in a larger scale project is the Walker Branch Waste Management System, located in the Little River/Rooty Creek watershed.

Watershed projects and individual projects often involve the participation of one to several "cooperating" agencies. An example of cooperation in the Walker Branch Waste Management System project includes the sponsoring organization, the Oconee River RC&D Council, and cooperating agencies that include the GAEPD, USEPA, NRCS, GSWCC, Piedmont Soil and Water Conservation District, Putnam County Commissioners, Georgia Milk Producers, Georgia Farm Bureau, Putnam County Dairy Association, Farmers Home Administration, and Piedmont Conservation Products.

Existing State and Federal water quality programs are being directed to priority streams and watersheds-identified in the Section 305(b) Report. These programs offer solutions, as well as financial and technical implementation assistance, in identified priority watersheds.

The Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program will be implemented in conjunction with the River Basin Management Planning Process. The GSWCC and NRCS are working to merge the planning process currently used to deliver most conservation technical and financial assistance with the planning process adopted by the GAEPD. The agricultural community's involvement will be evident in every step of the GAEPD River Basin Management Planning Process. Identification and selection of priority waters affected by agricultural nonpoint source pollution is an continuing process.

4

MILESTONES FOR IMPLEMENTATION
In order to comply with USEPA criteria, the Georgia Federal FY96 Annual Report has been segmented into individual category sections that represent four comprehensive groups of nonpoint sources of pollution identified by the USEPA. In addition, the Agriculture Category has been further broadened into subcategory sections to more clearly characterize the pollution source:
USEPA Subcategory Number 11 - Non-Irrigated Crop Production USEPA Subcategory Number 12 - Irrigated Crop Production USEPA Subcategory Number 13- Specialty Crop Production USEPA Subcategory Number 14- Pasture Land USEPA Subcategory Number 15 - Range Land USEPA Subcategory Number 16 - Feedlots -All Types USEPA Subcategory Number 17 - Aquaculture USEPA Subcategory Number 18- Animal Holding/Management Areas As per E. Stalling Howell's letter dated August 29, 1996, the Interim Milestones for the Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program were approved for Federal FY96, FY97 and FY98. The following is a description of statewide programs and projects conducted to implement the interim milestones in the Agriculture Category: (1) Strengthen voluntary soil and water conservation programs. (2) Promote the Georgia Grazing Land Initiative. (3) Promote the Georgia Farm-A-Syst Program. (4) Promote the Certified Crop Advice Program of the American Society of Agronomy. (5) Develop GIS databases in conjunction with the River Basin Management Planning Process. (6) Support ~tate and local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Programs in rural areas. (7) Develop and implement innovative Best Management Practices. (8) Reduce agriculture nonpoint source pollution.
5

MILESTONE: Strengthen voluntary soil and water conservation programs. GSWCC Nonpoint Source Control Program (11) Non-Irrigated Crop Production (12) Irrigated Crop Production (13) Specialty Crop Production (14) Pasture Land (15) Range Land (16) Feedlots- All Types (18) Animal Holding/Management Areas
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With Section 319(h) FY93, FY94 and FY95 Grant funds, the GSWCC has continued to sponsor local demonstration projects and encourage the local districts to continue this practice, provide farmers with visual demonstrations and information on the use and installation of best management practices, and collect data and generate computer databases on land use, animal units and agricultural BMP implementation to identify potential agricultural water quality priority areas. In order to improve the understanding and compliance of the Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act, the GSWCC has continued to participate in statewide educational and training activities. During Federal FY96, the GSWCC has conducted five (5) erosion and sedimentation control workshops in conjunction with the GAEPD Water Protection Branch Nonpoint Source Program. In addition, the GSWCC is responsible for investigating referrals concerning erosion and sedimentation problems resulting from agricultural activities on specific farm sites.
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6

MILESTONE: Promote the Georgia Grazing Land Initiative.
West Central Georgia Water Quality Grazing Lands Projects (14) Pasture Land (15) Range Land
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds, the Two Rivers RC&D Council established two (2) demonstration farms in the Potato Creek Watershed to improve the management of pasture and range lands, to reduce nutrient and sediment loadings and to improve water quality. Each demonstration farm (beef cattle) has prepared and implemented a "total resources management plan" to protect the five major resources areas identified by NRCS- water, soil, air, plants and animals. Data collected will include water quality monitoring in the project area before, during and after BMP installations. Field days will be held at each farm to examine the BMP used to control nonpoint source pollution from livestock (beef cattle) enterprises.

Information Program to Promote BMP for Grazing Systems (14) Pasture Land (15) Range Land
With Section 319(h) FY95 Grant funds, the Georgia RC&D Council has recently implemented an information program to promote best management practices for grazing systems. The objectives of this program include: (1) promotion of BMP on pastures, (2) improvement of stream corridor management, (3) dissemination of forage management information, (4) promotion of ecosystem management planning and (5) identification and removal of barriers to BMP implementation.
A series of symposiums will be held statewide to promote BMP to livestock operators, producers. consultants and federal, state and local agencies. Best Management Practices to be discussed in the symposiums will include pasture management, nutrient management, pest management. stream and waterbody protection, and agricultural waste management systems.

Upper Savannah River Grazing Land Demonstration Project (14) Pasture Land (15) Range Land
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds, the Georgia RC&D Council has established two (2) demonstration farms in the Upper Savannah River Basin to demonstrate improved pasture management systems, increased pasture and hayland yields, and reductions in nutrient and sediment loadings. The demonstration farms are located in Stephens County (beef cattle) and Oglethorpe County (dairy cattle). During Federal FY96, field days were held at each of the
demonstration farms. Water quality monitoring data collected at the dairy farm has indicated a
60% - 90% reduction in nonpoint point source pollution due to BMP implementation. A final report will be submitted to GAEPD for review and approval in Federal FY97.
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MILESTONE: Promote the Georgia Farm-A-Syst Program. GSWCC Nonpoint Source Control Program (11) Non-Irrigated Crop Production (12) Irrigated Crop Production (13) Specialty Crop Production (14) Pasture Lands (15) Range Lands (16) Feedlots- All Types (18) Animal Holding/Management Areas
The Georgia Farm-A-Syst Program addresses the problems of nonpoint source contamination of surface and ground water from agricultural sources. The overall objective of this project is to develop and test voluntary agricultural self assessment materials to fit the needs and conditions throughout the State of Georgia. With Section 319(h) FY96 Grant funds and State funds, the GSWCC, UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences and Georgia Pollution Prevention Assistance Division (P2AD) have established an interagency team to provide input on the development and testing of materials for the Georgia Farm-A-Syst Program. A suggested format consists of a folder with four (4) worksheets and fact sheets: site evaluation worksheet, wellhead protection, pesticide
.. storage and handling and petroleum storage and handling.
8

MILESTONE: Promote the Certified Crop Advice Program. Certified Crop Advice Program
(11) Non-Irrigated Crop Production (12) Irrigated Crop Production (13) Specialty Crop Production
The Certified Crop Advice Program is a voluntary educational program administered by the Georgia Cooperative Extension Service (CES) promoting soil and water stewardship.

9

MILESTONE: Develop GIS databases in conjunction with the River Basin Management Planning Process. GAEPD Geologic Survey Branch Nitrate/Nitrite Groundwater Survey and GIS Database
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds, the GAEPD Geologic Survey Branch conducted a nitrate/nitrite groundwater survey. The Geologic Survey Branch sampled over 5,000 domestic wells throughout Georgia. As delineated in the published report, "Nitrate in Georgia's Groundwater- January, 1996," human induced pollution of groundwater by nitrates is not a significant problem. The data collected during the nitrate/nitrite groun~ater survey is available as a GIS database from the GAEPD. With Section 319(h) FY94 and FY95 Grant funds, the Geologic Survey Branch has collected and entered the following information into the GIS databases for the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins: surface water intake points, pesticide monitoring network wells, NPDES discharge points, land application sites, landfills, active mines and quarries. Wrth Section 319(h) FY95 Grant funds, the Geologic Survey Branch has started collecting and entering the following information into the GIS databases for the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Oconee River Basins: surface water intake points, NPDES discharge points, land application sites, landfills, active mines and quarries. The completed GIS databases will be use to implement the River Basin Management Planning Process.
10

MILESTONE: Support state and local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Programs in rural areas.
Manual for Erosion and Sedimentation Control in Georgia (11) Non-Irrigated Crop Production (14) Pasture Lands (15) Range Lands
(18) Animal Holding/Management Areas With Section 319(h) FY92 and FY95 Grant funds, the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC) will update, print and distribute 2500 copies of the "Manual for Erosion and Sedime!'ltation Control in Georgia" and 5000 copies of the field manual. The revised manual and field manual are essential references for engineers, plan reviewers, designers, construction inspectors and workers controlling erosion and sedimentation in urban and developing rural areas.

North Fork of the Broad River Streambank Protection Demonstration Project (11) Non-Irrigated Crop Production (14) Pasture Lands (15) Range Lands
(18) Animal Holding/Management Areas With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds, the GSWCC and the Stephens County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) have recently initiated this streambank protection demonstration project in the Broad River watershed. The objective of this project is to demonstrate three (3) different types of streambank protection on the North Fork of the Broad River during Federal FY97.

11

MILESTONE: Develop and implement innovative Best Management Practices.
Piedmont Lagoon Maintenance and Waste Utilization Project
(14) Pasture Land (18) Animal Holding/Management Areas
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds, the GSWCC demonstrated a "total resource management system" on a dairy farm in Greene County. There are approximately 200 dairies and a significant number of poultry and hog farms located on tributaries to Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair. Eutrophication is evident at several locations where streams merge with the lakes.
.. .,
The following best management practices were installed at the demonstration site: heavy use area, waste storage structure with a solids separator, irrigation pump, irrigation pipeline and irrigation system. A nutrient management plan was developed. As demonstrated, utilization of nutrients from confined animal operations have reduce the amount of commercial fertilizers needed for forage production.
During Federal FY96, the GSWCC conducted three field days at the dairy farm to demonstrate
.. the proper utilization and management of nutrients from animal waste.
Upper Chattahoochee River Dairy Waste Management Project
(14) Pasture Land (18) Animal Holding/Management Areas
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds, the GSWCC demonstrated a "total resource management system" on a dairy farm in Hall County in the Upper Chattahoochee River Basin. The demonstration site in located in the Lake Lanier watershed above Buford Dam.
Most farms in .t.he area have installed best management practices; however, none of the operation have installed a "total resource management system." This demonstration project will serve as a model for other producers to observe BMP needed to control, prevent and/or abate nonpoint source pollution common to the area. In order to reduce turbidity, suspended solids, nutrient loading and pathogens in streams, several BMP will be installed on the total resource management farm: water and sediment control basin, heavy use area, waste utilization, nutrient management, irrigation pipeline, animal waste storage structure, fencing and critical area planting.
In addition, the GSWCC will investigated methods of providing animal waste lagoon pumpout equipment at an affordable cost to encourage proper lagoon maintenance and nutrient management. Five (5) lagoon pumpout demonstrations were held in Habersham, Hall, Lumpkin and White Counties.
During Federal FY96, the GSWCC conducted two (2) field days at the dairy farm to demonstrate the proper utilization and management of nutrients from animal waste.
12

MILESTONE: Implement and develop innovative Best Management Practices.
Special Water Quality BMP Demonstration Project
(11) Non-Irrigated Crop Production (12) Irrigated Crop Production (13) Specialty Crop Production (14) Pasture Land (15) Range Land (16) Feedlots- All Types
(18) Animal Holding/Management Areas
With Section 319(h) FY95 Grant funds, the GSWCC has recently initiated the Special Water Quality BMP Demonstration Project. The following best management practices will be installed on approximately 75 farm demonstration sites: (1) streamside and streambank protection, (2) filter strips, (3) riparian forest buffer establishment, (4) pesticide mixing, storage and containment facilities, (5) alternative livestock water supply, (6) heavy use area protection for livestock, and (7) steam crossings and access areas for livestock. When applicable, demonstration sites will include nutrient and pesticide management plans.
BMP will be installed within hydrologic units identified as priority watersheds in the Georgia Section 305(b) Report. Water quality monitoring will be conducted at a minimum of four (4) demonstration sites. Upon completion of BMP installations, a minimum of six (6) multi-county
.. field days will be conducted by the cooperating agencies.
Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling Program
(11) Non-Irrigated Crop Production (12) Irrigated Crop Production (13) Specialty Crop Production
Over the past five years, the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GOA) has been assisting in the development of the Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling Program. The majority of pesticide containers are composed of high density polyethylene plastics which are resistant to degradation and consume large volumes of space per pound of waste. Pesticide residues found in improperly rinsed containers may leak into the landfill soil.
Sustaining a pesticide container recycling program provides several advantages, both economical and environmental. Collecting pesticide containers reduces potential soil and groundwater contamination and saves valuable space remaining in Georgia landfills.
When the program was initiated in 1991, only two counties participated to accumulate 2,100 pounds of plastic pesticide containers. In 1995. approximately 128,000 pounds of plastic pesticide containers were accumulated from 39 counties. This program is available at no cost to counties or individual participants.
13

MILESTONE: Implement and develop innovative Best Manage.ment Practices.

- Continuation -

Agriculture Pesticide Container Recycling Program

All chipped plastic is property of the Agricultural Container Research Council (ACRC), the funding agency for this program. The ACRC is a cooperative effort funded by voluntary assessments among major crop protection product manufacturers, formulators, distributors, dealers, packagers and others in the industry.

The plastic chips are primarily utilized to produce shipping pallets that are then sold and used

in the agricultural chemicals industry for shipping pesticide products from manufacturers to

dealers.



14

SILVICULTURE
USEPA CATEGORY NUMBER 20
INTRODUCTION
In 1977, the Silviculture Task Force prepared a report which recommended a voluntary approach to the implementation of best management practices (BMP) and the designation of the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) as the lead agency for implementing the Silviculture portion of the State Section 208 Water Quality Management Plan. The GFC was designated as the lead agency for silvicultural nonpoint source pollution prevention in the state in November, 1979. The Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program is managed and implemented by the GFC, with the support of the forest industry, for the voluntary implementation of best management practices.
The Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program is managed by a Statewide Coordinator and appointed foresters serving as District Coordinators from each of the twelve (12) GFC districts. The Statewide and District Coordinators conduct educational workshops, training programs and field demonstrations for the forest community (i.e., landowners, land management and procurement foresters, consulting foresters, timber buyers, loggers, site preparation contractors). The GFC investigates and mediates complaints involving forestry operations. In addition, the GFC conducts BMP compliance surveys to assess the effectiveness of BMP in the forest community. The GFC has established procedures for installing water control structures in firebreaks to reduce soil erosion and sedimentation.
The Georgia Forestry Association (GFA) and the forestry industry have played a significant role in encouraging the voluntary implementation of BMP in Georgia. The forestry industry has initiated numerous education workshops and training programs. The American Forest and Paper Association (AFPA) has adopted the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program. The Southeast Wood Producers Association (SWPA), Association of Consulting Foresters (ACF) and the Society of American Foresters (SAF) support BMP education programs.
Recently, the State Board of Registration for Foresters adopted procedures to sanction or revoke the licenses of professional foresters involved in unresolved complaints where the lack of BMP implementation has resulted in state water quality or federal wetlands requirement violations.
< ..
15

MILESTONES FOR IMPLEMENTATION In order to comply with USEPA criteria, the Georgia FY96 Annual Report has been segmented into individual category sections that represent the four comprehensive groups of nonpoint sources of pollution identified by the USEPA. In addition, the Silviculture Category has been further broadened into subcategory sections to more clearly characterize the pollution source:
USEPA Subcategory Number 21 - Harvesting, Reforestation, Residue Management USEPA Subcategory Number 22 - Forest Management USEPA Subcategory Number 23 - Road Construction/Maintenance
'),
As per E. Stalling Howell's letter dated August 29, 1996, the Interim Milestones for the Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program were approved for Federal FY96, FY97 and FY98. The following is a description of statewide programs and projects conducted to implement the interim milestones in the Silviculture Category: (1) Continue forest water quality and wetlands education programs. (2) Provide BMP advice in all forestry management cases. (3) Investigate and mediate forestry complaints. (4) Conduct BMP compliance and monitoring surveys. (5) Participate in the River Basin Management Planning Process. (6) Administer the Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program.
16

MILESTONE: Continue forest water quality and wetlands education programs.
Forest Road Construction Demonstration Project (23) Road Construction/Maintenance
With Section 319(h) FY93 Grant funding, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) conducted the Forest Road Construction Demonstration Project. Improperly located or poorly constructed forest road systems are the source of approximately 90% of the sediment loading in streams during commercial forestry operations. Results from the 1991 Forestry BMP Compliance Survey indicated that the roads in the Mountain and Piedmont physiographic regions were not being properly constructed by private landowners. Therefore, the GFC initiated this project to demonstrate proper road layout and construction, stream crossing installations and stabilization measures to control erosion and sedimentation.
The GFC has constructed or upgraded thirty (30) miles of roads in the Dawson and Dickson Forests, areas of highly erodible soils in the Piedmont physiographic region. These demonstration roads crossed perennial streams and required proper road grade broad based dips, wooden box culverts and geotextiles for stabilization.

Georgia Forestry Association Wetlands and Environmental Committee (22) Forest Management
The Georgia Forestry Association (GFA) is the primary statewide organization representing the commercial forestry industry in the State. The GFA Wetlands and Environmental Committee meets quarterly and coordinates the educational efforts of the member industries. In addition, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) are represented on this committee.
The GFA Wetlands and Environmental Education Committee has implemented the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program, a comprehensive logger education program emphasizing the protection of w~t~r resources and the implementation of best management practices (BMP). In addition, this committee has conducted four (4) BMP Implementation Workshops for an estimated 300 individuals at regional landowner meetings.

Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program (22) Forestry Management
The objective of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program is to induce and promote a proactive approach to forest management, including the protection of water resources. Two pertinent aspects of this program are: 1) A continuing series of 2Yz day Master Timber Harvester Workshops with a component devoted to the protection of water resources and the implementation of best management practices, and; 2) A Landowner Outreach Program whiCh endeavors to deliver information about forestry management and the protection of water resources to forest landowners.
17

MILESTONE: Continue forest water quality and wetlands education programs.
- Continuation -
Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program
The American Forest and Paper Association (AFPA), Georgia Forestry Association (GFA) and the Cooperative Extension Service (CES) developed the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program. AFPA and GFA members are charged $0.007/ton of timber to support this program.
During Federal FY96, eight (8) Master Timber Harvest Workshops were conducted and attended by approximately 600 of the 1800 loggers within the State. The AFPA, GFA, and CES will conduct an additional twelve (12) Master Timber Harvest Workshops per year through Federal FY98 with the intent of reaching the remaining 1200 loggers within the State.
The materials for the Landowner Outreach Program have been accumulated and a mailing list has been prepared. This information will be distributed by January, 1997.
....
Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program
{22) Forestry Management
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funding, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) has continued to manage and implement the Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program. The objectives of this program are to continue educational efforts and to conduct workshops which promote best management practices (BMP) within the logging community and to sustain regional complaint, inspection and resolution activities.
The Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program is managed by a Statewide Coordinator, who cooperates with. the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPO), and appointed foresters serving as District Coordinators from each of the twelve (12) GFC districts. The Statewide and District Coordinators provide local and statewide training for the forest community through workshops, field demonstrations, presentations, management advice to landowners and the distribution of the "Recommended Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia" manual. In addition, training videos, slide programs, table top exhibits and BMP billboards have been developed to support the Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program.
During Federal FY96, the GFC arranged and conducted 22 BMP workshops and field demonstrations and 77 presentations for major corporations and independent loggers.
....
18

MILESTONE: Provide BMP advice in all forestry management cases. Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program
(21) Harvesting, Reforestation, Residue Management (22) Forest Management
(23) Road Construction/Maintenance With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funding, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) has continued to manage and implement the Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program. The objectives of this program are to continue educational efforts and to conduct workshops which promote best management practices (BMP) within the forest community. During Federal FY96, the GFC provided BMP advice and guidance to 2,667 landowners involving 180,437 acres of forests .
...
'(,,
19

MILESTONE: Investigate and mediate forestry complaints. Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program
(21) Harvesting, Reforestation, Residue Management (22) Road Construction/Maintenance
The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) investigates and mediates complaints involving forestry operations. After notifying the land owner, the GFC District Coordinator will conduct a field inspection to determine if best management practices were followed, if the potential for water quality problems exist, if a contract was used and who purchased the timber. If a written contract was executed, the GFC District Coordinator will verify if the contractual agreement contains a clause specifying the implementation of BMP. If problems do exist, the GFC District Coordinator will work with the timber buyer and/or logger on behalf of the land owner to correct the problems. Complaints usually involve logging debris left in streams and are resolved without involving the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD). However, the GFC is not a regulatory authority. Therefore, in situations when the GFC cannot get satisfactory compliance, the case is turned over to the GAEPD for enforcement action as provided for under the Georgia Water Quality Control Act. During Federal FY96, the GFC investigated 149 complaints; however, only one case has been forwarded to GAEPD for enforcement action.

20

MILESTONE: Conduct BMP compliance and monitoring surveys.

Implementation of Level I Rapid Bio-Assessment Monitoring (22) Forestry Management

With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) planned to train twelve (12) GFC District Coordinators in Levell Rapid Sic-Assessment Monitoring procedures during three-day workshops. The objective of this project was to conduct periodic surveys of forestry BMP compliance and effectiveness with the implementation of Level I Rapid SicAssessment Monitoring.
During Federal FY96, the GFC District Coordinators were trained in habitat assessment procedures; however, state and federal Aquatic Biologists have indicated that Level I Rapid SicAssessment Monitoring would not be adequate to identify organisms to the taxonomic level necessary to reflect the impact of sedimentation. In order to evaluate the impact of sedimentation, Level Ill Rapid Sic-Assessment Monitoring is required. Therefore, the GFC will submit a revised workplan to GAEPD in Federal FY97 for review and approval.
...

Regional BMP Compliance Monitoring (22) Forestry Management

In 1993, the Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF) established a Regional BMP Compliance Monitoring Task Force to develop standardized criteria for BMP compliance monitoring in the Southeast. The SGSF is composed of representatives from twelve (12) states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

In June, 1996, the SGSF approved the task force's recommendations. The Regional BMP Compliance Monitoring Task Force will meet in November, 1996 to finalize the criteria for BMP compliance monitoring. A final report will be submitted to the SGSF in June, 1997.
...

Logging Road Construction and Partial Harvests

(21) Harvesting, Reforestation, Residue Management (23) Road Construction/Maintenance

'"

The objective of this project was the evaluation of the effects of logging and logging roads on forest vegetation and water quality and of the relative impact of five different logging road surfacing procedures. The U. S. Forest Service (USFS) and Auburn University conducted this study in the Flint River Watershed between Reynolds, GA and Fort Valley, GA with funding provided by the National Council for Paper Industry for Air and Stream Improvements (NCASI).
The results of this investigative study will be summarized in the final report and submitted to the NCASI. Copies of the final report will be made available to the public upon request.

21

MILESTONE: Conduct BMP compliance and monitoring surveys.
Commercial Forestry BMP - Water Quality
(22) Forest Management
With Section 319(h) FY91 Grant funds, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) and the University of Georgia School of Forest Resources monitored twenty-three (23) streams adjacent to areas of silvicultural activities between July, 1993 and September, 1994. The monitoring sites have been previously evaluated for BMP compliance in 1991. Therefore, the objective of this project was to establish a correlation between turbidity and BMP compliance across different physiographic regions.
A final report summarizing the results of this study was submitted to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) in March, 1996. As delineated in the final report, forestry operations do not cause significant long-term increases in turbidity; however, this is not to say that turbidity at individual sites is not affected by forestry operations. Therefore, the GFC and the University of Georgia School Forest Resources evaluated the importance of other variables on turbidity changes (e.g., physiographic region, soil type, stream type, stream flow and BMP compliance).
The largest average increase in turbidity for a physiographic region was 13.15 NTU and was detected in the Piedmont Region during periods of high stream flow. No clear correlations between turbidity and BMP compliance were established. However, there appears to be a correlation between turbidity and the soil erodability hazard rating for the dominant site soil as identified on the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) soil survey maps. This information will be useful for identifying locations where increased management planning should be considered.

BMP Compliance Survey
(22) Forestry Management
With Section 319(h) FY91 Grant funds, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) conducted a compliance survey to assess the application of best management practices by logging operations. The survey of349 harvesting sites conducted during 1991 revealed that the best management practices had been properly applied to 86% of the total area harvested and that only 4.8% of the perennial and intermittent stream mileage had been adversely affected.
Regional BMP compliance was highest in the Coastal Plain physiographic region (92%) and lowest in the Mountain physiographic region (61%). Forest industry land had the highest rate of BMP compliance (93%) followed by private non-industrial forest lands (80%) and public lands (77%).
+
22

MILESTONE: Participate in the River Basin Management Planning Process. River Basin Management Planning Process (22) Forest Management
During Federal FY96, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) participated in committee meetings for the Chattahoochee, Flint, Savannah and Suwannee River Basin Management Plans. In addition, the GFC provided resource data and trend data on commercial forestry activities, acreage, ownership and BMP compliance for the Savannah and Suwannee River Basin Management Plans.

23

MILESTONE: Administer the Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program.

Memorandum of Understanding between U. S. Forest Service, Georgia Forestry Commission and Georgia Environmental Protection Division
(21) Harvesting, Reforestation, Residue Management (22) Forest Management
(23) Road Construction/Maintenance

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U. S. Forest Service (USFS), Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) identifies the responsibilities and activities of the participating agencies in implementing the Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program as related to activities in the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests.

The USFS, GFC and GAEPD have agreed to revise MOU dated March 25, 1991 in Federal

FY97.

...

Recommended Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia
(21) Harvesting, Reforestation, Residue Management (22) Forest Management
(23) Road Construction/Maintenance
During Federal FY96, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) continued the evaluation of best management practices (BMP) for forestry. The GFC and cooperating agencies (e.g., GAEPD, GFA, USFS and CES) will update and revise the "Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia" manual in Federal FY97.
...

Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program
(21) Harvesting, Reforestation, Residue Management (22) Forest Management
(23) Road Construction/Maintenance
The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) has designated the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) as the lead agency for implementing the Silviculture Milestones delineated in the Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program. The GFC and the GAEPD have been integral partners in developing and implementing the Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program.
The GFC and the GAEPD continue to evaluate the Forestry BMP Compliance Surveys and the best management practices (BMP) for forestry to Identify areas where BMP implementation needs improvement. During Federal FY96 and FY97. the GFC and the GAEPD will review the revised Management Plans for the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forest.

24

MILESTONE: Administer the Forestry Nonpoint Source Control Program. Local Ordinances
(21) Harvesting, Reforestation, Residue Management As of Federal FY96, Clayton, Cobb, Gwinnett and Hancock Counties have enacted harvest zoning ordinances and Fayette County has imposed watershed protection restrictions on commercial forestry.

<._,
25

CONSTRUCTION
USEPA CATEGORY NUMBER 30
INTRODUCTION
Georgia's Erosion and Sedimentation Act was signed into law in April, 1975. This legislation was the result of over five years of work, debate and legislative compromise. Agencies and groups which coordinated this effort include the Georgia Association of Conservation Districts (GACD), the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation District (GSWCC) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD).
The legislative intent of the Erosion and Sedimentation Act is to establish a comprehensive, statewide soil and erosion and sedimentation control program to conserve and protect air, land and water resources through the adoption and implementation of local ordinances and programs which regulate certain land disturbing activities. Land disturbing activities may include, but are not limited to, clearing, dredging, grading, excavating, transporting and filling of land. Land disturbing activities not regulated under the Erosion and Sedimentation Act include surface mining, agriculture, landscaping and gardening.
Currently, the State is divided into 40 Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD). The SWCD are charged with the responsibility for the overview of 350 local governments (i.e., municipalities and counties) that have been delegated as the issuing authority by the GAEPD to implement and conduct local erosion and sedimentation control programs. In addition, the SWCD are responsible for conducting technical reviews of all erosion and sedimentation control plans before the required Land Disturbing Activity (LOA) Permit may be issued. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) District Conservationists provide technical and engineering expertise to the SWCD. The GSWCC has also been charged with the responsibility to assist the SWCD with overview of local erosion and sedimentation control programs.
The GAEPD. is r~sponsible for review of local erosion and sedimentation control ordinances to ensure consistency with the Erosion and Sedimentation Act. In addition, the GAEPD is charged with the responsibility to implement erosion and sedimentation programs within those localities which have not been delegated as the issuing authority. The GAEPD Regional Offices are responsible for inspection, compliance and enforcement activities in those localities without local ordinances and erosion and sedimentation control programs.
26

MILESTONES FOR IMPLEMENTATION
In order to comply with USEPA criteria, the Georgia FY96 Annual Report has been segmented into individual category sections that represent four comprehensive groups of nonpoint sources of pollution identified by the USEPA. In addition, the Construction Category has been further broadened into subcategory sections to more clearly characterize the pollution source:
USEPA Subcategory Number 31 - Highway, Road, Bridge USEPA Subcategory Number 32- Land Development As per E. Stalling Howell's letter dated August 29, 1996, the Interim Milestones for the Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program were approved for Federal FY96, FY97 and FY98. The following is a description of statewide programs and projects conducted to implement the interim milestones in the Construction Category: (1) Implement the GAEPD Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program in localities without local ordinances and programs. (2) Process requests from municipalities and counties for delegation as the local issuing authority. (3) Overview local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Programs in developing areas. (4) Process requests for land disturbing activity permits and stream buffer variances. (5) Handle complaints in accordance with the established complaint resolution procedures. (6) Conduct seminars, workshops and training sessions regarding the administration and implementation of the Erosion and Sedimentation Act. (7) Survey IC?~alities without local ordinances and programs.
27

MILESTONE: Implement GAEPD Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program in localities without local ordinances and programs.
GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program and Regional Offices (31) Highway, Road, Bridge (32) Land Development
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds and State funds, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) Water Protection Branch and Regional Offices have conducted 206 inspections and issued 55 notices of violation letters, 6 consent orders and 1 administrative order. A consent order is a negotiable enforcement document between the alleged violator and the GAEPD, agreeing to implement corrective actions. During Federal FY96, the GAEPD issued six (6) consent orders: Pack Commercial Site, City of Blairsville; Sunset Elementary School, Colquitt County; Schley County Elementary School, Schley County; Bakers Point and Logan Meadows Subdivisions, City of Acworth; C\NT Properties, Inc., City of Acworth; and, IBC Construction, Franklin County. An administrative order is a non-negotiable consent order between the alleged violator and GAEPD to implement corrective actions. During Federal FY96, the GAEPD issued one (1)
.. administrative order to the Chattahoochee County Public Works Department.
28

MILESTONE: Process requests from municipalities and counties for delegation at the local issuing authority. GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program (31) Highway, Road, Bridge (32) Land Development
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds and State funds, the GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program, Erosion and Sedimentation Unit has processed six (6) local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance Certifications: City of Danielsville, City of Sparks, City of Cedartown, City of Acworth, Wilkinson County and Quitman County.

29

MILESTONE: Overview local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Programs in developing areas. GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program (31) Highway, Road, Bridge (32) Land Development
Wrth State funds, the GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program, Erosion and Sedimentation Unit has conducted three (3) overviews (i.e., an evaluation of local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinances): Towns County, Dawson County and Union County.
+
30

MILESTONE: Process requests for land disturbing activity permits and stream buffer variances. GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program (31) Highway, Road, Bridge (32) Land Development
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds and State funds, the GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program, Erosion and Sedimentation Unit has processed 207 stream buffer variances and 136 land disturbing activity permits.
...
31

MILESTONE: Handle complaints in accordance with the established complaint resolution procedures.
GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program and Regional Offices (31) Highway, Road, Bridge (32) Land Development
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds and State funds, the GAEPD Water Protection Branch and Regional Offices have interfaced with local and regional governments, Regional Development Associations (RDA), Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) and federal agencies to facilitate the established complaint resolution procedures.

32

MILESTONE: Conduct seminars, workshops and training sessions regarding the administration and implementation of the Erosion and Sedimentation Act.
GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program (31) Highway, Road, Bridge (32) Land Development
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant and State funds, the GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program, Erosion and Sedimentation Unit conducted four (4) "Fundamentals of Erosion and Sedimentation Control" workshops with the Georgia Institute of Technology, two (2) "Landfill Operation Certification" courses and twelve (12) Erosion and Sedimentation Control training sessions with the Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD).

33

MILESTONE: Survey localities without local ordinances and programs.
GAEPD Water Protection Branch, Nonpoint Source Program and Regional Offices
(31) Highway, Road, Bridge (32) Land Development
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant and State funds, the GAEPD Water Protection Branch and Regional Offices completed four (4) surveys to determine whether Land Disturbing Activities are being conducted in accordance with the Erosion and Sedimentation Act and the GAEPD rules in selected localities where the GAEPD is the issuing authority: City of Alapaha, Fort Benning, Schley County and Wayne County.
...

URBAN RUNOFF
EPA CATEGORY NUMBER 40
INTRODUCTION
An objective of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) is to establish and maintain long-term comprehensive programs to protect and enhance the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the waters of the State from nonpoint source pollution. The effective management of nonpoint source pollution from urban runoff will require a cooperative, intergovernmental approach implemented through integrated watershed planning and management. In addition, the Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program will be implemented in conjunction with the River Basin Management Planning Process. The water quality in an urban and/or developing watershed is the result of both point source discharges and the impact of diverse land activities in the drainage basin (i.e., nonpoint sources). While the State has statutory responsibilities for water resources, local gover11ments have the constitutional authority for the management of land activities. Therefore, it is necessary to forge a cooperative partnership between state, regional and local governments, the private sector and the general public. Watershed planning and management initiatives are necessary to identify local problems, implement corrective actions and coordinate the efforts of cooperating agencies. In addition, educational programs are necessary to encourage the implementation of watershed planning and management, to promote pollution prevention and to transfer technologies to regional and local governments. The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program and the Statewide NPS Education Program target the general public, local and regional governments, businesses and industries and the school systems. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of watershed planning and management programs, nonpoint monitoring and assessment are essential. While the GAEPO is the lead agency, the effective management of nonpoint source pollution from urban runoff requires coordination and implementation by local governments. In addition, the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program and Regional Development Commissions (ROC) have played a key role in initiating watershed planning and management programs.
35

MILESTONES FOR IMPLEMENTATION
In order to comply with USEPA criteria, the Georgia FY96 Annual Report has been segmented into individual category sections that represent four comprehensive groups of nonpoint sources of pollution identified by the USEPA. In addition, the Urban Runoff Category has been further broadened into subcategory sections to more clearly characterize the pollution source:
USEPA Subcategory Number 41 - Storm Sewers USEPA Subcategory Number 42 - Combined Sewers USEPA Subcategory Number 43- Surface Runoff As per E. Stalling Howell's letter dated August 29, 1996, the Interim Milestones for the Georgia Nonpoint Source Management Program were approved for Federal FY96, FY97 and FY98. The following is a description of statewide programs and projects conducted to implement the interim milestones in the Urban Runoff Category: (1) Administer statewide programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution in urban and developing areas. (2) Implement local watershed planning and management programs. (3) Implement local NPS management programs, streambank and stream restoration activities, and community Adopt-A-Stream programs. (4) Develop and disseminate local watershed planning and management procedures. (5) Implement state and local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Programs. (6) Prepare and disseminate technical information on best management practices and nonpoint source monitoring and assessment. (7) Implement NPS education programs for the general public, business and industry, local and regional governments, and school systems. (8) Implement Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program. (9) Identify and evaluate resources to support urban watershed planning and management.
36

MILESTONE: Administer statewide programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution in urban and developing areas.
Chattahoochee River Basin - Grant Assistance Program (43) Surface Runoff
The Georgia General Assembly appropriated $2,700,000 for the Grant Assistance Program for local governments in the Chattahoochee River Basin for water quality monitoring and assessment, the development and implementation of nonpoint source management and education programs, and the mitigation of documented water quality problems. During Federal FY96, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division approved the following nonpoint source projects for funding under the Grant Assistance Program:
Chattahoochee-Flint Regional Development Center ($400,000) - Education and outreach program to identify and promote the implementation of cost effective erosion and sedimentation control systems.
Chattahoochee-Flint Regional Development Center ($1 00,000)- Chattahoochee River and West Point Lake public promotion program.
West Point Lake Development Authority - City of West Point ($196,284) - West Point Lake information program.
Heard County ($161,000)- Chattahoochee River and West Point Lake riverbank and shoreline litter removal and abatement project.

Upper Chattahoochee River Basin Group Lake Lanier Water Quality Study (43) Surface Runoff
The mission of.the Upper Chattahoochee River Basin Group (UCBG) is to develop information and tools to promote the protection and efficient use of water resources in the Upper Chattahoochee River Basin. The UCBG is composed of local and regional government representatives with utilities and jurisdictions in the Chattahoochee River Basin above Buford Dam (e.g., Forsyth County, Gwinnett County, Hall County and City of Gainesville).
With local funding, the UCBG hired a team of specialists to conduct a comprehensive assessment of lake water quality. Working with modeling experts from Limno-Tech, Inc. and a public relations firm, the contractor is currently coordinating efforts to characterize area water quality , develop predictive models that estimate the impact of management alternatives, and educate and involve people in the community.
The results from stream and lake data collection programs will be used to develop and venfy models of the lake and surrounding watersheds. Monitoring has focused on factors that may affect water quality, including point and nonpoint sources (e.g., storm water and agricultural runoff, septic tanks).
37

MILESTONE: Administer statewide programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution in urban and developing areas.

- Continuation Upper Chattahoochee River Basin Group
Lake Lanier Water Quality Study

Ultimately, resource managers will use the models to predict water quality impacts according to various environmental conditions and planning scenarios. For example, the models will predict how future land use changes will affect lake water quality.

-,,

To make sure the study results meet community objectives, project leaders are fostering public

involvement and coordinating project activities with regulatory agencies and local interests

groups.



Mountain and River Corridor Protection Act (43) Surface Runoff

The Georgia Planning Act of 1989 requires each local government in the State to develop a comprehensive plan to guide its activities over a defined planning period. As mandated by Part V of the Georgia Planning Act and the Mountain and Corridor Act, the comprehensive plans must include the identification and protection of natural and historic resources. This rule establishes minimum requirements for water supply watersheds, groundwater recharge areas, wetlands, river corridors and mountains. These minimum requirements are known as the "Part V Minimum Planning Standards."

The minimum planning standards established criteria for the protection of river corridors within 100 feet of both banks for rivers with an annual flow of 400 cfs (e.g., Atlamaha, Chattahoochee, Coosa, Flint, Ochlockonee, Ocmulgee, Oconee, Ogeechee, Satilla, Savannah, St. Mary and Suwannee Rivers).

As of September, 1996, forty-two (42) local governments plan to implement the recommended river corridor protection measures as outlined in the local comprehensive plans.

River Care 2000 Program (43) Surface Runoff

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR), acting on the behalf of the State of Georgia, will acquire and manage certain river-corridor lands to protect their natural, cultural and recreational resources. The Georgia General Assembly provided $5,000,000 in generalobligation bonds for river-corridor land acquisition in 1995. The proceeds of the bond sale were available in Federal FY96. The legislature is considering an additional $7,500,000 in generalobligation bonds. If approved, the proceeds of the bond sales should be available in Federal FY97 and FY98. Other sources of funding include: $10,000,000 State Bond Appropriation. $3,500,000 Preservation 2000 Program funds and $1.163,000 Section 319(h) FY96 Grant funds.

38

MILESTONE: Administer statewide programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution in urban and developing areas.

- Continuation -

River Care 2000 Program

Four (4) advisory groups have been established: River Assessment Team, Management Tools Team, Acquisition Criteria Team and Coordinating Committee. The River Assessment Team has identified river-corridor lands for acquisition and will submit a final report in June, 1997. The River Care 2000 Program has options on seven (7) river tracts (5600 acres - $3,800,000) previously identified by the Preservation 2000 Program.

Lake Standards (43) Surface Runoff

During Federal FY96, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR) amended the Georgia Rules and Regulations for Water Quality Control to establish specific water quality standards for Lake Jackson and Lake Walter F. George (i.e., chlorophyll a, pH, total nitrogen, phosphorous, fecal coliform, dissolved oxygen and temperature). In addition, specific water quality standards have already been established for West Point Lake. In order to implement these water quality standards, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) monitors chlorophyll a and total nitrogen in West Point Lake and has begun monitoring the major tributaries to the lakes.

NPDES Permit Requirements (43) Surface Runoff

Before the Geofgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) will issue a new or increased

wastewater discharge permit to a municipality, the permittee must conduct a comprehensive

watershed assessment characterizing area water quality, point sources and nonpoint sources.

During Federal FY96, four (4) municipalities were required to conduct comprehensive watershed

assessments.

<...



Atlanta Regional Commission Storm Water Management Task Force (41) Storm Sewers

The objective of the Storm Water Management Task Force is to provide a forum to educate and to distribute technical information to local governments on the nature, transport and proper management of nonpoint source pollution from storm water runoff. During Federal FY96, the Storm water Management Task Force prepared the regional sampling and annual reports.

39

MILESTONE: Administer statewide programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution in urban and developing areas.
Georgia Environmental Protection Division
(41) Storm Sewers
The Water Quality Act of 1987 requires permits to be issued for certain types of storm water dischargers, with the primary focus on storm water runoff from industrial operations and large urban areas. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) promulgated Storm Water Regulations in November, 1990. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) subsequently received delegation from the USEPA in January, 1991 to issue general NPDES permits in Georgia. The GAEPD has developed and implemented a Storm Water Permitting Strategy which assures compliance with the Federal Regulations.
The Federal Regulations set specific application submittal requirements for large (population 250,000 or more) and medium (population 100,000 to 250,000) municipal separate storm sewers systems. The GAEPD has determined that the metropolitan Atlanta area is a large municipal system as defined in the Federal Regulations. Therefore, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton and Gwinnett Counties and all interlying incorporated cities were required to comply with the application submittal target dates for large municipal systems. Forty-five (45) NPDES storm water permits were issued to Atlanta area municipalities in June, 1994.
The GAEPD has identified the metropolitan Augusta, Columbus, Macon and Savannah areas and surrounding counties as medium municipal systems as defined in the Federal Regulations. Thirteen (13) NPDES storm water permits for medium municipal systems were issued in April, 1995 and May, 1995.
The stormwater permits for large and medium municipal systems require annual reports to be submitted one year after permit issuance. During Federal FY95 and FY96, the GAEPD reviewed the annual reports from each of the permitted municipalities. The annual reports include a detailed description of the municipality's Stormwater Management Program.
The GAEPD has begun issuing NPDES general permits that regulate the discharge of storm water from industrial and construction activities as defined in the Federal Regulations. The GAEPD issued a general permit for industrial activities in June, 1993 to regulate an estimated 8,000 construction activities in Georgia. As of September, 1996, approximately 2,600 Notice of Intent Applications for the general permit for industrial activities have been submitted to the GAEPD. The GAEPD issued a second general permit in October, 1996. It is estimated that over 10,000 facilities in Georgia may be impacted by the new NPDES storm water regulations.
The GAEPD staff has participated in numerous meetings and seminars throughout the state in an effort to disseminate the Georgia Storm Water Permitting Strategy to the regulated community. The GAEPD is improving its storm water data management system with quality assurance/quality control review of it industrial stormwater permit database. The GAEPD will compare this database with other GAEPD databases to identify regulated facilities that have not applied for industrial activity storm water permits.
40

MILESTONE: Administer statewide programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution in urban and developing areas.

Georgia Environmental Protection Division

(42) Combined Sewers

The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) has issued NPDES permits to six (6) municipalities in Georgia that have Combined Sewer Overflows (CSO) in their wastewater collection systems. The permits require that the CSO must not cause violations of the Georgia Water Quality Standards.

Concurrently with the NPDES permits, the GAEPD issued Administrative Orders for those municipalities that were unable to meet the requirements of the permit. All of the municipalities, except for the Cities of Atlanta and Augusta, are meeting the requirements of the Administrative Orders and/or NPDES permits.

The City of Atlanta has completed construction and initiated operation of four (4) of the six (6) CSO. The remaining two (2) CSO control facilities are currently under construction. The GAEPD entered into a Consent Order with the City of Atlanta which required the city to pay an escalating stipulated penalty ($ 1,000 - $ 4,000/day/CSO) for each day beyond January 1, 1994 that the city fails to complete construction of the CSO control facilities. However, a state law went into effect in April, 1996 which replaced the consent order and imposed increased penalties on the City of Atlanta. Currently, the City of Atlanta is paying a penalty of $20,000 per day.

In addition to the stipulated penalty, a moratorium on new sewer connections or increases in existing sewer connections was place on those sewers tributary to the Utoy Creek and Clear Creek CSO effective January, 1996.

The GAEPD entered into a Consent Order with the City of Augusta which requires the city to pay

a monthly stipulated penalty for each month beyond December 31, 1995 that the city fails to

eliminate the CSO in its sewerage system. The City of Augusta expects to eliminate all CSO by

December, _1996.

..

41

MILESTONE: Administer statewide programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution in urban and developing areas.
Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program
(43) Surface Runoff
The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program is a citizen monitoring and stream protection program. Currently, more than 5,000 volunteers participate in individual and community sponsored AdoptA-Stream Programs. Volunteers conduct clean-ups, stabilize streambanks, monitor streams using biological and chemical methods, and evaluate habitats and watersheds. These activities lead to a greater awareness of water quality and nonpoint source pollution, active cooperation between the public and local governments in protecting water resources, and the collection of basic water quality data. The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program focuses on what individuals and communities can do to protect Georgia's water resources from nonpoint source pollution.
With Section 319(h) FY95 Grant funds, the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program has continued to address nonpoint sources of pollution: (10) Agriculture, (20) Silviculture, (30) Construction and (40) Urban Runoff. Examples of agricultural NPS pollution are presented in workshops, videos and manuals (e.g., excess fertilizer and animal waste). The focus of the Adopt-A-Stream Programs in middle and southern Georgia is often agricultural NPS pollution (especially, where land use is largely agricultural crop production). In north Georgia, the focus is generally silvicultural NPS pollution (especially, in areas adjacent to the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests).
Adopt-A-Stream Programs in urban areas address construction and urban runoff NPS pollution. Workshops and training sessions emphasize the connection between land use, storm water runoff and water resources. Erosion and sedimentation control at construction sites is always a major concern with volunteers. Therefore, Georgia's Erosion and Sedimentation Act is explained and the issuing authority for land disturbing activity permits is identified.
Volunteers are .offered three (3) levels of involvement. Each level involves an education and . action component on a local stream. Volunteers commit for a minimum of one (1) year on a halfmile stream segment. Levell consists of setting up a project (i.e., identifying a stream segment, identifying partners, registering with the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program), evaluating land use and stream conditions during a "watershed walk". conducting quarterly visual evaluations and clean-ups, and one public outreach activity. Volunteers create a ~Who to Call for Questions or Problems" list so that if something unusual is noted. immediate professional attention can be obtained. Level II builds on Levell by adding either biological monitoring, chemical monitoring or a habitat improvement project. Levell II includes two or more Level II activities.
During Federal FY96, the GAEPD conducted 53 Level 1/Levelll Training Workshops and 4 "Train the Trainer" Workshops statewide with approximately 530 participants and 40 participants. respectively. An "Introduction to Adopt-A-Stream Program" and "Watershed Walk" videos have been produced, duplicated and distributed on loan. The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program Manuals have been printed and distributed to approximately 1,000 volunteers. In addition, a bimonthly newsletter is published and distributed to over 1.000 volunteers.
42

MILESTONE: Administer statewide programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution in urban and developing areas.

- Continuation -

Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program

The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program is a statewide program with two (2) staff positions in the GAEPD (Section 319(h) FY95 Grant) and five (5) Regional Training Centers (Section 319(h) FY95 Grant). The Regional Training Centers are a network of college-based training centers located in Albany, Columbus, Dahlonega, Milledgeville and Savannah. This network of training centers allows the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program to be accessible to all areas of the state.

The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program Advisory Board includes representatives from the Georgia Power Company, Georgia Conservancy, Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper Fund, Gainesville College, Georgia Water and Pollution Control Association and the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division.

During Federal FY96, the GAEPD conducted four (4) electronic "Planning a Community Program" workshops on the Georgia Statewide Academic and Medical Systems (GSAMS) network with approximately 100 participants. The participants included local and regional government officials and volunteers from Albany, Americus, Atlanta, Columbus, Dahlonega, Rome and Savannah, and Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb and Gwinnett Counties. Several communities have already established Community Adopt-A-Stream Programs in the Chattahoochee, Etowah, Flint, Ocmulgee, Oconee and Savannah River Basins.

The existing Community Adopt-A-Stream Programs include: City of Alpharetta, Athens-Clarke County, Clayton County, Gainesville-Hall County, Gwinnett County, City of Macon, City of Rome, City of Roswell and Savannah-Chatham County. Section 319(h) Grant monies were used to initially fund the programs in the City of Alpharetta, Gwinnett County, City of Roswell and Savannah-Chatham Counties.

The Georgfa Adopt-A-Stream Program organized the Annual Georgia River Clean-Up Week, with over 1000 volunteers cleaning up river segments in over 50 locations statewide.

With the program's outreach activities, nonpoint source pollution is defined and preventive

measures are described. As with any public outreach program, the prevention, control and/or

(._.

abatement of nonpoint source pollution must be measured indirectly. As outlined, the active

participation of volunteers and local and regional governments in the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream

Program indirectly point towards significant pollution prevention .

...

43

MILESTONE: Implement local watershed planning and management programs.

City of Atlanta - Urban Watershed Management Program

(41) Storm Sewers (42) Combined Sewers
(43) Surface Runoff

The watersheds in and around the City of Atlanta are affected by many pollution sources, and

understanding those sources is critical to improving water quality. To that end, the City of

Atlanta has recently initiated an Urban Watershed Management Program funded with

...

wastewater treatment funds ($700,000) .

This program involves two (2) separate watershed studies. The first addresses the areas that drain to the Atlantic Ocean from Intrenchment Creek and the South River (East Watersheds Study). The second addresses areas that drain to the Gulf of Mexico through the Chattahoochee River, including Peachtree, Nancy, Proctor, Utoy and Sandy Creeks (West Watersheds Study). These studies will result in Watershed Water Quality Management Plans that will create a framework for addressing nonpoint source pollution in the watersheds.

Urban waterways are affected by a variety of activities and pollution sources including: storm water runoff from construction sites and residential, commercial and industrial areas; physical changes in stream flows and channels that are caused by increased runoff from development; combined sewer overflows; sanitary sewer overflows; septic tanks; and activities such as stream channelization and clearing of trees along streams.

The overall goal of the Urban Watershed Management Program s to determine the current conditions and uses of urban streams, assess the size and impacts of the different pollution sources, and evaluate options for improving water quality.

This program will culminate in water quality management plans for the East and West Watersheds, which will establish goals for water quality improvement and recommend altemativ~ for. meeting the goals. Subsequent phases of the program will include detailed planning and design of water quality enhancements, which may range from stream restoration projects and educational programs to additional pollution control facilities.

Lake Lanier Water Quality Cooperative River Basin Study

(43) Surface Runoff

An objective of this watershed assessment study is to identify existing and potential nonpoint source impacts to Lake Lanier from the Upper Chattahoochee and Chestatee River. Sediment and agricultural chemical and nutrient loadings will be used to assess nonpoint source pollution from agricultural, forested and other rural sources. In addition, the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) will assess the quality of the soils, plants, animals and air and their impact on water resources.

MILESTONE: Implement local watershed planning and management programs.
- Continuation Lake Lanier Water Quality Cooperative River Basin Study A GIS data base will be developed that delineates potential areas of nonpoint source pollution to be used by the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) to prioritize technical and financial assistance. Wrth Section 314 Grant funds, the cooperating agencies have developed software programs to assess animal waste production sites and feasible waste utilization sites. This project has been sponsored by the Upper Chattahoochee River Soil and Water Conservation District, Hall County Soil and Water Conservation Districts and the ChestateeChattahoochee RC&D Council. The key objective of this project is to promote communication and cooperation among land owners and managers, industry, environmental groups and resource agencies.

Big Haynes Creek Watershed Management Plan (43) Surface Runoff
The purpose of this plan is to achieve and maintain a high quality water supply source in the Big Haynes Creek Watershed and to establish criteria to achieve this purpose. These criteria are based on recommendations in the Camp Dresser & McKee COM report, "Big Haynes Creek Watershed Management Plan Study." This study was conducted cooperatively by the Cities of Conyers, Grayson, Loganville and Snellville, Gwinnett, Newton, Rockdale and Walton Counties and the Conyers-Rockdale Impoundment Authority. This plan identifies watershed protection measures which local governments should incorporate into their zoning ordinances, subdivision ordinances-and -comprehensive plans to protect the quality of water in the Big Haynes Creek Watershed.
"-..
45

MILESTONE: Implement local NPS management programs, streambank and stream restoration activities, and community Adopt-A-Stream programs.
City of Atlanta - Bond Referendum Projects (41) Storm Sewers
(42) Combined Sewers (43) Surface Runoff
In 1994, the City of Atlanta approved a general obligation bond issue to fund critical infrastructure improvements. All of the proposed infrastructure projects are drawn from the City of Atlanta's Comprehensive Development Plan, which is updated and adopted each year by the mayor and City Council through a process that involves extensive participation by the Neighborhood Planning Units (NPU) and individual citizens.
The general obligation bond will fund $78,230,000 for streets, bridges and viaducts; $55,610,000 for storm water drainage facilities; $16,140,000 for erosion and flood control facilities; and
.. $14,256,000 for streambank restoration projects.
City of Atlanta - Urban Resources Partnership (43) Surface Runoff
The Urban Resources Partnership 'Nas initiated in 1994 to assist urban communities in improving and protecting their natural resources and environment and to develop greater cooperation among all natural resource agencies, local government and citizens. The federal agencies representing the Partnership are the U. S. Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, Cooperative Extension Service. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Housing and Economic Development.
Atlanta is one of the eight Urban Resources Partnership cities across the country. This grant program continues to address urban natural resource and environmental issues in the Atlanta metropolitan area which includes the 10 county Atlanta Regional Commission area (Cherokee. Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties).
With 1996 Urban Resources Partnership Grant funding ($106,000), the following projects addressing nonpoint source pollution were initiated:
Saporta Nature Trail - Creating a nature preserve on a 1.3 acre lot on Proctor Creek in Carver Hills; identifying and marking indigenous plants and trees; planting eco-enhancing trees; promoting neighborhood composting; and, initiating a streambank restoration project.
Environmental Revitalization and Neighborhood Improvements - Implement a streambank stabilization projects in parks and along the Chattahoochee River Greenway.
Nancy Creek Streambank Stabilization Pilot Project - Initiate streambank stabilization of a quarter-mile section of Nancy Creek in Fulton County that will serve as a demonstration of bioengineering techniques for vegetative stabilization .
46

MILESTONE: Implement local NPS management programs, streambank and stream restoration activities, and community Adopt-A-Stream programs.
- Continuation -
City of Atlanta - Urban Resources Partnership
Transformation of Carver Hills Neighborhood into a Sustainable Natural Space/Urban Forest Community- The Carver Hills Neighborhood purchased 13.5 acres of land abandoned by the Atlanta Board of Education. The goal is to transform this neighborhood into a Sustainable Natural Space/Urban Forest Community.
Henry County Red Tail Nature Trail- The objective of this project is to maintain and protect the environmentally sensitive wetlands, streams, and wildlife that exist throughout the closed Henry County Solid Waste Landfill.
Community Preservation, Restoration and Beautification Project- This is a community based
. project to beautify and enhance the neighborhood wetland and lakefront areas.
City of Rome Urban Waterbody Demonstration Project
(43) Surface Runoff
With Section 319(h) FY93 Grant funds, the City of Rome conducted a preliminary assessment of the Silver Creek watershed to identify physical improvements and programs necessary to
.. restore conditions for trout habitation in the lower portion of the watershed.
City of Marietta Victory Park and Merritt Park Streambank Restoration Projects
(43) Surface Runoff
With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds, the City of Marietta will initiate the design and implementation of the Victory Park and Merritt Park Streambank Restoration Projects in Federal FY97. The objective of this project is to address and resolve water quality impairments stemming from sedimentation buildup, bank erosion and construction debris.
Since both Victory Park and Merritt Park are located within school zones, students will be invited to participate in presentations and field day demonstrations during the project. Upon completion. demonstration tours will be offered to the general public and interested organizations.

47

MILESTONE: Implement local NPS management programs, streambank and stream restoration activities, and community Adopt-A-Stream programs.

City of Clayton Stekoa Creek Water Quality Improvement Project

(43) Surface Runoff

With Section 319(h) FY95 Grant funds, the City of Clayton initiated this project in Federal FY96.

Stekoa Creek is a tributary to the Chattooga River in the Savannah River Basin and is listed in

. ,

the Section 305(b) Report as not supporting its designated use.

A demonstration project site was identified, the streambanks in the impacted riparian corridor were stabilized, fencing was installed to decrease cattle use of the stream and riparian area, and monitoring was completed in Federal FY96. The biological data indicates an improvement in aquatic life below the demonstration site due to the reduction of fecal coliform levels and sediment loading.

Six (6) education seminars have been scheduled during Federal FY97 to promote the best management practices demonstrated at the project site.
...

City of Atlanta Proctor Creek Streambank Restoration and Watershed Management Projects

(43) Surface Runoff

With Section 319(h) FY94 Grant funds, the City of Atlanta has implemented the Proctor Creek Streambank Restoration and Watershed Management Projects. The Streambank Restoration Project will address sediment loads in Proctor Creek caused by erosion, undercutting and incision of the str~am channel. The objective of the Watershed Management Project is to reduce nonpoint source pollution from urban runoff through public awareness programs, training workshops and the implementation of best management practices.

During Federal FY96, the bioengineering consultants have completed the feasibility study for the demonstration site, a 400 foot section of Proctor Creek. The feasibility study identified the causes of the erosion at the demonstration site and delineated the design plans and implementation specifications for the streambank restoration project. Currently, the City of Atlanta is reviewing proposal bids for the implementation of the streambank restoration project.

With additional funding from the USEPA Regional Administrator's Discretionary Funds, the Watershed Management Project has initiated a student education curriculum with multidisciplinary lessons plans about the water cycle, watershed mapping, nonpoint source pollution prevention, stream assessment and monitoring .
...

48

MILESTONE: Develop and disseminate local watershed planning and management procedures.

Peavine Creek Watershed Protection

(43) Surface Runoff

The Peavine Creek Watershed Protection Committee was initiated by the Druid Hills Civic Association to determine the current condition of the stream, assess impacts of different pollution sources, and evaluate best management practices for improving water quality.

With funding from the Urban Resources Partnership Grant, Captain Planet Foundation, Druid Hills Civic Association and local businesses, the watershed protection committee was formed in 1994 and a community based Adopt-A-Stream Program was organized in 1996. The watershed protection committee plans to installs best management practices such as infiltration fences, grass swales and dry wells.

The Georgia Conservancy plans to develop a similar watershed protection committee in the South Peachtree Creek watershed.

ARC - CFRDC Chattahoochee Corridor Plan

(43) Surface Runoff

With local funding, the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and the Chattahoochee-Flint Regional Development Commission (CFRDC) initiated the South Chattahoochee Corridor Plan to create an area-wide development and protection plan for the Chattahoochee River from Peachtree Creek , Atlanta to Franklin, Georgia.

ARC and CFRDC member governments located within the Chattahoochee Corridor include the City of Atlanta and Carroll, Cobb, Coweta, Douglas, Fulton and Heard Counties. During Federal FY96, an inventory of existing conditions was completed.



''-..

Big Creek Watershed Management Plan

(43) Surface Runoff

In 1993, the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) initiated efforts to encourage local governments to develop a watershed management plan for Big Creek. Wrth the approval of local governments (City of Alpharetta, City of Cumming, City of Roswell, Forsyth County and Fulton County), the Big Creek Watershed Study Group was established to develop an implementation plan and to secure funding.


49

MILESTONE: Develop and disseminate local watershed planning and management procedures.

Water Supply Watershed Protection (43) Surface Runoff

The Georgia Planning Act of 1989 requires each local government in the State to develop a

comprehensive plan to guide its activities over a defined planning period. As mandated by Part

V of the Georgia Planning Act and the Mountains and River Corridors Protection Act. the

comprehensive plans must include the identification and protection of natural and historic

.,

resources. This rule establishes minimum requirements for water supply watersheds,

groundwater recharge areas, wetlands, river corridors and mountains. These minimum

requirements are known as the "Part V Minimum Planning Standards."

In water supply watersheds with areas greater than 100 square miles, corridors of all tributary streams within seven miles of the water supply reservoir must have restricted stream buffer zones, percent impervious areas, set backs and septic tank location limitations. In water supply watersheds with areas less than 100 square miles, criteria exist for stream buffer zones, percent impervious areas and set backs for all tributary streams within seven miles of the water supply reservoir and between the seven mile radius and the remaining watershed area.

In order for a comprehensive plan to meet the requirements of the Part V Minimum Planning

Standards, the comprehensive plan must identify all environmental sensitive areas and the

applicable criteria. Failure to adopt and implement an acceptable comprehensive plan could

lead to the loss of certified local government status and ineligibility for state grant and loan

programs. In addition, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPO) requires that the

permittee develop appropriate water supply protection plans for new or modified water

withdrawal permits.

..

Community Based Watershed Protection (43) Surface Runoff
During Federal FY96, the Georgia Conservancy initiated a statewide community based watershed protection project within each of the fifteen (15) major River Basins in Georgia. With National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Grant funds, the Georgia Conservancy will produce a resource booklet for each River Basin containing information about existing water quality. wastewater treatment facilities, natural resources and habitats (e.g., wetlands, forests), point source and nonpoint source pollution impacts.
The Georgia Conservancy will form a minimum of two (2) community based watershed protection groups in each of the three (3) priority River Basins and develop an implementation plan to develop groups in the remaining twelve (12) River Basins.
During Federal FY96, the Georgia Conservancy has supported the development of the Peavine Creek Watershed Protection Committee in DeKalb County.

50

MILESTONE: Develop and disseminate local watershed planning and management procedures. Metropolitan River Protection Act (43) Surface Runoff
The Metropolitan River Protection Act provides for the protection of a corridor within 2000 feet of the Chattahoochee River between Buford Dam and Peachtree Creek. The Metropolitan River Protection Act (MRPA) requires the preparation of local codes and ordinances pertaining to land vulnerability standards, buffer zones adjacent to the Chattahoochee River and tributaries, and floodplain standards. New development must be reviewed by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) for compliance with the MRPA and approved by the local government. Participating local governments include: the Cities of Atlanta, Berkeley Lake, Duluth, Roswell, Sugar Hill and Suwanee and Cobb, Forsyth, Fulton, and Gwinnett Counties. During Federal FY96, the ARC and local governments reviewed twenty-four (24) development proposals for the Chattahoochee River Corridor.
...
51

MILESTONE: Implement state and local Erosion and Sedimentation Control Programs. Model Land Development Code Recommendations for Georgia (43) Surface Runoff
With Section 319(h) FY95 Grant funds, the University of Georgia School of Environmental Design will develop "model" land development code recommendations for incorporation into existing and/or new local government ordinances. The recommendations will be designed to address and reduce urban nonpoint source pollution in local watersheds. An objective of this project is to bridge the jurisdictional void between the management of stream water quality and and the management of land development activities within Georgia.

Douglas County Development Code (43) Surface Runoff
Douglas County is currently revising its development codes to create a new "district" which would permit the clustering of development if the maximum densities required by the ordinances to protect water supplies are maintained. This "district" would reduce development costs by permitting more concentrated development while allowing the preservation of common open and undisturbed lands in environmental sensitive areas.

52

MILESTONE: Prepare and disseminate technical information on best management practices and nonpoint source monitoring and assessment.

Chattahoochee River Headwaters Riparian Restoration and Education Project
(43) Surface Runoff

With Section 104 Wetlands Grant funds ($ 85, 000), the Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper will produce an inventory and priority ranking of streambank and stream bed restoration and riparian reforestation opportunities in the Chattahoochee River Basin, including site-specific restoration designs for the highest priority sites. This project will focus on the headwaters of the Upper Chattahoochee River Watershed, which include portions of Hall, Habersham, Lumpkin and White Counties. The primary water quality problems of the headwaters are due to erosion and sedimentation, elevated fecal coliform and temperature levels. In addition, counties in the study area are experiencing significant population growth pressures, coinciding with the accelerated growth of metropolitan Atlanta, only sixty miles downstream from the Chattahoochee River headwaters.

An education program, emphasizing nonpoint source pollution prevention and the protection of

riparian floodplain and wetlands, will target local and regional government officials and local

community groups.



Development of Guidelines for Urban Stream Quality (43) Surface Runoff

With Section 319(h) FY91 Grant funds, the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) will develop a guidance manual that can be used to assess urban water quality conditions and determine the possible sources that are causing water quality degradation. The recommended assessment method will encompass chemical, physical and biological water quality indicators and dryweather and wet-weather streamflow conditions.

During Federai'FY96, a preliminary data assessment report and monitoring plan with QA/QC provisions have been submitted to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) and stream sampling has been initiated.

Booklet on Environmental Management Requirements in Stream and River Corridors (43) Surface Runoff

With Section 319(h) FY92 Grant funds, the University of Georgia Institute of Community and Area Development (UGA ICAD) will develop and print a booklet which will summarize federal, state and local requirements applicable to riparian corridors. The UGA ICAD have researched and summarized all of the applicable laws and regulations. An outline was submitted to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) for review and approval in September, 1996. The GAEPD will print 5000 copies of the booklet for distribution in Federal FY97.

53

MILESTONE: Prepare and disseminate technical information on best management practices and nonpoint source monitoring and assessment
Evaluation of the Effects of Soil Erosion on an Urban Stream
(43) Surface Runoff
With funding from the Urban Resources Partnership Grant and Scientific Games, Inc., the Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper completed a water quality assessment study of Big Creek in Fulton and Forsyth Counties. Volunteers were trained to collect water samples, rain data and pertinent watershed information. The water samples were analyzed to determine sediment loads and the data was compiled and charted to illustrate conditions and trends. In addition, this data was correlated to watershed data (e.g., land use, land disturbing activities, soil types).
As delineated in the final report, extreme erosion and sediment transport occurs in the Big Creek watershed. Turbidity measurements for twenty-four (24} samples in six (6) rain events exceeded 1000 NTU and three (3) samples, exceeded 3000 NTU. In addition, daily turbidity measures taken at the City of Roswell wastewater treatment plant indicated "very low to moderate" protection of aquatic community. In 1995, more than 40% of the daily turbidity measurements exceeded the 25 NTU in-stream protection level recommended by the Georgia Board of Regents' Scientific Panel.
The final report concluded that the lack of enforcement of erosion and sedimentation control laws by the local issuing authorities appears to be the primary factor for the high sediment levels in the Big Creek watershed.

Lake Acworth Protection
(43) Surface Runoff
The elevated fecal coliform levels in the swimming area of Lake Acworth prompted this project. The study con-cluded that the elevated fecal coliform levels were due to possible sewer leaks to a tributary, storm water runoff from the City of Acworth and the high concentrations of water fowl in the vicinity of the lake.
With funding from the Urban Resources Partnership Grant and Cobb County, 6- 7 acres of wetlands were constructed to treat storm water runoff from the City of Acworth and portions of the lake shoreline were restored with wetlands plant species (some of which were a natural food source for the water fowl). Therefore, as well as reducing sediment loading to the lake, the constructed wetlands attracted the water fowl away from the swimming area.


MILESTONE: Prepare and disseminate technical information on best management practices and nonpoint source monitoring and assessment
Fecal Coliform Criteria Evaluation
(41) Storm Sewers (42) Combined Sewers
(43) Surface Runoff
With Section 319(h) FY91 and FY92 Grant funds, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are reviewing and evaluating microbial water quality indicators. In 1989, the GAEPD adopted the current water quality standards which established a fecal coliform standard of a geometric mean of 200 per 100 ml for all waters with the use designations of fishing and drinking water. However, this water quality standard may not realistically indicate health hazards in water; therefore, the objective of this project is to determine if there is a more suitable organism that will correlate possible exposure to enteric pathogens.
Physical, chemical and biological parameters are being sampled in different types of habitats. Indicator organisms that were initially chosen have been revised due to lack of methodology development, absence in streams, and difficulty in sampling and/or isolating the indicator organism. Therefore, current organisms being correlated include total coliforms, fecal coliforms, Escherichia coli, enterococci, somatic coliphages, Pseudomonas sp, Giardia Iamblia and Cryptosporidium paNum. In addition, the methodologies for Secretory lgA and Clostridium perfringens are currently being developed.
Three (3) literature reviews will be submitted to the USEPA in January, 1997: (1) Summary and Historical Development of Indicator Organisms and Their Use in National Standards, (2) Existing laboratory Methods for the Isolation and Detection Candidate Organisms and Current and Potential Microbial Indicators and (3) Outline of Selected BMP with Potential for the Control of Microbial Pathogens.
The final report will be submitted to the USEPA for review and approval in March, 1997.

55

MILESTONE: Implement NPS education programs for the general public, business and industry, local and regional governments, and school systems. Chatham-Savannah MPC Urban Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Program (43) Surface Runoff
With Section 319(h) FY93 Grant funds, the Chatham-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission has developed a public education and awareness program to reduce nonpoint source pollution from urban runoff. Various brochures have been distributed with the utility bills and two (2) volunteer river clean-ups were conducted during Federal FY96. A PSA video will be developed and distributed in Federal FY97.
+
56

MILESTONE: Implement Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program.
Proctor Creek Watershed Management Project- Education Initiative (43) Surface Runoff
With$ 10,000 from the USEPA Regional Administrator's Discretionary Funds, the Carver Hills Neighborhood Association (CHNA) in Atlanta implemented the Education Initiative of the Proctor Creek Watershed Management Project. The Education Initiative will involve student education on watershed protection with multi-disciplinary lesson plans about the water cycle, watershed
mapping, nonpoint source pollution prevention, stream assessment and monitoring.
Captain Planet Foundation Adopt-A-Stream Programs (43) Surface Runoff
With funding from the Captain Planet Foundation ($ 5,200), eight (8) Atlanta area schools purchased equipment necessary to implement a Stream Water Quality Education and Monitoring Program and schools in Sharpsburg, Gainesville, Clarkesville and Douglasville and the SauteeNacoochee Community Association sponsored new Adopt-A-Stream Programs in conjunction with the Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper.

Chattahoochee River Adopt-A-Stream Network (43) Surface Runoff
With funding from the Captain Planet Foundation ($ 4,000), U. S. Environmental Protection Agency($ 5,000) and the Turner Foundation($ 6,000), the Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper has augmented the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program with a focused environmental education effort to create a minimum of six new Adopt-A-Stream Programs each year throughout the Chattahoochee River Watershed and to connect the forty existing programs and new groups in the watershed.
The Chattahoochee River Adopt-A-Stream Network brings an existing "hands-on" environmental education program to a wider audience throughout the fifteen counties in the Upper Chattahoochee River Basin. Currently, 75% of the existing Adopt-A-Stream Programs are
<:...
located in Atlanta. Outlying communities and rural agricultural areas have fewer resources and opportunities to initiate water quality monitoring programs. The Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper will target these outlying areas, as well as certain threatened streams in Atlanta. which do not have Adopt-A-Stream Programs in place.
The Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper publishes a monthly newsletter highlighting successfut Adopt-A-Stream Programs, new monitoring methods and opportunities for additional training The Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper offers advice on problem-solving techniques for situations where pollution problems have been documented and provides current information on regulations enacted to protect streams from nonpoint source pollution.
57

MILESTONE: Implement Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program.
Fulton County Streams Alive Program (43) Surface Runoff
With Section 319(h) FY93 Grant funds, Fulton County established a Community Adopt-AStream Program to recruit and train volunteers to monitor and assess streams throughout the county. During Federal FY96, Fulton County conducted 9 training workshops, established 16 local Adopt-A-Stream groups and conducted 5 public outreach presentations. Currently, the Fulton County - Streams Alive Program is monitoring and assessing 17 streams.
+
Chatham-Savannah MPC Stream Monitoring Program (43) Surface Runoff
With Section 319(h) FY93 Grant funds, the Chatham-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission established a Community Adopt-A-Stream Program to recruit and train volunteers to monitor and assess streams throughout the county. During Federal FY96, ten (10) local Adopt-A-Stream groups have been established.
+
Student/Teacher Nonpoint Source Water Quality Camps (43) Surface Runoff
With Section 319(h) FY93 Grant funds, North Georgia College has conducted two (2) Student/Teacher Nonpoint Source Water Quality Camps in Dahlonega and Americus with 40 participants. T~_e five-day camps focus on analytical procedures to quantify nonpoint source pollution. Upon returning to their schools, the teams have adopted local streams and conducted nonpoint source monitoring and assessment studies.
+
58