Water quality in Georgia [2002-2003]

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2002 - 2003
Georgia Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2002 - 2003
Georgia Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division 205 Butler Street, SE Floyd Towers East Atlanta, Georgia 30334

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
Preface
This report was prepared by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD), Department of Natural Resources, as required by Section 305(b) of Public Law 92-500 (the Clean Water Act) and as a public information document. It represents a synoptic extraction of the GAEPD files and, in certain cases, information has been presented in summary form from those files. The reader is therefore advised to use this condensed information with the knowledge that it is a summary document and more detailed information is available in the GAEPD files.
This report covers a two-year period, January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2003. Comments or questions related to the content of this report are invited and should be addressed to:
Environmental Protection Division Georgia Department of Natural Resources Watershed Protection Branch 4220 International Parkway Suite 101 Atlanta, Georgia 30354
2002-2003
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PAGE

Purpose........................................................................................ 1-1

Water Protection In Georgia ........................................................... 1-1

Water Protection Programs ........................................................... 1-3

Background ...................................................................... 1-3

River Basin Management Planning ......................................... 1-3

Monitoring and Assessment .................................................. 1-3

Water Quality Modeling/Wasteload Allocation/TMDL Development.. 1-4

TMDL Implementation Plan Development................................... 1-4

State Revolving Loan Fun ..................................................... 1-4

NPDES Permitting and Enforcement ........................................ 1-4

Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations...................................1-5

Zero Tolerance...................................................................... 1-5

Nonpoint Source Management Program.....................................1-5

Stormwater Management ...................................................... 1-7

Erosion and Sediment Control.................................................. 1-7

Major Issues and Challenges ........................................................... 1-8

CHAPTER 2 RIVER BASIN MANAGEMENT PLANNING General Background........................................................................ 2-1 Stakeholder Participation..................................................................2-2 Governmental Agency Partnerships.................................................... 2-4 Major River Basins..........................................................................2-5 River Basin Management Planning Cycle............................................ 2-5 River Basin Groups and Planning Schedule......................................... 2-10 Summary...................................................................................... 2-13

CHAPTER 3 SURFACE WATER QUALITY MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT Background................................................................................... 3-1
Water Resources Atlas........................................................... 3-1 Water Use Classifications and Water Quality Standards................ 3-1 Water Quality Monitoring.................................................................. 3-4 Goals.................................................................................. 3-4 Trend/River Basin/TMDL Monitoring..........................................3-4 Intensive Surveys.................................................................. 3-16 Lake Monitoring.....................................................................3-16 Fish Tissue Monitoring............................................................ 3-33 Toxic Substance Stream Monitoring.......................................... 3-33 Aquatic Toxicity Testing.......................................................... 3-34

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Coastal Monitoring................................................................. 3-34 Facility Compliance Sampling...................................................3-34 Surface Water Quality Summary ....................................................... 3-35 Data Assessment.................................................................. 3-35 Fecal Coliform Bacteria...........................................................3-35 Metals................................................................................. 3-37 Toxicity Testing/Toxic Substances.............................................3-37 Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Temperature......................................... 3-37 Fish/Shellfish Guidelines.........................................................3-37 Biotic Data........................................................................... 3-38 Evaluation of Use Support ...................................................... 3-38 Assessment of Causes of Nonsupport of Designated Uses............ 3-38 Assessment of Potential Sources of Nonsupport of Designated Uses................................................................ 3-38 Priorities for Action ................................................................3-39
CHAPTER 4 Wetland Programs Introduction................................................................................... 4-1 Extent of Wetland Resources ........................................................... 4-2 Integrity of Wetland Resources..........................................................4-4
Wetland Use Support............................................................. 4-4 Wetland Monitoring................................................................ 4-7 Additional Wetlands Protection Activities............................................. 4-7 Land Acquisition.................................................................... 4-8 Education and Public Outreach................................................ 4-8 State Protected Species in Wetlands ........................................ 4-8 Managing Wetlands on State Owned Properties...........................4-9 Assessment of DNR Managed Wetlands.................................... 4-10
CHAPTER 5 - ESTUARY AND COASTAL PROGRAMS Background................................................................................... 5-1 Water Quality Monitoring.................................................................. 5-1 Shellfish Sanitation Program............................................................. 5-2 Beach Monitoring Program............................................................... 5-3 Nutrient Monitoring Program............................................................. 5-4 National Coastal Assessment............................................................ 5-4 Commercial and Recreational Fisheries Programs.................................5-5 Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve.............................. 5-9 Coastal Zone Management............................................................... 5-9
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CHAPTER 6 PUBLIC HEALTH/AQUATIC LIFE ISSUES Fish Consumption Guidelines............................................................ 6-1
Background.......................................................................... 6-1 Fish Monitoring Program.........................................................6-1 Evaluation of Fish Consumption Guidance for Use Support............6-2 Risk-Based Assessment For Fish Consumption...........................6-3 General Guidelines to Reduce Health Risks ............................... 6-3 Specific Waterbody Consumption Guidelines.............................. 6-4 Special Notice for Pregnant Women, Nursing Mothers, and Children 6-4 Bathing Area Monitoring.................................................................. 6-5 Shellfish Area Closures....................................................................6-5 Pollution Related Fish Kills............................................................... 6-10
CHAPTER 7 WATER PROTECTION PROGRAMS Program Perspective....................................................................... 7-1 River Basin Management Planning.....................................................7-2 Water Quality Monitoring.................................................................. 7-3 Water Quality Modeling/Wasteload Allocations/TMDL Development..........7-3 TMDL Implementation Plan Development............................................ 7-4 State Revolving Loan/Construction Grants...........................................7-4 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit Program.................................................................7-5 Concentrated Animal Feeding Program............................................... 7-6 Combined Sewer Overflows..............................................................7-7 Compliance and Enforcement........................................................... 7-8 Zero Tolerance.............................................................................. 7-9 Stormwater Management................................................................. 7-10 Erosion and Sedimentation Control.................................................... 7-12 Nonpoint Source Management Program..............................................7-13
Agriculture........................................................................... 7-16 Silviculture ...........................................................................7-20 Urban Runoff........................................................................7-22 Georgia Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) Program............... 7-26 Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program......................................................7-27 Emergency Response Program.........................................................7-30 Environmental Radiation.................................................................. 7-30
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CHAPTER 8 GROUNDWATER AND SURFACE WATER SUPPLIES Groundwater................................................................................. 8-1 Ground and Surface Water Withdrawals..............................................8-21 Ground and Surface Drinking Water Supplies....................................... 8-24
CHAPTER 9 MAJOR ISSUES AND CHALLENGES Toxic Substances........................................................................... 9-1 Nonpoint Source Pollution................................................................ 9-1 Public Involvement .........................................................................9-2 Sustainable Water.......................................................................... 9-2
APPENDIX A WATERS ASSESSED FOR COMPLIANCE WITH DESIGNATED USES............................................................. A-1
APPENDIX B WATERS ADDED TO THE GEORGIA 303(d) LIST BY THE USEPA........................................................................ B-1
APPENDIX C FISH CONSUMPTION GUIDELINES............................ C-1
LIST OF TABLES
PAGE TABLE 2-1 River Basin Planning Vision, Mission, Goals.......................2-3 TABLE 3-1 Water Resources Atlas.................................................. 3-2 TABLE 3-2 Georgia Water Use Classifications and Instream Water
Quality Standards for Each Use...................................... 3-3 TABLE 3-3 Georgia Instream Water Quality Standards For All
Waters: Toxic Substances.............................................. 3-5 TABLE 3-4 Water Quality Standards For Major Lakes..........................3-9 TABLE 3-5 Georgia Trend Monitoring Network 2002........................... 3-19 TABLE 3-6 Georgia Trend Monitoring Network 2003............................3-25 TABLE 3-7 Major Lakes Ranked by Trophic State Index...................... 3-32 TABLE 3-8 Contributors of Water Quality Data For Assessment of
Georgia Waters ........................................................... 3-36 TABLE 3-9 Evaluation of Use Support by Waterbody Type 2002-2003.... 3-39 TABLE 3-10 Causes of Nonsupport of Designated Uses By Waterbody
Type 2002-2003........................................................... 3-40
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TABLE 3-11 Potential Sources of Nonsupport of Designated Uses by Waterbody Type 2002-2003............................................3-40
TABLE 4-1 Assessment of DNR Lands (1990)................................... 4-10 TABLE 5-1 Location and Size of Areas Approved for Shellfish Harvest... 5-3 TABLE 6-1 Parameters for Fish Tissue Testing.................................. 6-1 TABLE 6-2 No Consumption Restrictions 2003................................ 6-6 TABLE 6-3 Guidelines for Limiting The Fish You Eat Lakes 2003...... 6-7 TABLE 6-4 Guidelines for Limiting The Fish You Eat Rivers 2003...... 6-8 TABLE 6-5 Pollution-Caused Fish Kills 2002-2003.............................. 6-10

TABLE 7-1 TABLE 8-1 TABLE 8-2 TABLE 8-3 TABLE 8-3

Municipal Facility Sources of Investment 2002-2003............ 7-5 Major Sources of Ground Water Contamination.................. 8-3 Summary of State Ground Water Protection Programs......... 8-4 Aquifer Monitoring Data for CY2002................................. 8-9 Aquifer Monitoring Data for CY2003................................. 8-10

LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE 2-1 Major River Basins in Georgia......................................... 2-6 FIGURE 2-2 River Basin Management Planning Cycle.......................... 2-7 FIGURE 2-3 Major River Basin Groups For Basin Planning.................... 2-12 FIGURE 2-4 River Basin Management Planning Schedule......................2-13 FIGURE 3-1 Georgia Trend Monitoring Network Station Locations 1994.... 3-14 FIGURE 3-2 Georgia Trend Monitoring Network Station Locations
1995-1999.................................................................. 3-15 FIGURE 3-3 Georgia Trend Monitoring Network Station Locations 2002.... 3-17 FIGURE 3-4 Georgia Trend Monitoring Network Station Locations 2003.... 3-18 FIGURE 8-1 Hydrologic Provinces of Georgia ..................................... 8-6 FIGURE 8-2 Ambient Groundwater Monitoring Network ........................ 8-8 FIGURE 8-3 Insecticide/Herbicide Use in Georgia................................ 8-11 FIGURE 8-4 Areas Susceptible to Natural High Dissolved Solids
and 24 County Area Covered by the Interim Coastal Management Strategy................................................... 8-12 FIGURE 8-5 Areas Susceptible to Natural and Human Induced Radiation......................................................... 8-14 FIGURE 8-6 Generalized Map of Significant Groundwater Recharge Areas of Georgia.......................................................... 8-19

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CHAPTER 1
Executive Summary

Purpose
This report, Water Quality in Georgia, 2002-2003, was prepared by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The DNR Coastal Resources (CRD) and Wildlife Resources Divisions (WRD), the Georgia Forestry Commission, and the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission also contributed portions of the report. In addition, water quality data was provided by a number of governmental agencies and universities.
The report is often referred to as the Georgia 305(b) Report as portions of the report are prepared to comply with this section of the Federal Clean Water Act. Section 305(b) requires that each State prepare and submit to the Administrator of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) a report, biennially, which describes water quality conditions of navigable waters across the State. The USEPA provides guidance to the States to establish a framework for consistent reporting across the nation. The USEPA reviews the individual State reports and uses the information to develop a national water quality inventory report which is transmitted to the Congress of the United States.
This report provides an assessment of the water quality conditions of surface and groundwater in Georgia and includes a description of the nature, extent and causes of documented water quality problems. This assessment of water quality problem areas serves as the basis for lists required by Sections 303(d), 314, and 319 of the Clean Water Act. The report also includes a review and summary of ongoing wetland, estuary, and coastal public health/aquatic life issues; and water protection, groundwater, and drinking water program summaries.
In addition to complying with the Federal Clean Water Act, the major objective of this report is to provide Georgians a broad summary of information on water quality and the programs being implemented by the GAEPD and its partners to protect water resources across the State.
Water Protection In Georgia
The GAEPD is and has been since its inception in 1972 a comprehensive environmental agency responsible for environmental protection, management, regulation, permitting, and enforcement in Georgia. The GAEPD has for many years aggressively sought most available program delegations from the USEPA

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in order to achieve and maintain a coordinated, integrated approach to environmental management. Today the GAEPD administers regulatory programs for water pollution control, water supply and groundwater management, surface water allocation, hazardous waste management, air quality control, solid waste management, strip mining, soil erosion control, geologic survey activities, radiation control, underground storage tanks, and safe dams.
This integrated approach to water pollution control originated in 1964 with the predecessor of the GAEPD, the Georgia Water Quality Control Board. The Georgia Water Quality Control Act of 1964 established the Board and consolidated all water pollution control functions under the Board. Early efforts by the Board in the late 1960s and early 1970s included documentation and assessment of water quality conditions, followed by judicial actions to force cleanup of targeted, priority water pollution problem areas. Another major action by the Board during this period was the establishment of water quality standards.
The Federal Clean Water Act of 1972 established the national goal of the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife, and for recreation in and on the water wherever attainable. Most industries in Georgia had installed effective water pollution control facilities by the end of 1972. In the mid/late 1970s, the GAEPD placed emphasis on the construction of municipal treatment plants, issuance of NPDES permits to municipal and industrial discharges, and the initiation of programs to monitor permit compliance and take appropriate enforcement actions. Major monitoring, modeling, and basin planning work was coordinated in support of treatment plant design and permitting programs. Priority was placed on targeted waters and on discharges to water quality limited stream segments through the construction grant priority funding list.
Today the Water Protection Branch of the GAEPD, in cooperation with many local, state, and federal agencies, coordinates programs to address most aspects of water pollution control including, monitoring; water quality modeling to develop wasteload allocations and total maximum daily loads (TMDLs); TMDL implementation plans; river basin management planning and the continuing planning process; water quality standards; local watershed assessment and watershed protection plans; nonpoint source management; erosion and sedimentation; stormwater management; the State revolving loan process for funding municipal water pollution control plant construction; the NPDES permit and enforcement program for municipal and industrial point sources; industrial pretreatment; land application of treated wastewater and regulation of concentrated animal feedlot operations (CAFOs).
The GAEPD has designated the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission as the lead agency for dealing with water quality problems caused by agriculture. The Georgia Forestry Commission has been designated by the

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GAEPD as the lead agency to deal with water quality problems due to commercial forestry operations.
Water Protection Programs
Background. Georgia is rich in water resources. According to USEPA estimates, the State has 44,056 miles of perennial streams, 23,906 miles of intermittent streams, and 603 miles of ditches and canals for a total of 70,150 stream miles. Also, the State has 4.8 million acres of wetlands (9% tidally affected), 425,582 acres of public lakes and reservoirs, 854 square miles of estuaries, and 100 miles of coastline. This rich water heritage is often taken for granted. However, unusual events such as the flood in the summer of 1994 and drought conditions experienced throughout Georgia in 1986, 1988 and 19992002 serve as reminders that water resources cannot be taken for granted and sound regulatory programs are necessary to protect the resources.
In 2002-2003, the GAEPD placed emphasis on river basin management planning, monitoring and assessment, water quality modeling and TMDLs, TMDL implementation plan development, State revolving loan programs, NPDES permitting and enforcement, nonpoint source pollution abatement, stormwater management, erosion and sediment control and public participation projects.
River Basin Management Planning. River basin management planning or the watershed approach to assessing and addressing water quality issues was a priority in 2002-2003. River basin planning is an important process as it provides a framework for integrating point and nonpoint source water protection efforts across the State. Basin plans have been completed for the Chattahoochee, Flint, Coosa, Tallapoosa, Savannah, Ogeechee, Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, St. Marys, Oconee, Ocmulgee and Altamaha Rivers. The River Basin Management Planning program is discussed in Chapter 2.
In 2004 the Georgia General Assembly passed new water planning legislation to take the place of river basin planning. The 2004 Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning Act calls for the EPD to prepare a comprehensive water plan and provides fundamental goals and guiding principles for the development of the plan. This will be the last report to discuss River Basin Planning. In future reports, information will be included regarding Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning. Georgia will continue to use a rotating basin approach to monitoring, assessment, listing, TMDL development and NPDES permit reissuance.
Monitoring and Assessment. Georgia's waters are currently classified for one of the following water use classifications: drinking water, recreation, fishing, coastal fishing, wild river, or scenic river. Specific water quality standards are assigned to support each water use classification. The use classifications and

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standards are discussed in some detail in Chapter 3. The quality of Georgia's waters is judged by the extent to which the waters support the uses (comply with standards set for the water use classification or designations) for which they have been designated. Water quality monitoring programs and information on assessments of Georgia's waters are discussed in Chapter 3.
Water Quality Modeling/Wasteload Allocation/TMDL Development. In 20022003, a significant amount of modeling work was conducted in support of the development of wasteload allocations and TMDLs. During this period TMDLs were established for 303(d) listed waters in the Oconee, Ocmulgee and Altamaha River Basins. These TMDLs were finalized by GAEPD in early 2002 and the TMDLs were approved by the USEPA. TMDLS for the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins were public noticed in June 2002, finalized by the GAEPD and approved by the EPA in early 2003. TMDLs were also developed for listed waters in the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Tennessee River basins and publicly noticed by the GAEPD in June 2003. These TMDLs will be finalized and submitted to the EPA for approval in 2004. This work is discussed in Chapter 3. Over the two-year period, more than 400 TMDLs were developed. To date more than 1000 TMDLs have been developed for 303(d) listed waters in Georgia.
TMDL Implementation Plan Development. In 2002-2003, GAEPD worked with Georgia Regional Development Centers and other governmental entities to develop plans to implement TMDLs. In 2002, Implementation Plans were developed for TMDLs in the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, and St. Marys River Basins. In 2003, Implementation Plans were developed for TMDLs in the Oconee, Ocmulgee and Altamaha River Basins. Over the two-year period 534 plans were developed to implement TMDLs. To date 654 plans have been developed to implement TMDLs in Georgia. This work is discussed in Chapter 7.
State Revolving Loan Fund. In March 1988, Georgia became the third State in the nation to receive a Capitalization Grant from the USEPA for implementation of the State Revolving Loan Fund. In 2002-2003 more than seventeen million dollars were obligated to communities for wastewater system improvements through the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA) in the form of lowinterest, state loans. In addition, Georgia received a total of seven million dollars through federal Capitalization Grants. The revolving loan program is discussed in Chapter 7.
NPDES Permitting and Enforcement. A considerable amount of time was allocated to treated wastewater discharge permit reissuance activities in 20022003. NPDES permits were modified or reissued to 316 municipal/private dischargers and to 153 industrial dischargers. In addition, 96 private dischargers were covered under general permit No. GAEPD 1000. Since the initiation of the program in 1974, NPDES permit issuance and enforcement has been a high priority for the GAEPD.

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Compliance and enforcement activities continued to receive significant attention in 2002-2003. By the end of 2003, of 135 major municipal discharges, 132 facilities were in general compliance with final limitations. The remaining facilities are under compliance schedules to resolve the noncompliance or implementing infiltration/ inflow strategies. Enforcement action has been taken by the GAEPD to insure problems are alleviated. Of 42 major industrial discharges, 41 facilities were achieving permit compliance at the end of 2003. The one major industrial discharger not in compliance at the end of 2003 is under an order to attain compliance.
The GAEPD utilizes all reasonable means to attain compliance, including technical assistance, noncompliance notification letters, conferences, consent orders, and civil penalities. Emphasis is placed on achieving compliance through cooperative action. However, compliance cannot always be achieved in a cooperative manner. The Director of the GAEPD has the authority to negotiate consent orders or issue administrative orders. In 2002-2003 515 Orders were issued and a total of $3,392,876 in negotiated settlements was collected. This includes enforcement actions for all aspects of the water protection program including violations of the Georgia Water Quality Control Act, the Federal Clean Water Act and NPDES permits. Permitting, compliance and enforcement work is discussed in Chapter 7.
Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations. Georgia adopted rules for swine feeding operations in 1999. Rules were adopted for animal (non-swine) feeding operations in 2001. During 2002 and 2003 rules were developed and implemented for large chicken feeding operations. This process is discussed in Chapter 7.
Zero Tolerance. In response to a resolution adopted in 1998 by Georgia Department of Natural Resources that directed GAEPD to provide the "best quality of effort possible enforcing Georgia's environmental laws", a "zero tolerance" strategy was adopted for certain high growth areas of the state requiring enforcement action on any and all noncompliance issues. Significant work was conducted in 2002-2003 to implement this strategy. This process is discussed in Chapter 7.
Nonpoint Source Management Program. The control of point source problems has allowed the GAEPD to place increasing emphasis on the prevention, control and abatement of nonpoint sources of pollution. The GAEPD is responsible for administering and enforcing laws to protect the waters of the State, defined to include surface and ground water. Consequently, the GAEPD has been designated as the administering or lead agency for implementing the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program. This program combines regulatory and non-regulatory approaches, in cooperation with other State and Federal

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agencies, local and regional governments, State colleges and universities, businesses and industries, non-governmental organizations and individual citizens.
Georgia's initial Nonpoint Source Assessment Report was completed in compliance with the Federal Clean Water Act and approved by the USEPA in January 1990. This report, as required by Section 305(b) of Public Law 92-500, serves as the current process to update the Nonpoint Source Assessment Report.
In January, 1997, the GAEPD initiated efforts with the University of Georgia Institute of Community Affairs and Development to revise and update the Nonpoint Source Management Program. This revision of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program is intended to meet the requirements for funding under Section 319(b) of the Federal Clean Water Act and to delineate short and long-term goals and implementation strategies. Just as important, it is also designed to be an information resource for the wide range of stakeholders across the State who are involved in the prevention, control and abatement of nonpoint sources of pollution. It has been developed as an inventory of the full breadth of nonpoint source management (regulatory and non-regulatory) in Georgia, including activities which are currently underway or planned for the time period FFY 2000 through FFY 2004.
The State's Nonpoint Source Management Program focuses on the comprehensive categories of nonpoint sources of pollution identified by the USEPA: Agriculture, Silviculture, Construction, Urban Runoff, Hydrologic/Habitat Modification, Land Disposal, Resource Extraction and Other Nonpoint Sources. This revision of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program was developed through a consultatory process, incorporating input from a wide range of stakeholders involved in nonpoint source management activities throughout the State: local, regional, State and Federal agencies, as well as private, nongovernmental organizations. This process encouraged intergovernmental resource sharing and increased stakeholder involvement. This revision of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program established new partnerships and strengthened existing partnerships in the development and implementation of nonpoint source strategies.
Under Section 319(h) of the Federal Clean Water Act, the USEPA awards a Nonpoint Source Implementation Grant to the GAEPD to fund eligible projects which support the implementation of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program. Section 319(h) Grant funds for the prevention, control and/or abatement of nonpoint sources of pollution are made available annually to public agencies in Georgia. With funding from Section 319(h) FY90 FY02 Grants, the GAEPD has awarded more than $40 million in grant funds to State agencies, local and regional governments, Resource Conservation and Development

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Councils, State colleges and universities to fund eligible projects supporting the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program. The nonpoint source programs are described in Chapter 7.
Stormwater Management. The GAEPD developed its Storm Water Permitting Strategy in February, 1991, and revised it in February, 1997. Georgia's Phase II Storm Water Permitting Strategy was approved by USEPA in May 2000. In 1994-1995 a total of 58 NPDES permits were issued to large and medium municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s). The 45 NPDES permits covering the Atlanta metro area were reissued in 1999 and will be reissued in 2004. The 13 NPDES permits for medium MS4s were reissued in April 2000.
In 1993, a general NPDES permit for storm water associated with industrial activity was issued. This permit was reissued in 1998, and is scheduled for reissuance in 2004. There are currently approximately 3500 facilities that have submitted Notices of Intent for coverage under the reissued permit.
After many years of legal appeals during the 1990s, a general NPDES permit for storm water associated with construction activities was issued in June 2000. The permit was reissued in August 2003. Storm water management is discussed in Chapter 7.
Erosion and Sediment Control. The Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act was signed into law in 1975 and has been amended several times since that date, most recently 2001. The legislative intent of the Act was to establish a comprehensive and statewide soil, erosion and sedimentation control program to protect and conserve air, land and water resources through the adoption and implementation of local ordinances and programs which regulate certain land disturbing activities generally associated with urban development. EPD implements the program where there is no local ordinance. The Act requires an erosion and sedimentation control plan and a land disturbing activity permit for sites greater than 1.1 acres. Erosion and Sedimentation control plans must be reviewed and approved by the Soil and Water Conservation District or by the local issuing authority before the land disturbing activity permit can be issued. Buffers of 25 feet for warm water streams and 50 feet for trout streams are required by the Act for the protection of water quality. The Act provides for a variance from these buffers under certain circumstances. Variances can only be issued by EPD. Procedures and criteria for obtaining a stream buffer variance are outlined in DNR's Erosion and Sedimentation Control Rules and Regulations and become part of the Land Disturbing Activity Permit. The Act provides for monetary penalties of up to $2,500 per day, enforced by EPD or by the local issuing authority.
Major Issues and Challenges

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The key issues and challenges to be addressed now and in the future years include (1) the control of toxic substances, (2) the reduction of nonpoint source pollution, (3) the need to increase public involvement in water quality improvement projects, and (4) a sustainable supply of potable water. The implementation of the River Basin Management Planning program in Georgia provides a framework for addressing each of the key issues.
The reduction of toxic substances in rivers, lakes, sediment and fish tissue is extremely important in protecting both human health and aquatic life. The sources are widespread. The most effective method to reduce releases of toxic substances into rivers is pollution prevention which consists primarily of eliminating or reducing the use of toxic materials or at least reducing the exposure of toxic materials to drinking water, wastewater and stormwater. It is very expensive and difficult to reduce low concentrations of toxic substances in wastewaters by treatment technologies. It is virtually impossible to treat large quantities of stormwater and reduce toxic substances. Therefore, toxic substances must be controlled at the source.
The pollution impact on Georgia streams has radically shifted over the last two decades. Streams are no longer dominated by untreated or partially treated sewage discharges which resulted in little or no oxygen and little or no aquatic life. The sewage is now treated, oxygen levels have returned and fish have followed. However, another source of pollution is now affecting Georgia streams. That source is referred to as nonpoint and consists of mud, litter, bacteria, pesticides, fertilizers, metals, oils, suds and a variety of other pollutants being washed into rivers and lakes by stormwater. This form of pollution, although somewhat less dramatic than raw sewage, must be reduced and controlled to fully protect Georgia's streams. As with toxic substance control, nonstructural techniques such as pollution prevention and best management practices must be significantly expanded. These include both watershed protection through planning, zoning, buffer zones, and appropriate building densities as well as increased use of stormwater retention ponds, street cleaning and perhaps eventual limitations on pesticide and fertilizer usage.
It is clear that local governments and industries, even with well funded efforts, cannot fully address the challenges of toxic substances and nonpoint source pollution control. Citizens must individually and collectively be part of the solution to these challenges. The main focus is to achieve full public acceptance of the fact that some of everything put on the ground or street ends up in a stream. Individuals are littering, driving cars which drip oils and antifreeze, applying fertilizers and pesticides and participating in a variety of other activities contributing to toxic and nonpoint source pollution. If streams and lakes are to be pollutant free, then some of the everyday human practices must be modified. The GAEPD will be emphasizing public involvement, not only in decision-making,

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but also in direct programs of stream improvement. The first steps are education and adopt-a-stream programs.
Georgia is one of the fastest growing states in the nation. The burgeoning population is making considerable demands on Georgia's ground and surface water resources. The problems and issues are further complicated by the fact that surface water resources are limited in South Georgia and groundwater resources are limited in North Georgia. In some locations, the resources are approaching their sustainable limits.
Water management planning based on the Georgia 2004 Comprehensive Statewide Water Planning Act will provide an opportunity to explore opportunities to develop a plan that will provide for management of water resources in a sustainable manner to support the state's economy, to protect public health and natural systems, and to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.

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CHAPTER 2
River Basin Management Planning
General Background
In 2004 the Georgia General Assembly passed new water planning legislation to take the place of river basin planning. The 2004 Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning Act calls for the EPD to prepare a comprehensive water plan and provides fundamental goals and guiding principles for the development of the plan. This will be the last report to discuss River Basin Planning. In future reports, information will be included regarding Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning. Georgia will continue to use a rotating basin approach to monitoring, assessment, listing, TMDL development and NPDES permit reissuance. The discussion below describes the River Basin Management Planning Program as it existed in 2002-2003.
River Basin Management Planning is the framework used in Georgia to implement water resource protection programs. Georgia has adopted a river basin management planning (RBMP) approach to watershed protection as defined in State law (O.C.G.A. 12-5-520) passed by the Georgia General Assembly in 1992 which requires that the GAEPD develop river basin management plans for the major rivers in Georgia. The law designated the Chattahoochee, Flint, Coosa, and Oconee Rivers as the first basins to be addressed. The law requires each plan include a description of the basin or watershed, identification of local governments in each basin, land use inventories, and a description of plan goals which may include providing environmental education, improving water quality, reducing pollution at the source, improving aquatic habitat, reestablishing native species of fish, restoring and protecting wildlife habitat, and providing recreational benefits. A description of the strategies and measures necessary to accomplish the goals is also to be a part of each management plan. The law also requires a seven person local advisory committee be appointed to provide advice and council to GAEPD during the plan development.
The river basin planning law focuses on surface water quality and provides five years for the development of one river basin plan for each major basin. The program being implemented by the GAEPD and partners provides for updates of each river basin plan on a five year basis thus establishing a long-term vision for the basin planning program. The program also goes beyond the law by incorporating groundwater and water supply/drinking water issues in the basin planning process. This comprehensive approach to water resource management and protection is a cornerstone of Georgia's program for RBMP. The program

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also provides for the development of the initial plan for each basin on a faster track than envisioned by the law.
The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency provided funding in 1994 for the Cadmus Group, a consultant with experience in basin wide planning, to help GAEPD develop a framework for implementing RBMP in Georgia. The consultant helped facilitate the efforts of a GAEPD workgroup made up of representatives of the Water Protection and Water Resources Branches and the Wildlife Resources Division. The workgroup developed a basin planning cycle, basin plan outline, basin groupings, planning schedules, issue prioritization strategies, task assignments, and resource needs. A number of the initial efforts of the workgroup are described below. USEPA provided funding in 1997-2003 for Tetra Tech to support the Georgia river basin planning program by helping to facilitate work of the basin planning team in the compilation of the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basin Management Plans in 1997, the Coosa, Tallapoosa, and Oconee River Basin Management Plans in 1998, the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla and St. Marys Plans in 1999, the Savannah and Ogeechee Plans in 2001, and the Ocmulgee and Altamaha Plans in 2002.
Stakeholder Participation
The local advisory committees for the Chattahoochee, Flint, Coosa, and Oconee River Basins were convened in 1993 and consist of a cross section of stakeholder interests, including local governments, agriculture, industry, forestry, environmental groups, and landowners. The four basin committees met together in January, 1994 in a facilitated meeting and finalized the proposed mission statement and goals for the statewide program (Table 2-1). The local advisory committee for the Tallapoosa River was established in 1996. Local advisory committees for the Satilla, St. Marys, Suwannee, and Ochlockonee Rivers were established in 1998, Savannah and Ogeechee local advisory committees were established in 1999 and the Ocmulgee and Altamaha committees were established in 2001.
In addition to local advisory committees, GAEPD has incorporated stakeholder involvement in the RBMP program. GAEPD envisions stakeholder involvement as one of the key components of the RBMP program. Stakeholder meetings are planned to facilitate public input at important stages of the planning process. GAEPD planned and hosted initial stakeholder meetings in Albany, Griffin, Helen, Atlanta, and Columbus in late 1994, to invite and encourage stakeholder input early in the planning process for the Chattahoochee and Flint River basins. A second and third set of stakeholder meetings were held in these locations in the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins in 1996 to discuss priority issues and in 1997 to present the final draft plans for review and input. A public hearing was

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then held in 1997 to formally receive comments on each draft plan. Stakeholder input was used in the formulation of the final plans and the plans were completed in December, 1997. The Chattahoochee and Flint River Basin Management Plans were adopted by the Board of Natural Resources in February, 1998.
Table 2-1. River Basin Management Planning Version, Mission, Goals
What is the VISION for the Georgia RBMP Approach?
Clean water to drink, clean water for aquatic life, and clean water for recreation, in adequate amounts to support all these uses in all river basins in the State of Georgia.
What is the Mission of the Georgia RBMP Approach?
To develop and implement a river basin planning program to protect, enhance, and restore the waters of the State of Georgia, that will provide for effective monitoring, allocation, use, regulation, and management of water resources.
What are the Goals guiding the Georgia RBMP Approach?
1. To meet or exceed local, State, federal laws, rules, and regulations, and be consistent with other applicable plans.
2. To identify existing and future water quality issues, emphasizing nonpoint sources of pollution.
3. To propose water quality improvement practices encouraging local involvement to reduce pollution, and monitor and protect water quality.
4. To involve all interested citizens and appropriate organizations in plan development and implementation.
5. To coordinate with other river plans and regional planning. 6. To facilitate local, State, and federal activities to monitor and protect water quality. 7. To identify existing and potential water availability problems and to coordinate
development of alternatives. 8. To provide for education of the general public on matters involving the environment and
ecological concerns specific to each river basin. 9. To provide for improving aquatic habitat and exploring the feasibility of reestablishing
native species of fish. 10. To provide for restoring and protecting wildlife habitat. 11. To provide for recreational benefits. 12. To identify and protect flood prone areas within each river basin, and encourage local
and State compliance with Federal floodplain management guidelines.
[Established January 1994 by a joint basin advisory committee workgroup]

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In the summer of 1995 initial stakeholder meetings were held in Rome, Cartersville, Dalton, Athens, Dublin, and Carrollton for the Coosa, Oconee, and Tallapoosa River basins. A second and third set of stakeholder meetings were held in the Coosa, Oconee and Tallapoosa in February, 1998 to discuss priority issues and in September, 1998 to present the final draft plans for review and input. A public hearing was also held in September, 1998 to formally receive comments on each draft plan. The stakeholder input was used in the formation, of the final plans and the plans were completed in October, 1998. The Coosa Oconee, and Tallapoosa Plans were adopted by the Board of Natural Resources in November 1998.
A similar stakeholder, public hearing, and Board of Natural Resources adoption process was implemented for the Savannah, Ogeechee, Satilla, St. Marys, Suwannee, Ochlockonee, Ocmulgee, and Altamaha River Basin Plans. The Savannah and Ogeechee River Basin Management Plans were adopted by the Board of Natural Resources in 2001, the Satilla, St. Marys, Suwannee, and Ochlockonee were adopted in 2002 and the Ocumlgee and Altamaha plans were adopted by the Board in 2003. GAEPD considers stakeholder involvement as a continuous process, not limited to scheduled meetings, and encourages stakeholders to provide input and assistance at any time. In addition to providing input it is likely that stakeholders will play a major role in implementation of nonregulatory water resource protection strategies.
Governmental Agency Partnerships
Federal, State, and Local governments and agencies play a major role in all water resource protection and enhancement programs across Georgia. Creating and supporting governmental partnerships is another guiding principle of the river basin management planning program in Georgia. Initial efforts to foster partnerships culminated in a governmental partners meeting in January 1995 hosted by GAEPD. Federal, State, and Local government representatives participated in presentations of the national and Georgia watershed protection approaches and discussed ways to work together on RBMP in Georgia. The Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission, Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Georgia Forestry Commission are major partners in the planning process and are conducting the basin planning work on agricultural and forestry issues. Two other significant partners are the USEPA and the United States Geologic Survey. Local governments throughout Georgia play a pivotal role in the protection and enhancement of water resources. One major project (described later) involving a number of agencies concerned the delineation of watersheds within each river basin in Georgia.

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Major River Basins
The major river basins provide the geographical framework and focus for RBMP. Fourteen major river basins have been defined in the State of Georgia and are shown on Figure 2-1. These river basins are the Altamaha, Chattahoochee, Coosa, Flint, Ochlockonee, Ocmulgee, Oconee, Ogeechee, Saint Marys, Satilla, Savannah, Suwannee, Tallapoosa, and Tennessee. River basin management plans will be prepared for each of these major river basins. State regulatory programs and support activities, normally allocated statewide, will be focused in each major river basin on a rotating schedule to achieve the following objectives:
Facilitate efficient use of limited financial and personnel resources for water resource activities.
Provide opportunities for intergovernmental resource sharing. Improve spatial detail of water quality assessments resulting from
increased monitoring coverage within river basins (a set of core trend monitoring sites will be maintained statewide). Improve basic knowledge of the watershed as well as cumulative impacts within a watershed. Provide a framework for centralized data management. Improve opportunities for management strategy implementation by increasing stakeholder involvement within the watershed. Provide consistent and integrated decision making for water resource issues.
Focusing State regulatory programs on basins represents an alternative approach to water resources management in the State of Georgia.
River Basin Management Planning Cycle
A RBMP cycle (Figure 2-2) has been developed to provide the process for the development and implementation of river basin management plans. The RBMP cycle consists of twelve elements organized into five phases designed to develop and implement RBMP over a five year period. The objectives of the individual cycle elements are described on the following pages.
1. Organize River Basin Advisory Committee. Public participation or stakeholder involvement is an important aspect of the program. The river basin management planning law requires the Director of GAEPD to appoint at least seven citizens and a chairman to a local advisory committee to provide advice and counsel to the Director during the development of the management plans.

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FIGURE 2-1 MAJOR RIVER BASINS IN GEORGIA

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FIGURE 2-2. RIVER BASIN MANAGEMENT PLANNING CYCLE

Key Points for Stakeholder Involvement

Steps

Stages

1. Organize Advisory Committee and Basin Team 2. Review Basin Planning Goals and Objectives

Basin Planning Organization

Stakeholders

3. Compile and Review Preliminary Information 4. Develop Information Collection Plan 5. Collect and Compile Detailed Information

Data Collection

Stakeholders

6. Analyze and Evaluate Information/Data 7. Identify and Prioritize Issues 8. Develop Strategies for Priority Issues

Assessment/ Prioritization

Stakeholders

9. Prepare/Update Draft River Basin Plan 10. Agency and Public Review/Hearings

Basin Plan Development

11. Finalize River Basin Plan

Stakeholders

12. Implement River Basin Plan

Implementation

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In addition to the local advisory committee, basin stakeholders will be encouraged to participate in developing and implementing the river basin management plan. GAEPD will host meetings to familiarize the stakeholders with the progress of the individual basin plans and seek input on issues and actions at important points in the planning process.
2. Review River Basin Management Goals and Objectives. The overall Mission, Goals, and Objectives for RBMP were drafted by GAEPD in 1993. In January, 1994, GAEPD hosted a combined meeting of the local advisory committees for the Chattahoochee, Flint, Coosa, and Oconee River basins for the purpose of reviewing and reaching consensus on the Mission, Goals, and Objectives. These goals and objectives will be reviewed in the initial steps of each basin planning cycle and goals and objectives specific to the individual basin may be added.
*Stakeholder Involvement will be encouraged at this point in the cycle to introduce RBMP and receive information and comments from all interested stakeholders, and to solicit input on water resource issues in the river basin. The major objective of this initial stakeholder involvement is to encourage early involvement in the RBMP process.
3. Compile and Review Preliminary Information/Data. Readily available information and data will be compiled and analyzed to begin characterizing each river basin. This initial information and data review will help identify deficiencies in the available information, and provide input to the strategic monitoring plan and future RBMP activities.
4. Develop and Implement Monitoring Plan. A strategic monitoring plan will be implemented to collect data to characterize basin water quality and to monitor the effectiveness of river basin management actions or implementation strategies. The monitoring plan will be developed based on watershed units, review of preliminary information/data, and stakeholder recommendations. The plan will describe specific station locations, water quality parameters, and sampling frequency.
Some water resource issues may require detailed assessments to evaluate the magnitude and define causal relationships. Such detailed assessments or intensive surveys, may include water availability and use studies, assimilative capacity studies, Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) evaluations, or use attainment studies.
5. Compile Detailed Information/Data. Existing information and data of varying types will be available for each basin. GAEPD will use its

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information resources and databases, and request information from other agencies, organizations, and stakeholders where appropriate. Information and data will be sought for basin characterization (e.g., land use, hydrology, water availability, population and demographics, water supply demand, economics, water quality, resource management). Information and data collected for each river basin may be entered into databases and GIS coverages to facilitate its longterm management.
6. Analyze and Evaluate Information/Data. Analysis of basin wide monitoring data and stakeholder information will focus on issue identification and resource management strategies. Information and data limitations will be identified so that initial findings can be appropriately qualified. Some assessment and quantification of water availability and use requirements, loading estimates, and assimilative capacity may be performed to develop causal relationships.
7. Identify Issues and Prioritize Watersheds. Basin wide water resource issues identified during the initial stakeholder involvement and those identified during the monitoring, information/data collection, and analysis will be prioritized. GAEPD will develop methods for prioritizing river basin water resource issues, and identify those needing corrective actions. The priority issues identified during the RBMP process may require additional study to facilitate decision making. A variety of assessment tools such as numerical modeling may be used. The results of the assessments will be factored into the management strategies for the particular priority issue.
*Stakeholder Involvement will be encouraged at this point in the RBMP cycle to receive input on the water resource issues and priorities.
8. Develop Strategies For Priority Watersheds. GAEPD will propose strategies to address the issues identified in the river basin. Potential strategies include water supply alternatives, point source and nonpoint source controls, best management practices, stormwater management, erosion and sediment control, and habitat restoration. Where applicable, strategies will be evaluated for their effectiveness in achieving water resource goals using predictive modeling or other methods. Regulatory constraints and procedures will be considered and stakeholder cooperation will be encouraged where voluntary efforts are needed to meet water supply and water quality goals.
9. Prepare/Update Draft River Management Basin Plan. GAEPD will prepare a draft river basin management plan documenting the results of the planning process including a comprehensive basin characterization

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including information on data collected, analyses results and the methods used, issue identification and prioritization, water resource management goals, and management and implementation strategies. For successive river basin management plans, the existing plan will be updated to reflect plan progress and changing conditions in the river basin.
10. Agency and Public Review/Meetings. The draft river basin management plan will be distributed to the local advisory committee, the governmental partners, and made accessible to interested stakeholders. Stakeholder meetings will be conducted to explain the content of the river basin management plan and to solicit stakeholder comments and recommendations to the plan.
*Stakeholder Involvement will be encouraged at this point in the RBMP process to obtain comments and recommendations on the plan.
11. Finalize River Basin Management Plan. Appropriate modifications will be made to the draft river basin management plan based on the comments and recommendations received during the review process. The final plan will be reviewed and adopted by the Board of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
12.Implement River Basin Management Plan. The RBMP cycle concludes with the implementation of management strategies. Potential activities during this period may include TMDL implementation, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) point source and stormwater permitting activities, surface water and groundwater withdrawal permitting, nonpoint source best management practices implementation, voluntary self-monitoring programs, adopt-a-stream programs, compliance monitoring, and enforcement actions. GAEPD will consider implementation strategies that are both within its regulatory capacity, and those that will be voluntary.
*Stakeholder Involvement will be encouraged to support and implement the river basin management plan strategies. Some management strategies may be voluntary and their successful implementation can only be achieved by the appropriate stakeholders.

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River Basin Groups and Planning Schedule
The major river basins previously described have been organized into five groups for RBMP. Grouping was necessary to accomplish the following:
Complete river basin management plans for each major river basin in a timely manner.
Repeat RBMP activities in each basin every five years. Coordinate NPDES permitting (including wasteload allocations) which has
a five year renewal period. The five river basin groups are shown in Figure 2-3 and are: ChattahoocheeFlint, Coosa-Tallapoosa-Tennessee, Oconee-Ocmulgee-Altamaha, SavannahOgeechee, and Suwannee-Satilla, Ochlockonee-Saint Marys. These river basin groups were determined based on river basin location, contributing drainage, physiographic features, and related water resource issues. The basin groups are critical to the scheduling of RBMP efforts.
A schedule (Figure 2-4) has been developed to complete plans for each major river basin and to establish a longterm basin planning process involving detailed reassessments of each river basin on a five year rotating basis. For instance, the initial Chattahoochee and Flint River basin plans were completed in 1997. These basins will be reassessed beginning in 1999. Similarly, plan implementation for each river basin will be based on a rotating schedule. This approach will provide needed long-term perspectives and a defined schedule. This is a key issue, since the long-term, defined schedule offers the opportunity for many governmental agencies and stakeholders to plan partnerships and participation in the planning and implementation processes.
The initial scheduling process was complicated by several issues. First, the State law requires plans for the Coosa and Oconee River basins, which are in different basin groups (as previously defined), be the second set of plans to be started. Second, there was a significant opportunity to coordinate Georgia's RBMP work with the ongoing Tri-State (Alabama, Florida, Georgia)/U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Comprehensive Study of the Alabama-CoosaTallapoosa and Appalachicola - Chattahoochee - Flint (ACT-ACF) basins which involves the Chattahoochee, Flint, Coosa, and Tallapoosa River basins. Thus, the Tallapoosa River basin plan was scheduled with the Coosa and Oconee River basin plans. However, program resources were not adequate to develop plans for the Tennessee, Ocmulgee, and Altamaha River basins at the same time. Third, an additional objective is to coordinate planning work with South Carolina on the Savannah River basin. In addition, the USACE, in coordination with other Federal agencies, planned to initiate a Comprehensive Study of the Savannah River basin in 1997. Thus, the schedule placed the Savannah and

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FIGURE 2-3 MAJOR RIVER BASIN GROUPS FOR RIVER BASIN MANAGEMENT PLANNING

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FIGURE 2-4 RIVER BASIN MANAGEMENT PLANNING SCHEDULE

Ogeechee River basins in the rotation beginning in 1996. Scheduling Georgia's RBMP to coincide with these other basin initiatives provides opportunities for resource, data, and information sharing. As shown in the schedule, once the initial complications are worked out, the program will converge into a long term rotating schedule. The schedule also shows beginning in 2000 RBMP will be ongoing in all river basins in Georgia.
It should be noted that under the scheduling provisions of the RBMP law it would take approximately sixteen years to complete the plans for all fourteen river basins. The schedule proposed by the GAEPD provides for the fourteen plans tobe completed in approximately ten years. Secondly, the law does not require the river basin plans to be updated on a rotating basis as is currently planned by the GAEPD.
Summary
The Chattahoochee and Flint River Basin Management Plans were adopted by the Board of Natural Resources in February, 1998. The Coosa, Tallapoosa and Oconee River Basin Management Plans were adopted by the Board in

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November 1998. The Savannah and Ogeechee River Basin Management Plans were adopted by the Board of Natural Resources in 2001, the Satilla, St. Marys, Suwannee, and Ochlockonee were adopted in 2002 and the Ocumlgee and Altamaha plans were adopted by the Board in 2003. In 2004 the Georgia General Assembly passed new water planning legislation to take the place of river basin planning. The 2004 Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning Act calls for the EPD to prepare a comprehensive water plan and provides fundamental goals and guiding principles for the development of the plan. This will be the last report to discuss River Basin Planning. In future reports, information will be included regarding Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning.

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CHAPTER 3
Surface Water Quality Monitoring And Assessment
Background
Water Resources Atlas. In an effort to move toward national consistency in estimating river miles and lake acreage, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in cooperation with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) developed and provided to the States in 1992 new estimates for use in this report. The estimates were based on the USGS 1:100,000 Digital Line Graph (DLG) which provides the first national database of hydrologic traces. The DLG in coordination with the USEPA River Reach File provided a consistent computerized methodology for summing river miles and lake acreage for each State. The estimates are based on hydrologic features on the USGS 1:100,000 scale map series. The 1:100,000 scale map series is the most detailed scale available nationally in digital form and includes 75 to 90 percent of the hydrologic features on the USGS 1:24,000 scale topographic map series. Included in river mile estimates are perennial streams (streams that flow all year), intermittent streams (streams that stop flowing during dry weather), and ditches and canals (waterways constructed by man). Since 1992, USEPA enhanced the database from which the original estimates were made. The miles of streams were reduced by nearly 1,000 miles while the total acreage estimate for lakes increased by nearly 4000 acres.
The estimates for Georgia which are used in this report are 44,056 miles of perennial streams, 23,906 miles of intermittent streams, and 603 miles of ditches and canals for a total of 70,150 geological stream miles. The information provided by the USEPA estimates the number of lakes in Georgia to be 11,813 with a total acreage of 425,382. This information is summarized in Table 3-1.
Georgia has 14 major river basins. These are the Altamaha, Chattahoochee, Coosa, Flint, Ochlockonee, Ocmulgee, Oconee, Ogeechee, St. Marys, Satilla, Savannah, Suwannee, Tallapoosa, and the Tennessee (Figure 2-1). The rivers in Georgia provide the water needed by aquatic life, animals and humans to sustain life. Water also provides significant recreational opportunities, is used for industrial purposes, drives turbines to provide electricity, and assimilates our wastes.
Water Use Classifications and Water Quality Standards. The Board of Natural Resources was authorized through the Rules and Regulations for Water Quality Control promulgated under the Georgia Water Quality Control Act of 1964, as amended, to establish water use classifications and water quality standards for the waters of the State. The water use classifications and standards were first established by the

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TABLE 3-1. WATER RESOURCES ATLAS

State Population State Surface Area Number of Major River Basins Number of Perennial River Miles Number of Intermittent River Miles Number of Ditches and Canals Total River Miles Number of Lakes Over 500 Acres Acres of Lakes Over 500 Acres Number of Lakes Under 500 Acres Acres of Lakes Under 500 Acres Total Number of Lakes & Reservoirs, Ponds Total Acreage of Lakes, Reservoirs, Ponds Square Miles of Estuaries Miles of Coastline Acres of Freshwater Wetlands Acres of Tidal Wetlands

8,383,915 58,910 square miles 14 44,056 miles 23,906 miles 603 miles 70,150 miles 48 265,365 acres 11,765 160,017 acres 11,813 425,382 acres 854 square miles 100 4,500,000 acres 384,000 acres

Georgia Water Quality Control Board in 1966. Georgia was the second State in the nation to have its water use classifications and standards for intrastate waters approved by the federal government in 1967. For each water use classification, water quality standards or criteria were developed which established a framework to be used by the Water Quality Control Board and later the Environmental Protection Division in making water use regulatory decisions. The water use classification system was applied to interstate waters in 1972 by the GAEPD. Georgia was again one of the first states to receive federal approval of a statewide system of water use classifications and standards. Table 3-2 provides a summary of water use classifications and criteria for each use.
In the latter 1960s through the mid-1970s there were many water quality problems in Georgia. Many stream segments were classified for the uses of navigation, industrial, or urban stream. Major improvements in wastewater treatment over the years have allowed the stream segments to be raised to the uses of fishing or coastal fishing which include more stringent water quality standards. The final two segments in Georgia were upgraded as a part of the triennial review of standards completed in 1989. All of Georgia's waters are currently classified as either fishing, recreation, drinking water, wild river, scenic river, or coastal fishing. This action represented the culmination of 25 years of effort to improve and protect water quality in order that all waters in Georgia

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TABLE 3-2 GEORGIA WATER USE CLASSIFICATIONS AND INSTREAM
WATER QUALITY STANDARDS FOR EACH USE

Use Classification
Drinking Water requiring treatment Recreation
Coastal Fishing3 Fishing
Wild River Scenic River Agriculture4 Industrial4 Navigation4 Urban Stream4

Bacteria (fecal coliform)

30-Day Geometric Mean2 (no./100 ml)

Maximum (no./100ml)

1,000 (Nov-April) 200 (May-Oct)

4,000 (Nov-April)

200 (Freshwater) -100 (Coastal)

Dissolved Oxygen (other than trout
streams)1

Daily Average (mg/l)

Minimum (mg/l)

5.0

4.0

5.0

4.0

pH
Std. Units 6.0-8.5 6.0-8.5

1,000 (Nov-April) 200 (May-Oct)
5,000 -5,000 2,000

4,000 (Nov-April)

5.0

4.0

No alteration of natural water quality

No alteration of natural water quality

--

--

3.0

--

--

3.0

--

--

3.0

5,000

--

3.0

6.0-8.5
6.0-8.5 6.0-8.5 6.0-8.5 6.0-8.5

Temperature (other than trout
streams)1

Maximum Rise (F)

Maximum (F)

5

90

5

90

5

90

5

90

5

90

5

90

--

--

1Standards for Trout Streams for dissolved oxygen are an average of 6.0 mg/l and a minimum of 5.0 mg/l. No temperature alteration is allowed in Primary Trout Streams and a temperature change of 2F is allowed in Secondary Trout Streams. 2Geometric means should be "based on at least four samples collected from a given sampling site over a 30-day period at Intervals not less than 24 hours." The geometric mean of a series of N terms is the Nth root of their product. Example: the geometric mean of 2 and 18 is the square root of 36. 3Standards are same as fishing with the exception of dissolved oxygen which is site specific. 4Improvements in water quality since the water use classifications and standards were originally adopted in 1972 provided the opportunity for Georgia to upgrade all stream classifications and eliminate these use designations in 1993.

could be classified for uses in accordance with goals in the Federal Clean Water Act which provides for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and provides for recreation in and on the water. This goal had been interpreted by the USEPA to be achieved if waters of the State achieved standards associated with the classifications of fishing (including secondary contact recreation) or recreation. Based on Georgia's progress to achieve this goal, the USEPA had reviewed and approved Georgia standards every three years since 1972.

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However, in the 1989 triennial review, the USEPA changed its interpretation of the Clean Water Act goal to include the requirement that all waters be classified to protect the use of swimming or primary contact recreation. In order to comply with this change in Federal requirements, the Board of Natural Resources adopted in December 1989, revised standards which established a fecal coliform bacteria standard of a geometric mean of 200 per 100 ml for all waters with the use designations of fishing or drinking water to apply during the months of May - October (the recreational season). This standard provides the regulatory framework to support the USEPA requirement that States protect all waters for the use of primary contact recreation.
In addition, Congress made changes in the Clean Water Act in 1987 which required each State to adopt numeric limits for toxic substances for the protection of aquatic life and human health. In order to comply with these requirements, the Board of Natural Resources adopted 31 numeric standards for protection of aquatic life and 90 numeric standards for the protection of human health. Table 3-3 provides a summary of toxic substance standards that apply to all waters in Georgia.
In 1995, the Board of Natural Resources adopted additional water quality standards for West Point Lake. Additional standards for Lakes Jackson and Walter F. George were adopted in 1996. Standards were adopted for chlorophyll a, pH, total nitrogen, phosphorus, fecal coliform bacteria, dissolved oxygen, and temperature. Also, standards for major tributary phosphorus loading were established. Water quality standards were adopted by the Board for Lakes Lanier and Allatoona in 2000 and Carters in 2002. The standards for the six lakes are summarized in Table 3-4.
Water Quality Monitoring
Goals. The goal of the water protection program in Georgia is to effectively manage, regulate, and allocate the water resources of Georgia. In order to achieve this goal, it is necessary to monitor the water resources of the State to establish baseline and trend data, document existing conditions, study impacts of specific discharges, determine improvements resulting from upgraded water pollution control plants, support enforcement actions, establish wasteload allocations for new and existing facilities, develop TMDLs, verify water pollution control plant compliance, and document water use impairment and reasons for problems causing less than full support of designated water uses. Trend monitoring, intensive surveys, lake, estuary, biological, toxic substance monitoring, aquatic toxicity testing, and facility compliance sampling are some of the monitoring tools used by the GAEPD.
Trend/River Basin/TMDL Monitoring. Long term monitoring of streams at strategic locations throughout Georgia, trend or ambient monitoring, was initiated by the GAEPD during the late 1960s. This work is conducted by EPD associates and through cooperative agreements with federal, state, and local agencies who collect samples from groups of stations at specific, fixed locations throughout the year.

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TABLE 3-3
Georgia Instream Water Quality Standards For All Waters: Toxic Substances (Excerpt From Georgia Rules and Regulations for Water Quality Control
Chapter 391-3-6-.03 - Water Use Classifications and Water Quality Standards)

(i) Instream concentrations of the following chemical constituents which are considered to be other toxic pollutants of concern in

the State of Georgia shall not exceed the criteria indicated below under 7-day, 10-year minimum flow (7Q10) or higher stream

flow conditions except within established mixing zones:

1. 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D)

70 g/l

2. Methoxychlor

0.03 g/l*

3. 2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxy propionic acid (TP Silvex)

50 g/l

(ii) Instream concentrations of the following chemical constituents listed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as toxic

priority pollutants pursuant to Section 307(a)(1) of the Federal Clean Water Act (as amended) shall not exceed the acute

criteria indicated below under 1-day, 10-year minimum flow (1Q10) or higher stream flow conditions and shall not exceed the

chronic criteria indicated below under 7-day, 10-year minimum flow (7Q10) or higher stream flow conditions except within

established mixing zones or in accordance with site specific effluent limitations developed in accordance with procedures

presented in 391-3-6-.06. Unless otherwise specified, the criteria below are listed in their total recoverable form. Because

most of the numeric criteria for the metals below are listed as the dissolved form, total recoverable concentrations of metals

that are measured instream will need to be translated to the dissolved form in order to compare the instream data with the

numeric criteria. This translation will be performed using guidance found in "Guidance Document of Dynamic Modeling and

Translators August 1993" found in Appendix J of EPA's Water Quality Standards Handbook: Second Edition, EPA-823-B-94-

005a or by using other appropriate guidance from EPA.

Acute

Chronic

1. Arsenic (a) Freshwater

340 g/l 1

150 g/l 1

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

69 g/l 1

36 g/l 1

2. Cadmium (a) Freshwater

2.0 g/l 1, 3

1.3 g/l 1, 3

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

42 g/l 1

9.3 g/l 1

3. Chromium III

(a) Freshwater

320 g/l 1,3

42 g/l 1,3

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

--

--

4. Chromium VI

(a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

16 g/l 1 1,100 g/l 1

11 g/l 1 50 g/l 1

5. Copper

(a) Freshwater

7.0 g/l 1,2*,3

5.0 g/l 1,2*,3

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

4.8 g/l 1,2

3.1 g/l 1,2

6. Lead (a) Freshwater

30 g/l 1,3

1.2 g/l 1,2*,3

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

210 g/l 1

8.1 g/l 1

7. Mercury

(a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

1.4 g/l 1.8 g/l

0.012 g/l 2 0.025 g/l 2

8. Nickel

(a) Freshwater

260 g/l 1,3

29 g/l 1,3

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

74 g/l 1

8.2 g/l 1

9. Selenium

(a) Freshwater

--

5.0 g/l

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters 10. Silver

290g/l 1 -- 4

71 g/l 1 -- 4

11. Zinc

(a) Freshwate (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

65 g/l 1,3 90 g/l 1

65 g/l 1,3 81 g/l 1

12. Lindane [Hexachlorocyclohexane (g-BHC-Gamma)]

(a) Freshwater

0.95 g/l

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

0.16 g/l

1 The in-stream criterion is expressed in terms of the dissolved fraction in the water column . Conversion factors used to calculate

dissolved criteria are found in the EPA document National Recommended Water Quality Criteria Correction, EPA 822-Z-99-001,

April 1999.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-5

2 The in-stream criterion is lower than the EPD laboratory detection limits (A "*" indicates that the criterion may be higher than or lower than EPD laboratory detection limits depending upon the hardness of the water). 3 The aquatic life criteria for these metals are expressed as a function of total hardness (mg/l) in a water body. Values in the table above assume a hardness of 50 mg/l CaCO3. For other hardness values, the following equations from the EPA document National Recommended Water Quality Criteria Correction, EPA 822-Z-99-001, April 1999 should be used. The minimum hardness allowed for use in these equations shall not be less than 25 mg/l, as calcium carbonate and the maximum shall not be greater than 400 mg/l as calcium carbonate.

Cadmium acute criteria = (e (1.128[ln(hardness)] - 3.6867) )(1.136672-[(ln hardness)(0.041838)] g/l chronic criteria = (e (0.7852[ln(hardness)] - 2.715) )(1.101672-[(ln hardness)(0.041838)] g/l

Chromium III acute criteria = (e (0.8190[ln(hardness)] + 3.7256) (0.316) g/l chronic criteria = (e (0.8190[ln(hardness)] + 0.6848) )(0.860) g/l

Copper acute criteria = (e (0.9422[ln(hardness)] - 1.700) )(0.96) g/l chronic criteria = (e (0.8545[ln(hardness)] - 1.702) )(0.96) g/l

Lead acute criteria = (e (1.273[ln(hardness) - 1.460) )(1.46203 - [(ln hardness)(0.145712)]) g/l chronic criteria = (e (1.273[ln(hardness) - 4.705) )(1.46203 - [(ln hardness)(0.145712)]) g/l

Nickel acute criteria = (e (0.8460[ln(hardness)] + 2.255) )(.998) g/l chronic criteria = (e (0.8460[ln(hardness)] + 0.0584) )(.997) g/l

Zinc acute criteria = (e (0.8473[ln(hardness)] + 0.884) )(0.978) g/l chronic criteria = (e (0.8473[ln(hardness)] + 0.884) )(0.986) g/l
4 This pollutant is addressed in 391-3-6-.06.

(iii) Instream concentrations of the following chemical constituents listed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as toxic

priority pollutants pursuant to Section 307(a)(1) of the Federal Clean Water Act (as amended) shall not exceed criteria

indicated below under 7-day, 10-year minimum flow (7Q10) or higher stream flow conditions except within established mixing

zones or in accordance with site specific effluent limitations developed in accordance with procedures presented in 391-3-6-

.06.

1. Chlordane

(a) Freshwater

0.0043 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

0.004 g/l*

2. Cyanide

(a) Freshwater

5.2 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

1.0 g/l*

3. Dieldrin

(a) Freshwater

0.056 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

0.0019 g/l*

4. 4,4'-DDT

0.001 g/l*

5. a-Endosulfan

(a) Freshwater

0.056 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

0.0087 g/l*

6. b-Endosulfan

(a) Freshwater

0.056 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

0.0087 g/l*

7. Endrin

(a) Freshwater

0.036 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

0.0023 g/l*

8. Heptachlor

(a) Freshwater

0.0038 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

0.0036g/l*

9. Heptachlor Epoxide

(a) Freshwater

0.0038 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

0.0036 g/l*

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-6

10 Pentachlorophenol

(a) Freshwater

2.1 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

7.9 g/l*

11. PCBs

(a) Freshwater

0.014 g/l*

(b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters

0.03 g/l*

12. Phenol

300 g/l

13. Toxaphene

0.0002 g/l*

*The in-stream criterion is lower than the EPD laboratory detection limits.

(iv) Instream concentrations of the following chemical constituents listed by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency as toxic

priority pollutants pursuant to Section 307(a)(1) of the Federal Clean Water Act (as amended) shall not exceed criteria

indicated below under annual average or higher stream flow conditions:

1. Acenaphthene

2700 g/l

2. Acenaphthylene

**

3. Acrolein

780 g/l

4. Acrylonitrile

0.66 g/l

5. Aldrin

0.00014 g/l

6. Anthracene

110000 g/l

7. Antimony

4300 g/l

8. Arsenic

50 g/l

9. Benzidine

0.00054 g/l

10. Benzo(a)Anthracene

0.049g/l

11. Benzo(a)Pyrene

0.049g/l

12. 3,4-Benzofluoranthene

0.049g/l

13. Benzene

71 g/l

14. Benzo(ghi)Perylene

**

15. Benzo(k)Fluoranthene

0.049g/l

16. Beryllium

**

17. a-BHC-Alpha

0.013 g/l

18. b-BHC-Beta

0.046 g/l

19. Bis(2-Chloroethyl)Ether

1.4 g/l

20. Bis(2-Chloroisopropyl)Ether

170000 g/l

21. Bis(2-Ethylhexyl)Phthalate

5.9 g/l

22. Bromoform (Tribromomethane)

360 g/l

23. Butylbenzyl Phthalate

5200

24. Carbon Tetrachloride

4.4 g/l

25. Chlorobenzene

21000 g/l

26. Chlorodibromomethane

34 g/l

27. 2-Chloroethylvinyl Ether

**

28. Chlordane

0.0022 g/l

29. Chloroform (Trichloromethane)

470 g/l

30. 2-Chloronaphthalene

4300 g/l

31. 2-Chlorophenol

400 g/l

32. Chrysene

0.049 g/l

33. Dibenzo(a,h)Anthracene

0.049 g/l

34. Dichlorobromomethane

46 g/l

35. 1,2-Dichloroethane

99 g/l

36. 1,1-Dichloroethylene

3.2 g/l

37 1,2 Dichloropropane

39 g/l

38. 1,3-Dichloropropylene

1700 g/l

39. 2,4-Dichlorophenol

790 g/l

40. 1,2-Dichlorobenzene

17000 g/l

41. 1,3-Dichlorobenzene

2600 g/l

42. 1,4-Dichlorobenzene

2600 g/l

43. 3,3'-Dichlorobenzidine

0.077 g/l

44. 4,4'-DDT

0.00059 g/l

45. 4,4'-DDD

0.00084 g/l

46. 4,4'-DDE

0.00059 g/l

47. Dieldrin

0.00014 g/l

48. Diethyl Phthalate

120000 g/l

49. Dimethyl Phthalate

2900000 g/l

50. 2,4-Dimethylphenol

2300 g/l

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-7

51. 2,4-Dinitrophenol

14000 g/l

52. Di-n-Butyl Phthalate

12000 g/l

53. 2,4-Dinitrotoluene

9.1 g/l

54. 1,2-Diphenylhydrazine

0.54 g/l

55. Endrin

0.81 g/l

56. Endrin Aldehyde

0.81 g/l

57. alpha Endosulfan

240 g/l

58. beta Endosulfan

240 g/l

59. Endosulfan Sulfate

240 g/l

60. Ethylbenzene

29000 g/l

61. Fluoranthene

370 g/l

62. Fluorene

14000 g/l

63. Heptachlor

0.00021 g/l

64. Heptachlor Epoxide

0.00011 g/l

65. Hexachlorobenzene

0.00077 g/l

66. Hexachlorobutadiene

50 g/l

67. Hexachlorocyclopentadiene

17000 g/l

68. Hexachloroethane

8.9 g/l

69. Indeno(1,2,3-cd)Pyrene

0.049 g/l

70. Isophorone

2600 g/l

71. Lindane [Hexachlorocyclohexane (g-BHC-Gamma)]

0.063 g/l

72. Methyl Bromide (Bromomethane)

4000 g/l

73. Methyl Chloride (Chloromethane)

**

74. Methylene Chloride

1600 g/l

75. 2-Methyl-4,6-Dinitrophenol

765 g/l

76. 3-Methyl-4-Chlorophenol

**

77. Nitrobenzene

1900 g/l

78. N-Nitrosodimethylamine

8.1 g/l

79. N-Nitrosodi-n-Propylamine

1.4 g/l

80. N-Nitrosodiphenylamine

16 g/l

81. PCBs

0.00017 g/l

82. Pentachlorophenol

8.2 g/l

83. Phenanthrene

**

84. Phenol

4,600,000 g/l

85. Pyrene

11,000 g/l

86. 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane

11 g/l

87. Tetrachloroethylene

8.85 g/l

88. Thallium

6.3 g/l

89. Toluene

200000 g/l

90. Toxaphene

0.00075 g/l

91. 1,2-Trans-Dichloroethylene

140000

92. 1,1,2-Trichloroethane

42 g/l

93. Trichloroethylene

81 g/l

94. 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol

6.5 g/l

95. 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene

940 g/l

96. Vinyl Chloride

525 g/l

**These pollutants are addressed in 391-3-6-.06.

(v) Site specific criteria for the following chemical constituents will be developed on an as-needed basis through toxic pollutant

monitoring efforts at new or existing discharges that are suspected to be a source of the pollutant at levels sufficient to

interfere with designated uses:

1. Asbestos

(vi) instream concentrations of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) must not exceed 0.0000012 g/l under long-term average stream flow conditions.

(vii) Mercury: For the protection of human health, total mercury concentrations bioaccumulating in a waterbody, in a representative population of fish, shellfish and/or other seafood representing different trophic levels, shall not exceed a total mercury concentration in edible tissues of 0.3 mg/kg wet weight. This standard is in accord with the USEPA Water Quality Criterion for the Protection of Human Health: Methylmercury (January 2001, EPA 823-R-01-001), and because nearly 100% of the mercury in fish tissue is methylmercury, adoption of the standard as total mercury is an additional conservative measure. The representative fish tissue total mercury concentration for a waterbody is determined by calculating a Trophic-Weighted Residue Value, as described by the Georgia EPD Protocol (October 19, 2001).

(f) Applicable State and Federal requirements and regulations for the discharge of radioactive substances shall be met at all times.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-8

TABLE 3-4. WATER QUALITY STANDARDS FOR MAJOR LAKES

(17) Specific Criteria for Lakes and Major Lake Tributaries. In addition to the general criteria, the following lake specific criteria are deemed necessary and shall be required for the specific water usage as shown:

(a)

West Point Lake: Those waters impounded by West Point Dam and downstream of U.S. 27 at Franklin.

(i)

Chlorophyll a: For the months of April through October, the average of monthly photic zone composite

samples shall not exceed 27 g/l at the LaGrange Water Intake.

(ii)

pH: Within the range of 6.0 - 9.5.

(iii)

Total Nitrogen: Not to exceed 4.0 mg/l as Nitrogen in the photic zone.

(iv)

Phosphorus: Total lake loading shall not exceed 2.4 pounds per acre foot of lake volume per year.

(v)

Fecal Coliform Bacteria:

1.

U.S. 27 at Franklin to New River: Fecal coliform bacteria shall not exceed the Fishing criterion as presented

in 391-3-6-.03(6)(c).

2.

New River to West Point Dam: Fecal coliform bacteria shall not exceed the Recreation criterion as

presented in 391-3-6-.03(6)(b).

(vi)

Dissolved Oxygen: A daily average of 5.0 mg/l and no less than 4.0 mg/l at all times at the depth specified in

391-3-6-.03(5)(f).

(vii) Temperature: Not to exceed 90F. At no time is the temperature of the receiving waters to be increased more than 5F above intake temperature.

(viii) Major Lake Tributaries: For the following tributaries, the annual total phosphorus loading to West Point Lake shall not exceed the following:

1.

Yellow Jacket Creek at Hammet Road

2.

New River at Hwy 100

3.

Chattahoochee River at U.S. 27

11,000 pounds. 14,000 pounds. 1,400,000 pounds.

(b)

Lake Walter F. George: Those waters impounded by Walter F. George Dam and upstream to Georgia

Highway 39 near Omaha.

(i)

Chlorophyll a: For the months of April through October, the average of monthly photic zone composite

samples shall not exceed 18 ug/l at mid-river at U.S. Highway 82 or 15 ug/l at mid-river in the dam forebay.

(ii)

pH: Within the range of 6.0-9.5 standard units.

(iii)

Total Nitrogen: Not to exceed 3.0 mg/l as nitrogen in the photic zone.

(iv)

Phosphorous: Total lake loading shall not exceed 2.4 pounds per acre-foot of lake volume per year.

(v)

Fecal Coliform:

1.

Georgia Highway 39 to Cowikee Creek: Fecal coliform bacteria shall not exceed the Fishing criterion as

presented in 391-3-6-.03(6)(c)(iii).

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-9

2.

Cowikee Creek to Walter F. George Dam: Fecal coliform bacteria shall not exceed the Recreation criterion

as presented in 391-3-6-.03(6)(b)(I).

(vi)

Dissolved Oxygen: A daily average of no less than 5.0 mg/l and no less than 4.0 mg/l at all times at the

depth specified in 391-3-6-.03(5)(f).

(vii) Temperature: Water temperature shall not exceed the Recreation criterion as presented in 391-3-6.03(6)(b)(iv).

(vii) Major Lake Tributary: The annual total phosphorous loading to Lake Walter F. George, monitored at the Chattahoochee River at Georgia Highway 39, shall not exceed 2,000,000 pounds.

(c)

Lake Jackson: Those waters impounded by Lloyd Shoals Dam and upstream to Georgia Highway 36 on the

South and Yellow Rivers, upstream to Newton Factory Bridge Road on the Alcovy River and upstream to

Georgia Highway 36 on Tussahaw Creek.

(i)

Chlorophyll a: For the months of April through October, the average of monthly mid-channel photic zone

composite samples shall not exceed 20 ug/l at a location approximately 2 miles downstream of the

confluence of the South and Yellow Rivers at the junction of Butts, Newton and Jasper Counties.

(ii)

pH: Within the range of 6.0-9.5 standard units.

(iii)

Total Nitrogen: Not to exceed 4.0 mg/l as nitrogen in the photic zone.

(iv)

Phosphorous: Total lake loading shall not exceed 5.5 pounds per acre-foot of lake volume per year.

(v)

Fecal Coliform: Fecal coliform bacteria shall not exceed the Recreation criterion as presented in 391-3-6-

.03(6)(b)(I).

(vi)

Dissolved Oxygen: A daily average of 5.0 mg/l and no less than 4.0 mg/l at all times at the depth specified

in 391-3-6-.03(5)(f).

(vii) Temperature: Water temperature shall not exceed the Recreation criterion as presented in 391-3-6.03(6)(b)(iv).

(viii) Major Lake Tributaries: For the following major tributaries, the annual total phosphorous loading to Lake Jackson shall not exceed the following:

1.

South River at Island Shoals

2.

Yellow River at Georgia Highway 212

3.

Alcovy River at Newton Factory Bridge Road:

4.

Tussahaw Creek at Fincherville Road

179,000 pounds 116,000 pounds
55,000 pounds 7,000 pounds

(d)

Lake Allatoona: Those waters impounded by Allatoona Dam and upstream to State Highway 5 on the

Etowah River, State Highway 5 on Little River, the Lake Acworth dam, and the confluence of Little Allatoona

Creek and Allatoona Creek. Other impounded tributaries to an elevation of 840 feet mean sea level

corresponding to the normal pool elevation of Lake Allatoona.

(i)

Chlorophyll a: For the months of April through October, the average monthly mid-channel photic zone

composite samples shall not exceed the chlorophyll a concentrations at the locations listed below:

1.

Upstream from the Dam

2.

Allatoona creek upstream form I-75

3.

Mid-Lake downstream from Kellogg Creek

4.

Little River upstream from Highway 205

1.

Etowah River upstream from Sweetwater Creek

10 ug/l 10 ug/l 10 ug/l 15 ug/l 12 ug/l

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-10

(ii)

pH: within the range of 6.0-9.5 standard units

(iii)

Total Nitrogen: Not to exceed 4 mg/l as nitrogen in the photic zone.

(iv)

Phosphorous: Total lake loading shall not exceed 1.3 pounds per acre-foot of lake volume per year.

(v)

Fecal Coliform:

1.

Etowah River, State Highway 5 to State Highway 20: Fecal coliform bacteria shall not exceed the Fishing

Criterion as presented in 391-3-6-.03(6)(c)(iii).

2.

Etowah River, State Highway 20 to Allatoona Dam; Fecal coliform bacteria shall not exceed the Recreation

criteria as presented in 391-3-6-.03(6)(b)(i).

(vi)

Dissolved Oxygen: A daily average of 5.0 mg/l and no less than 4.0 mg/l at all times at the depth specified in

391-3-6-.03(5)(g).

(vii) Temperature:

1.

Etowah River, State Highway 5 to State Highway 20: Water temperature shall not exceed the Fishing

criterion as presented in 391-3-6-.03(6)(b)(iv).

2.

Etowah River State Highway 20 to Allatoona Dam: Water temperature shall not exceed the Recreation

criterion as presented in 391-3-6-.03(6)(b)(iv).

(viii) Major Lake Tributaries: For the following major tributaries, the annual total phosphorous loading to Lake Allatoona shall not exceed the following:

1.

Etowah River at State Highway 5 spur and 140, at the USGS gage

2.

Little River at State Highway 5 (Highway 754)

3.

Noonday Creek at North Rope Mill Road

4.

Shoal Creek at State Highway 108 (Fincher Road)

340,000 lbs/yr 42,000 lbs/yr 38,000 lbs/yr 9,200 lbs/yr

(e)

Lake Sidney Lanier. Those waters impounded by Buford Dam and upstream to Belton Bridge Road on the

Chattahoochee River, 0.6 miles downstream from State Road 400 on the Chestatee River, as well as other

impounded tributaries to an elevation of 1070 feet mean sea level corresponding to the normal pool

elevation of Lake Sidney Lanier.

(i)

Chlorophyll a: For the months of April through October, the average of monthly mid-channel photic zone

composite samples shall not exceed the chlorophyll a concentrations at the locations listed below:

1.

Upstream from the Buford Dam forebay

5 ug/l

2.

Upstream from the Flowery Branch confluence

5 ug/l

3.

At Browns Bridge Road (State Road 369)

5 ug/l

4.

At Bolling Bridge (State Road 53) on Chestatee River

10 ug/l

5.

At Lanier Bridge (State Road 53) on Chattahoochee River

10 ug/l

(ii)

pH: Within the range of 6.0-9.5 standard units.

(iii)

Total Nitrogen: Not to exceed 4 mg/l as nitrogen in the photic zone.

(iv)

Phosphorous: Total lake loading shall not exceed 0.25 pounds per acre-foot of lake volume per year.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-11

(v)

Fecal Coliform: Fecal coliform bacteria shall not exceed the Recreation criterion as presented in 391-3-6-

.03(6)(b)(l).

(vi)

Dissolved Oxygen: A daily average of 5.0 mg/l and no less than 4.0 mg/l at all times at the depth specified in

391-3--6-.03(5)(g).

(vii) Temperature: Water temperature shall not exceed the Recreation criterion as presented in 391-3-6.03(6)(b)(iv).

(viii) Major Lake Tributaries: For the following major tributaries, the annual total phosphorous loading to Lake Sidney Lanier shall not exceed the following:

1. Chattahoochee River at Belton Bridge Road 2. Chestatee River at Georgia Highway 400 3. Flat Creek at McEver Road 4.

178,000 pounds 118,000 pounds
14,400 pounds

(f) Carters Lake: Those waters impounded by Carters Dam and upstream on the Coosawattee River as well as other impounded tributaries to an elevation of 1072 feet mean sea level corresponding to the normal pool elevation of Carters Lake.

(i)

Chlorophyll a: For the months of April through October, the average of monthly mid-channel photic zone

composite samples shall not exceed the chlorophyll a concentrations at the locations listed below:

1.

Carters Lake upstream from Woodring Branch

5 ug/l

2.

Carters Lake at Coosawattee River embayment mouth

10 ug/l

(ii)

pH: within the range of 6.0 9.5 standard units.

(iii)

Total Nitrogen: Not to exceed 4.0 mg/l as nitrogen in the photic zone.

(iv)

Phosphorous: Total lake loading shall not exceed 172,500 pounds or 0.46 pounds per acre-foot of lake

volume per year.

(v)

Fecal Coliform: Fecal coliform bacteria shall not exceed the Recreation criterion as presented in 391-3-6-

.03(6)(b)(i).

(vi)

Dissolved Oxygen: A daily average of 5.0 mg/l and no less than 4.0 mg/l at all times at the depth specified in

391-3-6-.03(5)(g).

(vii) Temperature: Water temperature shall not exceed the Recreation criterion as presented in 391-3-6.03(6)(b)(iv).

(viii) Major Lake Tributaries: For the following major tributaries, the annual total phosphorous loading at the compliance monitoring location shall not exceed the following:

1.

Coosawattee River at Old Highway 5

151,500 pounds

2.

Mountaintown Creek at U.S. Highway 76

8,000 pounds

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-12

The cooperating agencies conduct certain tests in the field and ship stream samples to the GAEPD or USGS laboratories for additional laboratory analyses. Although there have been a number of changes over the years, much of the trend monitoring is still accomplished through similar cooperative agreements.
Today the GAEPD contracts with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) for the statewide trend sampling work, and with the Columbus Water Works for samples on the Chattahoochee River below Columbus. In addition to monthly stream sampling, a portion of the work with the USGS involves continuous monitoring at several locations across the State. Automatic monitors which continuously record dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH and conductivity data are located on the Chattahoochee and South Rivers downstream of Atlanta, the Conasauga River below Dalton, the Coosa River at the State Line and the Ocmulgee River downstream of Macon.
In addition to work done through cooperative agreements, GAEPD associates collect monthly samples from a number of locations across the state as part of the trend monitoring program. In 2000-2001 the GAEPD added two trend monitoring sampling teams. One team works from the Brunswick District Office and the second team works from the EPD Atlanta Office. The Brunswick sampling team conducts monthly sampling at more than thirty locations across south Georgia in the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, Altamaha, Savannah and Ogeechee River basins. The Atlanta sampling team conducts monthly sampling at more than sixty stations across the Coosa, Tallapoosa, Chattahoochee, Flint, Oconee and Ocmulgee River basins. The work of the two sampling teams adds significantly to the number of locations sampled each year which compliments the rotating basin trend monitoring program.
The trend monitoring network in place in 1994 is shown in Figure 3-1. In 1995, the GAEPD adopted and implemented significant changes to the strategy for trend monitoring in Georgia. The changes were implemented to support River Basin Management Planning and TMDL programs. The number of fixed stations statewide was reduced in order to focus resources for sampling and analysis in a particular group of basins in any one year in accordance with the basin planning schedule. Statewide trend monitoring was continued at the core station locations, in the Chattahoochee in the Atlanta and Columbus areas, and at all continuous monitoring locations. The remainder of the trend monitoring resources were devoted to the basins of focus each year. As a result, more sampling was conducted along the mainstem and in the smaller tributaries of each river. In 1995 the Chattahoochee and Flint River basins were the basins of monitoring focus; in 1996 was the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Oconee; 1997 the Savannah and Ogeechee River basins; in 1998 the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, and the St. Marys; and in 1999 the Ocmulgee, Oconee, and Altamaha. This completed the initial five year cycle of focused river basin monitoring. In 2000 the cycle was initiated again with monitoring focus on the Chattahoochee and Flint; in 2001 the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Tennessee; in 2002 the Savannah and Ogeechee; and in 2003 the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla and St. Marys River basins.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-13

FIGURE 3-1 GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK
STATION LOCATIONS 1994

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-14

FIGURE 3-2 GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK
STATION LOCATIONS 1995-1999

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-15

Figure 3-2 shows the monitoring network stations for the period 1995-2001. Figures 3-3 and 3-4 show the trend monitoring station locations in 2002 and 2003, and Tables 3-5 and 3-6 provide a list of stations and parameters for the 2002 and 2003 monitoring networks.
Intensive Surveys. Intensive surveys complement long term fixed station monitoring as these studies focus intensive monitoring on a particular issue or problem over a shorter period of time. Several basic types of intensive surveys are conducted including model calibration surveys and impact studies. The purpose of a model calibration survey is to collect data to calibrate a mathematical water quality model. Models are used for wasteload allocations and/or TMDLs and as tools for use in making regulatory decisions. Impact studies are conducted where information on the cause and effect relationships between pollutant sources and receiving waters is needed. In many cases biological information is collected along with chemical data for use in assessing environmental impacts.
Lake Monitoring. The GAEPD has maintained monitoring programs for Georgia's public access lakes for many years. In the late 1960's, lake water quality studies were conducted on Lake Lanier and Jackson Lake. Also at that time a comprehensive statewide study was conducted to assess fecal coliform levels at public beaches on major lakes in Georgia as the basis for water use classifications and establishment of water quality standards for recreational waters. In 1972, GAEPD staff participated in the USEPA National Eutrophication Survey which included fourteen lakes in Georgia. Additional lake monitoring continued through the 1970s. The focus of these studies was primarily problem/solution oriented and served as the basis for regulatory decisions. Georgia's water quality monitoring network has collected long term data from sites in four major lakes including Lake Lanier, West Point Lake, Lake Harding, and Jackson Lake.
In 1980-1981, the GAEPD conducted a statewide survey of public access freshwater lakes. The study was funded in part by USEPA Clean Lakes Program funds. The survey objectives were to identify freshwater lakes with public access, assess each lake's trophic condition, and develop a priority listing of lakes as to need for restoration and/or protection. In the course of the survey, data and information were collected on 175 identified lakes in 340 sampling trips. The data collected included depth profiles for dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, and specific conductance, Secchi disk transparency, and chemical analyses for chlorophyll a, total phosphorus, nitrogen compounds, and turbidity. The three measures of Carlson'sTrophic State Index were combined into a single trophic state index (TTSI) and used with other field data and observations to assess the trophic condition of each lake and to establish categories of lakes relative to need for restoration and/or protection. Eight lakes were determined to have the a need for restoration and/or protection (Category A), twenty-eight lakes were found to have moderate need for protection (Category B), and one hundred twenty-seven lakes were found to have few water quality problems (Category C).

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-16

FIGURE 3-3 GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK
STATION LOCATIONS 2002

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-17

FIGURE 3-4 GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK
STATION LOCATIONS 2003

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-18

TABLE 3-5. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2002

Station Number

Location

01000201 North Fork Chattooga River at State Rd. 28 nr Pine Mountain

01000401 West Fork Chattooga River at Road S884 near Pine Mtn., GA

01000801 Warwoman Creek at Earls Ford Road near Pine Mtn., GA

01001001 Chattooga River - U.S. Highway 76 near Clayton, GA

01002001 Stekoa Creek - FAS 881 Near Chechero, GA

01003001 Tallulah River - Near Clayton, GA

01003051 Lake Burton - 1/4 mile South of Burton Island (aka Tallulah River)

01003101 Lake Burton - Dampool (aka Tallulah River u/s Lake Burton Dam)

01003151 Lake Rabun - Approx. 4.5 mi u/s Dam (Mid Lake)

01003201 Lake Rabun - Dampool (Tallulah River - Upstream From Mathis Dam)

01003251 Lake Tugalo - u/s Tugalo Lake Rd (aka Bull Sluice Rd.)

01003301 Lake Tugalo - Upstream From Tugaloo Dam

01003361 Panther Creek at Yonah Dam Road nr Toccoa, GA

01003391 Toccoa Creek at State Road 184 near Toccoa, GA

01003521 Eastanolle Creek at Tower Road nr Avalon, GA

01003601 Lake Hartwell At Interstate 85

01003621 Shoal Creek at SR 77 (Providence Church Rd) at Parkertown, GA

01003641 Reed Creek at County Road 301 near Hartwell, GA

01003731 Lake Hartwell - Dam Forebay

01003761 Savannah River at Ga. Hwy. 181 nr Montevideo, GA

01003901 Cedar Creek @ Rd S1724 (State Rd. 77 Spur) nr Montevideo, GA

01004001 Savannah River - GA Highway 368

01004251 Cold Water Creek at County Road 193 near Ruckersville, GA

01004501 Lake Russell Between Markers 42 and 44 (Mid Lake)

01004801 Beaverdam Creek at Road S985 (Ruckersville Road) near Elberton, GA

01005101 Lake Richard B. Russell - Dam Forebay

01006001 North Fork Broad River at State Road 51 near Carnesville, GA

01006601 Middle Fork Broad River at McFarlin Bridge Road near Carnesville, GA

01007001 Hudson River at State Road 15 near Homer, GA

01007251 Hudson River at State Road 106 at Fort Lamar, GA

01007471 Broad River at State Road 72 nr Carlton, GA

01007601 South Fork Broad River at State Road 72 near Comer, GA

01007651 South Fork Broad River at Madison County Road 394 at Carlton, GA

01007801 Falling Creek @ Elbert Co. Road 50 near Fortsonia, GA

01007951 Long Creek @ Wilkes Co. Rd 109 (Pete Johnson Rd) nr Tignall

01007981 Clark Creek at County Road 113 near Tignal, GA

01008001 Broad River - GA Highway 17

01008301 Clarks Hill Lake- Savannah River At U.S. Highway 378

01008401 Clarks Hill Lake- Savannah River At Dordon Crk.

01008451 Little River @ Wilkes Co Rd 192 near Washington, GA

01008551 Middle Creek @ Wrightsboro Rd. near Wrightsboro, GA

01008601 Clarks Hill Lake - Little River At Highway 47

01008701 Clarks Hill Lake - Dam Forebay

01008801 Kiokee Creek at SR 104 near Evans

01008901 Uchee Creek @ State Road 104 near Evans, GA

01008951 Savannah River at State Road 28 near Evans, GA

01009051 Reed Creek at State Road 28 near Martinez, GA

Type1 Parameters2
B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals C Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Metals B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Chlorophyll B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-19

TABLE 3-5. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2002

Station Number

Location

Type1 Parameters2

01009191 Savannah River at Old U.S. Hwy 1 (Jefferson Davis Hwy) at Augusta, GA B Standard + Metals

01009901 Rocky Creek @ State Road 56 Loop - Augusta, GA

B Standard + Metals

01009951 Butler Creek at State Road 4 near Augusta, GA

B Standard + Metals

01009991 Savannah River above Lock and Dam

B Standard + Metals

01010311 Butler Creek - Lock and Dam Road nr Augusta, GA

B Standard + Metals

01010701 Spirit Creek at State Road 56 near McBean, GA

B Standard + Metals

01011001 Savannah River - 0.5 Mile Downstream from Spirit Creek

C Standard + Metals

01011201 McBean Creek at State Road 56 at McBean, GA

B Standard + Metals

01011801 Savannah River - Stony Bluff Landing

B Standard + Metals

01012001 Savannah River - U.S. Highway 301

B Standard + Metals

01012201 Brier Creek at State Road 17 near Thomson, GA

B Standard + Metals

01012401 Reedy Creek at State Road 4 near Wrens, GA

B Standard + Metals

01012591 Brushy Creek at Campground Road nr Wrens, GA

B Standard + Metals

01012801 Brier Creek at State Road 56 near Waynesboro, GA

B Standard + Metals

01013001 Brier Creek - Millhaven

A Standard + Metals

01013351 Beaverdam Creek at State Road 73 near Sylvania, GA

B Standard + Metals

01013501 Buck Creek - Brannens Bridge Road (S1321) nr Sylvania, GA

B Standard + Metals

01014001 Savannah River - Seaboard Coast Line Railway, North of Clyo

C Standard + Metals

01014301 Runs Branch @ Effingham Co Rd 63 (Sistes Ferry Rd) nr Clyo

B Standard + Metals

01014481 Ebenezer Creek at Long Bridge Road (CR 307) near Stillwell, GA

A Standard + Metals

01014951 St. Augustine Creek @ State Road 21 near Port Wentworth, GA

B Standard + Metals

01015001 Savannah River - U.S. Highway 17 (Houlihan Bridge)

A Standard + Metals

01018001 Savannah River - Savannah Machine and Shipyard Company

A Standard + Metals

01021001 Savannah River at Fort Jackson (Savannah Harbor)

C Standard + Metals

01023001 Savannah River - Entrance to South Channel

A Standard + Metals

01025001 Savannah River - Lower Flats Range nr Fields Cut

A Standard + Metals

01026001 Savannah River - Crossing Range nr Buoy R28

A Standard + Metals

02001001 North Fork Ogeechee River at State Road 22 near Crawfordville, GA

B Standard + Metals

02001501 Ogeechee River at Hancock County Road 28 near Powelton, GA

B Standard + Metals

02003001 Ogeechee River at Road S1098 near Jewell, GA

B Standard + Metals

02004501 Little Ogeechee River at Road S1098 near Culverton, GA

B Standard + Metals

02008001 Ogeechee River at State Road 88 near Grange, GA

B Standard + Metals

02008701 Rocky Comfort Creek at Fred Williams Road near Edgehill, GA

B Standard + Metals

02008901 Rocky Comfort Creek at Jefferson County Road 255 at Louisville, GA

B Standard + Metals

02009501 Big Creek at State Road 17 near Louisville, GA

B Standard + Metals

02010001 Ogeechee River - GA Highway 78 Near Wadley

A Standard + Metals

02011701 Williamson Swamp Creek - GA Highway 231

A Standard + Metals

02011771 Williamson Swamp Creek at U.S. Highway 1 East at Wadley, GA

B Standard + Metals

02011801 Ogeechee River at State Road 56 at Midville, GA

B Standard + Metals

02011881 Buckhead Creek at State Road 17 at Millen, GA

B Standard + Metals

02019001 Sculls Creek at Jenkins County Road 200 near Millen, GA

B Standard + Metals

02019101 Ogeechee River at Rocky Ford Road nr Rocky Ford, GA

B Standard + Metals

02020251 Horse Creek at State Road 17 near Rocky Ford, GA

B Standard + Metals

02020481 Nevills Creek at Bulloch County Road 578 near Rocky Ford, GA

B Standard + Metals

02023001 Ogeechee River - GA Highway 24 nr Oliver, GA

C Standard + Metals

02023421 Ogeechee Creek at State Road 17 at Oliver, GA

B Standard + Metals

02023451 Mill Creek at Bulloch County Road 386 Old River Road near Brooklet, GA B Standard + Metals

02024001 Ogeechee River at U.S. Highway 80 near Eden, GA

B Standard + Metals

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-20

TABLE 3-5. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2002

Station Number

Location

02024501 Black Creek at State Road 30 near Blichton, GA

02025001 Canoochee River at State Road 192 near Stillmore, GA

02026001 Fifteenmile Creek at Candler County Road 28 near Metter, GA

02026201 Tenmile Creek at Road S2242 (Adabelle Road) near Excelsior, GA

02026801 Cedar Creek at State Road 129 at Claxton, GA

02027001 Canoochee River - U.S. Hwy 301 near Claxton, GA

02027201 Canoochee River - Daisy Nevils Rd. near Daisy, GA

02027501 Lotts Creek at State Road 250 (Nevils-Daisy Rd)near Nevils, GA

02028101 Bull Creek at Road S2664 (Sunbury Road) near Daisy, GA

02029001 Canoochee Creek at State Road 119 near Hinesville, GA

02029501 Canoochee River - GA Highway 67

02150001 Little Ogeechee River at U.S. Highway 17 near Burroughs, GA

02160001 Casey Canal South at Montgomery Cross Road at Savannah, GA

02310101 Peacock Creek at Lewis Fraser Road nr Midway, GA

02350001 North Newport River - Halfmoon Landing

02450001 South Newport River at U.S. Highway 17 at South Newport, GA

03015001 North Oconee River - Athens Water Intake

03035001 Oconee River at Barnett Shoals Road near Athens, GA

03036701 Apalachee River - Near Bostwick

03041701 Little River at State Road 16 near Eatonton, GA

03043401 Murder Creek at New Glenwood Springs Road (FAS 777) nr Eatonton

03045001 Oconee River - Milledgeville Water Intake

03046001 Oconee River - 1 Mile Downstream Central State Hospital

03047501 Oconee River at GA Highway 57

03051001 Oconee River at Interstate Highway 16 near Dublin, GA

04107801 South River at International Dr., S.E. Atlanta

04111001 South River - GA Highway 155 near Lithonia, GA

04111701 South River - Klondike Road near Conyers, GA

04140001 South River at Island Shoals Road near Snapping Shoals, GA

04205001 Yellow River - Killian Hill Road

04210001 Yellow River - Conyers Water Intake

04220001 Yellow River - GA Highway 212 near Stewart, GA

04220111 Lake Jackson at confluence of Alcovy River and Yellow/South River

04310001 Alcovy River - Newton Factory Bridge Road near Stewart

04450001 Tussahaw Creek at Fincherville Road near Jackson, GA

05005001 Ocmulgee River - GA Highway 16

05007001 Towaliga River - GA Highway 83

05007501 Falling Creek - FAS 1640 Near East Juliet

05009901 Ocmulgee River - New Macon Water Intake

05013601 Tobesofkee Creek - U.S. Highways 41 and 129

05015001 Ocmulgee River - 6.0 Miles Downstream from Tobesofkee Creek

05025001 Ocmulgee River - U.S. Highway 341 at Lumber City

06010001 Ohoopee River - GA Highway 56

06014001 Altamaha River - U.S. Hwy 301 near Doctortown, Ga..

06016001 Altamaha River - 6.0 Miles Downstream From Doctortown

06017001 Altamaha River - Seaboard Railway at Everett (U.S. Hwy 84)

07004001 Turtle River off Hermitage Island

07005201 Turtle River - GA Highway 303

Type1 Parameters2
B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals A Standard + Metals A Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals A Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals A Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard C Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-21

TABLE 3-5. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2002

Station Number
07005801 07016601 07019001 07021001 07025001 07026001 08010001 09001001 09012001 09018301 09029501 09036001 09038401 09040001 09042001 09044501 10003001 10010001 10017001 11011001 11013001 11018001 11025001 11050001 11060001 11090401 11102001 11109001 12010001 12020001 12028001 12030001 12030025 12030031 12030041 12030085 12030141 12030151 12030161 12030171 12030201 12033201 12034001 12034701 12035071 12035401 12037001 12038001

Location
Brunswick River - U.S. Highway 17 Seventeen Mile River - GA Highway 64 near Pearson, GA Satilla River - FAS 598 North of Waycross Satilla River - GA Highways 15 and 121 Little Satilla River - Seaboard Railroad at Offerman Satilla River - U.S. Highway 82 nr Atkinson, GA Saint Marys River - U.S. Highway 301 near Folkston, GA Suwannee River - U.S. Highway 441 near Fargo, GA Alapaha River - GA Highway 94 nr Statenville New River - U.S. Highway 82 Near Tifton Withlacoochee River - McMillian Road Near Bemiss Withlacoochee River - SR133 nr Valdosta, GA Indian Creek - Tillman Rd near Berlin, GA Withlacoochee River - U.S. Highway 84 Okapilco Creek - U.S. Highway 84 near Quitman, GA Withlacoochee River at Clyattsville-Nankin Road near Clyattsville, GA Ochlockonee River - FAS 1205 near Moultrie, GA Ochlockonee River - U.S. Hwy 84 near Thomasville Ochlockonee River @ Hadley Ferry Rd. nr Calvary, Ga. Flint River at State Road 138 near Jonesboro, GA Flint River at State Road 54 near Fayetteville, GA Flint River at State Road 92 near Griffin, GA Line Creek at State Road 16 near Digbey, GA Flint River at U.S. Highway 19 near Culloden, GA Flint River at State Roads 26/49 near Montezuma, GA Flint River at State Road 234 near Albany, GA Flint River at State Road 37 at Newton, GA Flint River at U.S. Highway 27-B near Bainbridge, GA Chattahoochee River at State Roads 17/75 near Nacooche, GA Chattahoochee River at State Road 115 near Leaf, GA Soque River at State Road 105 near Demorest, GA Chattahoochee River at Duncan Bridge Road near Cornelia, GA. Mossy Creek at New Bridge Road nr Clermont, GA Mud Creek at Crane Mill Road nr Alto, GA Little Mud Creek at Coon Creek Road nr Alto, GA Chattahoochee River at Belton Bridge Road near Lula, GA. West Fork Little River at Jess Helton Road near Clermont, GA. East Fork Little River at Honeysuckle Road near Clermont, GA. Lake Sidney Lanier - Little River Embayment, Betw M1WC & 3LR Wahoo Creek at Ben Parks Road near Murrayville, GA Lake Sidney Lanier at Lanier Bridge on Chattahoochee River Dicks Creek at Forest Service Road 144-1 near Neels Gap, GA Chestatee River - 0.3 Mile U/S Tesnatee Creek nr Dahlonega, GA Tesnatee Creek - 0.7 Mile U/S Chestatee River nr Cleveland, GA Yahoola Creek at State Road 60 near Dahlonega, GA Chestatee River at State Road 400 near Dahlonega, GA Lake Sidney Lanier at Boling Bridge (State Road 53) on Chestatee River Lake Sidney Lanier at Browns Bridge Road (State Road 369)

Type1 Parameters2
C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard C Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll C Standard + Chlorophyll

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-22

TABLE 3-5. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2002

Station Number

Location

12038501 Flat Creek at McEver Road near Gainesville, GA

12038610 Balus Creek at McEver Road near Oakwood, GA

12038651 Lake Sidney Lanier - Flat Creek Embayment, 100' U/S M7FC

12038681 Lake Sidney Lanier - Balus Creek Embayment, 0.34m SE M6FC

12038781 Mud Creek at McEver Road near Flowery Branch, GA

12038801 Lake Sidney Lanier - Mud Crk Embayment, Betw Marina & Ramp

12039401 Lake Lanier upstream from Flowery Branch Confluence (Midlake)

12039601 Sixmile Creek at Burrus Mill Road near Coal Mountain, GA

12039621 Lake Sidney Lanier - Six Mile Creek Embayment, 300' E M9SM

12040001 Lake Sidney Lanier upstream of Buford Dam Forebay

12048001 Chattahoochee River at McGinnis Ferry Road

12055001 Chattahoochee River - DeKalb County Water Intake

12060001 Big Creek at Roswell Water Intake near Roswell, GA

12070001 Chattahoochee River at Cobb County Water Intake near Roswell, GA

12080001 Chattahoochee River - Atlanta Water Intake

12090001 Peachtree Creek at Northside Drive near Atlanta, GA

12106001 Chattahoochee River at Bankhead Highway

12120001 Sweetwater Creek at Interstate Highway 20

12140001 Chattahoochee River - GA Highway 92

12140501 Chattahoochee River at Capps Ferry Road near Rico, GA

12150001 Chattahoochee River at State Road 16 near Whitesburg, GA

12170001 Chattahoochee River at U.S. Highway 27 near Franklin, GA

12174301 New River at State Road 100 near Corinth, GA

12180001 West Point Lake at LaGrange Water Intake near LaGrange, GA

12181601 Yellow Jacket Creek at Hammet Road near Hogansville, GA

12190001 Long Cane Creek at Webb Road near West Point, GA

12200011 Chattahoochee River at Hwy 29 at West Point, GA

12210001 Lake Harding - Dam Forebay (aka Chatt. River US Bartletts Ferry Dam)

12212001 Lake Oliver

12216001 Chattahoochee River - Downstream from Columbus WTF

12218001 Chattahoochee River - Downstream Oswichee Creek

12219001 Chattahoochee River at Spur 39 near Omaha, GA (Seaboard RR)

12219101 Lake Walter F. George at U.S. Highway 82 (aka Chatt. River at Hwy 82)

12219501 Lake Walter F. George at Dam Forebay

12230001 Chattahoochee River at State Road 91 near Steam Mill, GA

13010001 Little Tallapoosa River - GA Highway 100 near Bowden, GA

13030001 Tallapoosa River - GA Highway 8 below Tallapoosa, GA

14010051 Conasauga at U.S. Highway 76 near Dalton, GA

14030001 Conasauga River at Tilton Bridge near Tilton, GA

14040001 Conasauga River at State Road 136 near Resaca, GA

14079011 Cartecay River at State Road 2 Connector near Ellijay, GA

14109901 Coosawattee River at GA Highway 5 near Ellijay, GA

14115001 Mountaintown Creek at State Road 282 (US Hwy 76) near Ellijay, GA

14119301 Carters Lake (CR1) - Upper Lake, Coosawattee Arm

14119401 Carters Lake - Midlake (upstream from Woodring Branch)

14130001 Coosawattee River at State Road 225

14220001 Oostanaula River at U.S. Highway 41 near Resaca, GA

14250001 Oostanaula River at Rome Water Intake near Rome, GA

Type1 Parameters2
A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard C Standard

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-23

TABLE 3-5. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2002

Station Number

Location

14300001 Etowah River at State Road 5 spur near Canton, GA

14300601 Shoal Creek at State Road 108 (Fincher Rd.) near Waleska, GA

14302001 Lake Allatoona at Etowah River upstream from Sweetwater Creek

14304001 Little River at GA Highway 5 near Woodstock, GA

14304101 Noonday Creek at GA Highway 92 near Woodstock, GA

14304801 Lake Allatoona at Little River upstream from Highway 205

14305801 Lake Allatoona downstream from Kellogg Creek ( Markers 18/19E)

14307501 Lake Allatoona at Allatoona Creek Upstream from Interstate 75

14309001 Lake Allatoona Upstream from Dam

14310011 Etowah River at U.S. Highway 41 near Cartersville, GA

14330001 Etowah River at Hardin Bridge (FAS 829) near Euharlee, GA

14350011 Etowah River at Turner Mccall Boulevard (Hwy 27) near Rome, GA

14424701 Cedar Creek at Friendship Road near Cedartown, GA

14450001 Coosa River - GA/Alabama State Line Monitor near Cave Springs, GA

14540001 Spring Creek at State Road 337 near Trion, GA

14549991 Chattooga River at U.S. Hwy 27 near Summerville

14560001 Chattooga River at Holland-Chattoogaville Road near Lyerly, GA

15090001 West Chickamauga Creek - GA Highway 146 near Ringgold, GA

Type1 Parameters2
A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard C Standard

1There are three major types of stations: core(C), annual (A), and basin monitoring (BM).
2Standard parameters include gage height, air temperature, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, conductivity, BOD5, pH, alkalinity, hardness, ammonia, nitrite+nitrate, phosphorus, TOC, and fecal coliform bacteria.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-24

Table 3-6. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2003

Station Number 01001001 01011001 01014001 01014481 01015001 01018001 01021001 01023001 01025001 01026001 02023001 02027001 02027201 02029301 02029501 02350001 03015001 03035001 03036701 03041701 03043401 03045001 03046001 03047501 03051001 04107801 04111001 04111701 04140001 04205001 04210001 04220001 04220111 04310001 04450001 04500001 05005001 05007001 05007501 05009901 05013601 05015001 05025001 06010001 06014001 06016001 06017001 07001001 07002901

Location
Chattooga River - U.S. Highway 76 near Clayton, GA. Savannah River - 0.5 Mile Downstream from Spirit Creek Savannah River - Seaboard Coast Line Railway, North of Clyo Ebenezer Creek at Long Bridge Road (CR 307) near Stillwell, GA. Savannah River - U.S. Highway 17 (Houlihan Bridge) Savannah River - Savannah Machine and Shipyard Company Savannah River at Fort Jackson (Savannah Harbor) Savannah River - Entrance to South Channel Savannah River - Lower Flats Range nr Fields Cut Savannah River - Crossing Range nr Buoy R28 Ogeechee River - Georgia Highway 24 nr Oliver, GA. Canoochee River - U.S. Hwy 301 near Claxton, GA. Canoochee River - Daisy Nevils Rd. near Daisy, GA. Canoochee River at SR119 near Pembroke, GA. Canoochee River - Georgia Highway 67 North Newport River - Halfmoon Landing North Oconee River - Athens Water Intake Oconee River at Barnett Shoals Road near Athens, GA. Apalachee River - Near Bostwick Little River at State Road 16 near Eatonton, GA. Murder Creek at New Glenwood Springs Road (FAS 777) nr Eatonton Oconee River - Milledgeville Water Intake Oconee River - 1 Mile Downstream Central State Hospital Oconee River at Georgia Highway 57 Oconee River at Interstate Highway 16 near Dublin, GA. South River at International Dr., S.E. Atlanta South River - Georgia Highway 155 near Lithonia, GA. South River - Klondike Road near Conyers, GA. South River at Island Shoals Road near Snapping Shoals, GA. Yellow River - Killian Hill Road Yellow River - Conyers Water Intake Yellow River - Georgia Highway 212 near Stewart, GA. Lake Jackson at confluence of Alcovy River and Yellow/South River Branch Alcovy River - Newton Factory Bridge Road near Stewart Tussahaw Creek at Fincherville Road near Jackson, GA. Lake Jackson - Dam Forebay Ocmulgee River - Georgia Highway 16 Towaliga River - Georgia Highway 83 Falling Creek - FAS 1640 Near East Juliet Ocmulgee River - New Macon Water Intake Tobesofkee Creek - U.S. Highways 41 and 129 Ocmulgee River - 6.0 Miles Downstream from Tobesofkee Creek Ocmulgee River - U.S. Highway 341 at Lumber City Ohoopee River - Georgia Highway 56 Altamaha River - U.S. Hwy 301 near Doctortown, Ga.. Altamaha River - 6.0 Miles Downstream From Doctortown Altamaha River - Seaboard Railway at Everett (U.S. Hwy 84) Satilla Creek at County Road 261 near Holt, GA. Pudding Creek at State Road 31 near Pearson, GA.

Type1 Parameters2
C Standard C Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard A Standard A Field A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard C Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-25

Table 3-6. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2003

Station Number 07003001 07003901 07004001 07005001 07005201 07005401 07005801 07006001 07016101 07016601 07017501 07019001 07020951 07021001 07022301 07022951 07024051 07024301 07024491 07024691 07024791 07024861 07024981 07024991 07025001 07025201 07025301 07026001 07026791 07028001 08002001 08008401 08008901 08009901 08010101 08010491 08011021 09000451 09001001 09001201 09001501 09001601 09002901 09004001 09004201 09004901 09005001 09005901 09007501 09010401

Location
Satilla River at State Road 64 near Pearson, GA. Red Bluff Creek at State Road 50 near Pearson, GA. Turtle River off Hermitage Island Broxton Creek at County Road 358 (Broxton Road) near Douglas, GA. Turtle River - Georgia Highway 303 Roses Creek at State Road 268 near Broxton, GA. Brunswick River - U.S. Highway 17 Seventeen Mile River at State Road 32 near Douglas, GA. Seventeen Mile River at SR 158 near Douglas Seventeen Mile River - Georgia Highway 64 near Pearson, GA. Hog Creek at County Road 467 (Telmore-Dixie Union Road) at Bickley, GA. Satilla River - FAS 598 North of Waycross Big Creek at State Route 520 near Hoboken, GA. Satilla River - Georgia Highways 15 and 121 Hurricane Creek at County Road 331 near Alma, GA. Little Hurricane Creek at County Road 220 near Blackshear, GA. Big Satilla Creek at County Road 536 near Baxley, GA. Big Satilla Creek at State Road 203 near Baxley, GA. Sweetwater Creek at State Road 203 near Baxley, GA. Colemans Creek at County Road 185 (Stanfield Road) near Screven, GA. Reedy Creek at County Road 390 (Stanfield Road) near Screven, GA. Little Satilla Creek at Tillman Anderson Rd. near Odom Boggy Creek at County Road 207 at Screven, GA. Little Satilla Creek at County Road 390 (Nine Run Road) near Screven, GA. Little Satilla River - Seaboard Railroad at Offerman Little Satilla River at SR32 near Hortense, GA. Little Satilla River at U.S. Highway 301 near Hortense, GA. Satilla River - U.S. Highway 82 nr Atkinson, GA. Buffalo Creek at County Road 81 near Hickox, GA. Satilla River at U.S. Highway 17 at Woodbine, GA. North Prong Saint Marys River at State Road 94 at Moniac, GA. Boone Creek at State Road 121 near Saint George, GA. Corn House Creek at State Road 121 near Saint George, GA. Spanish Creek at State Road 121 near Folkston, GA. Saint Marys River Tributary at State Road 40 at Folkston, GA. Horsepen Creek at County Road 55 (Greenville Road) near Kingsland, GA. Saint Marys River at I-95 near Gross, Florida Tatum Creek at U.S. Highway 441 near Homerville, GA. Suwannee River - U.S. Highway 441 near Fargo, GA. Suwannoochee Creek at U.S. Highway 84 at DuPont, GA. Toms Creek at County Road 36 near Needmore, GA. Suwannoochee Creek at State Road 94 near Fargo, GA. Double Run Creek at County Road 250 near Rebecca, GA. West Fork Deep Creek at State Road 159 near Amboy, GA. Deep Creek at County Road 250 near Rebecca, GA. Big Creek at County Road 258 (Crystal Lake Road) near Irwinville, GA. Alapaha River at State Road 32 near Irwinville, GA. Sand Creek at State Road 125 near Irwinville, GA. Alapaha River at State Road 35 near Tifton, GA. Turkey Branch at County Road 124 near Fitzgerald, GA.

Type1 Parameters2
B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals C Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals C Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-26

Table 3-6. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2003

Station Number 09010451 09010601 09010751 09010801 09011201 09011351 09011401 09011801 09013001 09018301 09019001 09019201 09019501 09019901 09027101 09036001 09036001 09036101 09036501 09036701 09036801 09037201 09037401 09037501 09037551 09037691 09037901 09038201 09038401 09038751 09038981 09040201 09040301 09041601 09042001 09043001 09043701 09043901 09044501 10000491 10002001 10003001 10003901 10004501 10004901 10005001 10005501 10006801 10007901 10008201

Location
Willacoochee River at State Road 32 near Ocilla, GA. Reedy Creek at County Road 57 (Firecracker Road) near Ocilla, GA. Little Brushy Creek at County Road 63 (Harrell Road) near Ocilla, GA. Willacoochee River at U.S. Highway 82 near Willacoochee, GA. Tenmile Creek at State Road 64 near Lakeland, GA. Fivemile Creek at State Road 64 near Lakeland, GA. Banks Lake - Near Lakeland, Ga. Cow Creek at State Road 11 near Stockton, GA. Mud Creek at County Road 112 (Vann Road) near Valdosta, GA. New River - U.S. Highway 82 Near Tifton New River at County Road 252 near Lenox, GA. New River at State Road 76 near Nashvillel, GA. Hardy Mill Creek at County Road 230 (Sapps Lake Road) near Enigma, GA. Withlacoochee River at State Road 76 near Nashville, GA. Bear Creek at County Road 32 near Adel, GA. Withlacoochee River - SR133 nr Valdosta, GA. Withlacoochee River - SR133 nr Valdosta, GA. Little River at State Road 112 near Ashburn, GA. Little River at Upper Ty Ty Road near Tifton Little River at County Road 424 (Omega-Eldorado Road) near Omega, GA. Little River at County Road 246 (Kinard Bridge Road) near Lenox, GA. Ty Ty Creek at U.S. Highway 82 at Ty Ty, GA. Ty Ty Creek at CR 486 (Ellenton-Omega Road) near Ellenton, GA. Warrior Creek at State Road 256 near Norman Park, GA. Town Creek at County Road 169 near Sylvester, GA. Horse Creek at SR33 near Sylvester Warrior Creek at CR486 (Ellenton-Omega Road) near Ellenton, GA. Bear Creek at County Road 170 near Moultrie, GA. Indian Creek - Tillman Rd near Berlin, GA. Morrison Creek at County Road 243 near Adel, GA. Franks Creek at County Road 775 (Shiloh Road) near Valdosta, GA. Okapilco Creek at CR182 (James Buckner Road) near Moultrie, GA. Okapilco Creek at County Road 121 near Moultrie, GA. Mule Creek at County Road 274 near Barwick, GA. Okapilco Creek - U.S. Highway 84 near Quitman, GA. Piscola Creek at State Road 38 near Dixie, GA. Negro Branch at County Road 125 near Quitman, GA. Piscola Creek at State Road 333 below Quitman, GA. Withlacoochee River at Clyattsville-Nankin Road near Clyattsville, GA. Ochlockonee River at Brooks Rd. near Bridgeboro Ocklockonee River at State Road 133 near Moultrie, GA Ochlockonee River - FAS 1205 near Moultrie, GA Little Creek at County Road 480 (Lower Meigs Rd.) near Moultrie, GA Bridge Creek at County Road 481 near Doerun, GA Bridge Creek at County Road 222 near Coolidge, GA Ochlockonee River at County Road 306 (Bee Line Rd) near Coolidge, GA Big Creek at State Road 35 near Coolidge, GA Little Ochlockonee River at County Road 228 near Harstsfield, GA. Lost Creek at State Road 111 near Meigs, GA Big Creek at State Road 111 near Meigs, GA

Type1
B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B C B B B B B B B B B B B

Parameters2
Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Chlorophyll Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals Standard + Metals

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-27

Table 3-6. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2003

Station Number 10008901 10009601 10011001 10012001 10016401 10016601 10017001 10020001 11011001 11013001 11018001 11025001 11050001 11060011 11090401 11102001 11109001 12010001 12020001 12028001 12030001 12030025 12030031 12030041 12030085 12030141 12030151 12030161 12030171 12030201 12033201 12034001 12034701 12035071 12035401 12037001 12038001 12038501 12038610 12038651 12038681 12038781 12038801 12039401 12039601 12039621 12040001 12048001 12055001 12060001

Location
Little Ochlockonee River at State Rd 188 nr Ochlockonee, GA Oquina Creek at County Road 138 (Old Cassidy Rd.) near Thomasville, GA East Branch Barnetts Creek @ Co Rd 159 nr Ochlockonee, GA Barnetts Creek at US Hwy 84 near Thomasville, GA Parkers Mill Creek at County Road 324 near Cairo, GA Little Tired Creek at County Road 324 near Cairo, GA Ochlockonee River @ Hadley Ferry Rd. nr Calvary, Ga. Swamp Creek at US Hwy 27 near Attapulgus, GA Flint River at State Road 138 near Jonesboro, GA. Flint River at State Road 54 near Fayetteville, GA. Flint River at State Road 92 near Griffin, GA. Line Creek at State Road 16 near Digbey, GA. Flint River at U.S. Highway 19 near Culloden, GA. Flint River at SR 26 near Montezuma Flint River at State Road 234 near Albany, GA. Flint River at State Road 37 at Newton, GA. Flint River at U.S. Highway 27-B near Bainbridge, GA. Chattahoochee River at State Roads 17/75 near Nacooche, GA. Chattahoochee River at State Road 115 near Leaf, GA. Soque River at State Road 105 near Demorest, GA. Chattahoochee River at Duncan Bridge Road near Cornelia, GA. (Hwy 384) Mossy Creek at New Bridge Road nr Clermont, GA. Mud Creek at Crane Mill Road nr Alto, GA. Little Mud Creek at Coon Creek Road nr Alto, GA. Chattahoochee River at Belton Bridge Road near Lula, GA. West Fork Little River at Jess Helton Road near Clermont, GA. East Fork Little River at Honeysuckle Road near Clermont, GA Lake Sidney Lanier - Little River Embayment, Betw M1WC & 3LR Wahoo Creek at Ben Parks Road near Murrayville, GA Lake Sidney Lanier at Lanier Bridge on Chattahoochee River Dicks Creek at Forest Service Road 144-1 near Neels Gap, GA. Chestatee River - 0.3 Mile U/S Tesnatee Creek nr Dahlonega, GA. Tesnatee Creek - 0.7 Mile U/S Chestatee River nr Cleveland, GA Yahoola Creek at State Road 60 near Dahlonega, GA. Chestatee River at State Road 400 near Dahlonega, GA. Lake Sidney Lanier at Boling Bridge (State Road 53) on Chestatee River Lake Sidney Lanier at Browns Bridge Road (State Road 369) Flat Creek at McEver Road near Gainesville, GA. Balus Creek at McEver Road near Oakwood, GA. Lake Sidney Lanier - Flat Creek Embayment, 100' U/S M7FC Lake Sidney Lanier - Balus Creek Embayment, 0.34m SE M6FC Mud Creek at McEver Road near Flowery Branch, GA Lake Sidney Lanier - Mud Crk Embayment, Betw Marina & Ramp Lake Lanier upstream from Flowery Branch Confluence (Midlake) Sixmile Creek at Burrus Mill Road near Coal Mountain, GA Lake Sidney Lanier - Six Mile Creek Embayment, 300' E M9SM Lake Sidney Lanier upstream of Buford Dam Forebay Chattahoochee River at McGinnis Ferry Road Chattahoochee River - DeKalb County Water Intake Big Creek at Roswell Water Intake near Roswell, GA.

Type1 Parameters2
B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals C Standard + Metals B Standard + Metals A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard C Standard C Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard A Standard

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-28

Table 3-6. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2003

Station Number 12070001 12080001 12090001 12106001 12120001 12140001 12140501 12150001 12170001 12174301 12180001 12181601 12189001 12190001 12200011 12210001 12212001 12216001 12218001 12218501 12219001 12219101 12219501 12230001 13010001 13030001 14010051 14030001 14040001 14079011 14109901 14115001 14119301 14119401 14130001 14220001 14250001 14300001 14300601 14302001 14304001 14304101 14304801 14305801 14307501 14309001 14310011 14330001 14350011 14424701

Location
Chattahoochee River at Cobb County Water Intake near Roswell, GA. Chattahoochee River - Atlanta Water Intake Peachtree Creek at Northside Drive near Atlanta, GA. Chattahoochee River at Bankhead Highway Sweetwater Creek at Interstate Highway 20 Chattahoochee River - GA. Highway 92 Chattahoochee River at Capps Ferry Road near Rico, GA. Chattahoochee River at State Road 16 near Whitesburg, GA. Chattahoochee River at U.S. Highway 27 near Franklin, GA. New River at State Road 100 near Corinth, GA. West Point Lake at LaGrange Water Intake near LaGrange, GA. Yellow Jacket Creek at Hammet Road near Hogansville, GA. West Point Lake - Dam Forebay Long Cane Creek at Webb Road near West Point, GA. Chattahoochee River at Hwy 29 at West Point, GA. Lake Harding - Dam Forebay (aka Chatt. River US Bartletts Ferry Dam) Lake Oliver (Chatt River at Columbus Water Intake near Columbus, GA.) Chattahoochee River - Downstream from Columbus WTF Chattahoochee River - Downstream Oswichee Creek Chattahoochee River at Hichitee Creek (River Mile 127.6) Chattahoochee River at Spur 39 near Omaha, GA. (Seaboard RR) Lake Walter F. George at U.S. Highway 82 (aka Chatt. River at Hwy 82) Lake Walter F. George at Dam Forebay Chattahoochee River at State Road 91 near Steam Mill, GA. Little Tallapoosa River - Georgia Highway 100 near Bowden, GA. Tallapoosa River - Georgia Highway 8 below Tallapoosa, GA. Conasauga at U.S. Highway 76 near Dalton, GA. Conasauga River at Tilton Bridge near Tilton, GA. Conasauga River at State Road 136 near Resaca, GA. Cartecay River at State Road 2 Connector near Ellijay, GA. Coosawattee River at Georgia Highway 5 near Ellijay, GA. Mountaintown Creek at State Road 282 (US Hwy 76) near Ellijay, GA. Carters Lake (CR1) - Upper Lake, Coosawattee Arm Carters Lake - Midlake (upstream from Woodring Branch) Coosawattee River at State Road 225 Oostanaula River at U.S. Highway 41 near Resaca, GA. Oostanaula River at Rome Water Intake near Rome, GA. Etowah River at State Road 5 spur near Canton, GA. Shoal Creek at State Road 108 (Fincher Rd.) near Waleska, GA. Lake Allatoona at Etowah River upstream from Sweetwater Creek Little River at Georgia Highway 5 near Woodstock, GA. Noonday Creek at Georgia Highway 92 near Woodstock, GA. Lake Allatoona at Little River upstream from Highway 205 Lake Allatoona downstream from Kellogg Creek ( Markers 18/19E) Lake Allatoona at Allatoona Creek Upstream from Interstate 75 Lake Allatoona Upstream from Dam Etowah River at U.S. Highway 41 near Cartersville, GA. Etowah River at Hardin Bridge (FAS 829) near Euharlee, GA. Etowah River at Turner Mccall Boulevard (Hwy 27) near Rome, GA. Cedar Creek at Friendship Road near Cedartown, GA.

Type1 Parameters2
A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard Special Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard + Chlorophyll A Standard C Standard A Standard A Standard

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-29

Table 3-6. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2003

Station Number 14450001 14540001 14549991 14560001 15090001

Location
Coosa River - Georgia/Alabama State Line Monitor near Cave Springs, GA. Spring Creek at State Road 337 near Trion, GA. Chattooga River at U.S. Hwy 27 near Summerville Chattooga River at Holland-Chattoogaville Road near Lyerly, GA. West Chickamauga Creek - Georgia Highway 146 near Ringgold, GA.

Type1 Parameters2
C Standard A Standard A Standard C Standard C Standard

1There are three major types of stations: core(C), annual (A), and basin monitoring (BM).
2Standard parameters include gage height, air temperature, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, conductivity, BOD5, pH, alkalinity, hardness, ammonia, nitrite+nitrate, phosphorus, TOC, and fecal coliform bacteria.
Monitoring efforts have continued since the 1980-1981 Lake Classification Survey with a focus on Category A lakes and major lakes (those with a surface area greater than 500 acres). Five lakes (Hillsboro Lake, Floyd State Park Upper and Lower Lakes, Rome City Park Pond, and Heath Park Lake) were removed from Category A and placed in Category B in 1984. Even though their trophic condition remained unchanged, the lake management authorities for these lakes indicated no conflict between the lake condition and intended uses. Three lakes remained as Category A lakes: Jackson Lake, High Falls Lake, and Williams Public Fishing Area Lake. Point source nutrient reduction has been implemented in the Jackson Lake and High Falls Lake watersheds and these lakes have been changed to Category B. Williams Public Fishing Area Lake was drained in the early 1990s due to problems with the dam and there are no plans to fill the lake.
The monitoring of major lakes (> 500 acres) since 1984 has continued to use the TTSI as a tool to mark trophic state trends. The major lakes are listed in Table 3-7 are ranked according to the TTSI for the period 1986-2003. Work on major lakes is now conducted as a part of the river basin planning process. Quarterly major lakes monitoring was conducted in 2002 and 2003 according to the river basin monitoring schedule. Basin major lakes monitored in 2002 were lakes Hartwell, Russell and Clarks Hill (Savannah). In 2003 the only major lake in the basins of focus was Banks Lake (Suwannee).
A Clean Lakes Phase I Diagnostic/ Feasibility study was conducted for Jackson Lake in 1989 and 1990. This study documented reductions in phosphorus loading. Despite this, the lake remains nutrient sensitive. Consequently, it was recommended that the total phosphorus loading from all sources be held constant or reduced. This study also documented an approximate 40% reservoir storage loss since inundation in 1910 due to sedimentation. Since sedimentation in the upper reaches of the lake interferes with recreation, sediment removal was offered as a management option.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-30

A joint GAEPD-USEPA study of West Point Lake was conducted in 1987-1988. Sufficient data were available at the end of 1988 for the GAEPD to document nutrient problems and implement a control strategy. Because the nutrient loading was point source dominated, all major point sources were directed to reduce total phosphorus to 0.75 mg/l by 1992 with a 50% reduction by the middle of 1990. The phosphorus reduction process was aided in the 1990 when the Georgia General Assembly adopted legislation for a statewide ban on high phosphate detergents. This action along with the implementation of phosphorus reduction at the majority of the major metropolitan Atlanta water pollution control plants has resulted in a significant reduction in phosphorus reaching West Point Lake. In March 1990, the Georgia General Assembly passed Senate Bill 714 which mandated the State conduct comprehensive studies of publicly owned lakes (in excess of 1,000 acres) and develop water quality standards for pH, fecal coliform bacteria, chlorophyll a, total nitrogen, total phosphorus loading, and epilimnion dissolved oxygen. The Bill also requires that nutrient limits be established for major tributary streams to the lakes. The Bill mandated that comprehensive studies of Lake Lanier, Lake Walter F. George and West Point Lake be initiated in 1990, and three additional studies be performed each subsequent year on the remaining lakes of 1,500 acres or more, providing funds were available.
In March 1990, the GAEPD applied to and received from the USEPA Clean Lakes Phase I funds to be used to initiate studies of Lakes Lanier, Walter F. George, and West Point. Studies were begun in late 1990 and early 1991. Subsequently, EPD applied for funding for Lakes Allatoona and Blackshear. These were funded and sampling was initiated in April, 1992. Supplemental funding was awarded by Congress for the Lake Allatoona and Lake Lanier Phase I studies. Reports on these studies were completed in 1999. The GAEPD applied for Clean Lakes funds to conduct a Phase I DiagnosticFeasibility study for Carters Lake in 1995. The application was approved and the field work for the Carters Lake project was completed in 1998. The Carters lake Phase I Diagnostic Feasibility Report was completed in 2000. Water quality standards were adopted for Carters Lake in 2002.
The Lake Walter F. George Phase I Diagnostic/Feasibility study was conducted by the GAEPD in 1990 and 1991. In 1992 and 1993, the work was continued by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) and Auburn University. These studies found the lake in relatively good condition. No water use (i.e. recreation or fishing) impacts were documented. The trophic status was documented as eutrophic (characterized by an accumulation of nutrients that support elevated algal productivity without the problems associated with hypereutrophic overproduction). Therefore, the management of nutrient loading, particularly phosphorus, is an important longterm objective in maintaining the water quality of Lake Walter F. George. The Lake Walter F. George Phase I Diagnostic Feasibility Study Report was submitted to and approved by the USEPA in 1997.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-31

The West Point Lake Clean Lakes study was completed in 1994 and the GAEPD proposed water quality standards for the lake which, after public review, were adopted by the Board of Natural Resources in 1995. The lake water quality standards for Walter

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-32

1986

Harding

177

Oliver

176

Seminole

175

Goat Rock

171

Jackson

170

Worth

164

High Falls

163

WF George

162

Blackshear

162

Oconee

161

West Point

160

Allatoona

157

Tobesofkee

155

Sinclair

152

Tugalo

148

Chatuge

147

Carters

144

Nottely

142

Banks

140

Juliette

135

Russell

131

Lanier

128

Clarks Hill

123

Hartwell

121

Blue Ridge

119

Rabun

117

Burton

114

1991

Blackshear 193

High Falls

190

Harding

185

Seminole

181

Worth

176

Goat Rock

174

WF George 172

West Point 171

Allatoona

167

Banks

164

Jackson

162

Oconee

161

Oliver

157

Sinclair

150

Tobesofkee 149

Clarks Hill 146

Russell

141

Nottely

141

Chatuge

138

Blue Ridge 136

Carters

135

Juliette

133

Tugalo

133

Hartwell

132

Burton

130

Rabun

122

Lanier

121

TABLE 3-7. MAJOR LAKES RANKED BY

SUM OF TROPHIC STATE INDEX VALUES

1986-2003

1987

1988

1989

1990

Harding Oliver Goat Rock Jackson Worth Blackshear Carters Tugalo Seminole High Falls Banks West Point Sinclair Clarks Hill Tobesofkee Oconee Allatoona WF George Nottely Russell Chatuge Rabun Hartwell Lanier Burton Blue Ridge Juliette

184 177 174 170 167 <167 166 166 <160 157 <157 <156 <154 151 <146 <145 <143 <141 <137 <133 <132 <130 <126 <123 <119 <117 <108

Sinclair Blackshear Oliver Harding Tobesofkee Jackson Goat Rock Oconee Worth Chatuge Tugalo High Falls Seminole Allatoona WF George Clarks Hill Rabun West Point Burton Hartwell Blue Ridge Nottely Juliette Russell Lanier Banks Carters

182 178 177 174 173 168 167 166 163 161 161 159 154 146 145 145 142 141 138 136 135 132 132 128 126 <122 118

Harding High Falls Blackshear Seminole Goat Rock Oliver Banks West Point WF George Oconee Worth Jackson Sinclair Tobesofkee Russell Allatoona Chatuge Tugalo Lanier Nottely Carters Juliette Burton Blue Ridge Clarks Hill Hartwell Rabun

178 177 177 174 173 171 169 169 168 164 164 <158 <152 <151 <145 <141 139 <133 <132 <132 <127 <123 <120 <119 <118 <114 111

Blackshear WF George Harding High Falls Jackson Oliver Tobesofkee Goat Rock Carters Seminole Allatoona Worth Sinclair Banks Oconee West Point Nottely Tugalo Russell Clarks Hill Chatuge Juliette Hartwell Blue Ridge Rabun Lanier Burton

209 192 191 191 188 184 180 179 179 174 171 170 169 166 165 164 158 156 156 153 151 141 138 133 128 <128 123

1992

High Falls

194

Seminole

183

WF George 181

Tobesofkee 176

Blackshear 176

Goat Rock

173

Sinclair

172

Oliver

168

Harding

166

Jackson

166

Oconee

163

West Point 163

Nottely

161

Tugalo

157

Worth

157

Banks

156

Allatoona

156

Chatuge

155

Burton

149

Russell

147

Carters

143

Rabun

143

Blue Ridge

141

Hartwell

138

Lanier

138

Clarks Hill 131

Juliette

131

1993

High Falls

195

Blackshear 185

Seminole

175

Goat Rock

173

Jackson

173

Sinclair

172

Worth

172

Oconee

172

Harding

170

Oliver

170

Tobesofkee 169

WF George 169

West Point 163

Allatoona

158

Russell

156

Carters

154

Banks

154

Clarks Hill 153

Hartwell

146

Nottely

145

Chatuge

145

Burton

145

Tugalo

143

Blue Ridge 140

Rabun

140

Juliette

136

Lanier

122

1997-2001 Basin Cycle

Year

High Falls 169 1999

West Point 164 2000

Tobesofkee 164 1999

WF George 163 2000

Oconee

162 1999

Jackson

161 1999

Blackshear 160 2000

Sinclair

160 1999

Worth

157 2000

Carters

155 2001

Harding

155 2000

Tugalo

154 1997

Goat Rock 153 2000

Seminole

152 2000

Oliver

152 2000

Russell

141 1997

Allatoona 139 2001

Rabun

136 1997

Chatuge

135 2001

Juliette

131 1999

Burton

129 1997

Clarks Hill 129 1997

Nottely

127 2001

Lanier

127 2000

Hartwell

127 1997

Blue Ridge 119 2001

1999-2003 Basin Cycle

Year

Banks

178 2003

High Falls 169 1999

West Point 164 2000

Tobesofkee 164 1999

WF George 163 2000

Oconee

162 1999

Jackson

161 1999

Blackshear 160 2000

Sinclair

160 1999

Worth

157 2000

Carters

155 2001

Harding

155 2000

Goat Rock 153 2000

Seminole

152 2000

Oliver

152 2000

Burton

142 2002

Tugalo

141 2002

Allatoona 139 2001

Russell

136 2002

Rabun

136 2002

Chatuge

135 2001

Juliette

131 1999

Clarks Hill 129 2002

Nottely

127 2001

Lanier

127 2000

Hartwell

126 2002

Blue Ridge 119 2001

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

3-33

F. George and Jackson Lakes were proposed and adopted by the Board of Natural Resources in October, 1996. The Clean Lakes studies for Lakes Allatoona and Lanier, conducted by Kennesaw State College and the University of Georgia, respectively, were completed in 1999 and water quality standards adopted by the Board of Natural Resources in 2000.
In 2002 and 2003, lake standards monitoring was conducted April through October, at the specified lake locations on Lakes West Point, Jackson, Walter F. George, Allatoona Lanier and Carters in accordance with the lakes standards law. In addition, tributary sampling was conducted monthly. In addition to monitoring for the required parameters of chlorophyll a, pH, total nitrogen, phosphorus and fecal coliform bacteria, water quality profile data were collected at each lake monitoring station.
Fish Tissue Monitoring. The DNR fish tissue monitoring and consumption guidelines program is described in Chapter 6. This assessment project is focused on fish tissue sampling and analyses, risk-based data assessment, and annual publication of consumption guidance in Georgia's Freshwater & Saltwater Sport Fishing Regulations and in Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters. Fish tissue samples are collected in the fall from Georgia lakes and rivers, and analyzed in the winter and spring. Site-specific sampling in Georgia estuaries occurs between the spring and fall on a case specific basis. The sampling is conducted by either the GADNR Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), or the Coastal Resources Division (CRD), depending on whether the site is freshwater (WRD), or estuarine/marine waters (CRD). Samples are catalogued and transported to GAEPD or University of Georgia laboratories and results are reported to the GAEPD the following late summer or early fall. The data are assessed in the fall and winter and consumption guidance is updated each spring. The first risk-based consumption guidance was published in 1995.
In the fall of 2002 sampling was focused in the Savannah and Ogeechee River basins. In the fall of 2003 sampling was focused in the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla and St. Marys River basins. The data from the annual collections are utilized in reassessments that are incorporated annually into the Guidelines for Eating Fish For Georgia Waters and Georgia's Freshwater and Saltwater Sport Fishing Regulations.
Toxic Substance Stream Monitoring. The GAEPD has focused resources on the management and control of toxic substances in the State's waters for many years. Toxic substance analyses have been conducted on samples from selected trend monitoring stations since 1973. Wherever discharges were found to have toxic impacts or to include toxic pollutants, the GAEPD has incorporated specific limitations on toxic pollutants in NPDES discharge permits. In 1983 the GAEPD intensified toxic substance

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stream monitoring efforts. This expanded toxic substance stream monitoring project included facility effluent, stream, sediment, and fish sampling at specific sites downstream of selected industrial and municipal discharges. From 1983 through 1991, ten to twenty sites per year were sampled as part of this project. Future work will be conducted as a part of the River Basin Planning process.
Aquatic Toxicity Testing. In 1982 the GAEPD incorporated biomonitoring or aquatic toxicity testing in selected industrial NPDES permits. Biomonitoring requirements are currently addressed in all municipal and industrial NPDES permits. In January 1995, the GAEPD issued approved NPDES Reasonable Potential Procedures which further delineated required conditions for conducting whole effluent toxicity (WET) biomonitoring for municipal and industrial discharges. The GAEPD started conducting aquatic toxicity tests on municipal and industrial water pollution control plant effluents in 1985. In 1988, the GAEPD constructed laboratory facilities to support chronic and acute testing capabilities. All toxicity testing was conducted in accordance with appropriate USEPA methods. The aquatic biomonitoring project (ABP) was initially funded with Federal CWA Section 205(j) Grant money, and later under Section 604(b). Requests for State funding were proposed annually and were unsuccessful. Continued funding under Section 604(b) met with difficulties and absorption of costs into the State budget not possible with the State government redirection priorities and privatization initiatives that were implemented in 1995. When reorganization of the Water Protection Branch was finalized in June 1996, the resources of the ABP were redirected into monitoring and TMDL areas. It was decided that the ABP would be phased out over the FY1997 period with the aquatic toxicity testing laboratory to be closed down by July 1, 1997. In addition to funding and redirection issues, it was decided that toxicity testing work would be required of individual permittees in the future.
Coastal Monitoring. The majority of coastal monitoring is conducted by the Coastal Resources Division (CRD). This work includes the national coastal assessment program, beach water quality monitoring, estuarine nutrient monitoring, shellfish sanitation monitoring and monitoring for harmful algae including Pfiesteria. Monitoring work conducted by the CRD is discussed in Chapter 5.
Facility Compliance Sampling. In addition to surface water quality monitoring, the GAEPD conducts evaluations and compliance sampling inspections of municipal and industrial water pollution control plants and on industrial pretreatment systems. Compliance sampling inspections include the collection of 24-hour composite samples, and an evaluation of the permittee sampling and flow monitoring operations. In excess of 350 sampling inspections were conducted by the GAEPD staff in 2002-2003. The results were used, in part, to verify the validity of permittee self-monitoring data and as supporting evidence, as applicable, in enforcement actions. In 2002 this work was focused in the Savannah and Ogeechee River basins and in 2003 in the Ochlochonee, Suwannee, Satilla and St. Marys River basins in support of the River Basin Planning process.

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Surface Water Quality Summary
Data Assessment. Water quality data are assessed to determine if standards are met and if the waterbody supports its designated or classified water use. If monitoring data show that standards are not achieved, depending on the frequency standards are not met, the waterbody is said to be partially or not supporting the designated use. The data reviewed included GAEPD monitoring data, and data from other State, Federal, local governments, contracted Clean Lakes projects, and data from three electrical utility companies. Table 3-8 provides a list of agencies that contributed data for use in assessing water quality in this report.
The majority of coastal monitoring is conducted by the Coastal Resources Division. This work includes the national coastal assessment program, beach water quality monitoring, estuarine nutrient monitoring, shellfish sanitation monitoring and monitoring for harmful algae including Pfiesteria. Monitoring work conducted by the CRD is discussed in Chapter 5.
Appendix A includes lists of streams and rivers, lakes, and estuaries for which data have been assessed and indications are that designated uses for those waters are not fully supported. The lists are organized by river basin and include information on the location, data source, designated water use classification, criterion violated, potential cause, actions planned to alleviate the problem, and estimates of stream miles, lake acres and square miles of estuaries affected. The list is further coded to indicate status of each waterbody under several sections of the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA). Different sections of the CWA require states to assess water quality (Section 305(b)), to list waters with water quality standards violations for which no actions have been initiated and therefore a TMDL is needed (Section 303(d)), and to document waters with nonpoint source problems (Section 319).
The Appendix A waters are described in the following categories: waters supporting designated uses, waters partially supporting designated uses, and waters not supporting designated uses. Waters were placed on the partially or not supporting lists based on the following assessments.
Fecal Coliform Bacteria. Georgia water quality standards establish a fecal coliform bacteria criterion of a geometric mean (four samples collected over a 30-day period) of 200 MPN/100 ml for all waters in Georgia during the recreational season of May through October. This is the year-round standard for waters with the water use classification of recreation. For waters classified as drinking water, fishing, or coastal fishing, for the period of November through April, the fecal coliform bacteria criterion is a geometric

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mean (four samples collected over a 30-day period) of 1,000 per 100 ml and not to exceed 4,000 per 100 ml for any one sample.
The goal of fecal coliform sampling in 2002-2003 was to collect four samples in a thirty day period in each of four calendar quarters. If one geometric mean was in excess of the standard then the stream segment was placed on the partial support list. If more than one geometric mean was in excess of the standard the stream was placed on the not support list.

TABLE 3-8

CONTRIBUTORS OF WATER QUALITY DATA

FOR ASSESSMENT OF GEORGIA WATERS

GAEPD Watershed Planning and Monitoring Program

City of Gainesville

GAEPD Permitting and Compliance Program

City of LaGrange

GAEPD Brunswick District Office

City of Augusta

GAEPD Hazardous Waste Management Branch

City of Savannah

DNR Coastal Resources Division

Georgia Mountains RDC

DNR Wildlife Resources Division State University of West Georgia

City of Conyers Kennesaw State University

Gainesville College

Lake Blackshear Watershed Association

Georgia Institute of Technology

University of Georgia

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

LaGrange College/Auburn University

U.S. Geological Survey

Georgia Power Company

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Oglethorpe Power Company

U.S. Forest Service

South Carolina Electric & Gas Co.

Tennessee Valley Authority

South Carolina DHEC

Chatham County

Upper Etowah Adopt-A-Stream

Cobb County

Jones Ecological Research Center

DeKalb County

Alabama DEM

Douglas County WSA

City of College Park

Fulton County

Columbus Water Works

Gwinnett County

Columbus Unified Government

City of Clayton

St. Johns WMD

Cartersville

Town of Trion

Georgia Ports Authority

Clayton County Water Authority

Cherokee County

City of Atlanta

Central Savannah RDC

Middle Flint RDC

Heart of Georgia RDC

Southwire Company

Chattahoochee/Flint RDC

In some cases the number of samples was not adequate to calculate geometric means due to sampling or laboratory difficulties. In these cases, the USEPA recommends the use of a review criterion of 400 per 100 ml to evaluate sample results. This bacterial density (400 per 100 ml) was used to evaluate data from the months of May through October and the maximum criterion of 4,000 per 100 ml was used in assessing the data

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from the results of November through April when geometric mean data was not available. Thus, where geometric mean data was not available, waters were deemed not supporting uses when 26 percent or more of the samples had fecal coliform bacterial densities greater than the applicable review criteria (400 or 4,000 MPN/100 ml) and partially supporting designated uses when 11 to 25 percent of the samples were in excess of the review criterion.
Metals. In general, data on metals from any one given site are not frequent. As the data are infrequent, using the general evaluation technique of more than 25% exceedence to indicate nonsupport and 11%-25% exceedence to indicate partial support was not meaningful. Streams were placed in the not support category if multiple exceedences of state criteria occurred and the data were based on more than four samples per year. With less frequent sampling, streams with exceedences were placed on the partially supporting list. In addition, an asterisk is placed beside metals data in those cases where there is a minimal database. In 2002-2003, the goal was to collect metals samples in the winter and summer in the river basins of monitoring focus for comparison to water quality standards. Clean sampling techniques were used. If one sample was in excess of a standard, the stream segment was placed on the partial support list. If two samples indicated exceedence of water quality standards, the stream segment was placed on the not support list. This is in accordance with USEPA guidance which suggests listing if more than one sample exceeds the criteria.
Toxicity Testing/Toxic Substances. Data from GAEPD toxicity testing of water pollution control plant effluents were used to predict toxicity in the receiving stream at critical 7Q10 low flow conditions. Based on the effluent toxicity, receiving waters were evaluated as not supporting when one or more tests gave a clear indication of instream toxicity and as partially supporting when based on predicted instream toxicity. Effluent data for toxic substances were used to designate either partial support or non-support based on whether instream corroborating data were available. When instream data were available, the stream was determined to be not supporting. When instream data were not available, the stream was listed as partially supporting.
Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Temperature. When available data indicated that these parameters were out of compliance with state standards more than 25% of the time, the waters were evaluated as not supporting the designated use. Between 11% and 25% noncompliance resulted in a partially supporting evaluation. South Georgia blackwater streams were not evaluated for compliance with the state pH standards because these streams have naturally low pH.
Fish/Shellfish Guidelines. USEPA guidance for evaluating fish consumption guidelines formation for 305(b)/303(d) use support determinations has been to assess a water as fully supporting uses if fish can be consumed in unlimited amounts; as partially supporting if consumption needs to be limited; and, as not supporting if no consumption is recommended. Georgia followed this guidance in evaluating the fish consumption

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guidelines for the 2000 and earlier 305(b)/303(d) lists. This assessment methodology was followed again in developing the 2002 305(b)/303(d) List for all fish tissue contaminants except mercury. Mercury in fish tissue was assessed and a segment or waterbody was listed if the Trophic-Weighted Residue Value (as described in the October 19, 2001 GAEPD "Protocol"), was in excess of the new USEPA water quality criterion (Water Quality Criterion for the Protection of Human Health: Methylmercury, EPA-823-R-01-001, January 2001). The USEPA criteria represents a national approach to address what mercury levels are protective for fishing waters. For mercury, waters were placed on the partial support list if the calculated Trophic-Weighted Residue Value was greater than 0.3 g/g wet weight total mercury, and less than 2 g/g wet weight, and on the not support list if the value was greater than 2 g/g wet weight.
Biotic Data. The "Biota Impacted" designation in the "Criterion Violated" column indicates that studies showed a modification of the biotic community. Communities utilized were fish. Studies of fish populations by the DNR Wildlife Resources Division used the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) to identify affected fish populations. The IBI values were used to classify the population as Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor, or Very Poor. Stream segments with fish populations rated as "Poor" or "Very Poor" were included in the partially supporting list.
Evaluation of Use Support. Table 3-9 provides summary information from Appendix A on the total number of stream miles, lake acres, or square miles of estuaries that fall in each use support category. Separate totals are given for waterbodies that were monitored, for which the assessment is based on current water quality data, and waters that were evaluated, for which assessment was made based on older data, location, and/or professional judgment. Many additional streams, particularly in urban areas may not meet all standards, but monitoring resources are not adequate to sample all streams.
Assessment of Causes of Nonsupport of Designated Uses. There are many potential pollutants which may interfere with the designated use of a river, stream, lake, or estuary. These can be termed the causes of use nonsupport. Based on information presented in Appendix A, Table 3-10 summarizes the parameters of concern or the causes which contributed to nonsupport of water quality standards or designated uses of a particular waterbody.
Assessment of Potential Sources of Nonsupport of Designated Uses. Pollutants which impact waterbodies in Georgia may come from point or nonpoint sources. Point sources are discharges into waterways through discrete conveyances, such as pipes or channels. Municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities are the most common point sources. Point sources also include overflows of combined storm and sanitary sewers. Nonpoint sources are diffuse sources of pollution primarily associated with run off from the land following a rainfall event. Table 3-11 summarizes detailed information presented in Appendix A concerning the sources of pollutants which prevent

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achievement of water quality standards and use support in various waterbodies in Georgia.

TABLE 3-9 Evaluation of Use Support By Waterbody Type
2002-2003

Degree of Use Support

Streams/Rivers (miles)
Assessment Basis

Evaluated Monitored

Total

Supported

766

4,186

4,952

Partially Supported

160

3,460

3,602

Not Supported

120

3,149

3,269

TOTAL

1,046

10,795

11,841

Lakes/Reservoirs (acres)

Estuaries (sq. miles)

Assessment Basis

Assessment Basis

Evaluated Monitored Total Evaluated Monitored Total

978

297,386 298,364

741

20 761

20

41,568

41,588

0

4

4

0

56,900

56,900

0

89

89

998

395,854 396,852

741

113 854

Priorities for Action. The list of waters includes all waters for which available data indicate that water quality standards are or are not being met and designated uses are supported or not fully supported. This list of waters has become a comprehensive list of waters for Georgia incorporating the information requested by Sections 305(b), 303(d), 314, and 319 of the Federal CWA. As noted, waters listed on the partial and not supporting lists are active 305(b) waters. The list of lakes or reservoirs listed as partial or not supporting designated uses provides the information requested in Section 314 of the CWA. Waters with nonpoint sources identified as a potential cause of a standards violation are considered to provide the information requested in the CWA Section 319 nonpoint assessment. The 303(d) designation is described in the following paragraph.

The 303(d) list is a subset of the 305(b) listed waters. To develop the 303(d) list, the 305(b) list was reviewed and coded based on the guidance provided by the USEPA. Specifically, the August 13, 1992 and November 26, 1993 Memorandums from the USEPA Washington Office of Water titled, "Supplemental Guidance on Section 303(d) Implementation" and "Guidance for 1994 Section 303(d) Lists", were used. First, segments were identified where enforceable State, local or Federal requirements have led to or will lead to attainment of water quality standards. Segments where improvements were completed in 2002-2003 were assigned a "1" code and segments with ongoing action which will lead to attainment of water quality standards were assigned a "2" code under 303(d) status. A "3" code was assigned to segments where

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TMDLs have been developed and approved. The remaining segments are marked with an "X" and represent 303(d) listed waters for Georgia. In addition to these waters, the

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TABLE 3-10. Causes of Nonsupport of Designated

Uses By Waterbody Type

2002-2003

Cause Cateogry

Rivers/Streams (miles) Contribution to Impairment1

Fish Guidance Toxicity Pesticides Priority Organics Metals Ammonia PH Dissolved Oxygen ThermalModification Pathogens Biota Impacted Other Inorganics
Cause Category
Fish Guidance Toxicity Pesticides Priority Organics Metals PH Dissolved Oxygen ThermalModification Pathogens
Cause Category
Priority Organics Metals Dissolved Oxygen Pathogens Fish Guidance

Major2 768 10 0 1 3 0 19 833 0

Moderate/Minor3 677 36 0 0 34 0 136 941 9

2,631

1414

981

334

0

0

Lakes/Reservoirs (acres) Contribution to Impairment1

Major2
96,044 0 0 950 0 0 0 650

Moderate/Minor3
650 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

194

650

Estuaries (square miles) Contribution

to Impairment1

Major2

Moderate/Minor3

0

2

0

2

66

22

0

4

3

20

1 A water body may be affected by several different causes or sources and its size is counted in each relevant cause category. Thus totals will be significantly larger and will not sum to totals in Table 39 or Appendix A.
2 Major Contribution - A cause or source makes a major contribution to impairment if it is the only one responsible for less than full use support, or if it predominates over others.
3 Moderate/Minor - A cause or source makes a moderate/minor contribution to impairment if it is one of multiple causes responsible for less than full use support.

TABLE 3-11. Potential Sources of Nonsupport

of Designated Uses By Waterbody Type

2002-2003

Cause Cateogry

Rivers/Streams (miles) Contribution to Impairment1

Industrial Point Industrial Nonpoint Municipal Point Municipal Nonpoint Combined Sewer/ Overflows Urban Runoff/ Stormwater Hydropower/Habitat/ (Dam Release) Thermal Modification Nonpoint Source Agriculture Silviculture Resource Extraction Land Disposal Natural Sources
Cause Category
Industrial Point Industrial Nonpoint Municipal Point Municipal Nonpoint Urban Runoff/ Stormwater Nonpoint Sources
Cause Category
Industrial Point Industrial Nonpoint Municipal Point Urban Runoff/ Stormwater Nonpoint Sources Marina

Major2
0 38 55 1 23

Moderate/Minor3
66 207 103 11 70

1,584

306

11

2

0

0

4,727

213

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Lakes/Reservoirs (acres)

Contribution to Impairment1

Major2

Moderate/Minor3

650

0

55,950

0

0

0

0

0

194

28,633

13,061

28,633

Estuaries (square miles)

Contribution to Impairment1

Major2

Moderate/Minor3

0

92

1

4

0

88

0

70

0

66

0

0

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USEPA added waters to the Georgia 303(d) list on December 31, 1996, June 25, 1997, and June 18, 1999. Those waters are shown in Appendix B and are 303(d) listed waters. To summarize, the Georgia 303(d) list of waters is made up of those waters with an "X" in the column marked 303(d) in Appendix A and those waters in Appendix B.
Georgia is implementing a watershed approach to water resource management through River Basin Management Planning. This approach provides the framework and schedule for actions to address waters on the Georgia 303(d) list. This work is summarized in Chapter 2 of this report. Basin planning provides an opportunity to focus monitoring, assessment, problem prioritization, TMDL development, water resource protection strategy development and implementation resources in specific basins on an orderly five year rotating basis. Of course, significant problems may arise in basins other than the basins of focus and the GAEPD will continue to respond in an appropriate manner. Thus, a discussion for prioritization of the 305(b)/303(d) list must be made in the context of the river basin planning program and in the context of current actions underway to address water quality problems documented in the Georgia 305(b) report. The majority of resources will be directed to insuring the ongoing pollution control actions are completed and water quality improvements are achieved. This work applies to those waters which are identified as 305(b) waters and coded with a "2" in the 303(d) status column of the table. These stream segments while listed on the 305(b) report list are not segments on the Georgia 303(d) list in accordance with USEPA guidance as actions are ongoing which will resolve the issues. However, these streams are the highest priority waters as these segments will continue to require resources to complete actions and insure standards are achieved. These stream segments have been assigned priority one. This is evidenced by the "1" noted in the far right column titled priority on the listing.
Second priority was allocated to segments with multiple data points which showed metals or other toxic substance concentrations in excess of water quality standards and to segments in which dissolved oxygen concentration was an issue.
Third priority was assigned to waters where air deposition, urban runoff or general nonpoint sources caused fish consumption guideline listings, or poor fish communities, or fecal coliform bacteria, pH or temperature standards violations. Waters added to the Georgia 303(d) list by EPA were also assigned to third priority.
Several issues helped forge the rationale for priorities. First, strategies are currently in place to address many of the significant water quality problems across the state and significant resources will be required to ensure that these actions are completed. Second, a large percentage of waters for which no control strategy is currently in place are listed due to fish consumption guidelines

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or as a result of exceedence of criteria of fecal coliform bacteria due to urban runoff or nonpoint sources or atmospheric deposition. At the present time, the efficacy of the fecal coliform bacteria standard is in question in the scientific community, and there is no national strategy in place to address air deposition of mercury which may be the primary cause of fish consumption guidelines across the southeastern United States.
The Georgia River Basin Management Planning process provides the framework for the long-term schedule for developing TMDLs for 303(d) listed segments. The schedule includes the public proposal of TMDLs for the Savannah, and Ogeechee River Basins for 303(d) listed segments by June 30, 2004. This schedule is in concert with the agreements between the USEPA and the plaintiffs in the recent court case. The USEPA will continue to support the Georgia TMDL efforts and will be specifically responsible for TMDL development for the waters in Appendix B.
The lists in Appendix A and B will continue to reflect the segments where water quality data indicate compliance with or problems with achieving compliance with water quality standards. These segments will be removed when the actions have been taken and compliance attained. The list will grow and shrink based on these considerations and any new standard or approaches implemented in the future. This will also affect the 303(d) list as these entries will undergo changes along with the 305(b) list.

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Introduction

CHAPTER 4
Wetland Programs

Various assessments of Georgia's wetlands have identified from 4.9 to 7.2 million acres, including more than 600,000 acres of open water habitat found in estuarine, riverine, palustrine, and lacustrine environments. Estimates of wetland losses since colonial settlement beginning in 1733 and expanding over the next two and one-half centuries are between 20-25% of the original wetland acreage.

Georgia has approximately 100 miles of shoreline along the south Atlantic, with extensive tidal marshes separating the barrier island sequences of Pleistocene and Holocene age from the mainland. Georgia's coastline and tidal marshes are well preserved compared to other South Atlantic states.

Georgia's interior ranges in elevation from sea level to 4,788 feet at Brasstown Bald in the Blue Ridge Mountain Province. At the higher elevations, significant, pristine cool water streams originate and flow down steep to moderate gradients until they encounter lower elevations of the Piedmont Province. Many of the major tributaries originating in the mountains and piedmont have been impounded for hydropower and water supply reservoirs. These man-made lakes constitute significant recreational resources and valuable fishery habitat. At the fall-line, streams flowing southeasterly to the Atlantic, or south-southwesterly to the Gulf, have formed large floodplains as each encounters the soft sediments of the upper Coastal Plain.

Other significant wetlands found in the state are associated with blackwater streams originating in the Coastal Plain, lime sink-holes, spring heads, Carolina bays, and the great Okefenokee Swamp, a bog-swamp measuring approximately one-half million acres in south Georgia and north Florida. The swamp drains to the east by the St. Marys River into the Atlantic, and to the west by the Suwannee River into the Gulf.

The lower Coastal Plain has frequently been referred to as Atlantic Coastal Flatwoods, where seven tidal rivers headwater in the ancient shoreline terraces and sediments of Pleistocene age. Scattered throughout the flatwoods are isolated depressional wetlands and drainageways dominated by needle-leaved and broad-leaved tree species adapted to long hydroperiods.

Due to considerable variation in the landscape in topography, hydrology, geology, soils, and climatic regime, the state has one of the highest levels of

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biodiversity in the eastern United States. The state provides a diversity of habitats for nearly 4,000 vascular plant species and slightly less that 1,000 vertebrate species. Numerous plant and animal species are endemic to the state. Many of the rarer species are dependent upon wetlands for survival. Extent of Wetland Resources
Assessments of wetland resources in Georgia have been carried out with varying degrees of success by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, the USFWS National Wetland Inventory, and the state Department of Natural Resources. The extent and location of specific tidal marsh types have been reported in numerous scientific papers and reports. Estimates of other specific wetlands types, such as bottomland hardwood swamps, are also reported in studies on a regional scale.
Hydric soils as mapped in county soil surveys are useful indicators of the location and extent of wetlands for the majority of Georgia counties with complete surveys. The dates of photography from which the survey maps are derived vary widely across the state. There is an ongoing effort by NRCS to develop digital databases at the soil mapping unit level, but most of these data sets are not yet available. However, soil surveys have proven useful in wetland delineation in the field and in the development of wetland inventories. County acreage summaries provide useful information on the distribution of wetlands across the state.
The National Wetland Inventory (NWI) of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service utilizes soil survey information during photo-interpretation in the development of the 7.5 minute, 1:24,000 scale products of this nationwide wetland inventory effort. Wetlands are classified according to the Cowardin system, providing some level of detail as to the characterization of individual wetlands. Draft products are available for the 1,017 7.5 minute quadrangles in the state of Georgia, and many final map products have been produced. All of these quadrangles are available in a digital format, and an effort is underway to combine them into a single, seamless database for Georgia. Although not intended for use in jurisdictional determinations of wetlands, these products are invaluable for site surveys, trends analysis, and landuse planning.
A complementary database was completed by Georgia DNR in 1991 and is based on classification of Landsat TM satellite imagery. Due to the limitations of remote sensing technology, the classification scheme is simplified in comparison to the Cowardin system used with NWI. Integration of this digital information with Geographic Information System technology is straight-forward. The inclusion of other upland landcover classes adds to the utility of this database in environmental analysis and landuse planning.

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A summary of wetland acreages derived from this database is as follows: open water = 647,501; emergent wetlands = 351,470; scrub/shrub wetlands = 387,793; forested wetlands = 3,194,593; salt marshes = 241,242; brackish marshes = 91,951; and tidal flats/beaches = 14,750. The total wetland acreage based on Landsat TM imagery is 4,929,300 acres or 13.1% of Georgia's land area. This data underestimates the acreage of forested wetlands in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain, where considerable acreage may have been classified as hardwood or mixed forest. The data overestimates emergent and scrub/shrub wetlands in the pine flatwoods because of wet surface soils associated with clear-cuts or young pine plantations. The data under-estimates the tidal marshes and tidal flats because of a high tide stage that flooded considerable acreage. The targeted accuracy level for the overall landcover assessment using Landsat imagery was 85%. However, the classification error was not necessarily distributed equally throughout all classes.
Georgia reported landcover statistics by county in 1996 that included acreage occurrences for 15 landcover classes derived from early spring Landsat TM satellite imagery from 1988-1990. This document (Project Report 26) and accompanying landcover map of the state at a scale of 1:633,600 ( 1 inch = 10 miles) are available to the public from the Georgia Geologic Survey, Map Sales office.
Similar Landsat-based landcover databases have been produced with more recent imagery. The Federal government completed mapping in Georgia using imagery form the mid-1990s as part of the National Landcover Database. The Georgia Gap Analysis Program, supported in part by Georgia DNR, has completed an 18-class database using imagery from 1997-1999. Both these databases include wetland landcover classes.Wetland Trends In Georgia
The loss of wetlands has become an issue of increasing concern to the general public because of associated adverse impacts to flood control, water quality, aquatic wildlife habitat, rare and endangered species habitat, aesthetics, and recreation.. Historically, we have often treated wetlands as "wastelands" that needed "improvement". Today, "swamp reclamation" acts are no longer funded or approved by Congress and wetland losses are in part lessened. However, we still lack accurate assessments for current and historic wetland acreages. For this reason, we have varying accounts of wetland losses, which provide some confusion in the public's mind as to trends.
The most recent (1991) and precise measure of Georgia's wetland acreage has been developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wetland Inventory efforts. This statistically sound study was based upon 206 sample

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plots of four (4) square miles each that were delineated and measured from 1975 and 1982 aerial photography. The total acreage of wetlands for Georgia was estimated at 7,714,285 acres in 1982 as compared to earlier estimates of 5.2 million acres. This new estimate is considerably higher than the total shown in a 1984 trend study and is due in part to better quality photography.
Georgia's total wetland area covers an estimated 20 percent of the State's landscape. This total (7.7 mil. ac.) includes approximately 367,000 acres of estuarine wetlands and 7.3 million acres of palustrine wetlands (forested wetlands, scrub-shrub, and emergents). A net wetland loss due to conversion of approximately 78,000 acres was estimated for the seven (7) year period, while 455,000 acres were altered by timber harvesting. These latter estimates are less reliable than the total acreage and are slightly higher than the 1984 study. Regardless of the method used to measure total acreage or wetland losses, Georgia still retains the highest percentage of pre-colonial wetland acreage of any southeastern state. The state lacks the resources to conduct an independent monitoring program on the frequency of wetland alterations by class or type.
All dredge and fill activities in freshwater wetlands are regulated in Georgia by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE). Joint permit procedures between the COE and DNR, including public notices, are carried out in tidally influenced wetlands. Separate permits for alterations to salt marsh and the State's waterbottoms are issued by the Coastal Marshlands Protection Committee, a State permitting authority. Enforcement is carried out by the State, COE and EPA in tidal waters, and by the COE and EPA in freshwater systems. Normal agricultural and silvicultural operations are exempted under Section 404 regulations with certain conditions.
Integrity of Wetland Resources
Wetland Use Support. In Georgia, wetland uses are tied to both the state water quality standards through the definition of "water" or "waters of the state", and to established criteria for wetlands protection (Chap. 391-3-16-03) associated with the Comprehensive Planning Act of 1989 (O.C.G.A. 12-2-8).
The definition of "water" or "waters of the State" (Chap. 391-3-6) means "any and all rivers, streams, creeks, branches, lakes, reservoirs, ponds, drainage systems, springs, wells, wetlands, and all other bodies of surface or subsurface water, natural or artificial, lying within or forming a part of the boundaries of the state which are not entirely confined and retained completely upon the property of a single individual partnership, or corporation". The waters use classifications and general criteria for all waters are discussed elsewhere in this report.

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The Comprehensive Planning Act requires all local governments and regional development centers to recognize or acknowledge the importance of wetlands for the public good in the landuse planning process. All local governments (municipalities and county governments) were required, beginning in 1990 and ending in 1995, to meet minimum criteria for wetland use and protection. Each government is required to map wetlands using DNR or NWI maps, and describe how wetlands will be protected from future development.
The wetlands protection criteria define freshwater "wetlands" as "those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas (33 CFR 32.93)". This definition is not intended to include "coastal marshlands" or tidal salt marshes as defined by the Coastal Marshlands Protection Act. The minimum area of wetlands to be identified in landuse planning is not to exceed five acres.
The categories of freshwater wetlands and aquatic habitats to be identified, defined and mapped by the State and included in landuse planning are open water, non-forested emergent, scrub/shrub, forested and altered wetlands. Landuse plans must address at least the following considerations with regard to wetland classes identified in the database:
Whether impacts to an area would adversely affect the public health, safety, welfare, or the property of others.
Whether the area is unique or significant in the conservation of flora and fauna including threatened, rare or endangered species.
Whether alteration or impacts to wetlands will adversely affect the function, including the flow or quality of water, cause erosion or shoaling, or impact navigation.
Whether impacts or modification by a project would adversely affect fishing or recreational use of wetlands.
Whether an alteration or impact would be temporary in nature.
Whether the project contains significant state historical and archaeological resources, defined as "Properties On or Eligible for the National Register of Historic Places".

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Whether alteration of wetlands would have measurable adverse impacts on adjacent sensitive natural areas.
Where wetlands have been created for mitigation purposes under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, such wetlands shall be considered for protection.
The mapping of altered wetlands defined as "areas with hydric soils that have been denuded of natural vegetation and put to other uses, such as pasture, row crops, etc., but that otherwise retain certain wetland functions and values" has not been completed due to a lack of resources. It is unlikely that there will be any significant resources committed at the state or federal levels for monitoring wetland alterations and conversions in the near future.
The acceptable uses of wetlands without long term impairment of function were identified in wetland protection criteria as the following:
Timber production and harvesting. The socio-economic value of wetlands for consumptive uses such as timber and wood products production is extremely high. High quality hardwoods are produced along the major river corridors throughout the state. There are established "best management practices" for harvesting in wetlands; the level of compliance with these voluntary standards is monitored by the Georgia Forestry Commission in cooperation with the DNREPD.
Wildlife and fisheries management. Wetlands are an invaluable resource, both ecologically and economically. They are among the state's most biologically productive ecosystems and are crucial as habitats for wildlife. Wetlands function as essential breeding, spawning, nursery, nesting, migratory, and/or wintering habitat for much of the migratory and resident fauna. More than 40% of the state threatened and endangered plant and animal species depend heavily on wetlands. Coastal wetlands function as nursery and spawning grounds for 6090% of commercial fin and shellfish catches. In addition, high levels of plant productivity in coastal wetlands contribute to corresponding levels of invertebrate organisms upon which fish and other animals feed. Plant decomposition in wetlands is also important for waterfowl production, which contributes to the economy through hunting-related expenditures.
Water Quality Protection. Wetlands help to maintain water quality and improve degraded water by removing, transforming, or retaining nutrients; processing chemical and organic wastes and pollutants; and reducing sediment loads. Wetlands function as sediment, toxic substance, and nutrient traps, performing

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functions similar to a waste treatment plant. Wetland vegetation filters and retains sediments which otherwise enter lakes, streams, and reservoirs, often necessitating costly maintenance dredging activities. Wetlands may also perform similar purification functions with respect to ground water. Those wetlands hydrologically connected to ground water could also be a source of recharge for underground water supplies, in which case the natural settling and filtering of pollutants would increase the purity of the water resource. As with any filter, wetlands can be damaged, overloaded, or made nonfunctional. Wetlands conservation and careful management of point and non-point pollutants can provide good wetland filtration of materials.
Recreation. The non-consumptive uses of wetlands may contribute most significantly and positively to quality of life, yet these uses are often undervalued or unrecognized altogether. Wetlands are areas of great diversity and beauty and provide open space for recreational and visual enjoyment. They support a myriad of recreational activities including boating, swimming, birdwatching, and photography. In addition, tidal, coastal, and inland wetlands provide educational opportunities for nature observation and scientific study.
Natural water quality treatment or purification. (See wastewater treatment above). Maintaining the biological and ecological integrity of wetlands is essential to the capitalization of these natural systems for the improvement of water quality and quantity. The polluting, filling, silting, channelizing, draining, dredging, and converting to other uses of wetlands are destructive to the ecological functions of wetlands.
Other uses permitted under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Such uses must have an overwhelming public interest. Unacceptable uses of wetlands include:
Receiving areas for toxic or hazardous waste or other contaminants.
Hazardous or sanitary waste landfills.
Other uses unapproved by local governments.
The criteria established by the State for freshwater wetlands are designed to assist in the identification and protection of wetlands, and do not constitute a state or local permit program. The protection of coastal marshlands, seashores, and tidal waterbottoms is described under the Estuary and Coastal Assessment section of this report.

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Wetland Monitoring. The state maintains monitoring and enforcement procedures for estuarine marshes under authority of the Coastal Marshlands Protection Act of 1970. Monthly or bimonthly over-flights are made of the Georgia coastline for potential violations. Restoration and penalties are provided for in the Act.
The State does not maintain a specific monitoring program for freshwater wetlands because of the size of the area (>37 million acres), lack of resources, and weak public support for a state-managed regulatory program. At this time no assessment of costs has been made for establishing any monitoring of wetland changes for the entire state.
Additional Wetlands Protection Activities
Georgia is protecting its wetlands through aggressive land acquisition, public education, land use planning, regulatory programs, and wetland restoration. Since 1987, the state has acquired roughly 200,000 acres through program expansion and the Preservation 2000 and RiverCare 2000 acquisition efforts. Additional protection to wetlands is provided either directly or indirectly by several statutes listed below, but described elsewhere in this report. These state laws are as follows:
Coastal Marshlands Protection Act Shore Protection Act 401 Water Quality Certification Water Quality Control Act Ground Water Use Act Safe Drinking Water Act Erosion and Sedimentation Control Act Metropolitan Rivers Protection Act
Land Acquisition. Recent land acquisition activities that represent significant protection of wetland acreage include Chickasawhatchee Swamp WMA in southwest Georgia, where combined wetland and upland acreage totals 19,680 acres. In the Altamaha River basin, a total of 3,600 acres containing significant floodplain acreage is jointly managed by DNR and The Nature Conservancy at Moody Forest Natural Area. Preservation by DNR of a Carolina bay at Big Dukes Pond NA added 1,220 acres, including a wood stork rookery site. Other wetland acres have recently been protected through the establishment of Conasauga River Natural Area in northwest Georgia.
Education And Public Outreach. WRD has one full-time person involved in aquatic education, providing training for educators in wetland values and acting

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as a resource person for developing and coordinating teaching materials. The Aquatic Education Program consists of three key components: Youth Education, Adult Education, and Kids Fishing. Youth Education involves training educators to use Aquatic Project Wild (APW), which consists of instructional workshops and supplementary conservation curriculum materials for teachers of K-12 grade age children. About 1,000 educators are trained annually to use APW in the classroom. Adult Education consists primarily of producing educational materials such as the annual Freshwater and Saltwater Sport Fishing Regulations, Reservoir and Southeast Rivers Fishing Predictions, Small Georgia Lakes Open to Public Fishing, Introduction to Trout Fishing, news releases, brochures, radio Public Service Announcements, videos, and staff presentations to sportsmen and civic organizations, as well as large events. The purpose of Kids Fishing Events (KFEs) is to introduce youth and their families to the joys of recreational fishing. The Aquatic Education Program touches tens of thousands of youths and adults each year, bringing these people closer to the environment, and teaching them conservation principles that are important to sustaining wetlands and healthy fish populations.
State Protected Species in Wetlands. With assistance from the USFWS, Section 6 Federal Aid Program, and USDA-FS Stewardship Program, WRD developed and published a descriptive handbook of Georgia's 103 protected plant species that include endangered, threatened, unusual, and rare plant species found in the state. Forty percent of the protected species are dependent on wetland or aquatic habitats in the vast majority known occurrences. The "Protected Plants of Georgia" book includes illustrations, descriptions, threats to species or their habitats, range in adjoining states, historical notes, and recommendations for management of protected species habitats. The protected plant book has been distributed to all DNR personnel and wildlife biologists involved in the management of state properties. It has been distributed to the Georgia Forestry Commission, USDA-Natural Resource Conservation Service, Forest Service, USFWS, Corps of Engineers, US EPA, major utility companies, forest products corporations, consulting biologists, educators, and private citizens. The book calls the public's attention to the need to protect wetlands on private property as well as public property in the state. In addition, the following species are subjects of continuing research funded through Section 6 USFWS grant-in-aid programs:
Loggerhead sea turtle - nest survey and protection, educational material Wood stork - aerial surveys of rookeries and educational material Bald eagle - nest surveys, monitoring, and management Manatee - comprehensive management plan implementation, investigate
and analyze habitat use and movements Wood stork - ecology of coastal colonies

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Listed aquatic species - Conasauga River corridor identification and mapping of essential habitats
Listed animal species - protected animal book for the State of Georgia (111 species)
Goldline darter - life history and status in Coosawattee River system Tennessee Yellow-eyed Grass - surveys for undocumented populations Whorled Sunflower - habitat management plan development Pitcherplant Bogs - habitat management plan development Swamp Buckthorn - status survey
Federal funds made available through USFWS were used to complete an assessment of Carolina bays in Georgia. A combination of aerial photography and field surveys were used to priorize these wetlands for value in protecting wetland functions and in providing significant habitat to support wetlanddependant ecosystems. A final report on this effort will be available in 2004.
Managing Wetlands on State WMAs, PFAs, Parks, Heritage Preserves, and Natural Areas. M.A.R.S.H. Project. Georgia DNR-WRD has a cooperative agreement with Ducks Unlimited (DU) for the purpose of acquiring, developing, restoring, or enhancing waterfowl habitat. A major aspect of this agreement is the M.A.R.S.H. program (Matching Aid to Restore States Habitat). Under the MARSH program, 7.5% of the money raised by DU in Georgia is made available as matching funds for work to develop, improve, or restore waterfowl habitat.
Since 1985, 1.2 million dollars have been spent on habitat projects in the state of Georgia involving thousands of acres of wetlands. Completed projects include:

Altamaha WMA - 4,500 acres Ansley-Hodges Memorial Marsh - 42 acres B.F. Grant WMA - 45 acres Crockford-Pigeon Mtn WMA - 35 acres Fishing Creek WMA - 50 acres Horse Creek WMA - 110 acres Mayhaw WMA - 45 acres Rum Creek WMA - 25 acres

Arrowhead - 28 acres Blanton Creek WMA - 50 acres Clark Hill - 70 acres Dyar Pasture - 60 acres Grand Bay WMA - 8,730 acres Joe Kurz WMA - 50 acres Oconee WMA - 150 acres West Point WMA - 20 acres

Assessment of DNR-Managed Wetlands. In 1990, while developing a state wetland conservation plan and strategy for mitigation of impacts from water supply reservoirs and public fishing lakes, Georgia DNR/WRD made an assessment of wetlands on DNR-managed state-owned lands. As part of this

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assessment, an effort was made to identify degraded wetland acreage suitable for mitigation. Degraded wetlands were identified as having potentials for restoration or enhancement of wetland functions and values.
Table 4-1 summarizes DNR-managed lands (as of 1990) by various categories. This plan was developed by DNR and Law Environmental, Inc. to mitigate potential impacts from future development of regional water supply reservoirs and public fishing areas. DNR still has under study and evaluation a potential regional water supply reservoir in the Tallapoosa River basin. To date there has been implementation of mitigation on state lands at a mitigation site at Horse Creek WMA for wetlands losses associated with the construction of the Dodge County PFA. Mitigation is being pursued for wetland impacts associated with the development of a public fishing area at Ocmulgee WMA.

TABLE 4-1 ASSESSMENT OF DNR LANDS (1990).

Categories
WMA/PFA Sites Park Sites Other Sites*

Total Acreage

Total Wetland Acreage

128,106 43,850 58,712
230,668

38,754 6,158
12,126
57,038

Acreage Suitable for Mitigation

Restoration 1,782 509 83
2,374

Enhancement 9,749 86 2,322
12,157

*Includes natural areas, heritage preserves, and some barrier islands (Ossabaw, Sapelo)

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CHAPTER 5
ESTUARY AND COASTAL PROGRAMS
Background
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Coastal Resources Division (CRD) primarily conducts monitoring and management of Georgia's coastal environments. The Coastal Resources Division operates the Coastal Management program and the Shellfish Sanitation program; manages recreational and commercial fisheries; and reviews applications for permits under the Coastal Marshlands Protection Act and Shore Protection Act. CRD also oversees several EPA wetland protection development grants. The DNR Wildlife Resources (WRD) and Environmental Protection Divisions (GAEPD) each play additional roles in this effort and interact with various agencies on management of Georgia's coastal areas. The Georgia University System conducts research on estuarine and coastal habitats from Skidaway Oceanographic Institute in Savannah and the University of Georgia Marine Institute on Sapelo Island.
Water Quality Monitoring
The GAEPD monitors estuarine water quality as part of its long-term trendmonitoring network. Additional intensive surveys have been conducted with major studies for the North River, Satilla River, Brunswick/ Turtle Rivers, North Newport River, and Savannah River and several estuarine sites have been included in the GAEPD toxics monitoring projects. Monitoring of estuaries and coastal waters is also being conducted, as these areas are the focus of monitoring efforts associated with the River Basin Management Planning Program.
The GAEPD monitoring programs have included sampling for the presence of potentially toxic materials in water, sediment, fish, oysters, shrimp, and blue crabs. To date, only one site sampled as part of the toxics monitoring has revealed metals or organic compounds at problem concentrations. Based on the sampling at this site near Brunswick, a seafood consumption advisory was issued. This advisory is noted in Chapter 6.
Coastal Resources Division (CRD) provides enhanced water quality monitoring through implementation of the Comprehensive Coastal Monitoring Project. CRD staff monitor water, sediment, and biological tissue quality for both non-point and point source contaminants in estuarine and near shore coastal waters. Four distinct monitoring programs are administered by CRD staff to accomplish the goals of the comprehensive Coastal Monitoring Program. Two programs,

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Shellfish Sanitation and Beach Monitoring, are concerned with public health. The other two programs, Nutrient Monitoring and the National Coastal Assessment are designed to generate baseline data for monitoring trends.
Shellfish Sanitation Program
CRD's Shellfish Sanitation Program monitors the quality of Georgia's shellfish waters for harmful bacteria that might affect the safety of shellfish for human consumers. Nine (9) harvest areas are in production along the coast that are designated for recreational picking of oysters and clams by the general public. An additional fifteen (15) harvest areas are designated for the commercial harvest of oysters and clams. Table 5-1 provides information on the location and size of areas approved in Georgia for shellfish harvest.
The Shellfish Sanitation Program is funded by the state of Georgia and consists of water quality monitoring, permitting shellfish harvesters, sanitary surveys, and reports to the Food and Drug Administration. The Program is administered under the authority of OCGA 27-4-190, which specifically details the law as it pertains to shellfish harvest.
The National Shellfish Sanitation Program requires that states show that shellfish harvest areas are "not subject to contamination from human and/or animal fecal matter in amounts that in the judgment of the State Shellfish Control Authority may present an actual or potential hazard to public health." National standards further require the state to regularly collect water samples from each approved harvest area and to perform certain analytical procedures to ensure that the area is below the established fecal coliform threshold. Waters approved for shellfish harvest must have a geometric mean that does not exceed the threshold set forth by the FDA.
Water Quality sampling occurs monthly at seventy-two (72) stations in five (5) counties on the coast including Chatham, Liberty, McIntosh, Glynn, and Camden counties. These stations are located to give good coverage of all the approved harvest areas along the coast.
Permitting is required for all leaseholders and pickers engaging in the commercial harvest of shellfish in the state of Georgia. Additionally, certification of shellfish seed suppliers is done by CRD to ensure that all products entering the State for mariculture purposes has been tested by a pathology laboratory for a variety of common shellfish diseases.
Beach Monitoring Program

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The Beach Monitoring Program was developed to protect swimmer health. Since 1999, CRD has monitored Georgia's popular swimming beaches on Tybee, St. Simons, Jekyll, and Sea Island for fecal coliform bacteria.
The Federal Clean Water Act was amended in 2000 to include the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act (PL 106-284); the Federal Clean Water Act includes significant new swimmer protection provisions. The
TABLE 5-1 LOCATION AND SIZE OF AREAS APPROVED FOR SHELLFISH HARVEST

County Chatham

Approved 2,903 acres

Leased 25

Public 1,403 acres

Bryan/Liberty McIntosh

Classification in progress
20,277 acres

Classification in progress
15,157 acres

Classification in progress
5,120 acres

Glynn/Camden

17,511 acres

9902 acres

7,609 acres

BEACH Act requires states to adopt water quality criteria utilizing Enterococcus bacteria as the standard indicator for salt-water swimming beaches. The Act also requires states to develop procedures for notifying the swimming public when high levels of bacteria are found.
In March 2004, CRD entered into a new phase of beach monitoring and public notification based on EPA's recommended levels of Enterococcus bacteria for marine recreational waters. CRD has worked in partnership with local governments, the Jekyll Island Authority, and the Public Health Districts to develop procedures to notify the public about elevated bacteria levels. Public advisory signage has been installed at beach access points on Jekyll, St. Simons, and Tybee Islands. The Health Districts have prepared templates for press releases to issue health advisories in the event of high bacteria levels.
CRD has placed beach information on their web site at http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us/ and has partnered with Earth911 to show current beach conditions on their web site at http://georgia.earth911.org/usa/WaterQuality/default.asp?cluster=2 .

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Because the state water quality standard for marine waters is based on a fecal coliform standard, CRD will continue to monitor beach waters for the presence of fecal coliform bacteria as well as for the Enterococcus bacteria.
Nutrient Monitoring Program
The Nutrient Monitoring Program is an effort funded by the state of Georgia to assess the nutrient loads in our sounds and estuaries. High nutrient loads have been linked to outbreaks of harmful algal blooms in other states and can result in large kills of fish and other marine life as well as human sickness. Nutrient monitoring began on March 1, 2000 and is a continuous program designed to establish trends for nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen, total dissolved phosphorus, ortho phosphate, and silicate. Nutrient samples are collected in three major coastal rivers (Ogeechee, Altamaha, and St. Marys) at six sites in each river. This sampling occurs monthly and provides data for the upper estuary, lower salinity environments. Moving seaward, nutrient samples are collected at 30 of the 72 shellfish sample sites. This provides nutrient and fecal coliform bacteria data from 30 sites in our tidal rivers and sounds. To capture nutrient data for our lower sounds, samples are collected at 24 sites in conjunction with the monthly shrimp and crab assessment. The Altamaha and Doboy Sounds, which are not routinely sampled on the shrimp and crab assessment, are sampled at twelve (12) stations in conjunction with the Altamaha River. Sample collection for nutrients occurs monthly at 84 stations on the coast and is creating a baseline dataset for nutrients in the coastal waters of Georgia.
National Coastal Assessment
The final coastal monitoring program administered by CRD is the most comprehensive. The National Coastal Assessment Program, formerly known as the National Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP), was created in 1988 by the U.S. EPA in cooperation with other federal agencies to provide basic answers relating to environmental problems impacting the Nation's ecological resources. Coastal Resources Division acquired funding from the EPA in 2000 to begin a five year pilot study in which 50 selected sites are sampled each year on the Georgia coast for a core suite of indicators including water quality parameters, sediment chemistry, sediment toxicity, benthic community composition, fish community composition, fish pathology, and contaminants in fish. EPA randomly selects these sample sites and the sampling occurs during the months of July and August each year. This specific time frame, sample site design, and sampling protocol allows each state to view a comparable "snapshot" of environmental conditions. The purpose of this monitoring initiative is to establish a baseline of environmental conditions in estuaries of the coastal states

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as part of a national survey of estuarine environmental health. The first two-year report on this program is scheduled for completion during the spring of 2004.
Each of these four programs has specific purposes and is designed to meet the needs of a changing coastal environment. The overall goal of these monitoring efforts is to enhance the ability of scientists, resource managers, and the citizens of coastal Georgia to make proper management decisions about coastal resource issues.
Commercial and Recreational Fisheries Programs
The CRD has several projects whose purposes are to determine the status of exploited stocks of commercially and recreationally important fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The Commercial Fisheries Program conducts monthly assessment trawls (blue crabs, shrimp, and beginning in 2003, finfish) in the Wassaw, Ossabaw, Sapelo, St. Simons, St. Andrew and Cumberland Sound systems. This sampling is used to evaluate the abundance, size composition, reproductive status of penaeid shrimp and blue crab for the opening and closing of fishing seasons and areas. In addition, information collected on finfish and other invertebrate species since 2003, provides a broad ecologically based evaluation of species' abundance, distribution, and diversity in these sound systems. Information is also obtained on the commercial landings by species of fish and shellfish harvested each month in Georgia's coastal waters. The Recreational Fisheries Program conducts stock assessments on selected marine sport fish (i.e. spotted sea trout and red drum) and conducts fishery-independent monitoring of estuarine species. The Recreational Fisheries Program also conducts the intercept portion of the Marine Recreational Fisheries Statistics Survey in cooperation with the National Marine Fisheries Service.
Total annual commercial landings in Georgia have ranged from 7.40 to 18 .11 million pounds of product over the 10 year period from 1994 to 2003, with an annual average of 10.86 million pounds. The species composition of reported landings has varied substantially. For example, prior to 1980 there were no reported landings of whelks (Busycon sp.) in coastal Georgia. A market became established in the early 1980's, with landings peaking in the late 80's with over one million pounds of raw meat (3 million pounds of shell stock), making the state the top producer of whelks or conchs in the nation. This fishery developed as an alternative to shrimp trawling for roughly 40 vessels on an annual basis. By 2003, landings fell to 90,169 pounds of raw meat (270,507 pounds of shell stock). The population dynamics of whelks are poorly understood, but preliminary examinations of landings have shown to be inversely related to shrimp productivity. A slight trend for the fishery to land smaller animals has been noted. As landings declined, so has participation, with only two trawler

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license registrations indicating intent to fish for whelk during the 2003/04-license year.
Penaeid shrimps are the most valuable catch in Georgia commercial landings, typically totaling over 17 million dollars (4.23 million pounds of tails) in unadjusted, ex-vessel value during recent years. Catches are composed primarily of white shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus) during the fall, winter and spring, and brown shrimp (Farfantepenaeus aztecus) during the summer. These shrimp spawn in oceanic waters, but depend on the salt marsh wetlands to foster their juvenile and sub-adult stages. White shrimp landings have varied over the last 40 years with no overall trend. Research has shown that densities of spawning stock, and to a lesser extent fall harvest, respond strongly to cold air outbreaks during the early winter which produce wide scale kills of white shrimp, and to a suite of environmental variables impacting the salt marsh ecosystem which produce a range of growing conditions. Winter kills have been associated with freezes 1984, 1989, and 2000. With favorable environmental conditions and short maturation period, the stocks rebounded each time within 18 months.
A disease called black gill, caused by a ciliated protozoan, has impacted shrimp in several recent years. It was first observed in 1996 in the southern portion of the state and was speculated to be caused by freshets associated with Hurricane Fran and Tropical Storm Josephine. The disease occurred again in 1999, 2000, and again in 2002. The disease appears to progress from north to south, first appearing in Wassaw Sound in August and being most prevalent in September. The disease seems to dissipate by December. Infection rates in 2002 were the highest ever recorded, with the coast-wide annual rate at 33.6%. The life cycle of this protozoan is not completely understood, and its impact on shrimp survival is uncertain. However, in 2002, spring white shrimp catches were above normal through August, and have been 50% the long-term average since. Although catch rates from fisheries independent monitoring surveys appear to have a negative relationship with infection rates, this relationship is not statistically significant. Research is needed to understand this organism's life cycle and the environmental factors that cause it to proliferate in some years but not others.
Trends in the brown shrimp fishery present a different picture. While recent landings and experimental catches have varied with no apparent pattern, the long term (40 year) trend in brown shrimp landings has been downward. Several alternative hypotheses bear examination. Reported declines in brown shrimp production may reflect the effects of a shrinking range due to land use practices, and climatological changes. Conditions for juvenile growth and survival may have been altered by a changing climate or direct and indirect alteration to nursery grounds (losses or changes in the quality of fresh and salt water wetlands). Additionally, possible misclassification of brown shrimp by Port Agents may be a factor in the earlier time series of the reported landings. Although highly unlikely

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with current fishing technology and economic conditions, over fishing of the spawning stock may be resulting in poorer recruitment to Georgia's nursery grounds. Some combination of factors may be influencing stock abundance. Economic conditions in all domestic shrimp fisheries are declining, primarily due to low unit prices kept down by high volumes of imported product, and by increasing costs of operation.
Reported annual blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) landings have declined significantly from earlier landings, with landings in recent years being nearly 80% below the historic average. Blue crabs live longer than penaeid shrimps (3-4 years versus 1-2 years), and also exhibit less extreme fluctuations in annual abundance from one year to the next. Reported 2003 commercial landings (1.85 million pounds) were down 76% the 30 averages of 8.1 million pounds. The exact cause of these reduced landings is unknown at this time, but is possibly linked to reduced abundance resulting from precipitation variations (five year drought), wetlands drainage patterns which in turn affect discharge rates in the coastal zone, and a disease called Hematodinium which is more prevalent in higher salinity waters. In addition, non-reporting of commercial landings is considered to be problematic in evaluating true population declines versus missing landings.
Economic conditions in the crab fishery are poor. With landings since 1996 all below the 30-year average, and five consecutive years of declining harvest (four of which were new record lows), the industry is facing a disaster. As a result, the Marine Fisheries Section has prepared documentation that was forward to, and signed by the governor on December 11, 2002, declaring a blue crab disaster as a result of drought and disease. On May 8th 2003, the National Marine Fisheries Service declared the Georgia blue crab industry a fishery disaster. Unfortunately, to date, attempts have been unsuccessful in securing economic assistance for crabbers and research funds to better understand the blue crab population dynamics.
Total finfish landings have increased over time. This has been affected by the re-establishment of an offshore fleet in Georgia during the late 1970's. Snapper, grouper, porgy, king mackerel, sharks, wreckfish, and associated species have contributed to the trend. Some of these species are currently in an over-fished state and are under intensive management. Others, such as king mackerel, have responded positively to state and federal management. American shad populations in the Altamaha River have fluctuated over the past 30 years. Research conducted in 1967 and 1968 generated population size estimates, and the shad run of 1.9 million fish in 1968 was the largest of the time series examined. Additional research conducted since 1982 has been able to provide updated population estimates and has shown Altamaha shad runs quadrupling from 70,396 fish in 1991 to 272,556 in 1997. This rebound may be attributable to

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a statistically significant decrease in commercial fishing effort that occurred from 1982 to 1991. Apparently, as older fishermen have left, there have been few new entrants into the fishery. No effort estimates are available since 1991. Regulations have remained fairly constant over the past 15 years. The only two modifications were a 15-day season extension in 1983, and commercial fishing regulations in 1984 to clarify open and closed areas on the Altamaha River. No changes were made to shad sportfishing regulations. While the increases in landings and stock size during the early 1990's was significant, they still represent only a fraction of the 1968 run.
Atlantic sturgeon landings continued to decline to very low levels during the last 20 years, and strict harvest limitations have been unable to rebuild spawning stock. Bycatch of juveniles in the shad and shrimp fisheries may also have hindered this stock's recovery as well as that of the endangered shortnose sturgeon. As a result of the stock crash of the Atlantic sturgeon stocks in Georgia, the commercial season was closed indefinitely in 1997 to allow the stocks to recover. Research on Atlantic sturgeon in the Altamaha River and the endangered shortnose sturgeon in the Altamaha and Savannah Rivers indicated that these species have very specific habitat requirements especially during the summer. The impact of habitat and water quality alterations on the stock is unknown.
Total landings of bivalve mollusks have fluctuated greatly over the last 30 years. During the 1970's landings were totally dominated by oysters (Crassostrea sp.), generally over 50,000 pounds of raw meats per annum. During the early 1980's fishermen were increasingly focused on hard clams (Mercenaria sp.) due to stock declines in other areas along the east coast and their market value. This combined with increasing acreages available for harvest activities due to water quality certifications, allowed the replacement of oysters by clams as the premier species from 1986-1988. From 1988-1992 clam landings again declined and oyster landings grew. Since 1990, the clam landings have shown a general increase in contrast to the oyster fishery that, after large catches from 1989-92, have shown a steady decline since. In 2003, clam harvest was 74,893 pounds. Oyster harvest in 2003 was only 10,976 pounds 43% above the ten-year average. Labor costs have effected this change in combination with temporary inaccessibility to some grounds because of conflicts over harvest rights. No acreage has been lost to deteriorating water quality. Current research is focusing on improvements in stock genetics (growth and appearance enhancements), cultch substrate comparisons, and establishing new populations.
The Marine Recreational Fisheries (MRF) Program is responsible for collecting fisheries dependent and independent information necessary for managing Georgia's sportfish populations and enhancing saltwater sport fishing opportunities. Utilizing fish trawls, gillnets, trammel nets and hook and line gear,

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program personnel conduct monthly sampling activities to monitor Georgia's most popular marine sport fish. Fishery biologists conduct creel surveys of over 2000 anglers annually to estimate recreational angler effort and catch by species. Ongoing population monitoring efforts, life history investigations, and periodic stock assessments of these species allow managers to determine if fish populations are healthy and not being over-fished. Since the mid-1980's, regulations establishing seasons, creel limits, and size limits have been implemented or revised for 17 species to preserve sport fish stocks and reduce fishing mortality. The MRF Program also develops and improves public access to fishing areas through construction of fishing piers, boat ramps and boating service docks.
Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve
The Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve (SINERR) is one of 22 estuarine sites nationwide in the National Estuarine Research Reserve Program. Georgia began efforts to designate the Duplin Estuary as an estuarine sanctuary in 1975 and received designation from the Department of Commerce in 1976.
The SINERR has two primary functions: to protect natural and cultural resources and to allow scientists to investigate how such estuarine systems function. Of the 16,000 acres that make up Sapelo Island, SINERR occupies nearly one third. The DNR, which manages SINERR, also manages more than one half the island as the Richard J. Reynolds Wildlife Management Area and another 2,732-acre tract designated as the Natural Area. Hog Hammock, a 434-acre tract, is privately owned.
The DNR has instituted protective management practices while promoting visitor activities including guided interpretive tours, hunting, fishing, and nature study. DNR activities include managing wildlife and forest resources, enforcing conservation laws, operating the ferry and visitor use facilities, presenting educational programs for visitors, and assisting in scientific monitoring.
The University of Georgia Marine Institute largely carries on the research function of SINERR. The Maine Institute employs full-time scientists, technical, and support staff. Its research is centered on how salt-marsh estuaries function. Fully 80% of the Marine Institute research is conducted within the SINERR.
Coastal Zone Management
Recognizing the economic importance of environmentally sensitive coastal areas, the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 encourages states to balance sustainable development with resource protection in their coastal zone. As an incentive, the federal government awards states financial assistance to

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develop and implement coastal zone management (CZM) programs that fulfill the guidelines established by the Act. As further incentive, states with federally approved CZM programs are granted "federal consistency" authority whereby any federal activity that may impact resources within a state's coastal zone must be consistent with the enforceable policies of that state's federally approved CZM program. Thus, states with approved programs have a voice in federal activities such as harbor projects; federal permits, federal fisheries management plans, and federally financed construction projects.
To achieve approval, state CZM programs must address the protection of natural resources and fish and wildlife, coastal development, public access to the coast for recreational purposes, and other aspects of coastal management. State programs must also include public and local government participation in coastal management decision making. States must submit CZM programs to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for approval in order to receive federal implementation funds. The annual amount of implementation funding available to each state with an approved program is based upon a formula factoring in the linear miles of coastline with coastal population. Georgia's approved Coastal Management Program is eligible for more than $2 million annually.
The Georgia Coastal Management Program is a networked program implemented by the CRD and other state agencies with management authority in the coastal area. As lead agency for the program, the CRD conducts numerous functions including managing saltwater fisheries, monitoring water quality, administering Coastal Marshlands Permits and Shore Permits, providing technical assistance, reviewing federal activities for consistency with the state laws that comprise the Coastal Management Program, and other activities. Other state, local, and federal agencies continue to administer their respective authorities, and cooperate with the CRD on coastal issues. Acting as a strategic plan for the coastal area, the Program relies on existing state laws and authorities to fulfill federal resource protection guidelines. The jurisdiction of the Program extends over the first and second tier of coastal counties to encompass all tidally influenced waters. This eleven-county area includes: Brantley, Bryan, Camden, Charlton, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long, McIntosh, and Wayne.
The Georgia Coastal Management Program seeks to balance economic development in Georgia's coastal zone with preservation of natural, environmental, historic, archaeological, and recreational resources for the benefit of Georgia's present and future generations. The Program offers Coastal Incentive Grants to local communities to promote grassroots solutions to coastal issues. The Program promotes interagency cooperation through regular meetings and technical assistance. A CRD satellite field office was opened at

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Richmond Hill in 2004 and houses two Coastal Management Program permit coordinators to better serve the public in the northern portions of the coast. Finally, the Program conducts a comprehensive environmental education program, operates the Coastal Ark mobile classroom and hosts the Coast Fest, an annual coastal environmental education festival.
The GAEPD has been an active participant in Coastal Management Programs throughout the development and implementation of the initiative. The agency has provided guidance and technical assistance in efforts to improve coastal water quality in general, and in the development of a Coastal NonPoint Source Control Program in particular. Under the Coastal Zone Act Reauthorization Amendments of 1990, Congress added a section entitled "Protecting Coastal Waters." That section directs states with federally approved CZM programs to develop a Coastal NonPoint Source Program. To that end, the GAEPD is assisting the CRD in l) identifying land uses which may cause or contribute to the degradation of coastal waters, 2) identifying critical coastal areas adjacent to affected coastal waters, 3) identification of appropriate measures related to land use impacts to achieve and maintain water quality standards and designated uses, and 4) identifying management boundaries to more effectively manage land use impacts and water uses to protect coastal waters.

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CHAPTER 6
Public Health/Aquatic Life Issues

Fish Consumption Guidelines
Background. Fishing is a valuable activity to Georgia's citizens. The ways in which people participate in fishing varies widely. To some people, fishing is an activity associated with family. Teaching children to catch bream off a dock or taking a group of campers at a scout camp for an afternoon of bank fishing are both memorable experiences. Some people participate in fishing purely for the challenge of competition, either competing in an organized club tournament or just competing with the fish to bring to creel and release a limit. Catching fish for the dinner table is also a valuable activity. No matter how a person participates in fishing it should be a fun and safe activity. This also includes eating the fish.

Unfortunately, some fish from a few waterbodies contain substances, which prohibit the safe consumption in unlimited quantities. The Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), the Coastal Resources Division (CRD), and the GAEPD of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) work cooperatively to collect and analyze fish samples to provide information for Georgia fishermen.

Fish Monitoring Program. Georgia has more than 44,000 miles of perennial streams and more than 421,000 acres of lakes. It is not possible for the DNR to sample every stream and lake in the state. However, high priority has been placed on the 26 major reservoirs, which make up more than 90% of the total lake acreage. These lakes will continue to be sampled as part of a five year rotating schedule to track any trends in fish contaminant levels. The DNR has also made sampling fish in rivers and streams downstream of urban and/or industrial areas a high priority. In addition, DNR focuses attention on public areas which are frequented by a large number of anglers.

The program includes testing of edible fish and shellfish tissue samples for the substances listed in Table 6-1. Of the 43 constituents tested, only PCBs, chlordane, dieldrin, DDT and its metabolites, and mercury have been found in fish at concentrations above what may be safely consumed at an unlimited amount or frequency.

Antimony Arsenic Beryllium Cadmium Chromium, Total Copper Lead

Mercury Nickel Selenium Silver Thallium Zinc Aldrin

TABLE 6-1

PARAMETERS FOR FISH TISSUE TESTING

a-BHC

4,4-DDT

Heptachlor

b-BHC

Dieldrin

Heptachlor Epoxide

d-BHC

Endosulfan I

Toxaphene

g-BHC (Lindane) Endosulfan II

PCB-1016

Chlordane

Endosulfan Sulfate

PCB-1221

4,4-DDD

Endrin

PCB-1232

4,4-DDE

Endrin Aldehyde

PCB-1242

PCB-1248 PCB-1254 PCB-1260 Methoxychlor HCB Mirex Pentachloroanisole Chlorpyrifos

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The use of PCBs, chlordane, DDT and dieldrin have been banned in the United States, and, over time, the levels are expected to continue to decline. Reassessment of data from new fish collections in the only water body having restricted consumption guidance prior to 2002 for chlordane documented that levels had substantially decreased and no restriction of fish consumption is now recommended. One water segment has a restriction in consumption recommended for one species due to dieldrin residues, and one pond has restrictions recommended due to DDT/DDD/DDE residues.
Mercury is a naturally occurring metal that cycles between the land, water, and the air. As mercury cycles through the environment it is absorbed and ingested by plants and animals. It is not known where the mercury in Georgia's fish originates. Mercury may be present due to mercury content in natural environments such as in South Georgia swamps, from municipal or industrial sources, or from fossil fuel uses. It has been shown that mercury contamination is related to global atmospheric transport. The EPA has evaluated the sources of mercury loading to several river basins in Georgia as part of TMDL development, and has determined that 99% or greater of the total mercury loading to these waters occurs via atmospheric deposition. States across the southeast and the nation have detected mercury in fish at levels that have resulted in limits on fish consumption. In 1995, the USEPA updated guidance on mercury, which documented increased risks of consuming fish with mercury. The DNR reassessed all mercury data and added reduced consumption guidelines in 1996 for a number of lakes and streams, which had no restrictions in 1995. The Georgia guidance for 2003 reflects the continued use of the more stringent USEPA risk level for mercury.
Evaluation Of Fish Consumption Guidance for Assessment Of Use Support. USEPA guidance for evaluating fish consumption advisory information for 305(b)/303(d) use support determinations has been to assess a water as fully supporting uses if fish can be consumed in unlimited amounts; as partially supporting if consumption needs to be limited; and, as not supporting if no consumption is recommended. Georgia followed this guidance in evaluating the fish consumption guidelines for the 2000 and earlier 305(b)/303(d) lists. This assessment methodology was followed again in developing the 2002 305(b)/303(d) List for all fish tissue contaminants except mercury. Mercury in fish tissue was assessed and a segment or waterbody was listed if the trophic-weighted fish community tissue mercury was in excess of the new USEPA water quality criterion (Water Quality Criterion for the Protection of Human Health: Methylmercury, EPA-823-R-01-001, January 2001). For mercury, waters were placed on the partial support list if the calculated trophicweighted residue value was greater than 0.3 g/g wet weight total mercury, and less than 2 g/g wet weight, and on the not support list if the value was greater than 2 g/g wet weight. For contaminants other than mercury (PCBs, dieldrin, DDT/DDD/DDE) waters were placed on the not support list if the assessment indicated any no consumption of fish, or placed on the partial support list if the assessment indicated any need for reduced consumption rates. The USEPA criteria represents a national approach to address what mercury levels are protective for fishing waters. The existence of risk-based recommendations to reduce consumption were used with respect to other contaminants detected in fish tissue. EPD

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formally adopted the 2001 EPA national human health criterion for mercury as a human health standard for total mercury in fish tissue in the Georgia water quality rules in December 2002.
Risk-Based Assessment For Fish Consumption. In 1995, Georgia began issuing tiered recommendations for fish consumption. Georgia's fish consumption guidelines are "riskbased" and are conservatively developed using currently available scientific information regarding likely intake rates of fish and toxicity values for contaminants detected. One of four, simple, species-specific recommendations is possible under the guidelines: No Restriction, Limit Consumption to One Meal Per Week, Limit Consumption to One Meal Per Month, or Do Not Eat. In 2003, 58.6 % of recommendations for fish tested in Georgia waters were for No Restriction, 28.1 % were to Limit Consumption to One Meal Per Week, 12.9 % were to Limit Consumption to One Meal Per Month, and 1.4 % were Do Not Eat Advisories. Eighty-six percent of the recommendations available in 2003 were for no, or only minor restrictions (allowing more than 50 meals to be consumed per year). It should be noted that the dramatic increase of waters not fully meeting designated uses as related to fish consumption was a result of converting to a conservative risk-based approach for evaluating contaminants data, and not a result of increased contaminant concentrations in Georgia's fish.
General Guidelines to Reduce Health Risks. The following suggestions may help to reduce the risks of fish consumption:
Keep smaller fish for eating. Generally, larger older fish may be more contaminated than younger, smaller fish. You can minimize your health risk by eating smaller fish (within legal size limits) and releasing the larger fish.
Vary the kinds of fish you eat. Contaminants build up in large predators and bottom-feeding fish, like bass and catfish, more rapidly than in other species. By substituting a few meals of panfish, such as perch, sunfish and crappie, you can reduce your risk.
Eat smaller meals when you eat big fish and eat them less often. If you catch a big fish, freeze part of the catch (mark container or wrapping with species and location), and space the meals from this fish over a period of time.
Clean and cook your fish properly. How you clean and cook your fish can reduce the level of contaminants by as much as half in some fish. Some chemicals have a tendency to concentrate in the fatty tissues of fish. By removing the fish's skin and trimming fillets according to the diagram, you can reduce the level of chemicals substantially. Mercury is bound to the meat of the fish, so these precautions will not help reduce this contaminant.
Remove the skin from fillets or steaks. The internal organs (intestines, liver, roe, and so forth), and skin are often high in fat and contaminants.

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Trim off the fatty areas shown in black on the drawing. These include the belly fat, side or body fat, and the flesh along the top of the back. Careful trimming can reduce some contaminants by 25 to 50%.
Cook fish so fat drips away. Broil, bake or grill fish and do not use the drippings. Deep-fat frying removes some contaminants, but you should discard and not reuse the oil for cooking. Pan frying removes few, if any, contaminants.
Specific Waterbody Consumption Guidelines. These guidelines are designed to protect you from experiencing health problems associated with eating contaminated fish. It should be noted that these guidelines are based on the best scientific information and procedures available. As more advanced procedures are developed these guidelines may change.
PCBs, chlordane, dieldrin, DDT and methylmercury build up in your body over time. It may take months or years of regularly eating contaminated fish to accumulate levels which would affect your health. It is important to keep in mind that these guidelines are based on eating fish with similar contamination over a period of 30 years or more. These guidelines are not intended to discourage people from eating fish. They are intended to help fishermen choose safe fish for the table.
Table 6-2 lists the lakes and streams where the fish have been tested and found to contain little or no contamination. There are no problems with eating fish from these water bodies.
Tables 6-3 and 6-4 list the lakes and streams where consumption guidance has been issued by the DNR. This information is provided annually in Georgia's Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing Regulations, which is available from DNR and also supplied with each fishing license purchased. This information is also updated annually in the DNR publication Guidelines for Eating Fish From Georgia Waters.
Special Notice For Pregnant Women, Nursing Mothers, and Children. If you plan to become pregnant in the next year or two, are pregnant now, or are a nursing mother, you and your children under 6 years of age are especially sensitive to the effects of some contaminants. For added protection, women in these categories and children may wish to limit consumption to a greater extent than recommended in Tables 6-3 and 6-4.
In 2003, new approaches to spatial analyses were used to assess fish tissue contaminants by species and trophic level, and across distinct geographic areas including hydrologic unit codes, river basins, and hydrogeologic provinces of Georgia. The analyses were used to generate simple brochures with specific information targeting women of child-bearing age and children for distribution through health and nutrition related outlets. Brochures were generated for four distinct areas of Georgia, and English versions were released in November 2003, followed by publication of Spanish brochures in March of 2004. The College of Family and Consumer Sciences, Cooperative Extension Services, University of Georgia and the Chemical Hazards Program, Georgia Division of Public Health

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collaborated in the development of the brochures. The information will be updated as needed, and all brochures are currently available on the DNR website.
Fish tissue consumption guidelines are discussed in detail in the DNR publication Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters-2003 Update that is reproduced in Appendix C.
Bathing Area Monitoring
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has conducted fecal coliform monitoring at its bathing beaches in Georgia. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Georgia Power, the U.S. Forest Forest Service, the National Park Service, Georgia State Parks, and counties and cities throughout the state have also conducted some sampling. The City of Acworth closed a swimming beach on Lake Acworth in the early 1990s. In 1994-1995, a water quality investigation of Lake Acworth and its watershed was conducted by Kennesaw State College under a contract with Cobb County. Based on the results of the study, Cobb County developed and implemented portions of an action plan for water quality improvements. In 1997 the City of Acworth and Cobb County conducted monitoring on Lake Acworth. The City of Acworth reopened the beach in June 1998.
Shellfish Area Closures
The potential shellfish growing areas on the Georgia coast are classified as "Approved", "Restricted", or "Prohibited" in accordance with the criteria of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program. Shellfish growing areas classified as "Prohibited" are listed in Appendix A. These areas are closed as a precaution to shell fishing because of the proximity to a marina or a municipal or industrial discharge. Georgia's one hundred linear mile coastline contains approximately 700,000 acres of potential shellfish habitat. Only about 10% of that area, however, actually produces viable shellfish stocks. Lack of suitable clutch, tidal amplitudes, littoral slope, and other geomorphological features contribute to the limited occurrence of natural shellfish resources along the Georgia coast. Most shellfish in Georgia grow in the narrow intertidal zone and are exposed between high water and low water tide periods. Georgia maintains approximately 32,000 acres approved for the harvest of shellfish for commercial and/or personal consumption. Georgia currently has three harvest areas comprised of commercial leases and public recreational plots. Only those areas designated as Public Recreational Harvest or those areas under commercial lease are classified as "Approved". "Approved" areas are monitored regularly. All other waters of the state are classified as "Prohibited", are not monitored and are closed to the taking of shellfish due to the presence of human activities that may potentially create a problem. Even though some of these areas meet the criteria to allow harvesting, they were classified as "Prohibited" so that a safe zone can be maintained in the event of an accidental spill. Additionally, another 179,000 acres of the potential shellfish growing area is classified as "Prohibited" due to the lack of available water quality data.

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TABLE 6-2 NO CONSUMPTION RESTRICTIONS - 2003

LAKES
Allen Creek WMA Ponds A & B Bowles C. Ford Lake Brasstown Valley Kid's Fish Pond Carters City of Adairsville Pond Clayton Co. Water Auth. Lakes Blalock, Smith and Shamrock Dodge County PFA Fort Yargo State Park Lake Hard Labor Creek (Rutledge) High Falls Juliette Ken Garden Mayer McDuffie PFA East Watershed Ponds Nancy Town Lake Oconee Olmstead Paradise PFA (Patrick & Horseshoe 4) Payton Park Pond Seed Sinclair Shepherd CEWC Varner Walter F. George

RIVERS

Alcovy River Boen Creek (Rabun Co.) Brasstown Creek (Towns Co.) Broad River Buffalo Creek (Carroll Co.) Butternut Creek (Union Co.) Cane Creek (Lumpkin Co.) Chattahoochee River (Chattahoochee, Early, & Stewart Cos.) Chattanooga Creek Chattanooga River (NW Ga.) Chickasawhatchee Creek Coleman River Conasauga River in Cohutta Forest Daniels Creek (Cloudland Canyon State Park) Dukes Creek East and South Chickamauga Creek Flint River (Dougherty, Baker & Mitchell Cos.) Goldmine Branch Jacks River Jones Creek Little Dry Creek (Floyd Co.) Little Tallapoosa River Little Tennessee River Middle Oconee River Mill Creek (Whitfield Co.)

Moccasin Creek (Lake Burton Trout Hatchery) Mud Creek (Cobb County) Nickajack Creek North Oconee River Noonday Creek (Cobb Co.) Ocmulgee River (Butts, Monroe, Houston & Pulaski Cos.) Oconee River (Below Barnett Shoals to Lake Oconee, & Laurens Co. & Milledgeville to Dublin) Ogeechee River (Ft. McAllister) Olley Creek Ponder Branch (Walker Co.) Proctor Creek Sewell Mill Creek Slab Camp Creek (Oconee Co.) South River (Butts Co., Hwy. 36) Spirit Creek Stamp Creek (Pine Log WMA) Stekoa Creek Tallulah River Upatoi Creek Yahoola Creek Yellow River

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TABLE 6-3
GUIDELINES FOR LIMITING THE FISH YOU EAT LAKES - 2003

LAKES

NO RESTRICTIONS

1 MEAL PER WEEK

1 MEAL PER MONTH

Albany By-Pass Pond

LMB, Brown bullhead

Acworth Allatoona Andrews

Bluegill, LMB < 16"
Carp, Crappie, Spotted bass< 16", LMB 12-16", CCF, White bass < 12", G. redhorse
CCF

LMB > 16"
Spotted bass > 16", LMB > 16", HB >16"
LMB > 12"

Banks

Bluegill

LMB > 12"

Bartlett's Ferry Bennett CEWC PFA Black Shoals Blackshear Big Lazer PFA Blue Ridge Burton Pond N. Bush Field, Augusta Chatuge
Clarks Hill
Evans County PFA
Goat Rock
Hartwell (Tugaloo Arm)
Hartwell - main body of lake Jackson
Lanier
L. Ocmulgee St. Pk. McDuffie PFA, West Nottely Oliver

Crappie
CCF < 12" CCF < 12" LMB 12-16", CCF CCF < 16", LMB < 12" LMB <16", CCF, Bluegill, White catfish

HB < 12", LMB > 12", CCF < 16" LMB > 12" CCF 12-16"
CCF > 12", LMB > 12" LMB > 16"
White bass & LMB 12-16", CCF > 16" LMB > 16", Spotted bass 12-16"

Bluegill, LMB < 12"

LMB 12-16"

LMB >12", CCF >12" CCF, Black crappie, Redear, White perch, Striped
bass, Spotted sucker, HB, LMB <16" CCF, LMB 12-16"

Spotted bass 12-16" LMB > 16" LMB > 16"

Black crappie, LMB 12-16", Spotted sucker

HB < 12", CCF 12-16"

Black crappie, Hybrid/Striped bass < 12", CCF < 16"

LMB < 16", Carp > 16"

DO NOT EAT Hybrid and Striped bass > 16 inches in length

DO NOT EAT Hybrid and Striped bass (S C Dept. Health and Environmental Control 1-888-849-7241)

Crappie,Redear sunfish, Catfish & LMB < 16"

Catfish & LMB > 16"

CCF & Striped bass < 16", Bluegill, Black crappie Striped bass, Carp & CCF > 16", LMB, White catfish & Spotted bass > 12"

Brown bullhead 12-16"

CCF

LMB

CCF, Black crappie

LMB > 12", Striped bass > 16"

Hybrid bass < 12", CCF < 16", Redear, Bluegill

LMB > 12", CCF > 16"

HB & CCF > 16" LMB 12-16"
HB & CCF & LMB > 16" White bass < 16"
HB/Striped bass 12-16" CCF & LMB > 16" LMB, CCF
LMB > 16"

Rabun Reed Bingham S.P. Richard B. Russell Seminole Stone Mountain Tobesofkee
Treutlen PFA

LMB 12-16", Bluegill, White catfish < 16"
Crappie, Bluegill, White perch, Catfish LMB 12-16" , CCF, Spotted sucker Catfish CCF, LMB 12-16"

White catfish & LMB > 16"
LMB > 12" Bullhead > 12", LMB > 16"
LMB > 16" LMB > 16" Lake chubsucker < 12"

LMB > 12"Catfish > 16" LMB > 16", Lake chubsucker >12"

Tugalo

White catfish 12-16", Bluegill

LMB > 12"

Tribble Mill Park Pond Gwinnett County West Point

Black Crappie, Bluegill, LMB < 12" Black crappie, HB < 12"

LMB 12-16" CCF & HB > 12", LMB & Carp > 16"

Worth

CCF > 12"

LMB > 12"

Yonah

Bluegill

LMB 12-16", catfish 12-16"

Abbreviations: < means less than, > means more than, LMB = largemouth bass, HB = Hybrid bass, CCF = Channel catfish

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TABLE 6-4 GUIDELINES FOR LIMITING THE FISH YOU EAT
RIVERS 2003

RIVERS/CREEKS Alapaha River Alapahoochee River
Allatoona Creek, Cobb Co.

NO RESTRICTIONS Redbreast sunfish

1 MEAL PER WEEK

1 MEAL PER MONTH

Spotted sucker Bullhead

LMB, Bullhead

Spotted bass, Alabama Hog Sucker

Altamaha River

CCF (below US 25)

Flathead catfish, LMB, CCF

Apalachee River Beaver Creek (Taylor Co.) Brier Creek (Burke Co.) Canoochee River Casey Canal

CCF LMB, Bluegill

LMB
Spotted sucker Redbreast Striped mullet

Yellow bullhead LMB LMB, CCF

Chatooga River (NE Ga., Rabun County)

Chattahoochee River (Helen to Lanier)

CCF

Chattahoochee River (Buford Dam to Morgan Falls Dam)
Chattahoochee River (Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Creek) Chattahoochee River (Peachtree Creek to Franklin, Ga)
Chattahoochee River (Oliver Dam to Chattahoochee Co.)

Brown trout, Carp, Rainbow trout Brown trout, Jumprock sucker LMB CCF, Spotted bass White sucker, Carp
LMB

Chattahoochee River (West Point dam to I-85) LMB, Bullheads

Chickamauga Creek (West)

Redbreast sunfish

Conasauga River (below Stateline)

Northern Hog Sucker, Silver Redhorse

Redeye bass, Bullhead,Redhorse LMB

LMB

Carp

LMB

Striped bass

CCF

Spotted bass

Spotted bass

Spotted bass

White bass, Buffalo

Coosa River (Rome to Hwy 100, Floyd Co.)

Spotted bass DO NOT EAT SMALLMOUTH BUFFALO

LMB, Striped bass, Blue catfish

Coosa River (Hwy 100 to State line, Floyd Co.) Spotted bass

Etowah River (Dawson County)

Etowah River (above Lake Allatoona)

Golden redhorse

Etowah River (below Lake Allatoona)

CCF, Striped bass, Bluegill

Flint River (Spalding/Fayette cos.)

Spotted sucker

Flint River (Meriwether/Upson/Pike cos.)

CCF, Flathead catfish

Flint River (Taylor co.)

CCF, Shoal bass

Flint River (Macon/Dooly/Worth/Lee cos.)

CCF

Gum Creek (Crisp Co.)

Carp

Ichawaynochaway Creek

Spotted Sucker

Kinchafoonee Creek (above Albany)

Little River (above Clarks Hill Lake)

Spotted sucker, Silver Redhorse

LMB Blacktail Redhorse Spotted bass Spotted bass, LMB LMB Shoal bass LMB LMB LMB LMB LMB, Spotted sucker LMB

Striped bass, CCF, Buffalo Smallmouth buffalo

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TABLE 6-4 Continued

RIVERS/CREEKS Little River, (above Ga. Hwy 133, Valdosta) Muckalee Creek (above Albany) Ochlockonee River (near Thomasville) Ocmulgee River (below Macon, Bibb co.) Ocmulgee River (Telfair/Wheeler cos.)
Oconee River (above Barnett Shoals)

NO RESTRICTIONS Spotted sucker
Redbreast sunfish CCF CCF

Ogeechee River (all to Ft. McAllister)
Ohoopee River (Emanuel/Toombs cos.) Okefenokee Swamp (Billy's Lake) Oostanaula River, Hwy. 156, Calhoun Oostanaula River, Hwy 140, to Coosa River Patsiliga Creek (Taylor Co.) Pipemaker Canal Satilla River (Waycross, Ware/Pierce cos.) Satilla River (near Folkston, Camden Co.) Savannah River (above & below New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam) Savannah River (Chatham/Screven cos.) Savannah River (Effingham Co.) Savannah River (Tidal Gate) Short Creek (Warren Co.) South River (Henry Co., Snapping Shoals) Spring Creek (Seminole/Decatur/Miller cos) St. Marys River (Camden Co.) St. Marys River (Charlton Co.) Suwannee River Swamp Creek (Redwine Cove Road) Talking Rock Creek Tallapoosa River Trib. To Hudson River, Alto, Banks Co. Withlacoochee River (Berrien/Lowndes cos.)

Bluegill Bluegill, Smallmouth buffalo
CCF, Redear sunfish CCF, Redbreast sunfish Red drum Silver redhorse, CCF Spotted sucker Redbreast, Striped mullet Redbreast sunfish
Bluegill Brown bullhead

1 MEAL PER WEEK LMB LMB, Spotted sucker Spotted sucker, White catfish LMB Flathead catfish, LMB Silver redhorse, LMB
Redbreast sunfish, CCF, Spotted sucker, Snail bullhead Spotted sucker, Redbreast Flier Smallmouth buffalo LMB, CCF, Spotted bass Suckers, Chain Pickerel LMB Redbreast sunfish, CCF
Spotted sucker, LMB
LMB White catfish White catfish Sunfish LMB LMB
Bullhead, Chain pickerel Redeye bass Redeye bass Blacktail Redhorse Redeye bass Redbreast sunfish

1 MEAL PER MONTH
LMB Flathead catfish
LMB LMB Bowfin Striped bass Bass LMB LMB, Redbreast
LMB, Bowfin
LMB LMB LMB
LMB

COASTAL RIVERS & CREEKS

NO RESTRICTIONS

1 MEAL PER WEEK

1 MEAL PER MONTH

Turtle River System (Purvis, Gibson Cr.s)

Turtle & Buffalo Rivers (upriver Hwy 303) Shrimp

Red drum,B. crab, Flounder

Croaker, Spotted seatrout

Turtle River (Hwy 303 - Channel Marker 9) Shrimp

Flounder

Red & Black drum, B. crab Spotted seatrout Croaker

Turtle River (C. Marker 9 & So. Brunswick River to Dubignons & Parsons creeks)

Shrimp, Flounder, Red drum

Croaker, Blue crab

Black drum, Spotted seatrout

Terry Creek South of Torras Causeway to Lanier Basin

Spot, Striped mullet, Shrimp, Croaker, Spotted seatrout, Southern kingfish, Blue crab

Yellowtail (Silver perch)

Terry and Dupree Creeks North of Torras Causeway to Confluence w/ Back River

Blue crab, Shrimp

Spot, Striped mullet, Croaker, Spotted seatrout, Southern kingfish

Back River One mile above Terry Creek to Confluence with Torras Causeway

Striped mullet, Shrimp, Croaker, Spotted seatrout, Southern kingfish, Blue crab

Spot

Back River South of Torras Causeway to St. Simons Sound

Spot, Striped mullet, Shrimp, Croaker, Spotted seatrout, Southern kingfish, Blue crab

Floyd Creek

Blue crab, Southern kingfish

Academy Creek

Blue crab

* Bivalves are all clams, mussels and oysters; Shellfish ban under National Shellfish Sanitation Program

DO NOT EAT all Seafood Black drum, Bivalves * Bivalves * Bivalves *
Bivalves *
Spot, Bivalves *
Bivalves *
Bivalves *

King Mackerel Special Joint State Guidance Issued by Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida For South Atlantic Ocean

Size Range (Fork Length, Inches)

Recommendations for Meal Consumption of King Mackerel Caught Offshore Georgia Coast

24 To Less Than 33 Inches

No Restrictions

33 To 39 Inches

1 meal per month for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children age 12 and younger meal per week for other adults

Over 39 Inches

Do Not Eat

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Pollution-Related Fish Kills
During the 2002-2003 period, a total of 34 fish kill events were reported, with 19 attributable to some pollutant entering a stream, lake, or reservoir. These events, including the suspected pollutant, its source, and estimated number of fish killed are presented in Table 6-5. Depending on the location, the first responders to a fish kill event are the DNR Wildlife Resources Division or Coastal Resources Division. GAEPD personnel typically augment the investigation. Depending on the circumstances causing the fish kill, GAEPD may issue a consent or administrative order and assess a civil penalty.

TABLE 6-5 Cause Unknown and Pollution-Caused Fish Kills - 2002-2003

Name of Waterbody
Tributary to Nancy Creek Tributary to Raccoon Creek Nickajack Creek Slough on Flint River Bald Ridge Creek Flat Creek Tributary to Noonday Creek Flat Creek Rubes Creek Tributary to Long Cane Creek Lake Andrews Spring Creek Arm of Lake Seminole Butternut Creek Barber Creek Etowah River Olley Creek Sugar Creek Drowning Bear Creek Camp Creek Tributary to Sope Creek City of Douglas Detention Basin Mud Creek Mill Creek Stone Mountain Creek Johnson Memorial Lake Flat Creek Surveyors Creek Tributary to the Chattahoochee River
Flat Creek Armstrong Pond Hunnicut Creek Tributary to the Oostanaula River Goose Creek
Dundee Canal

Date(s)
1/24/2002 3/15/2002 3/25/2002 4/1/2002 4/1/2002 4/3/2002 4/6-8/2002 4/19-23/2002 4/30/2002 5/2-3/2002 5/13/2002 5/13/2002 6/6/2002 7/9/2002 7/11/2002 7/29/2002 8/6/2002 8/16/2002 8/22/2002 8/27/2002 10/10/2002 12/18/2002 1/16/2003 2/4/2003 2/10-12/2003 2/13/2003 3/10/2003 4/19/2003
5/16/2003 8/10/2003 8/11/2003 9/15/2003 9/18/2003
11/17/2003

County
DeKalb Mitchell Cobb Decatur
Hall Hall Cobb Hall Cobb Troup Clay Decatur Union Clarke Lumpkin Cobb DeKalb Whitfield Habersham Cobb Cobb Clayton Jefferson DeKalb Jefferson Hall Clarke Gwinnett
Hall Grady Clarke Floyd Chatham
Chatham

Cause/Source or Pollutant of Concern
Petroleum Other, Agricultural
Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Chemicals Unknown Unknown Unknown Sewerage Unknown Pesticides Sewerage Sewerage Textiles Water System Sewerage Sewerage Unknown Unknown Sewerage Unknown Unknown Unknown Swimming Pool Discharge Water System Pesticides Petroleum Sewerage Lumber/Wood Products Chemicals

Number of Fish Killed
67 1,230
0 14 78 2,679 81 182,072 266 464 27 404 105 466 885 63 1,501 2,062 3,946 21 9,607 118 145 64 7,080 190 30 20
5 Unknown
1,785 546 Unknown
77

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CHAPTER 7
Water Protection Programs
Program Perspective
The first major legislation to deal with water pollution control in Georgia was passed in 1957. The Act was ineffective and was replaced by the Water Quality Control Act of 1964. This Act established the Georgia Water Quality Control Board, the predecessor of the Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources which was established in 1972. Early efforts by the Board in the late 1960's and early 1970's included documenting water quality conditions, cleanup of targeted pollution problems and the establishment of water use classifications and water quality standards. Trend monitoring efforts were initiated and a modest State construction grants program was implemented.
In 1972 the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972 was enacted by Congress. Today, this law is known as the Clean Water Act (CWA). The CWA set the national agenda for water protection and launched the national objective to provide "for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and provide for recreation in and on the water. The CWA established the NPDES permit system for regulation of municipal and industrial water pollution control plants, a water use classifications and standards process, and a construction grants process to fund the construction of municipal water pollution control facilities.
Most industries in Georgia had installed modern, effective water pollution control facilities by the end of 1972. In the mid/late 1970's emphasis was placed on the design and construction of municipal facilities through the federal Construction Grants Program. First and second round NPDES permits were negotiated and operation and maintenance, compliance monitoring, and enforcement programs initiated. Basin planning, trend monitoring, intensive surveys, modeling and wasteload allocation work was well underway.
In 1987 Congress made significant changes to the Clean Water Act. The Water Quality Act of 1987 placed increased emphasis on toxic substances, control of nonpoint source pollution, clean lakes, wetlands and estuaries. The Act required that all States evaluate water quality standards and adopt numeric criteria for toxic substances to protect aquatic life and public health. The Act also required each State to evaluate nonpoint source pollution impacts and develop a management plan to deal with documented problems. This work was initiated and completed by the GAEPD in the late 1980s.

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In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Georgia General Assembly passed a number of laws that set much of the agenda for the GAEPD in the early 1990s. Laws such as the Growth Strategies Act which helps protect sensitive watersheds, wetlands, and groundwater recharge areas and the ban on high phosphate detergents to reduce nutrient loading to rivers and lakes were enacted. Legislation was passed in 1990 which requires the GAEPD to conduct comprehensive studies of major publicly owned lakes and establish specific water quality standards for each lake. In addition in 1991 the General Assembly passed a law requiring a phosphorus limit of 0.75 mg/l for all major point sources discharging to the Chattahoochee River between Buford Dam and West Point Lake. Major river corridors were accorded additional protections with laws passed in 1991. Also in 1991, the General Assembly passed the Georgia Environmental Policy Act that requires an environmental effects report be developed for major State funded projects. In 1992, the General Assembly passed the River Basin Management Planning Act that requires the GAEPD develop and implement plans for water protection for each major river basin in Georgia. The work ongoing to implement this significant legislation was discussed in detail in Chapter 2 and at appropriate locations through this report.
In 2002-2003 high priority was placed on river basin management planning, monitoring and assessment, river basin management planning, water quality modeling and TMDL development, TMDL implementation plan development, State revolving loan programs, NPDES permitting and enforcement, nonpoint source pollution abatement, stormwater management, erosion and sediment control, and public participation projects.
River Basin Management Planning
River basin management planning efforts were expanded significantly in 1992 with the passage of O.C.G.A. 12-5-520 by the Georgia General Assembly. The Act charged the GAEPD with the responsibility for developing river basin management plans for the major rivers in the Georgia. River basin management plans have been completed for the Chattahoochee, Flint, Coosa, Tallapoosa, Savannah, Ogeechee, Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, St. Marys, Oconee, Ocmulgee and Altamaha Rivers. The River Basin Management Planning program is discussed in Chapter 2.
In 2004 the Georgia General Assembly passed new water planning legislation to take the place of river basin planning. The 2004 Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning Act calls for the GAEPD to prepare a comprehensive water management plan and provides fundamental goals and guiding principles for the development of the plan. This will be the last report to discuss River Basin Planning. In future reports, information will be included

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regarding Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning. Georgia will continue to use a rotating basin approach to monitoring, assessment, listing, TMDL development and NPDES permit reissuance.
The GAEPD is also working with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and South Carolina on several Savannah River projects; with the USEPA and the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) on water quality issues in the Coosa River and Lake Weiss; and with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Suwannee River Water Management District to coordinate water protection efforts in the Suwannee River Basin. Significant work was also done by Alabama, Florida and Georgia in cooperation with the Corps of Engineers to conduct studies of the Apalachicola/ Chattahoochee/Flint and Alabama/Coosa/Tallapoosa river basins to facilitate efforts to develop agreements regarding water allocations. The GAEPD supports these projects to avoid duplication of effort and to effectively leverage resources to accomplish watershed protection in interstate river basins.
Water Quality Monitoring
The goal of the water protection program in Georgia is to effectively manage, regulate, and allocate the water resources of Georgia. In order to achieve this goal, it is necessary to monitor the water resources of the State to establish baseline and trend data, document existing conditions, study impacts of specific discharges, determine improvements resulting from upgraded water pollution control plants, support enforcement actions, establish wasteload allocations and/or total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) for new and existing facilities, verify water pollution control plant compliance, and document water use impairment and reasons for problems causing less than full support of designated water uses. Trend monitoring, intensive surveys, toxic substances monitoring, aquatic toxicity testing and facility compliance sampling are some of the monitoring tools used by the GAEPD. Monitoring programs are discussed in Chapter 3.
Water Quality Modeling/Wasteload Allocations/TMDL Development
The GAEPD conducted a significant amount of modeling in 2002-2003 in support of the development of wasteload allocations and total maximum daily loads TMDLs. In 2002, TMDLs were developed and publicly noticed for segments on the Georgia 2002 303(d) list in the Ocmulgee, Oconee and Altamaha River Basins. These TMDLs were finalized, submitted to and approved by the EPA in 2002. TMDLS for the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins were public noticed in June 2002, finalized by the GAEPD and approved by the EPA in early 2003. Also, in 2003, TMDLs were developed and publicly noticed for segments on the Georgia 2002 303(d) list for the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Tennessee River Basins.

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These TMDLS will be finalized and submitted to the EPA in 2004. Over the twoyear period, more than 400 TMDLs were developed. To date more than 1000 TMDLs have been developed for 303(d) listed waters in Georgia.
TMDL Implementation Plan Development. As TMDLs are developed, plans are needed to guide implementation of pollution reduction strategies. TMDLs are implemented through changes in NPDES permits to address needed point source improvements and/or implementation of best management practices to address nonpoint sources of pollution. Changes in NPDES permits to address nonpoint issues are made by the GAEPD in coordination with local governments and industries. Planning for implementation of management practices and activities to address the nonpoint sources of pollution is being conducted through the development of Tier 3 level TMDL implementation plans prepared by GAEPD and Tier 2 plans prepared through contracts with Regional Development Centers (RDCs) and other public contractors. Tier 3 plans are developed in-house by GAEPD staff for segments "partially impaired due to fecal coliform; segments "impaired" due to natural conditions, fish consumption advisories, legacy sediment; or segments where TMDL models estimate a zero percent load reduction would be necessary to achieve standards. The Tier 2 plans are intended as platforms for instituting and continuing a local water quality protection and restoration process. They initiate public outreach, bring together local stakeholder groups who work together to assess the sources and causes of the impairment, identify appropriate management practices and activities, and set forth a plans of action to monitor progress and achieve the TMDL for each segment impairment.
In 2002 a total of 248 TMDL implementation plans were developed for TMDLs in the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, and St. Mary' s River Basins. In 2003 another 286 plans were prepared for TMDLs in the Oconee, Ocmulgee, and Altamaha River Basins. To date, a total of 654 plans have been prepared to implement TMDLs in Georgia and an additional 138 plans will be prepared for TMDLs in the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins in 2004.
State Revolving Loan/Construction Grants
Georgia presently administers through the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA) and the GAEPD a State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF) program which provides low interest loans for the construction of municipal wastewater treatment facilities and nonpoint source pollution control projects. This program was initiated in 1988 to the full extent allowed by the 1987 amendments to the Clean Water Act. With the initiation of SRF, the federal Construction Grants program has been phased out and all federal monies received through the Environmental Protection Agency are being used to capitalize the SRF program.

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Considerable amounts of money have been required for water pollution abatement in Georgia and additional expenditures will be needed in the future. Local governments have the responsibility of securing funding for water pollution control projects including CSO controls. In addition to the SRF program, other funding sources are available, including other state low interest loans from GEFA, grants and loans from the Rural Economic and Community Development Administration (RECD), the Appalachian Regional Commission, and various programs administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. Table 7-1 lists the major funding sources utilized by Georgia communities in 2002-2003 for wastewater treatment system and CSO control construction and improvements.
TABLE 7-1 Municipal Facility Sources of Investment
2002-2003
SRF Loans..........................$7,000,000 GEFA Loans......................$17,000,000 Local or Federal................$448,000,000
TOTAL........................$472,000,000
In 2002-2003 through various forms of funding, construction was completed on seventy treatment facilities. Fifteen expansions of treatment facilities were completed. The remaining facilities were upgrades.
Upgrading the level of wastewater treatment produces direct benefits by reducing pollutant discharges to Georgia streams, rivers, and lakes/reservoirs. The most widely used measure of municipal pollution is the extent to which the organic content of treated wastewater depletes oxygen in the receiving water and reduces the oxygen available to fish and aquatic life. In 1995, of the nearly one million pounds per day of oxygen demanding pollutants produced by municipalities, approximately 93% was removed by municipal water pollution control plants.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit Program
The NPDES permit program provides a basis for municipal and industrial discharge permits, monitoring compliance with limitations, and appropriate enforcement action for violations.

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In 2002-2003, a significant amount of personnel time was allocated to the reissuance of NPDES permits. Permits were issued, modified or reissued for 316 municipal and private discharges and for 153 industrial discharges. In addition, 96 private dischargers were covered under general permit No. GAPID1000. In contrast to many other areas in the nation, Georgia had a very small backlog of permits to be issued.
In addition to permits for point source discharges, the GAEPD has developed and implemented a permit system for land application systems. Land application systems for final disposal of treated wastewaters have been encouraged in Georgia. Land application systems are used as alternatives to advanced levels of treatment or as the only alternative in some environmentally sensitive areas. A total of 165 (municipal and private) and 53 (industrial and Federal) permits for land application systems were in effect in 2003.
Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations
For over twenty years, GAEPD has required farmers to manage animal wastes from poultry, dairy, beef cattle and swine operations in a manner that results in no discharge of pollutants to Georgia streams, but GAEPD has not required thousands of family farms to have wastewater permits. Early in 1998, the Board of Natural Resources asked GAEPD to develop more specific rules to regulate large animal feeding operations, particularly swine operations, to assure adequate environmental protection as the industry evolved towards ever larger facilities.
On June 10, 1999, Georgia adopted Rule 391-3-6-.20 "Swine Feeding Operation Permit Requirements". On January 24, 2001, Georgia adopted rule 391-3-6-.21, "Animal (Non-Swine) Feeding Operation Permit Requirements." These actions followed three years of stakeholder input, public meetings, hearings and Georgia Board of Natural Resources deliberations and resulted in State rules that equaled or exceeded Federal regulations at that time. The Georgia rules required that medium size feeding operations with more than 300 animal units (AU) but less than 1000 AU (1000 AU equals 1000 beef cows, or 700 dairy cows, or 2500 swine, etc.) must apply for a wastewater permit under Georgia's Land Application System (LAS) permitting program. Large animal feeding operations with more than 1000 AU must apply for a wastewater permit under the Federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. EPD has been delegated authority to administer the NPDES program in Georgia by the USEPA. To date, 173 medium size farms have received State LAS permits and 56 large farms have received Federal NPDES permits.

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The December 15, 2002 Federal rules required amendments to the Georgia rules: -Large chicken operations will need NPDES permits regardless of the type of litter management (125,000 broilers and 82,000 laying hens "dry litter" operations). -NPDES permit categories and thresholds for swine nurseries (10,000 swine less than 55 pounds) and heifer operations (1,000 heifers, steers, bulls, cow/calf pairs). -For new swine, poultry and veal/calf operations, total containment is required, but facilities properly operated and designed to contain manure and runoff from a 100 year, 24 hour storm are deemed to be in compliance.
Some of the new Federal rules were already covered in the Georgia rules: -Land application requirements for CAFOs, including setbacks from surface water. -Requirement for nutrient management plans and best management practices using latest guidance, which now includes phosphorus loading criteria.
One new Federal rule will be implemented by a simple modification to the Georgia permits: -Requirement for the CAFO to submit an annual report to the permitting authority.
A new Federal requirement is already being implemented in the Georgia permits: -Requirement for large CAFOs to keep records for manure transferred to another party and to give a copy of the manure nutrient analysis to the recipient.
Georgia has established this schedule for implementing the new Federal rule: -Completed necessary State rule amendments on September 15, 2003. -Dry litter and swine nursery permit applications are due by October 31, 2005. -Permits are to be issued and nutrient management plans implemented for dry litter poultry and swine nurseries by October 31, 2006.
Combined Sewer Overflows
The GAEPD has issued NPDES Permits to the three cities in Georgia that have Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) in their wastewater collection systems (Albany, Atlanta and Columbus). The permits require that the CSO must not cause violations of Georgia Water Quality Control Standards. In addition, the CSOs must be controlled to prevent the following conditions for waters downstream of the CSO: materials which settle to form sludge deposits that become putrescent, unsightly or to interfere with legitimate water uses; oil, scum and floating debris in amounts sufficient to be unsightly or to interfere with legitimate water uses; materials which produce turbidity, color, odor or other

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objectionable conditions which interfere with legitimate water uses; toxic, corrosive, acidic and caustic substances in amounts, concentrations or combinations which are harmful to humans, animals or aquatic life.
In 1998 the City of Atlanta signed a Consent Decree that requires a long-term control plan be implemented to remediate the overflow from combined sewers in 2007. The Consent Decree stipulated, among other things, the development and implementation of short-term remedial measures to improve operations, maintenance and treatment performance of the existing CSO facilities. Some of the other tasks required by the Consent Decree include: installation of warning signs along the streams receiving CSO discharges, a one-time stream cleanup, greenway acquisition plan, and creating Maintenance, Operations, and Management Systems (MOMS) Plans to provide guidance to City personnel regarding the operations and maintenance requirements of each of the City's CSO facilities as well as management strategies to control CSOs.
The City of Atlanta submitted their long-term control plan in April 2001. The selected option calls for 27% sewer separation including the elimination of two CSO facilities, additional storage for the eastside CSOs which discharge to an upgraded CSO treatment facility at the current Intrenchment Creek facility and a tunnel connecting the westside CSOs to a new CSO treatment facility on the Chattahoochee River near the R. M. Clayton Water Reclamation Center. November 7, 2007 is the date in the Consent Decree for compliance with water quality standards.
Compliance and Enforcement
The Georgia Water Quality Control Act requires that every point source discharge obtain a NPDES permit, and that zero discharge systems obtain a Land Application System Permit from the GAEPD which specifies allowable discharge limits for the receiving streams or land application sites. Insuring compliance with permit limitations is an important part of the Georgia water pollution control program. Staff review discharge and groundwater monitoring reports, inspect water pollution control plants, sample effluents, investigate citizen complaints, provide on-site technical assistance and, if necessary, initiate enforcement action.
As of December 2003, of the 135 major municipal water pollution control plants (facilities with design flow >1.0 mgd), 132 of the 135 were in general compliance with the final limitations. The remaining three facilities of the 135 are under compliance schedules to resolve the noncompliance or implementing infiltration/ inflow strategies which will allow compliance at the plant to be achieved.

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Enforcement action has been taken by the GAEPD to insure problems are alleviated.
Data evaluations (using annual reports, GAEPD sampling and biomonitoring results) were performed on NPDES permitted municipal facilities to determine the need to reopen specific permits for inclusion of numerical limits and monitoring for appropriate toxic pollutants.
Increased emphasis was placed on the industrial pretreatment programs for municipalities to ensure that the cities comply with the new requirements for pretreatment established in the November 1988 Amendments to the Federal General Pretreatment Regulations (40 CFR Part 403).
Industries in Georgia achieved a high degree of compliance in 2002-2003. Of 42 major industrial facilities, 41 have final effluent limitations. The major industrial discharger not on final limits has a permit under Administrative appeal. Of the 41 facilities on final limits, 40 were achieving compliance at the end of 2003. The major discharger not in compliance at the end of 2003 is under an order schedule to attain compliance.
The GAEPD utilizes all reasonable means to obtain compliance, including technical assistance, noncompliance notification letters, conferences, consent orders, administrative orders, and civil penalties. Emphasis is placed on achieving compliance through cooperative action. However, compliance cannot always be achieved in a cooperative manner. The Director of the GAEPD has the authority to negotiate consent orders or issue administrative orders. In 20022003, 515 Orders were issued and a total of $3,392,876 in negotiated settlements was collected.
Zero Tolerance
In January 1998, the Georgia Board of Natural Resources adopted a resolution requiring that regulatory initiatives be developed to ensure polluters are identified, and that appropriate enforcement action is taken to correct problems. The resolution also directed EPD to provide the "best quality of effort possible in enforcing Georgia's environmental laws". High growth areas that have been identified as in need of enhanced protection include the Chattahoochee River Basin (from the headwaters through Troup County), Coosa River Basin, Tallapoosa River Basin, and the greater metropolitan Atlanta area. EPD developed a "zero tolerance" strategy for these identified geographic areas. This strategy requires enforcement action on any and all noncompliance issues. The strategy includes simple orders (Expedited Enforcement Compliance Order and Settlement Agreement) with a directive to correct the cause of noncompliance

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with a monetary penalty for isolated, minor violations, and more complex orders (consent orders, administrative orders, emergency orders) with conditions and higher monetary penalties for chronic and/or major violations. In addition to the enforcement strategy, inspections and surveillance activities were also increased.
Storm Water Management
The Water Quality Act of 1987 requires permits to be issued for certain types of storm water discharges, with primary focus on storm water runoff from industrial operations and large urban areas. The USEPA promulgated Storm Water Regulations on November 16, 1990. The GAEPD subsequently received delegation from the USEPA in January 1991 to issue NPDES Permits for regulating storm water in Georgia. GAEPD has developed and implemented a storm water strategy which assures compliance with the Federal Regulations.
Phase I of 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 sewer systems (MS4). The GAEPD has determined that the metropolitan Atlanta area is a large municipal system as defined in the regulations. Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton and Gwinnett Counties and all interlying incorporated cities were required to comply with the application submittal target dates for a large municipal area. Forty-five storm water permits were issued to the Atlanta area municipalities on June 15, 1994. These permits were reissued in 1999 and will be reissued 2004.
Augusta, Macon, Savannah, Columbus, the counties surrounding these cities and any other incorporated cities within these counties were identified as medium municipal systems as defined in the storm water regulations. Thirteen storm water permits were issued to the medium municipal systems between April 20 and May 25, 1995. These permits were reissued in April 2000. The storm water permits for large and medium municipal systems require the submittal of Annual Reports to GAEPD. Each year, the Georgia storm water permitting program reviews the Annual Reports from the large and medium municipalities. Among other things, the Annual Report includes a detailed description of the municipality's implementation of its Storm Water Management Program. The GAEPD provides comments on the Annual Reports to the MS4 permittees, noting areas of noncompliance and recommending improvements to the local Storm Water Management Programs.
On December 8, 1999 USEPA promulgated the Phase II Rules for Storm Water. Phase II requires NPDES permitting and the development of Storm Water Management Programs for a large number of smaller cities and counties.

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Construction sites from 1 to 5 acres and municipally-owned industrial facilities are also regulated.
Significant progress has been made in the implementation of the Phase II Storm Water Rule concerning small municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s). GAEPD has evaluated the 2000 census data and prepared a list of local governments whose jurisdictions reside within the Urbanized Areas in the State. The listing of these local governments became the list of potential Small MS4 Permittees. As required by Federal Regulations, GAEPD determined a waiver process, and a process to designate additional MS4s based on designation criteria. Implementation of both processes required both adding and subtracting names from the list with the final number of permittees being 84.
For Federal Fiscal Year 2003 only, CWA Section 319(h) funds were made available to Phase II communities to support and implement their Stormwater Management Programs. Georgia awarded $1.4 million to eight NPDES Phase II communities. Georgia was one of the few states in the nation to successfully fund Phase II MS4s with 319(h) funds.
The General Storm Water Permit for Small MS4s was issued on December 9, 2002. All 84 Phase II municipalities have submitted a Georgia Notice of Intent to apply for coverage under that general permit.
The GAEPD has issued general permits for the eleven industrial subcategories defined in the Phase I Federal Storm Water Regulations. During 1993, the GAEPD issued a general NPDES permit that regulates the discharge of storm water from 10 categories of industrial activity. This permit was reissued in 1998 and will likely be reissued in 2004. There are currently approximately 3500 industrial facilities in Georgia that have coverage under this general permit.
A second general NPDES permit that would regulate storm water discharges from construction activities was issued by GAEPD and subsequently appealed in 1992, 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1999. Settlement negotiations involving the regulated community, several environmental organizations, GAEPD, and a professional facilitator began in October 1999. After months of negotiation, GAEPD issued a revised general NPDES permit GAR100000 for construction activities on June 12, 2000. The permit became effective on August 1, 2000. In August 2003, three new construction general permits were issued to replace the original one. These new permits were for Stand Alone Projects, Infrastructure Projects and Common Developments. With the new permits, the threshold for coverage dropped to one acre of disturbed land. The three construction permits require permittees to implement best management practices, conduct inspections and sample stormwater leaving their site after certain rainfall events. There is a

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three tiered permitting structure for Common Developments to differentiate between permittees' responsibilities which allows for easier enforcement. Approximately 34,000 "Notice of Intent" applications have been received by GAEPD since the permit issuance in 2000.
An important component of storm water management in Georgia is information exchange/technology transfer. Hundreds of copies of the Georgia Storm Water Permitting Strategy and approximately the same number of for information only general permits have been distributed to potential permittees, trade associations, consultants and other interested parties. GAEPD staff respond to dozens of telephone calls each week concerning the status of NPDES storm water permitting in Georgia. Staff have also participated in many meetings and seminars throughout Georgia in an effort to disseminate the storm water strategy to the regulated community. In addition, GAEPD has conducted over 400 stormwater inspections during the first half of FY2004.
The GAEPD will continue to regulate storm water runoff from industrial, construction and urban sources as a part of the point source permitting process to protect water quality.
Erosion and Sedimentation Control
The Erosion and Sedimentation Act (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 that coordinated their efforts to this end included the Georgia Association of Conservation Districts, the State Soil and Water Conservation Commission, and the GAEPD.
The intent of the Act is to establish a statewide and comprehensive program for erosion and sedimentation control to conserve and protect air, water and land resources of the State. The Act provides a mechanism for controlling erosion and sedimentation as related to certain land disturbing activities. Land disturbing activities are any activities that may result in soil erosion and the movement of sediments into State waters and onto lands within the State. Such activities may include, but are not limited to, clearing, dredging, grading, excavating, transporting, and filling of land. Activities not regulated under the Act include surface mining, construction of single family homes being constructed by the owner or under contract to an owner, and minor activities such as home landscaping and gardening.
Implementation of the Act involves local units of governments and State agencies. The Act provides for municipalities and Counties to adopt local ordinances and to become delegated "Issuing Authorities". The GAEPD

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delegates local "Issuing Authority" and administers the GAEPD rules where there is no local authority, and oversees local programs implemented. Currently 220 municipalities and 121 counties have adopted ordinances that have been reviewed by the GAEPD for compliance with the Act.
During the 2003-2004 period GAEPD issued 63 stream buffer variances. Five stream buffer variances were denied during the same period.
House Bill 285 was passed during the 2003 legislative session. This bill amended the Erosion and Sedimentation Act and the Georgia Water Quality Control Act. Changes include requirements for local LDA permits to mirror the current NPDES Storm Water General Permit, mandatory erosion and sedimentation training and certification requirements, and NPDES Storm Water General Permit fees. The amendment also required that the Georgia Board of Natural Resources establish new rules for the implementation of these changes.
In October of 2003 the Georgia Board of Natural Resources adopted amendments to both the Erosion and Sedimentation Control Rules and the Water Quality Control Rules. The amendment to the Erosion and Sedimentation Control Rules established criteria for certification and procedures for decertification for local "Issuing Authorities" and established when a plan preparer must visit a project site. The amendment to the Water Quality Rules established a fee system for the NPDES General Permit fees.
Senate Bill 460, which was passed during the 2004 legislative session amended the Erosion and Sedimentation Act. The amendment provided for three additional situations in which a buffer variance may be considered by the GAEPD Director. The amendment also required that the Georgia Board of Natural Resources adopt rules to implement these changes to the Act. Draft rules will be presented to the Board for adoption in the fall.
Nonpoint Source Management Program
Nonpoint sources of water pollution are both diffuse in nature and difficult to define. Nonpoint source pollution can generally be defined as the pollution caused by rainfall or snowmelt moving over and through the ground. As water moves over or through the soil, it picks up and carries away natural pollutants and pollutants resulting from human activities, finally depositing them in lakes, rivers, wetlands, coastal waters and ground waters. Habitat alteration (e.g., removal of riparian vegetation) and hydrological modification (e.g., channelization, bridge construction) can cause adverse effects on the biological and physical integrity of surface waters and are also treated as nonpoint sources of pollution.

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The diffuse nature of nonpoint sources (e.g., agriculture, construction, mining, silviculture, urban runoff) and the variety of pollutants generated by them create a challenge for their effective control. Although progress has been made in the protection and enhancement of water quality, much work is still needed to identify nonpoint source management strategies that are both effective and economically achievable under a wide range of conditions.
The control of dominant point source problems has allowed the GAEPD to place increasing emphasis on the prevention, control and abatement of nonpoint sources of pollution. The GAEPD is responsible for administering and enforcing laws to protect the waters of the State, defined to include surface and ground water. Consequently, the GAEPD has been designated as the administering or lead agency for implementing the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program. This program combines regulatory and non-regulatory approaches, in cooperation with other State and Federal agencies, local and regional governments, State colleges and universities, businesses and industries, nongovernmental organizations and individual citizens.
The Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC) have been designated by the GAEPD as the lead agency for implementing the agricultural component of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program. Similarly, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) has been designated as the lead agency for implementing the silvicultural component of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program.
Georgia's initial Nonpoint Source Assessment Report was completed in compliance with the Federal Clean Water Act and approved by the USEPA in January 1990. This report, Water Quality in Georgia 2002-2003, as required by Section 305(b) of Public Law 92-500, serves as the current process to update the Nonpoint Source Assessment Report.
The revision of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program in FFY 2000 was intended to meet the requirements for funding under Section 319(b) of the Federal Clean Water Act and to delineate short and long-term goals and implementation strategies. Just as important, it was also designed to be an information resource for the wide range of stakeholders across the State involved in the prevention, control and abatement of nonpoint sources of pollution. It was developed as an inventory of the full breadth of nonpoint source management (regulatory and non-regulatory) in Georgia, including activities that are currently underway or planned for the time period FFY 2000 through FFY 2004. The State's Nonpoint Source Management Program will be revised to reflect program changes and additions for FFY 2005 through FFY 2009.

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The State's Nonpoint Source Management Program focuses on the comprehensive categories of nonpoint sources of pollution identified by the USEPA: Agriculture, Silviculture, Construction, Urban Runoff, Hydrologic/Habitat Modification, Land Disposal, Resource Extraction and Other Nonpoint Sources. This revision of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program was developed through a consultatory process, incorporating input from a wide range of stakeholders involved in nonpoint source management activities throughout the State: local, regional, State and Federal agencies, as well as private, nongovernmental organizations. This process encouraged intergovernmental resource sharing and increased stakeholder involvement. This revision of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program established new partnerships and strengthened existing partnerships in the development and implementation of nonpoint source strategies.
As with other activities, the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program will continue to be implemented in conjunction with the State's River Basin Management Planning process. Local governments, regional development centers, private non-governmental organizations and the general public have a critical role in developing and implementing nonpoint source management strategies. The State continues to expand its role in facilitating and supporting local and regional nonpoint source management activities.
Under Section 319(h) of the Federal Clean Water Act, the USEPA awards a Nonpoint Source Implementation Grant to the GAEPD to fund eligible projects that support the implementation of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program. Section 319(h) Grant funds for the prevention, control and/or abatement of nonpoint sources of pollution are made available annually to public agencies in Georgia. With funding from Section 319(h) FFY 1990 FFY 2002 Grants, the GAEPD has awarded over $40 million in grant funds to State agencies, local and regional governments, Resource Conservation and Development Councils, State colleges and universities to fund eligible projects supporting the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program.
The GAEPD uses a competitive process to ensure that the most appropriate projects are selected for funding. In accordance with the Fair and Open Grant Act, the GAEPD publishes a description of the Section 319(h) Nonpoint Source Implementation Grant Program with the Secretary of State prior to disbursement of any grant funds. In accordance with the provisions of O.C.G.A. 28-5-122, the grant description filed with the Secretary of State includes information regarding the general scope and purpose of the grant program, general terms and conditions of the grant, eligible recipients of the grant, criteria for the award, and directions and deadlines for applications.

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Section 319(h) Grant projects must specifically identify the nonpoint sources of pollution being addressed and the activities proposed to prevent, control and/or abate these nonpoint sources of pollution. Types of activities which are eligible include: regulatory or non-regulatory programs for enforcement, technical assistance, financial assistance, education, training, technology transfer, watershed projects, demonstration projects, update and refinement of nonpoint source programs and assessments, monitoring to assess the success of specific nonpoint source implementation projects, urban stormwater control activities not specifically required by a draft or final NPDES permit, and certain ground water activities. Lake protection and restoration activities are eligible provided that they are not used for in-lake work such as aquatic macrophyte harvesting or dredging unless the nonpoint sources of pollution will be remediated.
Eligible recipients of Section 319(h) Nonpoint Source Implementation Grant funds include local, regional and State units of government, local authorities which operate local government service delivery programs, regional development centers, local school systems, State colleges and universities, and State agencies. Local governments must have Qualified Local Government status, in compliance with the requirements of the Georgia Planning Act of 1989 and Service Delivery Strategy Law of 1997.
Priority is given to project proposals which implement the nonpoint source components of Total Maximum Daily Loads that have been approved under Section 303(d) of the Federal Clean Water Act; develop and/or implement the nonpoint source components of Watershed Restoration Action Strategies; and implement action to alleviate the criterion violations identified in the Section 305(b) and Section 303(d) lists of waters which are partially or not supporting designated or beneficial uses due to nonpoint sources of pollution.
In addition, priority is given to projects that encompass or support a watershed management approach and result in measurable improvements in water quality. A watershed approach is a strategy for effectively protecting and restoring aquatic ecosystems and protecting human health. Major features of a watershed management approach are: targeting priority problems, promoting a high level of stakeholder involvement, integrated solutions that make use of the expertise and authority of multiple agencies, and measuring success through monitoring and other data gathering. The application of increased Section 319(h) Grant funds to focus on solving nonpoint source pollution problems will enable the State to make great strides in achieving water quality goals.
Agriculture

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Georgia's Agriculture Nonpoint Source Management Program is implemented through a statewide non-regulatory approach. Benefits have accrued to Georgia as a result of voluntarily installed best management practices and the implementation of conservation incentive programs. These voluntary programs are enhanced by numerous financial, technical assistance, education, demonstration, and research activities delineated in the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program. Implementation of the Agriculture Nonpoint Source Management Program supports Georgia's River Basin Management Planning process as a critical State initiative to identify priority waters and to target nonpoint source management activities.
Agriculture nonpoint source pollution prevention opportunities can be broken down into handling of animal waste runoff, soil erosion, nutrients, pesticides, and agrichemicals. Water quality degradation and soil erosion can often be limited or prevented through the implementation of proven techniques. Georgia's Agriculture Nonpoint Source Management Program supports BMP demonstration projects, technical assistance, and research activities to explore and promote these techniques. Nutrient management plans and land application of effluent can improve soil and maintain water quality. This is an expanding area of research and demonstration in the specialized aquaculture segment and the traditional poultry, swine, and beef production sectors of the agriculture industry. Precision farming, integrated pest management (IPM), and other best management practices can often be used to decrease the need for agrichemical inputs and to increase their effectiveness on cropping systems. Many improved methods of storing and handling agrichemicals are based firmly in the principles of reducing risk of environmental contamination. Georgia has growing programs in pesticide container recycling, outdated pesticide collection, and selfadministered risk assessment consistent with the goals of pollution prevention in agricultural production and management. Agriculture nonpoint source management efforts that maintain or improve environmental quality, focus on pollution prevention, and demonstrate techniques for economic viability will continue to guide Georgia toward sustainable agricultural systems.
The statewide non-regulatory approach uses cooperative partnerships with various agencies and a variety of activities and programs. Agencies that form the basis of the partnerships include the GSWCC (designated lead agency administrating the Agriculture Nonpoint Source Management Program), SWCD, NRCS, UGACAES, CES, FSA, GFC and the GDA. These agencies work closely with Georgia agricultural commodity commissions and organizations such as the GFBF, GAC, RC&D Councils, Cattleman's Association, Milk Producers, Pork Producers Association, Poultry Federation, Goldkist, The Georgia Conservancy, and GWF as well as other producer groups and agriculture support industries to prevent and solve water quality problems. In addition to the agriculture agencies

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and interest groups, a working partnership with individual land users is the cornerstone of soil and water conservation in Georgia.
The cooperating agencies have specific functions and directions. All have an information, education, and public participation component to support their objective to improve and maintain water quality. Of the agriculture agencies, only the GDA has enforcement authority. The GSWCC works with GAEPD, the enforcement agency for the Georgia Water Quality Control Act, to resolve agricultural water quality complaints, where appropriate. The UGACAES and NRCS produce and distribute numerous brochures and fact sheets dealing with agriculture best management practices and water quality.
A cooperative effort between UGACAES and P2AD is providing pollution prevention information, education and technical assistance to the farmer and green industry professionals to reduce nonpoint source pollution as a result of fertilizer and pesticide use. With Section 319(h) Grant funding, the GSWCC, UGACAES, GAEPD and the P2AD have established the Georgia Farm-A-Syst Program to address the problems of nonpoint source contamination of surface and groundwater from agricultural sources. The overall objective of this program is to develop and test voluntary agricultural self assessment materials to fit the needs and conditions throughout the State. The self assessments, fact sheets, and action plans encourage farmers to become environmentally proactive and to ultimately take steps to prevent nonpoint source pollution. Additional information is available at the national Farm-A-Syst website, www.uwex.edu/farmasyst, with links to the Georgia Farm-A-Syst Program.
The GSWCC has continued to sponsor local demonstration projects, 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. The GSWCC has published and continues to distribute the following guidebooks for implementing agricultural best management practices to protect the State's waters: Agricultural Best Management Practices for Protecting Water Quality in Georgia, Planning Considerations for Animal Waste Systems, A Georgia Guide to Controlling EROSION with Vegetation, and Guidelines for Streambank Restoration.
Since 1990, approximately $13 million 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 several million dollars in technical assistance to support these projects. The UGACAES, GSWCC, FSA, GFC and other agencies have also contributed significant technical assistance to support these projects. These

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projects offer solutions, as well as financial and technical implementation assistance, in identified priority watersheds.
The 2002 Farm Bill contains conservation provisions that will have far reaching impacts on the protection of water quality from nonpoint source pollution in Georgia. The conservation provisions seek to improve the flexibility and efficiency of existing programs by diversifying agency participation in the delivery of conservation programs that protect water quality and related natural resources. For 2002-2003, Conservation Planning assistance through this partnership has directly benefited more than 150,000 acres statewide.
NRCS continues to serve as the lead agency for these conservation programs, including the Forestry Incentive Program (FIP), the Wetland Reserve Program (WRP), the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP), and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). In 2002, the EQIP program provided $6.6 million in incentive payments and cost-sharing for conservation practices through 750 contracts. Requests for funds were more than four times the available funds. In 2003, more than $9 million dollars in EQIP cost-share funds are available for implementation in Georgia. Collectively these programs described more fully in the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program, will continue to have a significant and positive impact on Georgia's natural resources.
The conservation program delivery process initiated by the Bill will cause a number of positive events to occur at the local, state, regional, and national levels. The Bill will continue a program delivery process that focuses first and foremost on resource concerns and considers conservation programs as tools with which to address the identified concerns. Multiple agencies, therefore, can take advantage of their common goals to protect and improve the natural resources of this State. New programs in the Bill seek to address high priority environmental protection goals through the cooperative work of Federal, State, and local agencies, as well as an active State Technical Committee. This cooperative effort will continue to identify and set resource concern priorities thereby establishing Georgia's agricultural priority environmental protection goals. Applying common goals to address resource concerns in many of Georgia's geographic settings, which vary greatly, will encourage multiple agencies to find common solutions to resource impairment.
The Federal cost-share programs in the Bill will bring millions of dollars to Georgia. By requiring priority areas to be identified and ranked, conservation assistance will maximize the environmental benefit per dollar expended. Therefore, capital funding and technical expertise can be leveraged to enhance ongoing State and local efforts to more efficiently manage our natural resources.

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Another benefit arising from this new process is the focus on the locally led conservation program delivery process, which should lead to a higher rate of landowner participation. Under a voluntary approach, the programs can only be effective to the extent that they are used. The process will result in a sense of ownership at the local level arising from local identification of local resource concerns, needs, and goals. Landowners will better understand the impact of their actions on their communities and will be better equipped to comply with environmental regulations, including the nonpoint source components of approved TMDLs.
Georgia's RBMP process will be enhanced by these new partnerships and the coordinated effort to select priority resource concerns. As with other activities, the agricultural portion of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program will be implemented in conjunction with the RBMP process. The GSWCC and NRCS are working to merge the planning process adopted by the GAEPD so that the agriculture community's involvement will be evident in every step of the RBMP process. Identification and selection of priority waters affected by agricultural nonpoint source pollution is a continuing process.
Silviculture
The Georgia Forestry Commission has been an integral partner with the GAEPD since 1977, committed to protect and maintain the integrity and quality of the State's waters. The GAEPD designated the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) as the lead agency for the silviculture portion of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program. The Silviculture Nonpoint Source Management Program is managed and implemented by the GFC, with the support of the forestry industry, for the voluntary implementation of best management practices.
This program is managed by a Statewide Water Quality Coordinator and 12 foresters serving as District Water Quality Coordinators. The GFC Statewide and District Water Quality Coordinators have received specialized training in erosion and sediment control, forest road layout and construction, stream habitat assessment and wetland delineation. The Statewide and District Water Quality Coordinators provide local and statewide training to forest community through workshops, field demonstrations, presentations, management advice to landowners and distribution of Georgia's Best Management Practices for Forestry manual and brochures. In 2003, the GFC Statewide and District Water Quality Coordinators provided BMP advice and guidance to more than 6,900 landowners covering 558,000 acres of forest and conducted 132 BMP workshops and field demonstrations for major corporations and independent loggers.

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The GFC also investigates and mediates complaints involving forestry operations. After notifying the landowner, the GFC District Coordinators conduct field inspections to determine if best management practices were followed, if the potential for water quality problems exists, if a contract was used and who purchased the timber. If a written contract was executed, the GFC District Coordinators 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 landowner to correct the problems. Complaints usually involve logging debris left in streams and are resolved without involving the 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 under the Georgia Water Quality Control Act.
The State Board of Registration for Foresters has adopted procedures to sanction or revoke the licenses of registered foresters involved in unresolved complaints where actions or lack of supervision to implement best management practices have resulted in violations of the Board's land ethic criterion, Georgia Water Quality Control Act, or Federal wetlands regulations.
In 1991, the GFC conducted the first Statewide BMP Compliance Survey to assess the application of best management practices by logging operations. The survey of 349 harvesting sites conducted during 1991 revealed that best management practices had been properly applied to 86% of the total area harvested and that only 4.8% of the perennial and intermittent streams had been adversely affected. Regional BMP compliance was highest in the Coastal Plain physiographic region (92%) and lowest in the Mountain physiographic region (61%). Forestry industry land had the highest rate of BMP compliance (93%) followed by private non-industrial forest lands (80%) and public lands (77%).
In 2002, the GFC completed a standardized survey of BMP compliance, including the rates of BMP implementation, units (areas, miles, crossings) in BMP compliance, effectiveness of BMPs and areas to target for future BMP training. Silvicultural BMPs evaluated included streamside management zones, stream crossings, roads, harvesting, mechanical and chemical site prepartation, regeneration, prescribed burning, and firebreaks. The streams were also assessed for physical damage and turbidity.
Overall BMP compliance was 99.1% (out of 49,452 acres evaluated). This is a one percent increase from the 1998 survey, and more than seven percent increase from the 1982 survey. Out of the 12, 195 applicable, individual BMPs evaluated, 86% were implemented, a seven percent increase from the 1998 survey, and nearly a 20% increase from 1992. Out of the 226 miles of streams

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evaluated, more than 94% were found to have no impacts or impairments from forestry practices.
The Georgia Forestry Association (GFA) and the forestry industry have played a significant role in encouraging the voluntary implementation of BMPs in Georgia. The forest industry has initiated numerous education workshops and training programs. The American Forest and Paper Association (AFPA) has adopted the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program. 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 2 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 Land Owner Outreach Program which endeavors to deliver information about forestry management and the protection of water resources to forest land owners.
Urban Runoff
The 1990 report of the Community Stream Management Task Force, We All Live Downstream, established a road map for urban runoff nonpoint source management in Georgia. The task force was convened in 1988 to assist the Georgia Department of Natural Resources with impacts on urban streams. The task force's report emphasized the importance of cooperative partnerships and building working relationships between the units of government responsible for land and water quality management. Educational, management, and support strategies were recommended to help move toward an integrated structure which would allow continued evolution of intergovernmental and private sector structures and promote development of urban stream management activities over time.
The task force recognized two major impediments to effective management of urban water bodies. The first is the division between statutory responsibilities for management of water quality, granted to GAEPD, and local governments' constitutional responsibility for management of the land activities that affect urban waterbodies. The second impediment is the diffuse nature of nonpoint source pollution and the variety of activities that may contribute to impacts from urban runoff. They concluded that urban runoff nonpoint source management would require a cooperative partnership between layers of government, the private sector, and the general public. The development of such a partnership will require a strong impetus to accept new institutional roles and make the structural changes necessary to support and sustain the stream management process.

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Since publication of We All Live Downstream, urban runoff nonpoint source management in Georgia has continued to evolve. Consistent with the multiple sources of urban runoff, the management systems have multiple focuses. Some programs focus on specific sources of urban runoff, targeting implementation of structural and/or management BMPs on individual sites or systemwide. Other programs treat corridors along waterbodies as a management unit to prevent or control the impacts of urban runoff on urban streams. Additional programs focus on comprehensive watershed management. This approach, which considers the impacts of all the land draining into a waterbody and incorporates integrated management techniques, is particularly critical to protecting and enhancing the quality of urban streams. Urban waterbodies cannot be effectively managed without controlling the adverse impacts of activities in their watersheds.
While the State continues to have an important regulatory role, aspects of the cooperative intergovernmental partnerships envisioned by the task force have emerged and are being strengthened. GAEPD is implementing programs which go beyond traditional regulation, providing the regulated community with greater flexibility and responsibility for determining management practices. The GAEPD is also expanding its role in facilitation and support of local watershed management efforts.
An array of programs to manage urban runoff are under development or being implemented in a variety of locales. Catalysts which contribute to more comprehensive management of urban waterbodies include public interest groups, local governments, regional development centers, State agencies, and State laws and regulations (e.g., Metropolitan Rivers Protection Act, Georgia Planning Act Part V Standards). The development and implementation of Total Maximum Daily Loads for waterbodies not meeting water quality standards will continue to spur local and regional watershed management initiatives.
To a large extent, however, the conclusions of the Community Stream Management Task Force (CSMTF) still hold. The division between the State's responsibilities for water quality management and local responsibility for land management, as well as the variety of activities and sources which contribute to urban runoff problems, continue to pose challenges for management of nonpoint sources.
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). Activities which can alter the integrity of urban waterbodies include habitat alteration, hydrological modification, erosion and sedimentation associated with land disturbing activities, stormwater runoff, combined sewer overflows, illicit discharges, improper storage and/or disposal of

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deleterious materials, and intermittent failure of sewerage systems. In a more recent assessment, studies reviewed by the CSMTF indicated that waterbodies throughout the State are threatened by the effects of urban development. During urbanization, pervious, vegetated ground is converted to impervious, unvegetated land. Land imperviousness in urban areas - as rooftops, roads, parking lots, and sidewalks - can range from 35% in lightly urbanized areas to nearly 100% in heavily urbanized areas. Increases in pollutant loading generated from human activities are associated with urbanization, and imperviousness results in increased stormwater volumes and altered hydrology in urban areas.
While the State has statutory responsibilities for water resources, local governments have the constitutional authority for the management of land activities. Therefore, it is necessary to forge cooperative partnerships between the State, local and regional governments, business and industry, 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 1998, the Georgia Water Management Campaign (GWMC) was established to enhance local governments' ability to manage and protect water resources by translating water management policies into local government decision making capabilities, guidance and technical assistance. The GWMC promotes stakeholder involvement in the development and implementation of local watershed management initiatives. To accomplish its mission, the GWMC sponsors the annual Georgia Water Resources Leadership Summit to provide a bottom up and top down understanding of issues affecting the management and protection of water resources in Georgia. In addition, several outreach tools, such as public service announcements and videos, have been developed for local governments. Information and contacts for the GWMC can be accessed at the ACCG website, www.accg.org.
Other initiatives have been implemented to further statewide coordination and implementation of urban runoff best management practices. The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and the GAEPD published the Georgia Stormwater Management Manual Volume 1, Stormwater Policy Guide and Volume 2, Technical Handbook in August 2001. This guidance manual for developers and local governments illustrates proper design of best management practices for controlling stormwater and nonpoint source pollution in urban areas in Georgia.
In FY2003, a project was initiated with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs' (DCA) Office of Environmental Management to provide a single point of contact for local governments to use when seeking State of Federal support to

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address issues related to water quality in an urban environment. The primary objective of the project is to develop the capacity of local governments and local government officials to address urban water quality issues on a watershed basis. DCA will provide a point of contact, and will be a reliable and creditable resource for local governments to turn to for information including water resource tools.
The GAEPD and the University of Georgia School of Environmental Design developed land development code recommendations for incorporation into existing and/or new local government ordinances. The document, Land Development Provisions to Protect Georgia Water Quality, describes provisions that could be modified in or added to local development regulations to better protect water quality. This report also includes two sections introducing the problem of runoff water quality and its relationship to urban development. This document is intended to serve as a partial "menu" from which each municipality can select appropriate provisions and adapt them to the local conditions. Municipal ordinances where these provisions could be used include zoning and subdivision ordinances, erosion and sedimentation control codes, stormwater management ordinances and design standards documents.
In cooperation with the ARC, the GAEPD has also produced and distributed the reports, Protecting Community Streams: A Guidebook for Local Governments in Georgia and Urban Streams Assessment and Evaluation Guidelines. The guidebooks outline actions that a local community can undertake to protect its healthy streams and restore its degraded streams. The guidebooks provide details of where and how to collect information on stream water quality, how to evaluate the quality of a community's streams, what protection measures should be considered and how all of this can be put together in an integrated planning and management program. The guidebooks are intended for use by government officials, public works departments, planning departments and drainage departments, but are also useful resources to any individual or community group interested in stream protection. The focus of the guidebooks is not only the stream and the stream's edge but the entire land area of watershed that drains into the stream. Streams are best protected through careful development of the land that they drain.
The GAEPD in cooperation with the University of Georgia School of Environmental Design has produced the Pointless Pollution in Georgia brochure and video and the Georgia Urban Waterbody Education Plan and Program. The Pointless Pollution In Georgia brochure and video were developed to provide individuals with suggestions to minimize nonpoint source pollution from entering Georgia's urban streams and rivers. In addition, the GAEPD has continued to provide both financial and technical support to encourage the development of local government watershed planning and management initiatives.

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Georgia Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) Program
In October 1996, the GAEPD selected the Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) Curriculum and Activity Guide as the most appropriate water science and nonpoint source education resource for educators in the State. Project WET was developed, field-tested, and reviewed by over 600 educators and resource managers working with 34,000 students nationwide, and it provides educators with interdisciplinary activities that can be easily integrated into the existing curriculum of a school, museum, university pre-service class, or community organization.
The goals of the Georgia Project WET Program are to facilitate and promote awareness, appreciation, knowledge and stewardship of water resources through the dissemination of classroom-ready teaching aids for educators of K-12th grade students.
The success for the Georgia Project WET Program has been phenomenal. Since 1997, Project Wet facilitator training workshops have been completed in Athens, Atlanta, Dahlonega, Eatonton, Macon, Savannah, St. Simons Island and Warner Robbins with over 300 Project Wet facilitator trained statewide. In addition, 250 Project WET educator workshops have been completed with more than 4,900 formal and nonformal educators implementing the Project WET curriculum in Georgia.
The Georgia Project WET Program provides educators with additional resources such as the Enviroscape Nonpoint Source, Wetlands and Groundwater Flow Models- demonstration tools used to emphasize the impacts of nonpoint source pollution on surface and ground waters, scripted theatrical performances and costumes for Mama Bass and the Mudsliders, and promotional and instructional training videos. In addition, the Dragonfly Gazette, a biannual newsletter, the Georgia River of Words Teacher's Guide, and the Georgia River of Words Poetry and Art Journal are published and distributed to over 5,000 educators statewide. Information is also available on the EEinGEORGIA website, The Clearinghouse for Environmental Education in Georgia, http://eeingeorgia.org/info.asp?id=6322&siteid=4863.
Since March 2001, the Georgia Project WET Program has partnered with the Environmental Education Alliance of Georgia to conduct an annual conference and awards ceremony. The 2004 Conference, Environmental Education: Promoting Excellence Through Teaching, Research and Service, was held in Cordele, Georgia with nearly 300 participants.

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In September 2000, Project WET organized the national effort, Make a Splash with Project WET, with support from Nestle Waters, North America (formerly the Perrier Group of America). The annual Make a Splash with Project WET water festivals around the country consist of structured learning stations and exhibits where students actively engage in hands-on activities and investigations. More than 50,000 children join together raising awareness about the importance of protecting our water resources. Each year, the Georgia Project WET Program supports Make a Splash with Project WET water festival at the school selected as the Georgia Project WET School of the Year. In September 2003 students from Arnold Magnet Academy in Columbus, Georgia worked with their teachers to coordinate and lead hands-on activity stations for students at neighboring Allen Elementary. 135 teachers and 625 students participated in the water festival. Additional information on Make a Splash with Project WET is available on the Project WET website, http://www.projectwetusa.org/makeasplash.html.
The Georgia Project WET Program has been nationally recognized as a model for its training strengths and techniques specifically, the use of the arts in environmental education. The Georgia Project WET Program offers educators in Georgia the opportunity to participate in River of Words, an international poetry and art contest for K-12th grade students. Through River of Words, students explore their watersheds and describe their observations through poetry and art.
River of Words was co-founded in 1995 by the U. S. Poet Laureate, Robert Hass and writer, Pamela Michael. Participating students enter their poetry and art in an international competition. Winners are announced in April and participants receive certificates. Eight Grand Prize Winners are recognized at an Awards Ceremony. International winners and finalists have been selected from Georgia every year since 1997.
In 2004, over 20,000 entries were submitted to the River of Words contest. More than 2,000 of those entries were from Georgia students. One was selected as an International Grand Prize Winner, and ten of the entries were selected as International Finalists. In addition, Georgia Project WET and its partners, the Georgia Center for the Book and the Starbucks Coffee Company, selected 18 State Winners. Winning students and their teachers were recognized at a State Awards Ceremony at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. The poetry and art will travel statewide throughout the year in the Georgia River of Words Exhibit. The Exhibit will visit schools, libraries, conferences, water festivals, and other public settings. Last year alone, the exhibit was seen by almost 50,000 people. Student work will also be showcased in the Georgia River of Words Poetry and Art Journal.
Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program

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The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program is a citizen monitoring and stream protection program with two staff positions at GAEPD, five Regional Training Centers, and more than 50 established Community and Watershed Adopt-AStream organizers. The Regional Training Centers are a network of collegebased training centers located at State Universities in Columbus, Milledgeville, Americus and Savannah. The Community and Watershed Programs are locally based and locally funded programs organized at the watershed, county and city level. This network of training centers allows the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program to be accessible to all areas of the State. These centers ensure that volunteers are trained consistently and that the monitoring data is professionally assessed for quality assurance and quality control.
Stakeholder involvement and stewardship are essential to implementing Georgia's River Basin Management Planning (RBMP) approach to water resource management. The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program objectives support the RBMP strategies for stakeholder involvement and stewardship: (1) increase individual's awareness of how they contribute to nonpoint source pollution problems, (2) generate local support for nonpoint source management through public involvement and monitoring of waterbodies, and (3) provide educational resources and technical assistance for addressing nonpoint source pollution problems statewide.
Currently, more than 10,000 volunteers participate in 300 individual and community sponsored Adopt-A-Stream Programs. Volunteers conduct clean ups, stabilize streambanks, monitor waterbodies using biological and chemical methods, and evaluate habitats and watersheds at over 265 sites throughout the State. 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 from nonpoint sources of pollution.
Volunteers are offered different levels of involvement. Each level involves an education and action component on a local waterbody. The introductory level consist of setting up a project (i.e., identifying a stream segment, lake, estuary or wetland, identifying partners, registering with the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program), evaluating land use and stream conditions during a watershed walk, conducting quarterly visual surveys and clean-ups, and public outreach activities. Volunteers create a "Who to Call for Questions or Problems" list so that if something unusual is noted, immediate professional attention can be obtained. Advanced levels of involvement include biological monitoring, chemical monitoring, habitat improvement or riparian restoration projects.

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The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program provides volunteers with additional resources such as the Getting to Know Your Watershed, Visual Stream Survey, Biological and Chemical Stream Monitoring, Adopt-A-Wetland, Adopt-A-Lake, and Adopt-A-Stream Educator's Guide manuals, PowerPoint presentations, and promotional and instructional training videos. In addition, a bi-monthly newsletter is published and distributed to over 4000 volunteers statewide with program updates, workshop schedules, and information about available resources. Additional information about the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program is available on the Rivers Alive website, www.riversalive.org/aas.htm. In addition, the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program activities have been correlated to the Georgia Quality Core Curriculum (QCC) Science Standards for grades K 12 and certified teachers in Georgia participating in Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program training workshops will receive Staff Development Unit (SDU) credits.
In March 2003, the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program partnered with the Environmental Education Alliance of Georgia to conduct an annual conference and awards ceremony. The 2003 conference, Environmental Education: Promoting Excellence Through Teaching, Research and Service was held at the Retreat at Lake Blackshear in Cordele, Georgia with over 200 participants.
In addition, the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program organizes Georgia's annual volunteer river clean up event, Rivers Alive, held through-out the month of October. Rivers Alive is a statewide event that targets clean-ups across all waterways in the State including streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands and coastal waterways. The mission of Rivers Alive is to create awareness of and involvement in the preservation of Georgia's water resources.
Rivers Alive 2003 included 160 local clean up events and attracted more than 24,000 volunteers statewide cleaning over 1,438 miles of the State's waterways. Rivers Alive 2003 was sponsored by numerous corporations including AT&T, BASF Professional Vegetation management, BellSouth, The Coca-Cola Company, Direct Access International, Fox 5 Television, Georgia Pacific Corporation, Georgia Power, The Home Depot, International Paper, Meadwestvaco Coated Board Division, Miller Brewing Company, Mohawk Industries, Inc., Oglethorpe Power Corporation, United Parcel Service, Inc., and Waste Management. Organizers and volunteers received free t-shirts, watershed posters and signs, press releases and public service announcements. In addition to cleaning the State's waterways, Rivers Alive included diverse activities such as storm drain stenciling, water quality monitoring and riparian restoration workshops, riverboat tours, wastewater treatment facility tours and environmental education workshops.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

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The goals for Rivers Alive 2004 are to have at least 25,000 volunteers with at least 175 local events statewide. These goals represent increased efforts that will result in cleaner waters in the State. Additional information about Rivers Alive 2004 is available on the website, www.riversalive.org.
Emergency Response Program
The GAEPD maintains a team of Environmental Emergency Specialists capable of responding to oil or hazardous materials spills 24-hours a day. Each team member is cross-trained to address and enforce all environmental laws administered by the GAEPD. The team members interact at the command level with local, state and federal agency personnel to ensure the protection of human health and the environment during emergency and postemergency situations. The majority of the team members are located in Atlanta in order to facilitate rapid access to the major interstates. Two additional team members operate out of the Environmental Protection Division office in Savannah to provide rapid response to water quality concerns along the coast of Georgia and to assist the United States Coast Guard Marine Safety Office when needed.
A significant number of reported releases involve discharges to storm sewers. Many citizens and some industries do not understand the distinction between storm and sanitary sewers and intentional discharge to storm sewers occurs all too frequently. A problem which arises several times a year involves the intentional discharge of gasoline to storm sewers, with a resulting buildup of vapors to explosive limits. A relatively small amount of gasoline can result in explosive limits being reached in a storm sewer. The resulting evacuations and industry closures cost the citizens of Georgia hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.
The GAEPD is designated in the Georgia Emergency Operations Plan as the lead state agency in responding to hazardous materials spills. Emergency Response Team members serve in both a technical support and regulatory mode during an incident. The first goal of the Emergency Response Team is to minimize and mitigate harm to human health and the environment. In addition, appropriate enforcement actions including civil penalties are taken with respect to spill incidents. Emergency Response Team members work directly with responsible parties to coordinate all necessary clean-up actions. Team members can provide technical assistance with clean-up techniques, as well as guidance to ensure regulatory compliance.
Environmental Radiation

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In 1976, the Georgia Radiation Control Act was amended to provide the GAEPD with responsibility for monitoring of radiation and radioactive materials in the environment. The Environmental Radiation Program was created to implement these responsibilities for environmental monitoring. Since that time, the Program has also been assigned responsibility for implementing the GAEPD lead agency role in radiological emergency planning, preparedness and response, and for analyzing drinking water samples collected pursuant to the Safe Drinking Water Act for the presence of naturally-occurring radioactive materials such as uranium, 226Ra, 228Ra and gross alpha activity.
The Environmental Radiation Program monitors environmental media in the vicinity of nuclear facilities in or bordering Georgia to determine if radioactive materials are being released into the environment in quantities sufficient to adversely affect the health and safety of the citizens of Georgia or the quality of Georgia's environment. Among the more important of the facilities monitored by the Program are:
Georgia Power Company Edwin I. Hatch Nuclear Plant, located in Appling County, Georgia;
Alabama Power Company Joseph M. Farley Nuclear Plant, located in Houston County, Alabama;
Georgia Power Company Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, located in Burke County, Georgia;
U.S. Department of Energy Savannah River Site, located in Aiken and Barnwell Counties, South Carolina;
Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay, located in Camden County, Georgia;
Tennessee Valley Authority Sequoyah Nuclear Plant, located in Hamilton County, Tennessee; and
Duke Power Company Oconee Nuclear Plant, located in Oconee County, South Carolina.
On a routine basis, associates in the Environmental Radiation Program collect samples of groundwater, surface water, stream sediment and/or aquatic species (i.e. fish, shellfish) from each of these facilities. The Program contracts with the Environmental Radiation Laboratory (ERL) at Georgia Tech for laboratory analysis of these samples for natural and man-made radionuclides such as 90Sr, 131I, 137Cs and 3H (tritium).

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The results of the GAEPD monitoring around Plant Hatch indicate very little evidence of releases of radioactive materials, with the exception of monitoring related to a 1986 spill of spent fuel pool water, as discussed in the GAEPD Environmental Monitoring Reports. Slightly elevated levels of 60Co, 65Zn, 134Cs, and 137Cs have been detected in fish and river sediment from the Altamaha River downstream to the coastal area near Darien. Slightly elevated levels of 137Cs are observed in vegetation samples from a background station plant cannot be attributed to plant operations, as similar levels are not found at indicator stations closer to the plant. Overall, it appears that Plant Hatch operations have not added significant quantities of radioactive materials to the environment.
The results of the GAEPD monitoring around Plant Farley indicate little evidence of releases of radioactive materials, with the exception of slightly elevated levels of tritium (3H) in surface water and slight traces of 58Co and 60Co in river sediment.
Results of the GAEPD monitoring around SRS and Plant Vogtle show evidence of current and previous releases of radioactive materials from SRS. Elevated levels of tritium (3H) due to airborne and liquid releases are routinely detected in fish, milk, precipitation, surface water and vegetation. Elevated levels of 137Cs and 60Co, attributed to releases from previous SRS operations, are found in sediments from the Savannah River. Elevated 137Cs, gross beta, and 90Sr levels are also found in fish from the Savannah River. Staff of the Environmental Radiation Program are working with SRS personnel on a study of the effects on human health from consumption of contaminated fish. The GAEPD monitoring results also show evidence of current and previous releases of radioactive materials from Plant Vogtle. Slightly elevated concentrations of 54Mn, 58Co, and 60Co have been detected in aquatic vegetation and sediment downstream of Plant Vogtle, and 134Cs has been detected in fish downstream of the plant.
The results of the GAEPD monitoring around Kings Bay indicate little evidence of releases of radioactive materials. Elevated gross beta concentrations in surface water are due to naturally-occurring 40K in sea-water. Overall, it appears that operations at Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay have not added significant quantities of radioactive materials to the environment.
The results of the GAEPD monitoring around the Sequoyah Nuclear Plant indicate no evidence of releases of radioactive materials.
Results of the GAEPD monitoring around the Oconee Nuclear Plant indicate no evidence of releases of radioactive materials. Elevated gross alpha and gross

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

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beta concentrations observed in ground water at one location are due to the presence of 226Ra (naturally-occurring radioactive isotope).

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CHAPTER 8
Groundwater, Ground and Surface Water Withdrawals/Availability, and Ground and Surface Water Drinking Water Supplies
Groundwater
Georgia began the development of its Comprehensive State Groundwater Protection Program (CSGWPP) in the 1970s with enactment of the Ground Water Use Act in 1972. By the mid-1980s, groundwater protection and management had been established by incorporation in a variety of environmental laws and the rules. In 1984, the GAEPD published its first Groundwater Management Plan, in which the various regulatory programs dealing with groundwater were integrated.
Most laws providing for protection and management of groundwater are administered by the GAEPD. Laws regulating pesticides are administered by the Department of Agriculture, environmental planning by the Department of Community Affairs, and on-site sewage disposal by the Department of Human Resources. The GAEPD has established formal Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with these agencies. The Georgia Groundwater Protection Coordinating Committee was established in 1992 to coordinate groundwater management activities between the various departments of state government and the several branches of the GAEPD.
The first version of Georgia's Groundwater Management Plan (1984) has been revised several times to incorporate new laws, rules and technological advances. The current version, Georgia Geologic Survey Circular 11, was published in February, 1998. This document was GAEPD's submission to the USEPA as a "core" CSGWPP. The USEPA approved the submittal in September of 1997. Georgia is now one of approximately 20 percent of the states with an EPA approved CSGWPP.
Groundwater is extremely important to the life, health, and economy of Georgia. For example, in 2002, groundwater made up 20 percent of the public water supply, 100 percent of rural drinking water sources, 58 percent of the irrigation use and 47 percent of the industrial and mining use. Total groundwater

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

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withdrawals in 2002 were approximately 1.26 billion gallons per day. For practical purposes, outside the larger cities of the Piedmont, groundwater is the dominant source of drinking water. The economy of Georgia and the health of millions of persons could be compromised if Georgia's groundwater were to be significantly polluted.
Relatively few cases of ground water contamination adversely affecting public drinking water systems or privately owned drinking water wells have been documented in Georgia, and currently, the vast majority of Georgia's population is not at risk from ground water pollution of drinking water. However, there are various old petroleum underground storage tanks, old landfills and other sites with known ground water contamination which (1) pose a threat to public drinking water systems or individual drinking water wells, or (2) render the existing ground water on or near those sites unusable for drinking water should that use be considered now or in the future. These sites are being addressed primarily through State laws and programs dealing with underground storage tanks, hazardous waste management or hazardous site remediation. Data on the major sources of groundwater contamination are provided in Table 8-1.
The GAEPD's groundwater regulatory programs follow an anti-degradation policy under which regulated activities will not develop into significant threats to the State's groundwater resources. This anti-degradation policy is implemented through three principal elements:
Pollution prevention, Management of groundwater quantity, and Monitoring of groundwater quality and quantity.
The prevention of pollution includes (1) the proper siting, construction and operation of environmental facilities and activities through a permitting system, (2) implementation of environmental planning criteria by incorporation in land-use planning by local government, (3) implementation of a Wellhead Protection Program for municipal drinking water wells, (4) detection and mitigation of existing problems, (5) development of other protective standards, as appropriate, where permits are not required, and (6) education of the public to the consequences of groundwater contamination and the need for groundwater protection. Management of groundwater quantity involves allocating the State's groundwater, through a permitting system, so that the resource will be available to present and future generations. Monitoring of groundwater quality and quantity involves continually assessing the resource so that changes, either good or bad, can be identified and corrective action implemented when and where needed. Table 8-2 is a summary of Georgia groundwater protection programs.

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TABLE 8-1 MAJOR SOURCES OF GROUND WATER CONTAMINATION

Contaminant Source Agricultural Activities Agricultural chemical facilities Animal feedlots Drainage wells

Contaminant Source Selection Factors

Contaminants

Fertilizer applications

Irrigation practices

Pesticide applications

Storage and Treatment Activities

Land application

Material stockpiles

Storage tanks (above ground)

Storage tanks (underground)*

C, D, F

D

Surface impoundments Waste piles Waste tailings Disposal Activities Deep injection wells Landfills* Septic systems* Shallow injection wells

C, D, F C

D, G, H E, K, L

Contaminant Source Other Hazardous waste generators Hazardous waste sites* Industrial facilities* Material transfer operations Mining and mine drainage Pipelines and sewer lines* Salt storage and road salting Salt water intrusion* Spills* Transportation of materials

Contaminant Source Selection Factors
F C, F
F B, C, E, F F

Urban runoff*

D, E

Natural iron and

manganese*

Natural radioactivity

F

Contaminants
C, H C, D, H
D G D Variable H, I

*10 highest-priority sources

Factors used to select each of the contaminant sources.

A. Human health and/or environmental risk (toxicity) B. Size of the population at risk C. Location of the sources relative to drinking water
sources D. Number and/or size of contaminant sources E. Hydrogeologic sensitivity F. State findings, other findings

Contaminants/classes of contaminants considered to be associated with each of the sources that were checked.

A. Inorganic pesticides B. Organic pesticides C. Halogenated solvents D. Petroleum compounds E. Nitrate F. Fluoride

G. Salinity/brine H. Metals I. Radio nuclides J. Bacteria K. Protozoa L. Viruses

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TABLE 8-2

SUMMARY OF STATE GROUND WATER PROTECTION PROGRAMS

Programs or Activities

Check Implementation

Responsible State

(X)

Status

Agency

Active SARA Title III Program

X

Fully Established GAEPD

Ambient ground water monitoring system

X

Fully Established GAEPD

Aquifer vulnerability assessment

X

Ongoing

GAEPD

Aquifer mapping

X

Ongoing

GAEPD

Aquifer characterization

X

Ongoing

GAEPD

Comprehensive data management system

X

Ongoing

GAEPD

EPA-endorsed Core Comprehensive State Ground Water X

Fully Established GAEPD

Protection Program (CSGWPP)

Ground water discharge

Prohibited

Ground water Best Management Practices

X

Pending

GAEPD

Ground water legislation

X

Fully Established GAEPD

Ground water classification

Not applicable

Ground water quality standards

X

Ongoing

GAEPD

Interagency coordination for ground water protection

X

Fully Established GAEPD

initiatives

Nonpoint source controls

X

Pending

GAEPD

Pesticide State Management Plan

X

Fully Established DOA

Pollution Prevention Program

X

Fully Established DNR

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)

X

Fully Established GAEPD

Primacy

State Superfund

X

Fully Established GAEPD

State RCRA Program incorporating more stringent

X

Fully Established GAEPD

requirements than RCRA Primacy

State septic system regulations

X

Fully Established DHR

Underground storage tank installation requirements

X

Fully Established GAEPD

Underground Storage Tank Remediation Fund

X

Fully Established GAEPD

Underground Storage Tank Permit Program

Not applicable

Underground Injection Control Program

X

Fully Established GAEPD

Vulnerability assessment for drinking water/wellhead

X

Ongoing

GAEPD

protection

Well abandonment regulations

X

Fully Established GAEPD

Wellhead Protection Program (EPA-approved)

X

Fully Established GAEPD

Well installation regulations

X

Fully Established GAEPD

The State of Georgia possesses a groundwater supply that is both abundant and of high quality. Except where aquifers in the Coastal Plain become salty at great depth, all of the State's aquifers are considered as potential sources of drinking water. For the most part, these aquifers are remarkably free of pollution. The aquifers are continuously recharged by precipitation falling within the borders of the State and can, in most places, continue to provide additional water to help meet future water needs. While water from wells is safe to drink without treatment in most areas of Georgia, water to be used for public supply is required to be chlorinated (except for very small systems). Water for domestic use can also be treated if required.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

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Ambient groundwater quality, as well as the quantity available for development, is related to the geologic character of the aquifers through which it has moved. Georgia's aquifers can, in general, be characterized by the five main hydrologic provinces in the State (Figure 8-1).
In addition to sampling of public drinking water wells as part of the Safe Drinking Water Act and sampling of monitoring wells at permitted facilities, the GAEPD monitors ambient groundwater quality through the Georgia Groundwater Monitoring Network. The Network consists of approximately 120-130 wells, which are sampled periodically (Figure 8-2). These wells are located in all of the main aquifers and throughout the State in key areas. Water quality is reported annually. This network allows the GAEPD to identify groundwater quality trends before they become a problem. The only adverse trend noted to date is that nitrate, while still a fraction of the USEPA established MCL for drinking water, has slightly increased in concentration in the recharge areas of some Coastal Plain aquifers since 1984. General results of aquifer monitoring data for calendar year 2002 are provided in Table 8-3, with calendar year 2003 results reported in Table 8-4.
To evaluate nitrate/nitrite from non-point sources in the State's groundwater, the GAEPD sampled over 5000 shallow domestic drinking water wells for nitrate/nitrite since 1991. Results indicate that water from 97 percent of the wells has less than 5 ppm nitrate as N, well below the MCL of 10 ppm. Water from less than one percent of the wells exceeded the MCL value. Nitrate can come from non-point sources such as natural and artificial fertilizer, natural sources, feedlots and animal enclosures. Septic tanks and land application of treated wastewater and sludge are other potential sources of nitrate. The GAEPD's extensive sampling program demonstrates that nitrates, from non-point sources, are not a significant contributor to groundwater pollution in Georgia.
Agricultural chemicals are commonly used in the agricultural regions of the State (Figure 8-3). In addition to the Groundwater Monitoring Network and nitrate/ nitrite sampling, the GAEPD has sampled:
A network of monitoring wells located downgradient from fields where pesticides are routinely applied,
Domestic drinking water wells for pesticides and nitrates, and Agricultural Drainage wells and sinkholes in the agricultural regions of
Georgia's Coastal Plain for pesticides.
Only a few pesticides and herbicides have been detected in groundwater in these studies. There is no particular pattern to their occurrence, and most detections have been transient; that is, the chemical is most often no longer present when the well is resampled.

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8-5

FIGURE 8-1 HYDROLOGIC PROVINCES OF GEORGIA

Ground-water Reservoirs and Well Yields

Valley and Ridge

Massive dolomite, limestone
50 - 500 gpm
Sandstone, mudstone, chert
1 - 100 gpm
Granite, gneiss, metasediments
1 - 250 gpm
Sand, gravel
50 - 1200 gpm
Limestone, sand
250 - 1000 gpm
Limestone, dolostone
1000 - 5000 gpm

Blue Ridge and Piedmont

Coastal Plain

0

35

70

140 Miles

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-6

From 1993 through 2000, the GAEPD cooperated with the Georgia Department of Agriculture to sample a network of special monitoring wells located downgradient from fields where pesticides were routinely applied. Pesticides were not detected in any of these monitoring wells, and this project was terminated in 2000. Beginning in 2000, the GAEPD began a five-year statewide screening of water samples from domestic wells for four target pesticides (alachlor, atrazine, metolachlor and simazine). Testing for nitrates was added in August 2003. The GAEPD sampled 2,716 domestic wells in Georgia by the end of 2003. Laboratory analysis confirmed that only fifteen wells (0.5%) contained detectable concentrations of pesticides. Three of these wells (0.1%) contained alachlor at concentrations of 3.6 to 6.2 ppb, which are greater than the public drinking water MCL of 2.0 ppb. All homeowners whose wells tested positive for pesticides were referred to the University of Georgia's Cooperative Extension Service for assistance. Prudent agricultural use of pesticides does not appear to represent a significant threat to drinking water aquifers in Georgia at this time.
The most extensive contamination of Georgia's aquifers is from naturally occurring mineral salts (i.e., high total dissolved solids, or TDS levels). Areas generally susceptible to high TDS levels are shown in Figure 8-4. Intensive use of groundwater in the 24 counties of the Georgia coast has caused some groundwater containing high levels of dissolved solids to enter freshwater aquifers either vertically or laterally. Salt-water intrusion into the Upper Floridan Aquifer threatens groundwater supplies in the Hilton Head-Savannah and Brunswick areas. Intrusion rates, however, are quite slow, being more than a hundred years to reach Savannah. The GAEPD has placed limitations on additional withdrawals of groundwater in the affected areas. This has effectively slowed the rate of additional contamination. On April 23, 1997, the GAEPD implemented an Interim Strategy to protect the Upper Floridan Aquifer from saltwater intrusion in the 24 coastal counties. The strategy, developed in consultation with South Carolina and Florida, will continue until December 31, 2005 at which time the GAEPD plans to implement a Final Strategy that will (a) stop salt-water intrusion before municipal water supply wells on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and in Savannah, Georgia are contaminated and (b) prevent an existing salt-water problem at Brunswick, Georgia from worsening. To accomplish this objective, the GAEPD will do the following:
(1) Continue to conduct scientific and feasibility studies to determine with certainty how to permanently stop the salt-water intrusion moving towards Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia and how to prevent the existing salt-water intrusion at Brunswick, Georgia from worsening.

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FIGURE 8-2 AMBIENT GROUNDWATER MONITORING NETWORK

DADE

CATOOSA

WHITFIELDMURRAY WALKER

FANNIN

TOWNS UNION

RABUN

GILMER

WHITEHABERSHAM

CHATTOOGA

GORDON

LUMPKIN PICKENS
DAWSON

STEPHENS

FLOYD

BARTOW

CHEROKEE FORSYTH

HALL

BANKS FRANKLIN

HART

JACKSON

MADISON

ELBERT

Sample station

POLK

PAULDING

HARALSON

COBB

BARROW GWINNETT

CLARKE

DE KALB

WALTON

OGLETHORPE OCONEE
WILKES

LINCOLN

DOUGLAS FULTON

ROCKDALE

CARROLL HEARD

COWETA

CLAYTON

NEWTON

MORGAN

GREENE TALIAFERRO

COLUMBIA

FAYETTE

HENRY

MCDUFFIE WARREN

RICHMOND

SPALDING

BUTTS JASPER

PUTNAM

HANCOCK

GLASCOCK

PIKE TROUP MERIWETHER

LAMAR MONROE

BALDWIN JONES

JEFFERSON WASHINGTON

BURKE

HARRIS

UPSON TALBOT

CRAWFORD

BIBB

WILKINSON TWIGGS

JOHNSON

JENKINS

SCREVEN

MUSCOGEE CHATTAHOOCHEEMARION

TAYLOR

PEACH

MACON

HOUSTON BLECKLEY

EMANUEL

LAURENS

TREUTLEN

CANDLER BULLOCH

EFFINGHAM

SCHLEY

STEWART WEBSTER SUMTER

QUITMAN

RANDOLPH TERRELL

LEE

DOOLY CRISP

PULASKI WILCOX

DODGE

MONTGOMERY

EVANS

WHEELER

TOOMBS

TATTNALL

TELFAIR

BRYAN

TURNER

BEN HILL

JEFF DAVIS

APPLING

LIBERTY LONG

CHATHAM

CLAY

CALHOUN DOUGHERTY

WORTH

IRWIN TIFT

COFFEE

BACON

WAYNE

MCINTOSH

EARLY MILLER

BAKER MITCHELL

COLQUITT

BERRIEN ATKINSON COOK

PIERCE BRANTLEY

GLYNN

LANIER

WARE

SEMINOLE DECATUR

GRADY

THOMAS BROOKS

LOWNDES

CLINCH ECHOLS

CHARLTON

CAMDEN

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

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TABLE 8-3 AQUIFER MONITORING DATA FOR CY 2002

Ambient Monitoring
Network

Total wells used in
assessment

Parameter groups
(See note 1)

ND (See note 2)/ Nitrate <3

ND/ 3<nitrate <5 mg/l

Cretaceous

Aquifer System

17

Coastal Plain

Providence

Aquifer System

4

Coastal Plain

VOC Nitrate VOC Nitrate

15 of 17 17 of 17
3 of 4 4 of 4

15 of 17 0 of 17 3 of 4 0 of 4

Parameters detected
>RL <MCL; 5<nitrate <=10 mg/l
2 of 17
0 of 17
1 of 4
0 of 4

Parameters detected >MCLs

Removed from
service

Special treatment

Background parameters>
MCLs

0 of 17

0

0 of 17

0

0 of 4

0

0 of 4

0

0

0 of 17

0

0 of 17

0

0 of 4

0

0 of 4

Clayton Aquifer

System

5

Coastal Plain

Claiborne

Aquifer System

5

Coastal Plain

Jacksonian

Aquifer System

7

Coastal Plain

VOC

5 of 5

5 of 5

0 of 5

0 of 5

0

0

0 of 5

Nitrate

4 of 5

0 of 5

1 of 5

0 of 5

0

0

0 of 5

VOC

5 of 5

5 of 5

0 of 5

0 of 5

0

0

0 of 5

Nitrate

4 of 5

1 of 5

0 of 5

0 of 5

0

0

0 of 5

VOC

7 of 7

7 of 7

0 of 7

0 of 7

0

0

0 of 7

Nitrate

7 of 7

0 of 7

0 of 7

0 of 7

0

0

0 of 7

Floridan

Aquifer System

49

Coastal Plain

VOC

47 of 49

47 of 49

2 of 49

0 of 49

0

Nitrate

45 of 49

4 of 49

0 of 49

0 of 49

0

0

0 of 49

0

0 of 49

Miocene

Aquifer System

6

Coastal Plain

VOC

6 of 6

6 of 6

0 of 6

0 of 6

0

Nitrate

2 of 6

1 of 6

2 of 6

1 of 6

0

Piedmont/Blue

VOC

14 of 20

4 of 20

0 of 20

2 of 20

1

Ridge

16 wells

Unconfined

4 springs

Nitrate

20 of 20

0 of 20

0 of 20

0 of 20

0

Aquifers

Valley & Ridge

VOC

7 of 9

7 of 9

2 of 9

0 of 9

0

Unconfined

4 wells

Aquifers

5 springs

Nitrate

8 of 9

1 of 9

0 of 9

0 of 9

0

0

0 of 6

0

0 of 6

1

0 of 20

0

0 of 20

0

0 of 9

0

0 of 9

Notes: 1. Reporting Limit (RL) used for VOC Parameter Group. For nitrates, 3 mg/l is assumed for background. Combined nitrate/nitrite analysis was used for evaluating nitrate levels.
2. ND (Not Detected) used where parameters were analyzed but not detected above the RL.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

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TABLE 8-4 AQUIFER MONITORING DATA FOR CY 2003

Ambient Monitoring
Network

Total wells used in
assessment

Parameter groups
(See note 1)

ND (See note 2)/ Nitrate <3

ND/ 3<nitrate <5 mg/l

Parameters detected
>RL <MCL; 5<nitrate <=10 mg/l

Parameters detected >MCLs

Removed from
service

Special treatment

Background parameters>
MCLs

Cretaceous

Aquifer

17

System

Coastal Plain

VOC

14 of 17

14 of 17

3 of 17

0 of 17

0

Nitrate

17 of 17

0 of 17

0 of 17

0 of 17

0

0

0 of 17

0

0 of 17

Providence

Aquifer

4

System

Coastal Plain

VOC

3 of 4

3 of 4

1 of 4

0 of 4

0

Nitrate

4 of 4

0 of 4

0 of 4

0 of 4

0

0

0 of 4

0

0 of 4

Clayton

Aquifer

5

System

Coastal Plain

VOC

5 of 5

5 of 5

0 of 5

0 of 5

0

Nitrate

4 of 5

0 of 5

1 of 5

0 of 5

0

0

0 of 5

0

0 of 5

Claiborne

Aquifer

5

System

Coastal Plain

VOC

5 of 5

5 of 5

0 of 5

0 of 5

0

Nitrate

4 of 5

0 of 5

1 of 5

0 of 5

0

0

0 of 5

0

0 of 5

Jacksonian

Aquifer

8

System

Coastal Plain

VOC

8 of 8

8 of 8

0 of 8

0 of 8

0

Nitrate

7 of 8

0 of 8

1 of 8

0 of 8

0

0

0 of 8

0

0 of 8

Floridan

Aquifer

49

System

Coastal Plain

VOC

44 of 49

44 of 49

5 of 49

0 of 49

0

Nitrate

45 of 49

4 of 49

0 of 49

0 of 49

0

0

0 of 49

0

0 of 49

Miocene

Aquifer

6

System

Coastal Plain

VOC

6 of 6

6 of 6

0 of 6

0 of 6

0

Nitrate

2 of 6

1 of 6

1 of 6

2 of 6

0

0

0 of 6

0

0 of 6

Piedmont/Blue

VOC

17 of 21

17 of 21

3 of 21

1 of 21

1

Ridge

17 wells

Unconfined

4 springs

Nitrate

21 of 21

0 of 21

0 of 21

0 of 21

0

Aquifers

1

0 of 21

0

0 of 21

Valley & Ridge

4 wells

VOC

7 of 9

7 of 9

2 of 9

0 of 9

0

Unconfined

5 springs

Aquifers

Nitrate

8 of 9

1 of 9

0 of 9

0 of 9

0

0

0 of 9

0

0 of 9

Notes: 1. Reporting Limit (RL) used for VOC Parameter Group. For nitrates, 3 mg/l is assumed for background. Combined nitrate/nitrite analysis was used for evaluating nitrate levels.

2. ND (Not Detected) used where parameters were analyzed but not detected above the RL.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-10

FIGURE 8-3 INSECTICIDE/HERBICIDE USE IN GEORGIA, 1980
Insecticide/Herbicide Use in Application-Acres Less than 50,000 50,000 - 100,000 Greater than 100,000

Note: An application-acre represents one application of insecticide-herbicide to one acre of land. Some crops may require multiple applications.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

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FIGURE 8-4 AREAS SUSCEPTIBLE TO NATURAL HIGH DISSOLVED SOLIDS AND 24 COUNTY AREA COVERED BY THE INTERIM COASTAL MANAGEMENT
STRATEGY

DADE

CATOOSA

WHITFIELDMURRAY WALKER

FANNIN

TOWNS UNION

RABUN

GILMER

WHITEHABERSHAM

CHATTOOGA

GORDON

LUMPKIN PICKENS
DAWSON

STEPHENS

FLOYD

BARTOW

CHEROKEE FORSYTH

HALL

BANKS FRANKLIN

HART

JACKSON

MADISON

ELBERT

Dissolved solids concentration
0 - 250 mg/L 251 - 500 mg/L 501 - 850 mg/L Coastal Management Area

POLK

PAULDING

HARALSON

COBB

BARROW GWINNETT

CLARKE

DE KALB

WALTON

OGLETHORPE OCONEE
WILKES

LINCOLN

DOUGLAS FULTON

ROCKDALE

CARROLL HEARD

COWETA

CLAYTON

NEWTON

MORGAN

GREENE TALIAFERRO

COLUMBIA

FAYETTE

HENRY

MCDUFFIE WARREN

RICHMOND

SPALDING

BUTTS JASPER

PUTNAM

HANCOCK

GLASCOCK

PIKE TROUP MERIWETHER

LAMAR MONROE

JONES

BALDWIN

JEFFERSON WASHINGTON

BURKE

HARRIS

UPSON TALBOT

CRAWFORD

BIBB

WILKINSON TWIGGS

JOHNSON

JENKINS

SCREVEN

MUSCOGEE CHATTAHOOCHEEMARION

TAYLOR

PEACH

MACON

HOUSTON BLECKLEY

EMANUEL

LAURENS

TREUTLEN

CANDLER BULLOCH

EFFINGHAM

SCHLEY

STEWART WEBSTER SUMTER

QUITMAN

RANDOLPH TERRELL

LEE

DOOLY CRISP

PULASKI WILCOX

DODGE

MONTGOMERY

EVANS

WHEELER

TOOMBS

TATTNALL

TELFAIR

BRYAN

TURNER

BEN HILL

JEFF DAVIS

APPLING

LIBERTY LONG

CHATHAM

CLAY

CALHOUN DOUGHERTY

WORTH

IRWIN TIFT

COFFEE

BACON

WAYNE

MCINTOSH

EARLY MILLER

BAKER MITCHELL

COLQUITT

BERRIEN ATKINSON COOK

PIERCE BRANTLEY

GLYNN

LANIER

WARE

SEMINOLE DECATUR

GRADY

THOMAS

BROOKS

LOWNDES

CLINCH ECHOLS

CHARLTON

CAMDEN

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

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(2) Complete the collation and synthesis of the 24 county water supply plans into one comprehensive coastal area water supply planning document. As required by the Interim Strategy, each of the 24 coastal counties has submitted a planning document detailing current water usage in the county and projecting the quantities of future water use. The counties were to document any potential alternate water supply sources as well. Since each of the counties has already submitted a plan, there is no restriction on this account for any future proposed public water, agriculture or industrial water withdrawal permit.
(3) Maintain caps on groundwater use in Glynn County, Chatham County, and portions of Bryan and Effingham counties, to avoid worsening the rate of salt-water intrusion at Hilton Head, Savannah and at Brunswick.
(4) Reduce groundwater use in Chatham County by at least 10 million gallons per day by December 31, 2005 through conservation and substitution of surface water for groundwater. This will be affirmed through reductions in groundwater use permits.
(5) Allow, on an interim basis, increases in groundwater withdrawals in the areas of southeast Georgia that have little impact on salt-water intrusion problems.
(6) Encourage and promote water conservation and reduced groundwater usage wherever feasible, throughout southeast Georgia.
Some wells in Georgia produce water containing relatively high levels of naturally occurring iron and manganese. Another natural source of contamination is from radioactive minerals that are a minor rock constituent in some Georgia aquifers. While natural radioactivity may occur anywhere in Georgia (Figure 8-5), the most significant problems have occurred at some locations near the Gulf Trough, a geologic feature of the Floridan Aquifer in the Coastal Plain. Wells can generally be constructed to seal off the rocks producing the radioactive elements to provide safe drinking water. Radon, a radioactive gas produced by the radioactive minerals mentioned above, also has been noted in highly variable amounts in groundwater from some Georgia wells, especially in the Piedmont region. Treatment systems may be used to remove radon from groundwater.
Tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, was found in 1991 in excess of expected background levels by GAEPD sampling in Burke County aquifers. While the greatest amount of tritium thus far measured is only 15 percent

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-13

FIGURE 8-5 AREAS SUSCEPTIBLE TO NATURAL AND HUMAN INDUCED RADIATION

DADE

CATOOSA

WHITFIELDMURRAY WALKER

FANNIN

TOWNS UNION

RABUN

GILMER

WHITEHABERSHAM

CHATTOOGA

GORDON

LUMPKIN PICKENS
DAWSON

STEPHENS

FLOYD

BARTOW

CHEROKEE FORSYTH

HALL

BANKS FRANKLIN

HART

JACKSON

MADISON

ELBERT

Areas of known natural radioactivity contamination Granite outcrops Tritium pollution

POLK

PAULDING

HARALSON

COBB

BARROW GWINNETT

CLARKE

DE KALB

WALTON

OGLETHORPE OCONEE
WILKES

LINCOLN

DOUGLAS FULTON

ROCKDALE

CARROLL HEARD

CLAYTON

NEWTON

MORGAN

GREENE TALIAFERRO

COLUMBIA

FAYETTE COWETA

HENRY

SPALDING BUTTS

JASPER

PUTNAM

MCDUFFIE WARREN

HANCOCK

GLASCOCK

RICHMOND

TROUP MERIWETHER

PIKE

LAMAR MONROE

JONES

BALDWIN

JEFFERSON WASHINGTON

BURKE

HARRIS

UPSON TALBOT

CRAWFORD

BIBB

WILKINSON TWIGGS

JOHNSON

JENKINS

SCREVEN

MUSCOGEE CHATTAHOOCHEEMARION

TAYLOR

PEACH

MACON

HOUSTON BLECKLEY

EMANUEL

LAURENS

TREUTLEN

CANDLER BULLOCH

EFFINGHAM

SCHLEY

STEWART WEBSTER SUMTER

QUITMAN

RANDOLPH TERRELL

LEE

DOOLY CRISP

PULASKI WILCOX

DODGE

MONTGOMERY

WHEELER

TOOMBS

EVANS

TATTNALL

TELFAIR

BRYAN

TURNER

BEN HILL

JEFF DAVIS

APPLING

LIBERTY LONG

CHATHAM

CLAY

CALHOUN

DOUGHERTY

WORTH

IRWIN TIFT

COFFEE

BACON

WAYNE

MCINTOSH

EARLY MILLER

BAKER MITCHELL

COLQUITT

BERRIEN ATKINSON COOK

PIERCE BRANTLEY

GLYNN

LANIER

WARE

SEMINOLE DECATUR

GRADY

THOMAS

BROOKS

LOWNDES

CLINCH ECHOLS

CHARLTON

CAMDEN

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-14

significant problems have occurred at some locations near the Gulf Trough, a geologic feature of the Floridan Aquifer in the Coastal Plain. Wells can generally be constructed to seal off the rocks producing the radioactive elements to provide safe drinking water. Radon, a radioactive gas produced by the radioactive minerals mentioned above, also has been noted in highly variable amounts in groundwater from some Georgia wells, especially in the Piedmont region. Treatment systems may be used to remove radon from groundwater.
Tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, was found in 1991 in excess of expected background levels by GAEPD sampling in Burke County aquifers. While the greatest amount of tritium thus far measured is only 15 percent of the USEPA MCL for tritium, the wells in which it has been found lie across the Savannah River from the Savannah River Plant in South Carolina, where tritium was produced for nuclear weapons (Figure 8-5). The tritium does not exceed MCLs for drinking water; therefore it does not represent a health threat to Georgia citizens at the present time. Results of the GAEPD's studies to date indicate the most likely pathway for tritium to be transported from the Savannah River Plant is through the air due to evapo-transpiration of triturated water. The water vapor is condensed to form triturated precipitation over Georgia and reaches the shallow aquifers through normal infiltration and recharge.
In July, 1994, heavy rainfall associated with Hurricane Alberto caused the Flint River in southwest Georgia to flood. Some floodwaters appear to have entered the Upper Floridan Aquifer through sinkholes and contaminated the aquifer with coliform bacteria. During the summer and fall of 1994, over 6000 analyses were made at domestic wells. Subsequent follow-up monitoring in the winter of 1995 demonstrated that the aquifer had cleaned itself and any residual problems related to bacteria were probably due to improper well construction.
Man-made pollution of groundwater can come from a number of sources, such as business and industry, agriculture, and homes (e.g., septic systems). Widespread annual testing of more than 2000 public water supply wells for volatile organic chemicals (VOCs, e.g. solvents and hydrocarbons) is performed by the GAEPD. In 2000-2001, one water system had a VOC level high enough to exceed the MCL and become a violation. The sources of the VOCs most commonly are ill-defined spills and leaks, improper disposal of solvents by nearby businesses, and leaking underground fuel-storage tanks located close to the well. Where such pollution has been identified, alternate sites for wells are generally available or the water can be treated. In 2001, 5 water systems had MTBE, a gasoline additive, in the water at levels higher than 10 ppb. There is currently no MLC for MTBE.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-15

The GAEPD evaluates public groundwater sources (wells and springs) to determine if they have direct surface water influence. Ground Water Under the Direct Influence of Surface Water (GWUDI) is defined as "Water beneath the surface of the ground with: (1) Significant occurrence of insects or other macro organisms, algae, or large diameter protozoa and pathogens such as Giardia lamblia or Cryptosporidium; and significant and relatively rapid shifts in water characteristics such as turbidity, temperature, conductivity or pH which closely correlate to climatological or surface conditions." Microscopic Particulate Analysis (MPA) is a method of sampling and testing for significant indicators. Hundreds of MPA's have been performed each year since the program began in 1988. All of the known existing sources have been evaluated either on site or from information gathered from our files. Some are being re-evaluated as better information becomes available. Recently the primary focus of the program has been to monitor the nearly 100 public spring sources scattered around the state and to evaluate new wells and spring sources as they enter the source approval process.
On the basis of the information collected during investigations and microscopic analysis of raw water samples since 2002, twenty (20) sources were found to have direct surface water influence. Of these sources, eight (8) successfully removed the influence by taking corrective action, three (3) added treatment in the form of filtration, two (2) were taken out of service, and four (4) were proposed sources and never completed as a drinking water source
Groundwater protection from leaking underground storage tanks was enhanced with the enactment of the Georgia Underground Storage Tank Act in 1988. The program established a financial assurance trust fund and instituted corrective action requirements to clean up leaking underground storage tanks. Through December 31, 2003, confirmed releases have been identified at 10,313 sites and site investigation and corrective action procedures have been completed at 7,079 sites and initiated at the remaining 3,324 sites.
In 1992, the Georgia Legislature enacted the Hazardous Site Response Act to require the notification and control of releases of hazardous materials to soil and groundwater. Currently, there are 537 sites listed on the Georgia Hazardous Site Inventory (HSI). Since the initial publication of the HSI, cleanups and investigations have been completed on 188 sites. 334 Sites have cleanups in progress and 162 sites are under investigation. As with underground storage tanks, Georgia has established a trust fund raised from fees paid by hazardous waste generators for the purpose of cleaning abandoned hazardous waste sites. Using a combination of site assessment, and removal and transportation/disposal contractors, the Hazardous Site Response Program has issued over 100

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-16

contracts to investigate and cleanup abandoned sites, of which approximately 60 have been completed.
Leachate leaking from solid waste landfills is also a potential groundwater pollutant. Georgia has a program, utilizing written protocols, to properly site, construct, operate, and monitor such landfills so that pollution of groundwater will not become a threat to drinking water supplies. In this regard, the GAEPD has completed a set of maps generated by a Geographic Information System that shows areas geotechnically unsuitable for a municipal solid waste landfill. Maps at the scale of 1:100,000 have been distributed to all of the State's Regional Development Centers. In addition, all permitted solid waste landfills are required to have an approved groundwater monitoring plan and monitoring wells installed in accordance with the GAEPD standards for groundwater monitoring. As of March 2004, there were 112 permitted active (operational) municipal solid waste landfills in Georgia. In addition, 26 landfills have ceased accepting waste and are currently closing the facility. There are 186 landfills in post-closure care (required to conduct groundwater monitoring for 30 years). Of these 324 landfills, 309 are monitoring groundwater with approved systems. The remaining landfills are in the process of installing monitoring systems, and/or are awaiting GAEPD approval.
The GAEPD also actively monitors sites where treated wastewaters are further treated by land application methods. Agricultural drainage wells and other forms of illegal underground injection of wastes are closed under another GAEPD program. The GAEPD has identified non-domestic septic systems in use in the State, has collected information on their use, and has implemented the permitting of systems serving more than 20 persons. Very few of the systems were used for the disposal of non-sanitary waste and the owners of those systems are required to obtain a permit or stop disposing of non-sanitary waste, carry out groundwater pollution studies, and clean up any pollution that was detected. None of these sources represents a significant threat to the quality of Georgia's groundwater at the present time.
The GAEPD has an active Underground Injection Control Program. As of December 31, 2003, there were 204 active UIC permits covering 4,326 Class V wells. Most of the permits are for the remediation of UST sites, petroleum product spills, or hazardous waste sites, or for non-domestic septic systems.
Georgia law requires that water well drillers constructing domestic, irrigation and public water supply wells be licensed and bonded. As of December 31, 2003, Georgia had 227 active licensed water well drillers that are required to follow strict well construction standards. The GAEPD actively pursues and works closely with the Courts to prosecute unlicensed water well contractors. The

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-17

GAEPD continues to work with various drilling associations and licensed drillers to uphold and enforce the construction standards of the Water Well Standards Act. The GAEPD has taken an active role in informing all licensed drillers of the requirement that all irrigation wells must be permitted, and that such permits must be issued prior to the actual drilling of any irrigation well. All drillers constructing monitoring wells, engineering and geologic boreholes must be bonded, and the well construction must be performed under the direction of a Professional Engineer or Professional Geologist registered in Georgia. The GAEPD maintains an active file of all bonded drilling companies and makes every attempt to stop the operations of all drillers who fail to maintain a proper bond. The GAEPD issues permits and regulates all oil and gas exploration in the state under the Oil & Gas and Deep Drilling Act.
Activities affecting groundwater quality that take place in areas where precipitation is actively recharging groundwater aquifers are more prone to cause pollution of drinking water supplies than those taking place in other areas. In this regard, Georgia was one of the first states to implement a state-wide recharge area protection program. The GAEPD has identified the most significant recharge areas for the main aquifer systems in the State (Figure 8-6). In addition, the GAEPD has completed detailed maps showing the relative susceptibility of shallow groundwater to pollution by man's activities at the land surface. These maps at the scale of 1:100,000 have been distributed to the State's Regional Development Centers, and a state-wide map at the scale of 1:500,000 has been published as Hydrologic Atlas 20.
Recharge areas and areas with higher than average pollution susceptibility are given special consideration in all relevant permit programs. The GAEPD has developed environmental criteria to protect groundwater in significant recharge areas as required by the Georgia Comprehensive Planning Act of 1989. These criteria also reflect the relative pollution susceptibility of the land surface in recharge areas. Local governments are currently incorporating the pollution prevention measures contained in the criteria in developing local land use plans.
Some areas, where recharge to individual wells using the surficial or unconfined aquifers is taking place, are also significant recharge areas. To protect such wells, the GAEPD implemented a Wellhead Protection Program for municipal drinking water wells in 1993. Wells in confined aquifers have a small Wellhead Protection Area, generally 100 feet from the well. Wells using unconfined aquifers have Wellhead Protection Areas extending several hundred to several thousand feet from the well. Wells in karstic areas require even larger protection areas, which are defined using hydrogeologic mapping techniques.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-18

FIGURE 8-6 GENERALIZED MAP OF SIGNIFICANT GROUNDWATER RECHARGE
AREAS OF GEORGIA
Aquifers
Ridge and Valley (Unconfined) Blue Ridge and Piedmont (Unconfined) Cretaceous System Clayton System Claiborne System Floridan-Jacksonian System Miocene/Pliocene (Recent Unconfined)

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-19

Wellhead Protection Plans were completed for 1,525 of the estimated 1,588 municipal wells in Georgia by December 31, 2003. Wellhead Protection Plans for the remaining wells, all located in karst areas, should be completed by the end of June 2004. A ten-year review of plans completed in 1994 will be performed in 2004. The review will include the addition of pertinent well information and an update of potential pollution sources. In addition, the GAEPD is carrying out vulnerability studies for non-municipal public water systems.
Table 8-1 summarizes the sources and nature of groundwater contamination and pollution in Georgia. In Table 8-1, an asterisk indicates that the listed source is one of the 10 highest sources in the state. Of these, the most significant source is salt-water intrusion in the 24 coastal counties. The second most significant source is naturally occurring iron, manganese, and radioactivity. On the otherhand, agricultural applications of pesticides and fertilizers are not significant sources. In 1996, USEPA requested that states report information on the type and number of contaminant sources within a specific reporting area or aquifer. The GAEPD does not collect such information; moreover, such data would be of little practical use in Georgia because of the State's complex hydrogeology and inter-aquifer leakage.
Table 8-2 is a summary of Georgia groundwater protection programs. Georgia, primarily the GAEPD, has delegated authority for all federal environmental programs involving groundwater. In addition, Georgia has several unique groundwater protection statutes that are more stringent than federal statutes. Of the 28 programs, identified by USEPA, only three are not applicable to Georgia: discharges to groundwater are prohibited; the State's hydrogeology is not compatible to classification; and, while managed through construction standards, actual permits for underground storage tanks are not issued.
Tables 8-3 and 8-4 respectively summarize ambient groundwater quality monitoring results for calendar years 2002 and 2003. The data presented were developed from the annual Georgia Groundwater Monitoring Network reports.
The USEPA also has requested that States provide information on groundwater-surface water interactions. As previously mentioned, contamination of groundwater by surface water occurred when coliform bacteria entered the Upper Floridan Aquifer via sinkholes during flooding on the Flint River in southwest Georgia as a result of Hurricane Alberto. This is the only documented case of groundwater being contaminated by surface water. Also as previously mentioned there are some wells and springs that GAEPD has determined to be under the influence of surface water. There are no documented cases in Georgia of groundwater polluting surface water sources.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-20

Ground and Surface Water Withdrawals (including water availability analysis and conservation planning)
The Water Resources Management Program (WRMP) of the Water Resources Branch currently has three (3) major water withdrawal permitting responsibilities: (a) permitting of municipal and industrial ground water withdrawal facilities; (b) permitting of municipal and industrial surface water withdrawal facilities; and (c) permitting of both surface and groundwater agricultural irrigation water use facilities.
Any person who withdraws more than 100,000 gallons of surface water per day on a monthly average or more than 100,000 gallons of groundwater on any day or uses a 70 gpm pump or larger for agricultural irrigation, must obtain a permit from the GAEPD prior to any such withdrawal. Through the end of December 2003, GAEPD had 285 active municipal and industrial surface water withdrawal permits (180 municipal, 105 industrial), 481 active municipal and industrial groundwater withdrawal permits (281 municipal, 182 industrial, 18 golf course irrigation) and approximately 21,300 agricultural water use permits (encompassing both groundwater and surface water sources). Future efforts will focus on improving long-term permitting, water conservation planning, drought contingency planning and monitoring and enforcement of existing permits.
The Georgia Ground Water Use Act of 1972 requires all non-agricultural groundwater users of more than 100,000 gpd for any purpose to obtain a Ground Water Use Permit from GAEPD. Applicants are required to submit details relating to withdrawal location, historic water use, water demand projections, water conservation, projected water demands, the source aquifer system, and well construction data. A GAEPD issued Ground Water Use Permit identifies both the allowable monthly average and annual average withdrawal rate, permit expiration date, withdrawal purpose, number of wells, and standard and special conditions for resource use. Standard conditions define legislative provisions, permit transfer restrictions and reporting requirements (i.e., semi-annual groundwater use reports); special conditions identify such things as the source aquifer and conditions of well replacement. The objective of groundwater permitting is the same as that defined for surface water permitting.
The 1977 Surface Water Amendments to the Georgia Water Quality Control Act of 1964 require all non-agricultural surface water users of more than 100,000 gallons per day (gpd) on a monthly average (from any Georgia surface water body) to obtain a Surface Water Withdrawal Permit from the GAEPD. These users include persons, municipalities, governmental agencies, industries, military installations, and all other non-agricultural users. The 1977 statute "grandfathered" all pre-1977 users who could establish the quantity of their use

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-21

prior to 1977. Under this provision these pre-1977 users were permitted at antecedent withdrawal levels with no minimum flow conditions. Applicants for surface water withdrawal permits are required to submit details relating to withdrawal source, historic water use, water demand projections, water conservation, low flow protection (for non-grandfathered withdrawals), drought contingency, raw water storage, watershed protection, and reservoir management. A GAEPD issued Surface Water Withdrawal Permit identifies withdrawal source and purpose, monthly average and maximum 24-hour withdrawal limits, standard and special conditions for water withdrawal, and Permit expiration date. Standard conditions define legislative provisions, permit transfer restrictions and reporting requirements (i.e., usually annual water use reports); special conditions identify withdrawal specifics such as the requirement for protecting non-depletable flow (NDF). The NDF is that minimum flow required to protect instream uses, (e.g., waste assimilation, fish habitat, and downstream demand). The objective of surface water permitting is to provide a balance between resource protection and resource need.
The 1988 Amendments to both the Ground Water Use Act and the Water Quality Control Act require all agricultural groundwater and surface water users of more than 100,000 gpd on a monthly average to obtain an Agricultural Water Use Permit. "Agricultural Use" is specifically defined as the processing of perishable agricultural products and the irrigation of recreational turf (i.e., golf courses) except in certain areas of the state where recreational turf is considered as an industrial use. These areas are defined for surface water withdrawals as the Chattahoochee River watershed upstream from Peachtree Creek (North Georgia), and for groundwater withdrawals in the coastal counties of Chatham, Effingham, Bryan and Glynn. Applicants for Agricultural Water Use Permits who were able to establish that their use existed prior to July 1, 1988 and whose applications were received prior to July 1, 1991, are "grandfathered" for the operating capacity in place prior to July 1, 1988. Other applications are reviewed and granted with consideration for protecting the integrity of the resource and the water rights of permitted, grandfathered users. Currently, agricultural users are not required to submit any water use reports. A GAEPD issued Agricultural Water Use Permit identifies among other things the source, the purpose of withdrawal, total design pumping capacity, installation date, acres irrigated, inches of water applied per year, and the location of the withdrawal. Special conditions may identify minimum surface water flow to be protected or the aquifer and depth to which a well is limited. Agricultural Water Use Permits may be transferred and have no expiration date.
Since January, 1992, the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and the United States Army Corps of Engineers - Mobile District have been cooperating partners in an interstate water resources management study. The study area

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-22

encompasses the Alabama-Coosa-Tallapoosa River system (shared by Alabama and Georgia), and the Appalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River system (shared by the three states). These river basins make up 38 percent of Georgia's total land area, provide drinking water to over 60 percent of Georgia's people, and supply water for more than 35 percent of Georgia's irrigated agriculture. Significant portions of Georgia's industrial production and recreation-based economy are dependent on the water in these basins. The fish and wildlife resources that depend on these waters are also vital to Georgia. The goals of the study include, (a) forecasts of water demands for a myriad of uses in the two river systems through the year 2050; (b) estimates of ability of already developed water sources to meet the projected water demands; and (c) development of a conceptual framework for the basin wide management of the water resources of the two basins in a manner that would maximize the potential of the systems to meet expected water demands. At the end of December, 1997, the study was essentially completed. Work on most of the detailed scopes of work were completed, and the states along with the federal government, had executed river basin compacts for the two basins. The compacts are providing the framework under which the states and the federal government continue to negotiate water allocation formulas that will equitably apportion the waters of these basins. Once these allocation formulas are developed and agreed upon, the state and federal partners will manage the two river systems to comply with the formulas.
Under Georgia's comprehensive water management strategy, permit applicants for more than 100,000 gallons per day of surface water or groundwater for public drinking water have been required for a number of years to develop comprehensive water conservation plans in accordance with GAEPD guidelines. These plans primarily address categories such as system unaccounted-for water (leakage, un-metered use, flushing, etc.), metering, plumbing codes, water shortage planning, water reuse, public education, and so forth. Such plans must be submitted in conjunction with applications for new or increased nonagricultural ground and surface water withdrawals. Key provisions of the plans include the required submittal of water conservation progress reports 5 years after plan approval, the submittal of yearly "unaccounted-for" water reports, and greater emphasis on incorporating water conservation into long-term water demand projections.
Georgia law also requires the use of ultra-low flow plumbing fixtures (1.6 gpm toilets, 2.5 gpm shower heads and 2.0 gpm faucets) for all new construction. Local governments must adopt and enforce these requirements in order to remain eligible for State and Federal grants or loans for water supply and wastewater projects.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

8-23

During times of emergency, the GAEPD Director is authorized to issue orders to protect the quantity and safety of water supplies. In general, municipal water shortage plans follow a phased reduction of water use based on the implementation of restrictions on non-essential water uses such as lawn watering, and so forth. These demand reduction measures typically include odd/even and/or time of day restrictions and progress from voluntary to mandatory with appropriate enforcement procedures. Severe shortages may result in total restriction on all nonessential water use, cut-backs to manufacturing and commercial facilities, and eventual rationing if the shortage becomes critical enough to threaten basic service for human health and sanitation. Water conservation efforts are extremely important to Georgia's future particularly in the north and central regions of the State.
Ground and Surface Drinking Water Supplies
Similar to groundwater, Georgia's surface water sources provide raw water of excellent quality for drinking water supplies. During 2002-2003, no surface water supply system reported an outbreak of waterborne disease. Since the Federal and State Surface Water Treatment Regulations (SWTR) went into effect on June 29, 1993, 227 surface water plants around the state have taken steps to optimize their treatment processes not only to meet the current SWTRs tougher disinfection and turbidity treatment technique requirements, but also to meet more stringent future drinking water regulations. The most recent regulations mandated by the U.S.E.P.A. include the control of disinfection byproducts and the microbial contaminants in drinking water.
The purpose of the new Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (IESWTR) and the Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule is to improve public health protection through the control of microbial contaminants, particularly Cryptosporidium (including Giardia and viruses) for those public water systems that use surface water or ground water under the direct influence of surface water. The purpose of the new Stage 1 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule (Stage 1 DBPR) is to improve public health protection by reducing exposure to disinfection by products in drinking water (total trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids). Stage 1 DBPR applies to all sizes of community and nontransient and noncommunity water systems that add a disinfectant to the drinking water during any part of the treatment process and transient noncommunity water systems that use chlorine dioxide. During 20022003, no surface water production systems were required to issue "boil water" advisories to their customers due to significant SWTR treatment technique violations, other than events due to water main breaks. However, several surface and ground water systems that have been monitoring for TTHMs and HAA5s during this period experienced exceedences of the established MCLs.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

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The Public Water System Supervision Program is designed to ensure that Georgia residents, served by public water systems, are provided high quality and safe drinking water. Its legal basis is the Georgia Safe Drinking Water Act and Rules. As of March 31, 2004, the GAEPD regulates 1,683 community, 249 nontransient, non-community and 553 transient non-community public ground and surface water systems (serving populations greater than 25), each of which must obtain a Permit to Operate from the GAEPD. These permits set forth operational requirements for wells, surface water treatment plants and distribution systems for communities, industries, trailer parks, hotels, restaurants and other public water system owners. Georgia's community and non-transient, non-community public water systems are currently monitored for 92 contaminants. Georgia closely follows the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act and implements the National Primary and Secondary Drinking Water Standards, involving about 92 contaminants (turbidity, 8 microbial or indicator organisms, 20 inorganic, 60 organic, 4 radiological contaminants). Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) are set for 83 contaminants, treatment technique requirements are established for 9 contaminants to protect public health, and secondary standards for 15 contaminants are issued to ensure aesthetic quality.
The program is funded from State and Federal appropriations and grants respectively on a year-to-year basis and a Drinking Water Service Fee (DWSF), which has been in effect since July 1992. The DWSF was necessary to provide the resources to implement testing for (a) lead and copper and (b) Phase II and V Synthetic Organic and Inorganic Chemicals in public water systems. Water system owners who contract with the GAEPD for this testing are billed annually based on the system population. Fees range from $30 per year for a transient non-community system to a maximum of $24,000 per year for a large water system with three or more entry points. Participation in the DWSF is voluntary to the extent that a system may elect to use a public or certified commercial laboratory to analyze their required samples.
Testing for lead and copper in accordance with the Federal Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) began on January 1, 1992. Georgia's 17 largest water systems (population of greater than 50,000) performed two, six-month consecutive rounds of lead and copper monitoring starting January of 1992 and ending December of 1992. During this monitoring period, 6 systems exceeded the action levels for lead, copper, or both. In accordance with the requirements of the LCR, all large systems submitted a corrosion control plan to the GAEPD for approval. The plans were approved by the GAEPD and implemented by the systems. Beginning January of 1997, the large systems started a follow-up monitoring period of two, six-month consecutive rounds. After 1997, several medium systems, due to population increases, moved up to large system status. Of these, one of those

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systems had previously exceeded the lead and/or copper action level, but had come back into compliance before achieving large system status. All of the 7 large systems that previously exceeded the lead and/or copper action levels have achieved compliance with the lead and copper action levels. All of the existing 21 large systems, as of September 26, 2002 have either completed all three rounds of reduced monitoring or started triennial monitoring.
The medium size systems, populations of 3,300-50,000, started their two initial, six month consecutive rounds of lead and copper monitoring in July of 1992 and completed them in June of 1993. The systems that did not exceed an action level went into a reduced monitoring phase of the LCR in May of 1995. During this phase the systems are required to collect a reduced number of samples once per year for a period of three years. Beginning June 30, 1999, medium size systems that were eligible started the three-year compliance cycle. As of September 26, 2002, 7 medium systems are exceeding lead and 2 medium systems are exceeding copper. Nine systems that had previously exceeded the lead and/ or copper action level are now on reduced monitoring and five additional systems are on triennial.
Between July of 1993 and June of 1994, the small water systems, populations of 25-3,000 in size, conducted their consecutive rounds of lead and copper monitoring. There are 154 small systems currently exceeding the action levels for lead, copper, or both. These systems will remain in full monitoring until they have completed two consecutive rounds of monitoring without an exceedance, installed corrosion control, and for those exceeding lead, continue to provide public education on an annual basis. There are a total of 300 small systems that had previously exceeded lead and/or copper action levels. Of those 179 are now on reduced monitoring, 119 are on triennial monitoring, and 2 have gone to inactive status.
Monitoring for the 16 inorganic chemicals, 55 volatile organic chemicals and 43 synthetic organic chemicals, pesticides, herbicides and polychlorinated biphenyls continued as the fourth three-year compliance cycle commenced on January 1, 2002. New systems were required to initiate baseline monitoring (quarterly for all organic monitoring and surface water nitrate monitoring, annual for surface water inorganic monitoring and once every three years for groundwater inorganic monitoring).
The fourth three-year compliance period afforded most community and noncommunity non-transient water systems to reduce their monitoring frequency for the volatile organic and synthetic organic compounds. Public water systems that demonstrated three consecutive years of Volatile Organic Chemical monitoring with none of the 21 regulated VOCs above the Method Detection Level of 0.0005

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mg/l were placed on a reduced monitoring frequency of once every three years (2002-2004).
A majority of the community and non-community non-transient water systems completed their quarterly baseline synthetic organic chemical monitoring during the initial 1993-1995 compliance period. For systems with populations less than 3300, SOC monitoring was reduced to one event during the 1996-1998 compliance period. Systems with populations greater than 3300 are required to sample for two quarters during the 1996-1998 compliance period.
In order to reduce the Federal chemical monitoring requirements, the GAEPD conducts vulnerability studies for all public water sources. The studies are conducted to assist the GAEPD with the issuance of chemical monitoring waivers to public water systems. Water sources at low risk to contamination are issued waivers from the chemical monitoring requirements as specified by the Federal Phase II/Phase V regulations. To date, the GAEPD has issued statewide monitoring waivers for asbestos, cyanide, dioxin and most synthetic organic compounds. The GAEPD, however, does continue to monitor a representative number of water systems deemed to be of high vulnerability to contamination for asbestos, cyanide, dioxin and all waived synthetic organic compounds to obtain the chemical data needed to issue and maintain these state-wide waivers. The issuance of waivers from monitoring for the above chemical parameters has saved Georgia's public water systems millions of dollars in monitoring costs over the duration of the waiver terms.
In addition, the GAEPD is also preparing vulnerability studies for individual water sources. These studies include the preparation of countywide and site specific maps of the area immediately surrounding the water source, and a report about the water source. The maps include water wells, potential pollution sources around the wells, cultural information such as roads, and bodies of water. As of December 31, 2003, the GAEPD has prepared site specific maps for approximately 723 privately owned ground water public water systems.
Georgia's Source Water Assessment and Protection Implementation Plan (SWAP) was approved by EPA on April 24, 2000. Based on the 24-month deadline, a granted 18-month regulatory extension and another 12-month extension from the USEPA, Georgia's has until November 2004 to complete all assessments for surface and ground water sources of drinking water. Under SWAP, States must identify the areas that are sources of public drinking water, assess water systems' susceptibility to contamination, and inform the public of the results. The implementation plan was developed with coordinated participation of the Georgia SWAP team, citizens and technical advisory committees and lots of input from interested stakeholders. The plan is tailored

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uniquely to Georgia while still satisfying all requirements of the 1996 Federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Due to the overlapping nature of a number of states water supply watersheds, the Division is encouraging regional watershed initiatives. Several watershed related initiatives are underway which will also fulfill SWAP requirements for the surface water system participants. An Alcovy River Basin Watershed Protection Study involving some 15 jurisdictions was completed for three water systems in early 2001. Columbus Water Works hosted a middle-Chattahoochee River Watershed Study involving the drinking water intakes for the cities of LaGrange, West Point, Opelika and Columbus. Source water assessments for these surface water intakes were completed in March 2001. With funding assistance from GAEPD, in December 2001, the Atlanta Regional Commission submitted source water assessments for 27 surface water intakes associated with 17 water systems within the 13 county metro Atlanta area. Other surface water intake initiatives have been completed in the Lake Lanier drainage basin of the upper Chattahoochee River basin, in the upper Oconee River basin, in the Lake Allatoona drainage area, and in the Augusta, Savannah and Macon areas.
GAEPD is preparing all the source water assessments for the privately owned community, non-community, non-transient, and non-community transient ground water systems. Through December 31, 2003, SWAPs have been prepared for approximately 800 privately owned ground water systems.

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CHAPTER 9
Major Issues and Challenges
The key issues and challenges to be addressed now and in the future years include (1) the control of toxic substances, (2) the reduction of nonpoint source pollution, (3) the need to increase public involvement in water quality improvement projects, and (4) a sustainable supply of potable water.
Toxic Substances
The reduction of toxic substances in rivers, lakes, sediment and fish tissue is extremely important in protecting both human health and aquatic life.
The sources of toxic substances are widespread. Some municipal and industrial treated wastewaters contain concentrations of heavy metals coming from plumbing (lead, copper, zinc) or industrial processes. Stormwater runoff may contain metals or toxic organic chemicals, such as pesticides (chlordane, DDE) or PCBs. Even though the production and use of PCB and chlordane is outlawed, the chemicals still persist in the environment as a result of previous use. One of the primary sources of mercury detected in fish tissue in Georgia and other states may be from atmospheric deposition.
The concern over toxic substances is twofold. First, aquatic life is very sensitive to metals and even small concentrations of metals can cause impairment. Fortunately, metals at low concentrations are not harmful to humans. Second, the contrary is true for carcinogenic organic chemicals. Concentrations of these can accumulate in fish flesh without damage to the fish but may increase a person's cancer risk if the fish are eaten regularly.
The most effective method to reduce the release of toxic substances into rivers is pollution prevention which consists primarily of eliminating or reducing the use of toxic substances or at least reducing the exposure of toxic materials to drinking water, wastewater and stormwater. It is very expensive and difficult to reduce low concentrations of toxic substances in wastewaters by treatment technologies. It is virtually impossible to treat large quantities of stormwater for toxic substance reductions. Therefore, toxic substances must be controlled at the source.
Nonpoint Source Pollution
The pollution impact on Georgia's streams has radically shifted over the last two decades. Streams are no longer dominated by untreated or partially treated sewage discharges which resulted in little or no oxygen and little or no aquatic life. The sewage is now treated, oxygen levels have returned and fish have

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followed. However, another source of pollution is now affecting Georgia's streams. That source is referred to as nonpoint and consists of mud, litter, bacteria, pesticides, fertilizers, metals, oils, suds and a variety of other pollutants being washed into rivers and lakes by stormwater. This form of pollution, although somewhat less dramatic than raw sewage, must be reduced and controlled to fully protect Georgia's streams. The vast improvement in treatment of wastewaters was accomplished by local governments and industries with massive funding and modern technology. While these methods are important in reducing nonpoint source pollution, they alone are insufficient. As with control of toxic substances, nonstructural techniques such as pollution prevention and best management practices must be significantly expanded. These include both watershed protection through planning, zoning, buffer zones, and building densities as well as increased use of stormwater retention ponds, street cleaning and perhaps eventual limitations on pesticide and fertilizer usage.
Public Involvement
It is clear that local governments and industries, even with well funded efforts, cannot fully address the challenges of toxic substances and nonpoint source pollution control. Citizens must individually and collectively be part of the solution to these challenges.
The main focus is to achieve full public acceptance of the fact that some of everything put on the ground or street ends up in a stream. Individuals are littering, driving cars which drip oils and antifreeze, applying fertilizers and pesticides and participating in a variety of other activities contributing to toxic and nonpoint source pollution. If streams and lakes are to be pollutant free, then some of the everyday human practices must be modified.
The GAEPD will be emphasizing public involvement; not only in decision-making, but also in direct programs of stream improvement. The first steps are education and Adopt-A-Stream programs.
Sustainable Water
Georgia is one of the 5 fastest growing states in the nation (in percentage); and metropolitan Atlanta is one of the fastest growing cities in the nation (in actual number of people). The burgeoning population is making considerable demands on the Georgia's ground and surface water resources. Problems of sustainable long-term supply have become critical and include:
(1) Salt-water intrusion in the Upper Floridan Aquifer in coastal Georgia, including potential impacts in South Carolina and Florida.
(2) Depletion of Clayton Aquifer in southwest Georgia.

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(3) Reductions in flow in the Flint River and its tributaries in southwest Georgia as a result of ground and surface water withdrawals for irrigation.
(4) Allocating water in the Alabama-Coosa-Tallapoosa and AppalachicolaChattahoochee-Flint river basins equitably between the adjoining states of Alabama and Florida.
(5) Meeting the water supply needs of metropolitan Atlanta from the regions limited surface water sources and extremely small groundwater sources.
The above situations are further complicated by the fact that surface water resources are limited in south Georgia and groundwater resources are limited in north Georgia. In some locations, water resources are approaching their sustainable limits.
Water management planning based on the Georgia 2004 Comprehensive Statewide Water Planning Act will provide an opportunity to explore opportunities to develop a plan that will provide for management of water resources in a sustainable manner to support the state's economy, to protect public health and natural systems, and to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.

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APPENDIX A WATERS ASSESSED FOR COMPLIANCE WITH
DESIGNATED USES
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APPENDIX A
Waters Assessed For Compliance With Designated Uses
The attached tables present lists of rivers, streams, lakes, and estuaries for which water quality data have been assessed and used to determine compliance with designated water uses. The data reviewed included EPD monitoring data for rivers and streams, both trend data and intensive survey data, major lakes project data, toxic substances stream monitoring project data, aquatic biomonitoring project data, and coastal monitoring project data. The assessment also included data from other State, Federal, local governments, contracted Clean Lakes projects, and reports from three electrical utility companies.
The lists are divided into three categories; waters supporting designated uses, waters partially supporting designated uses, and waters not supporting designated uses. Waters were placed on the partially supporting list if 1) the chemical data (dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature) indicated an exceedence of a water quality standard in 11% to 25% of the samples collected 2) the fecal coliform bacteria data exceeded water quality standards for one geometric mean, 3) a fish consumption guideline was in place for the waterbody, or 4) the fish IBI community index of biotic integrity (IBI) data ranked poor or very poor. The partially supporting list also includes stream reaches based on predicted concentrations of metals at low streamflow (7Q10 flows) in excess of State standards as opposed to actual measurements on a stream sample. A stream reach was placed on the not supporting list if 1) the chemical data (dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature) indicated an exceedence of a water quality standard in greater than 25% of the samples collected, 2) the fecal coliform bacteria data exceeded water quality standards for two or more geometric means, 3) a fish consumption ban was in place for the waterbody, or 4) chronic toxicity tests conducted on municipal or industrial effluent samples indicated or predicted toxicity at critical 7Q10 low streamflow. Additional specific detail is provided in the following paragraphs on analysis of data for fecal coliform bacteria, metals, toxicity, dissolved oxygen, fish/shellfish consumption guidances, and biotic data.
Fecal Coliform Bacteria. Georgia water quality standards establish a fecal coliform criterion of a geometric mean (four samples collected over a 30-day period) of 200 MPN/100 ml for all waters in Georgia during the recreational season of May through October. This is the year-round standard for waters with the water use classification of recreation. For waters classified as drinking water, fishing, or coastal fishing, for the period of November through April, the fecal coliform criterion is a geometric mean (four samples collected over a 30-day period) of 1000 per 100 ml and not to exceed 4000 per 1000 ml for any one sample.
The goal of fecal coliform sampling in 2000-2001 was to collect four samples in a thirty day period in each of four quarters. If one geometric mean was in excess of the standard then the stream segment was placed on the partial support list. If more than
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one geometric mean was in excess of the standard the stream was placed on the not support list.
In some cases the number of samples was not adequate to calculate geometric means due to sampling or laboratory differences. In these cases, the USEPA recommends the use of a review criterion of 400 per 100 ml to evaluate sample results. This bacterial density (400 per 100 ml) was used to evaluate data from the months of May through October and the maximum criterion of 4000 per 100 ml was used in assessing the data from the results of November through April when geometric mean data was not available. Thus, where geometric mean data was not available, waters were deemed not supporting uses when 26% or more of the samples had fecal coliform bacterial densities greater than the applicable review criteria (400 or 4000 MPN/100 ml) and partially supporting when 11 to 25% of the samples were in excess of the review criterion.
Metals. In general, data on metals from any one given site are not frequent. As the data are infrequent, using the general evaluation technique of greater than 25% exceedence to indicate nonsupport and 11% to 25% exceedence to indicate partial support is not meaningful. Streams were placed in the not support category if multiple exceedences of state criteria occurred and the data were based on more than four samples per year. With less frequent sampling, streams with exceedences were placed on the partially supporting list. In addition, an asterisk is placed beside metals data in those cases where there is a minimal database. This is in accordance with USEPA guidance which suggests listing if more than one sample exceeds the criteria.
Toxicity Testing/Toxic Substances. Data from GAEPD toxicity testing of water pollution control plant effluents were used to indicate or predict toxicity in the receiving stream at critical 7Q10 flow conditions. Based on the effluent toxicity, receiving waters were evaluated as not supporting when one or more tests gave an indication of instream toxicity and as partially supporting when based on predicted instream toxicity. Effluent data for toxic substances were used to designate either partial support or nonsupport based on whether instream corroborating data were available. When instream data were available, the stream was determined to be not supporting. When instream data were not available, the stream was listed as partially supporting.
Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Temperature. When available data indicated that these parameters were out of compliance with state standards more than 25% of the time, the waters were evaluated as not supporting the designated use. Between 11% and 25% non-compliance resulted in a partially supporting evaluation. South Georgia blackwater streams were not evaluated for compliance with the state pH standards because these streams have naturally low pH. Fish/Shellfish Guidelines. USEPA guidance for evaluating fish consumption guidelines formation for 305(b)/303(d) use support determinations has been to assess a water as fully supporting uses if fish can be consumed in unlimited amounts; as partially supporting if consumption needs to be limited; and, as not supporting if no consumption is recommended. Georgia followed this guidance in evaluating the fish consumption
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guidelines for the 2000 and earlier 305(b)/303(d) lists. This assessment methodology was followed again in developing the 2002 305(b)/303(d) List for all fish tissue contaminants except mercury. Mercury in fish tissue was assessed and a segment or waterbody was listed if the Trophic-Weighted Residue Value (as described in the October 19, 2001 Georgia EPD "Protocol"), was in excess of the new USEPA water quality criterion (Water Quality Criterion for the Protection of Human Health: Methylmercury, EPA-823-R-01-001, January 2001). The USEPA criteria represents a national approach to address what mercury levels are protective for fishing waters. For mercury, waters were placed on the partial support list if the calculated TrophicWeighted Residue Value was greater than 0.3 g/g wet weight total mercury, and less than 2 g/g wet weight, and on the not support list if the value was greater than 2 g/g wet weight.
Biotic Data. The "Biota Impacted" designation in the "Criterion Violated" column indicates that studies showed a modification of the biotic community. Communities utilized were fish. Studies of fish populations by the DNR Wildlife Resources Division and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) used the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) to identify impacted fish populations. The IBI values were used to classify the population as Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor, or Very Poor. Stream segments with fish populations rated as "Poor" or "Very Poor" were included in the partially supporting list.
List Content. The lists are organized by river basin and include information on the location, data source, designated water use classification, and estimates of stream miles assessed. In addition, for the partial and not supporting lists, information is provided on the criterion violated, potential cause, actions planned to alleviate the problem, estimates of stream miles affected, 305(b) and 303(d) status, and priority. A discussion of the potential cause and actions to alleviate columns along with a discussion of priorities is given below. Explanations for the various codes used in the lists are given on the last page of this section.
Potential Cause(s)/Actions To Alleviate. In providing the information for the evaluated causes and actions to alleviate columns as listed in the tables on the following pages, many potential sources which may have caused the violation of the indicated criterion were considered. These sources are identified as the most likely candidates for affecting a particular stream segment. One potential source may be largely responsible for the criterion violated or the impact may be the result of a combination of sources. In many cases, action is described that has already been taken to address the potential sources or the ongoing action to alleviate the impact has been indicated. The GAEPD is addressing impacts from point and nonpoint sources through a river basin management planning or watershed protection strategy which provides for a holistic approach to addressing identified problems in Georgia's waters.
Priorities for Action. The list of waters includes all waters for which available data indicate that water quality standards are or are not being met and designated uses are supported or not fully supported. This list of waters has become a comprehensive list of waters for Georgia incorporating the information requested by Sections 305(b), 303(d),
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314, and 319 of the Federal CWA. As noted, waters listed on the partial and not supporting lists are active 305(b) waters. The list of lakes or reservoirs listed as partial or not supporting designated uses provides the information requested in Section 314 of the CWA. Waters with nonpoint sources identified as a potential cause of a standards violation are considered to provide the information requested in the CWA Section 319 nonpoint assessment. The 303(d) designation is described in the following paragraph.
The 303(d) list is a subset of the 305(b) listed waters. To develop the 303(d) list, the 305(b) list was reviewed and coded based on the guidance provided by the USEPA. Specifically, the August 13, 1992 and November 26, 1993 Memorandums from the USEPA Washington Office of Water titled, "Supplemental Guidance on Section 303(d) Implementation" and "Guidance for 1994 Section 303(d) Lists", were used. First, segments were identified where enforceable State, local or Federal requirements have led to or will lead to attainment of water quality standards. Segments where improvements were completed in 2000-2001 were assigned a "1" code and segments with ongoing action which will lead to attainment of water quality standards were assigned a "2" code under 303(d) status. A "3" code was assigned to segments where TMDLs have been developed and approved. A "4" code was assigned to segments where TMDLs have been developed but not approved as of the date of the final approved Georgia 2002 305(b)/303(d) list. The remaining segments are marked with an "X" and represent 303(d) listed waters for Georgia. In addition to these waters, the USEPA added waters to the Georgia 303(d) list on a consolidated list dated August 29, 2001. Those waters are shown in Appendix B and are 303(d) listed waters. To summarize, the Georgia 303(d) list of waters is made up of those waters with an "X" in the column marked 303(d) in Appendix A and those waters in Appendix B.
Georgia is implementing a watershed approach to water resource management through River Basin Management Planning. This approach provides the framework and schedule for actions to address waters on the Georgia 303(d) list. This work is summarized in Chapter 2 of this report. Basin planning provides an opportunity to focus monitoring, assessment, problem prioritization, TMDL development, water resource protection strategy development and implementation resources in specific basins on an orderly five year rotating basis. Of course, significant problems may arise in basins other than the basins of focus and the GAEPD will continue to respond in an appropriate manner. Thus, a discussion for prioritization of the 305(b)/303(d) list must be made in the context of the river basin planning program and in the context of current actions underway to address water quality problems documented in the Georgia 305(b) report. The majority of resources will be directed to insuring the ongoing pollution control actions are completed and water quality improvements are achieved. This work applies to those waters which are identified as 305(b) waters and coded with a "2" in the 303(d) status column of the table. These stream segments while listed on the 305(b) report list are not segments on the Georgia 303(d) list in accordance with USEPA guidance as actions are ongoing which will resolve the issues. However, these streams are the highest priority waters as these segments will continue to require resources to complete actions and insure standards are achieved. These stream segments have been assigned priority one. This is evidenced by the "1" noted in the far right column titled priority on the listing.
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Second priority was allocated to segments which showed metals or other toxic substance concentrations in excess of water quality standards and to segments in which dissolved oxygen concentration was an issue.
Third priority was assigned to waters where air deposition, urban runoff or general nonpoint sources caused fish consumption guideline listings, poor fish communities, fecal coliform bacteria standards violations, pH and/or temperature violations. Waters added to the Georgia 303(d) list by EPA were also assigned to third priority.
Several issues helped forge the rationale for priorities. First, strategies are currently in place to address many of the significant water quality problems across the state and significant resources will be required to ensure that these actions are completed. Second, a large percentage of waters for which no control strategy is currently in place are listed due to fish consumption guidelines or as a result of exceedence of criteria of fecal coliform bacteria due to urban runoff or nonpoint sources or atmospheric deposition. At the present time, the efficacy of the fecal coliform bacteria standard is in question in the scientific community, and there is no national strategy in place to address air deposition of mercury which may be the primary cause of fish consumption guidelines across the southeastern United States.
The Georgia River Basin Management Planning process provides the framework for the long-term schedule for developing TMDLs for 303(d) listed segments. The TMDL for 303(d) listed segments in the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, and St. Marys River Basins were publicly noticed in 2000 and finalized in 2001. In 2001 TMDLs were publicly noticed for 303(d) listed segments in the Ocmulgee, Oconee, and Altamaha River Basins and finalized in 2002. TMDLs for 303(d) listed segments in the Chattahoochee and Flint River basins were publicly noticed in 2002 and finalized in 2003. TMDLs will be public proposed for 303(d) listed segments in the Coosa, Tallapoosa, and Tennessee River Basin 303(d) listed waters by June 2003 and finalized in 2004. This schedule is in concert with the agreements between the USEPA and the plaintiffs in the TMDL court case. The USEPA will continue to support the Georgia TMDL efforts and will be specifically responsible for TMDL development for the waters in Appendix B.
The lists in Appendix A and B will continue to reflect the segments where water quality data indicate compliance with or problems with achieving compliance with water quality standards. These segments will be removed when the actions have been taken and compliance attained. The list will grow and shrink based on these considerations and any new standard or approaches implemented in the future. This will also affect the 303(d) list as these entries will undergo changes along with the 305(b) list.
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Legend

State Agencies 1 = DNR-EPD, Watershed Planning & Monitoring
Program 2 = DNR-EPD, Permitting Comp. & Enf.
Program (Municipal) 3 = DNR-EPD, Permitting Comp. & Enf. Program
(Industrial) 55 = DNR-EPD, Brunswick Coastal District 56 = DNR-EPD, Hazardous Waste Mgmt. Branch 4 = DNR, Wildlife Resources Division 5 = DNR, Coastal Resources Division 6 = State University of West Georgia 7 = Gainesville College 8 = Georgia Institute of Technology 31 = South Carolina DHEC 33 = Alabama DEM 35 = Kennesaw State University 36 = University of Georgia
Federal Agencies 9 = U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 10 = U.S. Geological Survey 11 = U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 12 = U.S. Forest Service 13 = Tennessee Valley Authority
Local Agencies 14 = Cobb County 15 = Dekalb County 16 = Douglas County Water & Sewer Authority 17 = Fulton County 18 = Gwinnett County 19 = City of Clayton 20 = City of Gainesville 21 = City of LaGrange 22 = Georgia Mountains R.D.C. 23 = City of Conyers 34 = City of College Park 37 = Columbus Water Works 38 = Columbus Unified Government 40 = Town of Trion 41 = Cherokee County 42 = Clayton County Water Authority 43 = City of Atlanta 44 = City of Cartersville 50 = Chatham County 51 = City of Savannah 53 = City of Augusta

Other 28 29 30 32 39 45 46 47 48 49 52 54

= Georgia Power Company = Oglethorpe Power Company = South Carolina Electric & Gas Co. = Jones Ecological Research Center = St. Johns River Water Mgmt. District = Georgia Ports Authority = Chattahoochee/Flint RDC = Upper Etowah Adopt-A-Stream = Middle Flint RDC = Central Savannah RDC = Heart of Georgia RDC = Southwire Company

Criterion Violated Codes

As

= Arsenic

Bio

= Biota Impacted

Cd

= Cadmium

CN

= Cyanide

Cr

= Chromium

Cu

= Copper

DO

= Dissolved Oxygen

CFB

= Commercial Fishing Ban

FC

= Fecal Coliform Bacteria

FCG

= Fish Consumption Guidance

Hg

= Mercury

Ni

= Nickel

Pb

= Lead

SB

= Shellfishing Ban

Se

= Selenium

Temp

= Temperature

Tox

= Toxicity Indicated

TWR

= Trophic-Weighted Residue Value of

mercury in fish tissue exceeding the EPD

human health standard of 0.3 mg/kg.

Zn

= Zinc

Potential Cause Codes

CSO

= Combined Sewer Overflow

I1

= Industrial Facility

I2

= Residual from Industrial Source

MA

= Marina

M

= Municipal Facility

NP

= Nonpoint Sources/Unknown Sources

UR

= Urban Runoff/Urban Effects

SB

= Shellfish Ban

Contracted Clean Lakes Studies 24 = Lake Allatoona (Kennesaw State University) 25 = Lake Blackshear (Lake Blackshear
Watershed Association) 26 = Lake Lanier (University of Georgia) 27 = West Point (LaGrange College/
Auburn University)

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2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Altamaha River (1,9)
Altamaha River (1,9)
Pendleton Creek (1)
Anneewakee Creek (1,16)
Bear Creek (10)
Bear Creek (1)
Beech Creek (4)
Beech Creek (4)
Big Branch (4)
Big Springs Creek (4)
Blue Creek (4)
Bluff Creek (16)
Boggs Creek (4)
Box Springs Creek (4)
Brush Creek (4)
Bull Creek (1)
Cane Creek (4)

LOCATION
ALTAMAHA RIVER BASIN Confluence of Oconee and Ocmulgee Rivers to ITT Rayonier (Jeff Davis/Appling/Wayne Co.) ITT Rayonier to Penholoway Creek (Wayne Co.) Swift Creek to Ohoopee River (Toombs Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing

CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER BASIN
Lake Monroe to Chattahoochee River (Douglas Co.)
Near Clermont (Hall Co.)

Fishing Fishing

U/S Chattahoochee River (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

U/S Ross Keith Road (Meriwether Co.)

Fishing

D/S Ross Keith Road (Meriwether Co.)

Fishing

Troup County

Fishing

Troup County

Fishing

Meriwether County

Fishing

Douglas County

Fishing

Headwaters to Chestatee River (Lumpkin Co.)

Fishing

Carroll County

Fishing

Heard County

Fishing

Headwaters to Flat Rock Creek (Harris/Muscogee Co.)
Lumpkin County

Fishing Fishing

MILES
72 20 9
5 3 4 10 17 4 6 6 4 4 5 10 10 8

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2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Caney Creek (4)

Carroll County

Caney Creek (4)

Heard/Coweta Counties

Carthbody Creek (4)

Carroll County

Cavenders Creek (4)

Headwaters to Chestatee River (Lumpkin Co.)

Cedar Creek (4)

Heard County

Cemochechobee Creek Headwaters to Hog Creek (Randolph/Clay Co.) (4)

Chattahoochee River Upstream Jasus Creek (Union/White Co.) (4)

Chattahoochee River Jasus Creek to Ga. Hwy. 17, Helen (White Co.) (1)

Chattahoochee River Downstream Buford Dam (Gwinnett/Forsyth

(1)

Co.)

Chattahoochee River Hwy 20 to Morgan Falls Dam

(1)

(Forsyth/Gwinnett/Fulton/Cobb Co.)

Chattahoochee River West Point Dam to Johnson Island

(1)

(Troup/Harris Co.)

Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee/Stewart Co. Line to Railroad at

(1)

Omaha (Stewart Co.)

Chattahoochee River D/S Fort Gaines to Lake Andrews (Clay/Early

(1)

Co.)

Chattahoochee River Lake Andrews Lock & Dam to U.S. Hwy. 84

(1)

(Early/Seminole Co.)

Chattahoochee River U.S. Hwy. 84 to Lake Seminole (Early/Seminole

(1)

Co.)

Chestatee River (1)

Testnatee Creek to Yahoola Creek (Lumpkin Co.)

Colochee/Frog Bottom Creek (4)

Hightower Branch to Hannahatchee Creek (Stewart Co.)

Cooper Creek (38)

Columbus (Muscogee Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Recreation Recreation/Drinking Water Recreation/Drinking Water Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Recreation Fishing Fishing
Fishing

MILES 5 10 3 2 9 11 7 8 3 33 13 13 16 11 17 10 5
6

A-9

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Crawford Creek (4)
Crews Creek (4)
Cry Creek (20)
Deep Creek (10)
Deep Creek (1)
Deer Creek (4)
Dick Creek (1)
Dicks Creek (1)
Dog River (4,16)
Dog River (16)
Double Branch (38)
Dram Creek (38)
Dukes Creek (4)
Dukes Creek (4)
East Fork Little River (25)
Flat Creek (4)
Flat Creek (4)
Flat Creek (4)
Flatrock Creek (38)

LOCATION Meriwether/Troup Counties Carroll County Gainesville (Hall Co.) Headwaters to Soque River (Habersham Co.) U/S Chattahoochee River (Fulton Co.) Heard County Forsyth County Headwaters to Waters Creek (Lumpkin Co.) Upstream Hwy. 5 (Douglas Co.) Hwy. 5 to Dog River Reservoir (Douglas Co.) Columbus (Muscogee Co.) Columbus (Muscogee Co.) Headwaters (Hwy. 348) to Chattahoochee River (White Co.) Heard County Downstream Hwy 52 to Lake Lanier (Hall Co.) Headwaters to Tom Keith Rd. (Meriwether Co.) Tom Keith Rd. to Yellow Jacket Creek (Meriwether/Troup Co.) Fendley Branch to Kolomoki Creek (Clay Co.) Columbus (Muscogee Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Drinking Water Drinking Water Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-10

MILES 6 5 1 8 2 10 2 5 3 3 1 1 10 3 6 6 9 7 3

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Flatshoals Creek (4)
Flat Shoals Creek (46)
Flybow Creek (4)
Fromby Creek (4)
Gothard's Creek (4)
Gum Creek (4)
Harris Creek (1,4)
Haw Creek (1)
Heiferhorn Creek (38)
Hillabahatchee Creek (1,4)
Hillabahatchee Creek (1)
Holanna Creek (4)
Hurricane Creek (1,4)
Ingram Creek (4)
Jasus Creek (1)
Keaton Creek (16)
Kirkland Creek (4)
Kitchen Creek (18)
Kolomoki Creek (4)

LOCATION
Meriwether County
West Point (Troup/Harris Co.)
Douglas County
Heard County
Douglas County
Headwaters to Centralhatchee Creek (Carroll/Heard Co.) Heard County
Forsyth County
Columbus (Muscogee Co.)
Headwaters to Tollieson Branch, Franklin (Heard Co.) Tollieson Branch to Glovers Road (Heard Co.)
Hog Creek to Pataula Creek (Randolph/Quitman Co.) Douglas/Carroll Counties
Troup County
Northwest of Helen (White Co.)
Douglas County
Dry Creek to Chattahoochee River (Early Co.)
Gwinnett County
Little Kolomoki Creek to Chattahoochee River (Clay Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 7 26 3 3 11 6 6 4 3 16 6 7 7 4 3 5 4 2 5

A-11

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Kubota Creek (20)
Limestone Creek (20)
Limestone Creek (20)
Lindsey Creek (38)
Little Bear Creek (2)
Little Bear Creek (16)
Little Snake Creek (4,10)
Little Taylor Creek (4)
Little Tesnatee Creek (4)
Long Cane Creek (4)
Low Gap Creek (9)
Messiers Creek (4)
Moore Creek (1)
Mountain Creek (46)
Mud Creek (4)
Nancy Long Creek (16)

LOCATION Gainesville (Hall Co.) Upstream Breneau Lake (Hall Co.) Downstream Breneau Lake (Hall Co.) Columbus (Muscogee Co.) Palmetto (Fulton Co.) Douglas County Carroll County Heard County Freeman Cr. to u/s/ Hwy. 129 (White Co.) Headwaters to Panther Creek (Troup Co.) Northwest of Helen (White Co.) Coweta County Coweta County Maple Branch to Sandy Creek (Coweta Co.) Troup County Douglas County

New River (46)
Noses Creek (14)
Nutt Creek (1)

Heard/Coweta Counties Cobb County Heard County

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-12

MILES 1 1 1 6 5 5 4 4 3 9 4 6 4 4 9 3
24 11 3

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Ochillee Creek (4)

Hollis Creek to Spring Creek (Chattahoochee Co.)

Ossahatchie Creek (10)

Hwy 1 to Hwy 85 near Cataula (Harris Co.)

Pataula Creek (4)

Pumpkin Creek to Hodchodkee Creek (Randolph/Quitman Co.)

Pink Creek (1,4)

Heard County

Polecat Creek (4)

Troup County

Powder Springs Creek Cobb County (14)

Pumpkin Creek (4)

Little Pumpkin Creek to Pataula Creek (Randolph Co.)

Randall Creek (38)

Columbus (Muscogee Co.)

Redbud Creek (4)

Heard County

Roaring Branch (1)

U/S Columbus Foundaries (Muscogee Co.)

Roaring Branch (1,38)

Downstream Columbus Foundaries (Muscogee Co.)

Rock Creek (20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Rocky Branch (37)

Columbus (Muscogee Co.)

Sandy Creek (4)

Carroll County

Sandy Creek (4)

Coweta County

Sautee Creek (4)

Upstream Chattahoochee River (Habersham/White Co.)

Sawhatchee Creek (4)

Headwaters to Weaver Creek (Early Co.)

Sawhatchee Creek (4)

Weaver Creek to Sheffield Mill Creek (Early Co.)

Shoal Creek (4)

Troup County

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 5 7 8 3 9 7 4 3 5 1 2 1 2 3 9 5 9 2 11

A-13

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Slater Mill Creek (4)

Douglas County

Smith Creek (4)

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (White Co.)

Smithee Jack Creek (4)

Headwaters to Hodchodkee Creek (Quitman Co.)

Snake Creek (1,4)

U/S Chattahoochee River (Carroll Co.)

South Fork Camp Creek (34)

College Park (Fulton Co.)

South Fork Mud Creek Cornelia (Habersham Co.) (2)

Squirrel Creek (22)

Hall County

Sulfur Creek (4)

U/S White Sulfur Creek (Meriwether Co.)

Sulfur Creek (4)

D/S White Sulfur Creek (Meriwether/Troup Co.)

Tanyard Creek (4,16)

Douglas County

Thomas Creek (1,4)

Coweta County

Tobannee Creek (4)

Headwaters to Walter F. George Lake (Quitman Co.)

Town Branch (1)

Villa Rica (Carroll/Douglas Co.)

Town Creek (4)

Headwaters to Tesnatee Creek (White Co.)

Tributary to Sope Creek Cobb County (14)

Tuggle Creek (1)

Fulton County

Turkey Creek (38)

Columbus (Muscogee Co.)

Upatoi Creek (1)

U/S Chattahoochee River, Columbus (Muscogee/Chattahoochee Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 2 6 5 12 3
2 2 7 6 2 4 3 1 10 1 3 1 14

A-14

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Wahoo Creek (46)
Waters Creek (4)
Wehadkee Creek (4)
White Creek (10)
White Sulfur Creek (4)
Whitewater Creek (4)
Wildcat Creek (4)
Yahoola Creek (4)
Yellowdirt Creek (1,4)
Yellowjacket Creek (4)
Allen Creek (4)
Allgood Branch (4)
Anderson Creek (4)
Bear Branch (12)
Beech Creek (12)
Blankets Creek (24)
Blue Springs Creek (4)
Board Tree Creek (4)

LOCATION Downstream Arnco Mills Lake (Coweta Co.) Headwaters to Dicks Creek (Lumpkin Co.) Heard County U/S Webster Lake, Cleveland (White Co.) Meriwether County Heard/Troup Counties Troup County Headwaters to U.S. Hwy.19/SR60 (Lumpkin County) Carroll/Heard Counties Headwaters to Blue Creek (Coweta/Meriwether/Troup Co.)
COOSA RIVER BASIN Headwaters to Harrisburg Creek (Walker Co.) Headwaters to CR 252 (Chattooga Co.) Headwaters to Tickonetley Creek (Gilmer Co.) Fannin County Fannin County Lake Allatoona Tributary - Cherokee County Headwaters to Camp Creek (Gordon Co.) Headwaters to Etowah River (Cherokee Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 5 6 7 4 9 17 4 8 10 12
4 4 13 2 1 3 3 5

A-15

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Boston Creek (24)
Brewton Creek (4)
Burt Creek (4)
Caldwell Mills Creek (aka Mills Creek) (4)
Camp Creek (4)
Camp Creek (4)
Cane Creek (4)
Canton Creek (4)
Cedar Creek (4)
Chappel Creek (4)
Chattooga River (1)
Clear Creek (4)
Clear Creek (4)
Clear Creek (24)
Coahulla Creek (4)
Conasauga River (1,12)
Concord Creek (4)
Cooper Creek (24)

LOCATION
Lake Allatoona Tributary - Bartow/Cherokee Counties Etowah River Subwatershed No. One Dam to Bannister Creek (Forsyth Co.) Headwaters to Shoal Creek (Dawson Co.)
Coahulla Creek to Tenn. State Line (Whitfield Co.)
Headwaters to Etowah River (Lumpkin Co.)
Dry Creek to Oostanaula River (Gordon Co.)
Headwaters to Dry Creek (Walker Co.)
Mill Canton Creek Structure No. Seven Dam to Scott Mill Creek (Cherokee Co.) Headwaters to Johnson Lake Road (Polk Co.)
Headwaters to unnamed tributary near Halls Valley Rd. (Chattooga/Walker Co.) Lyerly to Stateline (Chattooga Co.)
Headwaters to Cartecay River (Pickens/Gilmer Co.) Clear Lake to Mud Creek (Bartow Co.)
Lake Allatoona Tributary (Bartow Co.)
Tenn. State Line to CR 183 (Whitfield Co.)
Headwaters to Stateline (Murray/Fannin Co.)
Headwaters to E. Armuchee Creek (Walker Co.) Lake Allatoona Tributary (Bartow Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Wild and Scenic/Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 6 2 4 3
3 3 10 7 7 7 7 13 2 2 4 15 5 1

A-16

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Coosawattee River (1)

U.S. Hwy. 411 to Noblet Creek, d/s Carters Lake (Murray/Gordon Co.)

Crane Eater Creek (4)

Headwaters to Coosawattee River (Gordon Co.)

Darnell Creek (4)

Headwaters to East Branch (Pickens Co.)

Dill Creek (4)

Headwaters to Holly Creek (Murray Co.)

Downing Creek (24)

Lake Allatoona Tributary (Cherokee Co.)

Dry Creek (4)

Headwaters to East Armuchee Creek (Walker Co.)

Dry Creek (4)

Headwaters to Little Dry Creek (Gordon Co.)

Dykes Creek (4)

Headwaters to Etowah River (Floyd Co.)

East Armuchee Creek Headwaters to Furnace Creek (Walker Co.) (4)

East Fork Little River (4)

Headwaters to Alabama State Line (Walker/Dade Co.)

East Fork Little River (4)

Headwaters to Alabama State Line (Chattooga Co.)

Ellijay River (4)

Headwaters to Ga. Hwy. 2, Ellijay (Gilmer Co.)

Emery Creek (4)

Headwaters to Bear Branch near Chatsworth (Murray Co.)

Etowah River (4)

Headwaters to Castleberry Bridge (Lumpkin Co.)

Euharlee Creek (4)

Parham Springs to Simpson Creek (Polk Co.)

Fawcett Creek (aka Fausett Creek)
(4)

Headwaters to Talona Creek (Gilmer Co.)

Fisher Creek (4)

Headwaters to Talona Creek (Pickens Co.)

Fourmile Creek (4)

Headwaters to Long Swamp Creek (Pickens Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Drinking Water Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Drinking Water Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing

MILES 10 3 4 3 2 5 5 7 5 5 10 10 4 21 5 5
5 5

A-17

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Furnace Creek (4)

Headwaters to East Armuchee Creek (Walker Co.)

Harris Creek (1)

Upstream Carters Lake (Gilmer Co.)

Harrisburg Creek (4)

Headwaters to Spring Creek (Walker Co.)

Heath Creek (1)

Upstream Rocky Mtn. Project (Floyd Co.)

Hickory Creek (12)

Headwaters to Conasauga River (Murray/Fannin Co.)

Hinton Creek (4)

Headwaters to Chattooga River (Chattooga Co.)

Hobson Creek (4)

Tributary to Talking Rock Creek (Pickens Co.)

Holly Creek (4)

Headwaters to Bear Branch (Murray Co.)

Illinois Creek (24)

Lake Allatoona Tributary (Bartow/Cherokee Co.)

Jacks River (1,12)

West/South Forks to Rough Creek (Fannin Co.)

Johns Creek (4)

Headwaters to Everett Springs (Walker/Floyd Co.)

Jones Creek (4)

Headwaters at Fannin Co. Line to Etowah River (Lumpkin Co.)

Kellogg Creek (41)

Lake Allatoona Tributary (Cherokee Co.)

Kenyon Creek/Station Branch (4)

Headwaters (Varnell) to Coahulla Creek (Whitfield Co.)

Lavendar Creek (1,4)

Headwaters to Armuchee Creek (Floyd Co.)

Little Armuchee Creek Headwaters to Storey Mill Creek (Chattooga

(4)

Co.)

Little Armuchee Creek Storey Mill Creek to Heath Creek (Chattooga/

(1)

Floyd Co.)

Little Armuchee Creek Tributary #1 (4)

Headwaters to Little Armuchee Creek, crossing CR 5 (Chattooga Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Wild/Scenic Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 2 3 4 1 4 5 2 6 2 13 10 8 3 4
7 10 4 2

A-18

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Little Armuchee Creek Tributary #2 (4)

Headwaters to Little Armuchee Creek, crossing Farmersville Rd. (Chattooga Co.)

Little Cedar Creek (6)

U/S Cedar Rock Lake (Polk Co.)

Little Scarecorn Creek Headwaters to Talking Rock Creek (Pickens

(4)

Co.)

Long Branch (4)

Headwaters to Talking Rock Creek (Pickens/Gordon Co.)

McKaskey Creek (24)

Lake Allatoona Tributary (Bartow Co.)

Middle Fork Little River Headwaters to Alabama State Line (Chattooga

(4)

Co.)

Mill Creek (4)

Headwaters to Hurricane Creek (Walker/Whitfield Co.)

Mill Creek (4)

Murray County

Mill Creek (4)

Mill Canton Creek Structure Number Four Dam to Avery Creek (Cherokee Co.)

Montgomery Creek (4)

Headwaters to Etowah River (Lumpkin Co.)

Mountaintown Creek (4)

Headwaters to Hwy. 282 (Gilmer Co.)

Mud Creek (4)

Headwaters to Talking Rock Creek (Pickens Co.)

Murray Creek (12)

Fannin County

Nimblewill Creek (4)

Headwaters to Etowah River (Lumpkin Co.)

North Prong Sumac Creek (4)

Headwaters to Sumac Creek (Murray Co.)

Palmer Creek (4)

Headwaters to Etowah River (Dawson Co.)

Panther Creek (12)

Fannin County

Penitentiary Branch (12)

Fannin County

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Drinking Water Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 3
1 6 5 3 4 5 9 8 4 15 3 3 8 7
4 2 2

A-19

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Perennial Spring (4)
Perry Creek (4)
Perry Creek Tributary (4)
Picketts Mill Creek (4)
Pine Log Creek (4)
Pin Hook Creek (4)
Pitner Branch (4)
Polecat Creek (4)
Poplar Camp Creek (12)
Possum Creek (4)
Pumpkinpile Creek (4)
Pumpkinvine Creek (4)
Pyle Creek (4)
Raccoon Creek (4)
Raccoon Creek (4)
Rice Camp Branch (12)
Robbins Creek (4)
Rock Creek (4)
Rock Creek (4)

LOCATION
Headwaters near CR 82 to Raccoon Creek (Chattooga Co.) Headwaters to Conasauga River (Murray Co.)
Headwaters to Perry Creek, 0.6 miles north of Cisco (Murray Co.) Headwaters to Little Pumpkinvine Creek (Paulding Co.) Headwaters near Hwy. 140 to Cedar Creek (Cherokee/Bartow Co.) Pickens Co. Line to Salacoa Creek (Gordon Co.) Headwaters to Little Creek (Whitfield Co.)
Pickens County
Headwaters to Conasauga River (Fannin Co.)
Paulding County
Polk County
Headwaters to Little Pumpkinvine Creek (Paulding Co.) Bartow County
Headwaters to Ga. Hwy. 48 (Chattooga Co.)
Headwaters to Pegamore Lake (Paulding Co.)
Headwaters to Jacks River (Fannin Co.)
Headwaters to Oostanaula River (Gordon Co.)
Gilmer County
Headwaters to Cherokee Co. Line (Pickens Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-20

MILES 5 5 1 6 19 7 4 6 2 3 7 7 3 4 6 3 4 6 6

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Rock Creek (1,4)

Headwaters to Holly Creek (Murray Co.)

Rock Mountain Creek Rocky Mountain Project (Floyd Co.) (29)

Rocky Creek (4)

Headwaters to Johns Creek (Gordon Co.)

Rocky Creek (4)

Pine Log Tributary Number 21 Dam to Little Pine Log Creek (Bartow Co.)

Rose Creek (24)

Lake Allatoona Tributary (Cherokee Co.)

Rough Creek (12)

Fannin County

Rough Creek (12)

Murray County

Ruff Creek (4)

Headwaters to Armuchee Creek (Chattooga Co.)

Salacoa Creek (4)

Henderson Mountain Road to Hwy 61 (Pickens/Cherokee/Bartow/Gordon Co.)

Scarecorn Creek (4)

Headwaters to Ga. Hwy. 53 (Pickens Co.)

Shoal Creek (4)

Headwaters to Flat Creek (Lumpkin /Dawson Co.)

Smithwick Creek (4)

Headwaters to Etowah River (Cherokee Co.)

Spring Creek (4)

Floyd County (U/S Fishing Ban Area)

Spring Creek (4)

Headwaters to Conasauga River (Whitfield Co.)

Spring Creek (4)

Headwaters to Alabama State Line (Floyd/Polk Co.)

Storey Mill Creek (4)

Headwaters to Little Armuchee Creek Chattooga Co.)

Sugar Cove Branch (12)

Headwaters to Jacks River (Fannin Co.)

Sugar Creek (4)

Tennessee State Line to Conasauga River (Whitfield/Murray Co.)

Sumac Creek (1)

Coffey Lake to Conasauga River (Murray Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 7 3 4 3 3 7 2 5 20 8 8 7 6 5 9 3 1 5 9

A-21

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Sumac Creek Tributary Headwaters to Sumac Creek (Murray Co.) (4)

Swamp Creek (4)

Headwaters to Stover Creek (Whitfield Co.)

Swamp Creek (4)

Stover Creek to Little Swamp Creek (Whitfield Co.)

Swamp Creek (4)

Little Swamp Creek to Conasauga River (Whitfield Co.)

Sweetwater Creek (4)

Headwaters to Shoal Creek (Dawson Co.)

Tails Creek (4)

Headwaters to Hwy. 282 (Gilmer Co.)

Taliaferro Creek (4)

Headwaters to Chattooga River (Chattooga Co.)

Talking Rock Creek (4)

Headwaters to Route S1011 (Pickens Co.)

Talking Rock Creek (1)

Upstream Carters Lake (Gordon Co.)

Talona Creek (4)

Gilmer County

Teloga Creek (4)

Chelsea Creek to Spring Creek (Chattooga Co.)

Thompson Creek (4)

Forsyth Lake to Simpson Creek (Polk Co.)

Toms Creek (4)

Bartow County (U/S Fishing Ban Area)

Town Branch (4)

Headwaters to Conasauga River (Murray Co.)

Town Creek (4)

Headwaters to Pickens County Line (Gilmer Co.)

Two Run Creek (4)

Headwaters to Clear Creek, u/s Fishing Ban Area (Bartow Co.)

Ward Creek (4)

Headwaters to Etowah River (Paulding/Bartow Co.)

Ward Creek (1)

Shannon (Floyd Co.)

West Armuchee Creek Headwaters to Dick Creek (Walker Co.) (4)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-22

MILES 1 4 4 3 3 6 5 3 3 6 5 3 6 4 5 6 6 1 10

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

West Armuchee Creek Dick Creek to Ruff Creek (Walker/Chattooga

(4)

Co.)

Westbrook Creek (4)

Headwaters to Pumpkinvine Creek (Paulding Co.)

West Fork Little River Headwaters to Alabama State Line

(4)

(Walker/Dade Co.)

Wilson Creek (4)

Headwaters to Coahulla Creek (Whitfield Co.)

FLINT RIVER BASIN

Andrews Creek (4)

Upson County

Auchumpkee Creek (4)

Upson County

Bailey Creek (4)

Crawford County

Baroucho Creek (4)

Headwaters (New Lake Dam) to Potato Creek (Upson Co.)

Bear Creek (2)

Hampton (Henry Co.)

Bear Creek (4)

Long Branch to Reedy Creek (Terrell Co.)

Beaver Creek (4)

Meriwether County

Big Cypress Creek (10)

U/S Ichawaynochaway Creek, near Newton (Baker Co.)

Big Drain Creek (10)

U/S Spring Creek, Boykin (Early Co.)

Big Slough (1)

Bainbridge (Decatur Co.)

Big Turkey Creek (4)

Headwaters to Little Turkey Creek (Upson Co.)

Birch Creek (4)

Pike County

Brantley Creek (4)

2 miles d/s Dawson WPCP to Chickasawhatchee Creek (Terrell Co.)

Brittens Creek (4)

Meriwether County

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 4 3 6 5
2 23 4 3 2 9 6 6 2 5 3 11 4 5

A-23

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Camp Creek (1,42)

Headwaters to Flint River (Clayton Co.)

Camp Creek (4)

Headwaters to Triple Creek (Schley/Macon Co.)

Camp Creek (1)

Triple Creek to Flint River, Oglethorpe (Macon Co.)

Cane Creek (4)

Meriwether County

Cater Creek (34)

College Park (Fulton Co.)

Cedar Creek (4)

Turkey Branch to Whitewater Creek (Macon Co.)

Cedar Creek (25)

Crisp County

Chandlers Creek (4)

Coweta County

Chickasawhatchee Creek (4)

Brantley Creek to Herod Creek (Terrell Co.)

Chickasawhatchee Creek (1)

Dougherty County

Chickasawhatchee Creek
(1,4,10,32)

Dougherty Co. Line to Ichawaynotchaway Creek, Elmodel (Baker Co.)

Chokee Creek (4)

Mill Creek to Flint River (Lee Co.)

Chokeelagee Creek (4)

Headwaters to Kinchafoonee Creek (Lee Co.)

Cold Springs Branch (4)

Meriwether County

Culpepper Creek (4)

Headwaters to Lewis Creek (Crawford Co.)

Culpepper Creek (aka Spring Creek) (4)

Lewis Creek to Beaver Creek (Crawford Co.)

Cypress Creek (10)

U/S Aycocks Creek near Colquitt (Miller Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing

MILES 9 12 4 9 1 10 3 5 4
12
10
6 10 4 6 3
4

A-24

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Dead Oak Creek (1)
Dominy Branch (10)
Double Branch (4)
Drake Branch (4)
Dye Branch (1)
East Swift Creek (4)
Elkins Creek (4)
Five Mile Creek (4)
Five Mile Creek (4)
Flat Creek (4)
Flint River (1,42)
Flint River (1,10)
Flint River (1)
Flint River (1)
Flint River (1)
Flint River (1,24)
Flint River (1)
Flint River (1)
Flint River (1)

LOCATION
Upstream Line Creek (Coweta Co.)
U/S Lime Creek near Cobb (Sumter Co.)
Coweta County
Upson County
Thomaston (Upson Co.)
Headwaters to Little Swift Creek (Upson Co.)
Headwaters to Bull Creek (Spalding/Pike Co.)
Pike County
Upson County
Spalding County
Upstream Hartsfield Airport (Clayton Co.)
N. Hampton Road to Road S1058/ Woolsey Rd. (Clayton Co.) Horton Creek to Flat Shoals Rd. (Fayette/Spalding/Pike Co.) Flat Shoals Rd. to Taylor County line (Pike/Meriwether/Upson/Talbot Co.) Taylor Co. Line to Horse Creek (Taylor/Upson/Crawford/Macon Co.) Horse Creek to Spring Creek (Macon Co.)
Spring Creek to Hwy 27 (Dooly Co.)
Muckafoonee Creek to Raccoon Creek (Dougherty/Mitchell Co.) Raccoon Creek to Ichawaynochaway Creek (Mitchell Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 2 3 3 2 2 5 26 4 3 11 1 5 23 43 49 16 20 23 28

A-25

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Flint River (1)
Ginger Cake Creek (4)
Grace Branch (4)
Grape Creek (2)
Grape Creek (4)
Haddock Creek (4)
Hog Crawl Creek (1)
Horse Creek (4)
Horse Creek (1)
Horseley Creek (4)
Hurricane Branch (4)
Hurricane Creek (4)
Ichawaynochaway Creek (4)
Ichawaynochaway Creek (4)
Ichawaynochaway Creek
(1,10,32)
Ison Branch (2)
Jerry Reeves Creek (4)
Jesters Creek (42)

LOCATION Big Slough to 1 mi. downstream State Docks (Decatur Co.) Fayette County Crawford County Griffin (Spalding Co.) Lamar County Fayette County U/S Flint River, NW Cordele (Dooly Co.) Crawford County Taylor Mill Lake to Flint River (Macon Co.) Upson County Meriwether County Upson County Wolf Creek to Little Ichawaynochaway Creek (Terrell/Randolph Co.) Walk Ikey Creek to Falling Creek (Terrell/Randolph/Calhoun Co.) Calhoun Co. Line to Flint River (Baker Co.)
Griffin (Spalding Co.) Upson County East Jesters Creek to Flint River (Clayton Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-26

MILES 5 6 2 2 3 4 8 6 10 2 3 3 1
7
35
3 4 3

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Keg Creek (1)

Hutchins Lake to Line Creek (Coweta Co.)

Kendall Creek (4)

Meriwether County

Kinchafoonee Creek (4)

Headwaters to Lanahasee Creek (Marion Co.)

Kinchafoonee Creek (1)

Marion Co. Line to Terrell Co. Line (Webster Co.)

Kinchafoonee Creek (1,9)

Ga. Hwy. 45 (Webster Co. Line) to Lake Chehaw/Worth (Terrell/Sumter/Lee/Dougherty Co.)

Kiokee Creek (10)

Mud Creek to Hwy 62 (Dougherty Co.)

Lazer Creek (1,4)

Marshall Creek to Flint River near Talbotton (Talbot Co.)

Limestone Creek (1)

Lake Blackshear (Crisp Co.)

Line Creek (4)

Upstream Wynns Pond (Fayette/Coweta Co.)

Line Creek (1,4)

Wynns Pond to Line Creek WPCP (Fayette/Coweta Co.)

Line Creek (2)

Line Creek WPCP to Flat Creek (Fayette Co.)

Line Creek (1,10)

Flat Creek to Flint River (Fayette/Spalding/Coweta Co.)

Little Muckalee Creek Headwaters to Galey Creek (Schley Co.) (4)

Little Pachitla Creek (4)

Fellows Branch to Bear Creek (Calhoun Co.)

Little Potato Creek (4)

Downstream Barnesville (Lamar Co.)

Little Redoak Creek (aka Sandy Creek)
(4)

Meriwether County

Little Turkey Creek (4)

Upson County

Little White Oak Creek Upstream White Oak Creek (Coweta Co.) (4)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing

MILES 3 3 10 23 40
3 17 3 7 4 2 15 9 7 8 6
2 6

A-27

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Little White Oak Creek D/S Linch Creek (Coweta/Meriwether Co.) (4)

Long Branch (4)

Upson County

Marby Creek (4)

Upson County

Matthews Creek (4)

Crawford County

Mill Creek (4)

Meriwether County

Mock Woodall Creek (4)

Upson County

Morning Creek (42)

Headwaters to Flint River (Fayette Co.)

Mountain Creek (4)

Pike County

Muckalee Creek (1)

Little Muckalee Creek to Americus (Sumter Co.)

Muckalee Creek (2)

Americus to McLittle Bridge Rd. (Sumter Co.)

Muckalee Creek (1,4,10)

Sumter Co. Line to Pirates Cove Rd., Leesburg (Lee Co.)

Muckalee Creek (4)

Unnamed tributary 1 mi. u/s Marion/Schley Co. Line to Owens Creek (Marion/Schley Co.)

Murphy Creek (4)

Headwaters to Flint River (Fayette Co.)

North Mosquito Creek Florida State Line to Mosquito Creek (Decatur

(4)

Co.)

Pachitla Creek (1,4)

Parkins Creek to Bay Branch near Edison (Calhoun Co.)

Pappys Creek (4)

Meriwether County

Pecan Creek (24)

Tributary to Lake Blackshear (Sumter Co.)

Pigeon Creek (4)

Meriwether County

Potato Creek (1)

Drake Branch to Flint River near Thomaston (Upson Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-28

MILES 8 3 4 5 6 2 12 6 5 2 20 6 4 7 5 6 1 8 11

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Powder Creek (4)
Red Oak Creek (4)
Rocky Ford Branch (4)
Rose Creek (4)
Sandy Mount Creek (4)
Shoal Creek (4)
Shoal Creek (2,4)
Slaughter Creek (4)
Spring Creek (4)
Spring Creek (1,4)
Spring Creek (1,4)
Starling Branch (4)
Sullivan Creek (42)
Sullivan Creek (4)
Swift Creek (4)
Ten Mile Creek (4)
Tobler Creek (4)
Town Creek (4)
Town Creek (4)

LOCATION Pike County Meriwether County Meriwether County Willis Road to Potato Creek (Upson Co.) U.S. Hwy. 41 to Pennahatchee Creek (Dooly Co.) Fayette County Griffin (Spalding Co.) Christmas Branch to Kinchafoonee Creek (Webster Co.) Upson County Headwaters to Flint River near Montezuma (Macon Co.) Aycocks Creek to Lake Seminole (Decatur Co.) Upson County Clayton County Upson County Headwaters to Tobler Creek (Upson Co.) Smyrna Road to Potato Creek (Upson Co.) Upson County Headwaters to Carter Creek (Randolph Co.) Rigas Road to Muckalee Creek (Sumter Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 5 10 2 6 5 5 5 1 3 5 13 2 5 4 14 8 23 7 2

A-29

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Ty Ty Creek (4)

Unnamed trib. 1.4 miles u/s Thomas Mill Road to Kinchafoonee Cr. (Sumter Co.)

Fishing

Vallhalla Branch (1)

Trib. to Lake Blackshear (Crisp Co.)

Fishing

Walnut Creek (4)

Meriwether County

Fishing

White Oak Creek (1)

Little White Oak Creek to Flint River near Alvaton (Meriwether Co.)

Fishing

Whitewater Creek (1)

Starr's Millpond to Line Creek (Fayette Co.)

Fishing

Whitewater Creek (4)

Downstream Lake Bennett (Fayette Co.)

Fishing

Winky Branch (4)

Meriwether County

Fishing

Wolf Creek (4)

Upson County

Fishing

Wolf Creek (4)

Meriwether County

Fishing

Womble Creek (4)

Upson County

Fishing

Woolsey Creek (4)

Fayette County

Fishing

OCHLOCKONEE RIVER BASIN

Tired Creek (1)

Wolf Cr. to Parkers Mill Cr. near Cairo (Grady Co.)

Fishing

OCMULGEE RIVER BASIN

Aboothlacoosta Creek Butts County (4)

Fishing

Alcovy River (1)

Wrights Creek to Bear Creek (Newton Co.)

Fishing/Recreation

Alligator Creek (1,4)

1 mile d/s U.S. Hwy. 280 to Little Ocmulgee River (Wheeler Co.)

Fishing

Bay Creek (1)

Beaver Creek to Big Indian Creek (Peach/Houston Co.)

Fishing

Bear Creek (4)

Gaithers Branch to Lake Jackson (Newton Co.)

Fishing

MILES 3 1 4 9 5 8 4 5 5 6 6
4
6 13 16 3 3

A-30

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Beaverdam Creek (4)

Monroe/Bibb Counties

Big Creek (4)

Headwaters to Burnham Creek (Houston Co.)

Big Creek

Hwy 230 to Ocmulgee River (Pulaski Co.)

(Tucsawhatchee Creek)

(1,10)

Big Haynes Creek (1,23)

Big Haynes Cr. Reservoir to Little Haynes Creek (Rockdale Co.)

Big Indian Creek (4)

Baptist Creek to Bay Creek (Houston Co.)

Big Indian Creek (4)

Flat Creek to Mossy Creek (Houston Co.)

Big Towaliga Creek (4)

Lamar County

Briar Branch (4)

Upstream Towaliga River (Monroe Co.)

Buck Creek (4)

Tributary to High Falls Lake (Lamar/Spalding Co.)

Castleberry Creek (4)

Tributary to Rocky Creek (Monroe/Butts Co.)

Chambliss Creek (4)

Tributary to Lake Juliette, Forsyth (Monroe Co.)

Champion Creek (4)

Monroe County

Coley Creek (4)

Bleckley County

Coppas Branch (4)

Bibb County

Crow Branch (4)

Jasper County

Deer Creek (4)

Tributary to Rum Creek (Monroe Co.)

Douglas Creek (4)

Upstream Little Sandy Creek (Butts Co.)

Dry Bone Creek (4)

Jones/Bibb Counties

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing
Drinking Water Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 6 12 10
1 6 7 5 2 14 3 4 3 4 2 3 10 4 7

A-31

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Echeconnee Creek (4)

Rock Quarry Road to Knoxville Road (Monroe/Bibb Co.)

Fambro Creek (4)

Monroe County

Feagin Creek (4)

Jones County

Gilmore Branch (4)

Tributary to Towaliga River (Monroe/Butts Co.)

Hardy's Creek (4)

Jasper County

Herds Creek (4)

Headwaters to Ga. Hwy. 212 (Jasper Co.)

Indian Creek (4)

Lester Mill Rd., Locust Grove to Towaliga River (Henry/Butts Co.)

Johnson Creek (2)

Tributary to Cabin Creek, Griffin (Spalding Co.)

Jordan Creek (1)

Cochran to Ocmulgee River (Bleckley/Pulaski Co.)

Kinnard Creek (4)

Tributary to Ocmulgee River (Jasper Co.)

Lamar Branch (4)

Tributary to Echeconnee Creek (Bibb/Monroe Co.)

Lee Creek (4)

Tributary to Ocmulgee River (Monroe Co.)

Little Buck Creek (4)

Lamar County

Little Falling Creek (4)

Jasper/Jones Counties

Little Sandy Creek (4)

Butts County

Little Shellstone Creek Headwaters to Shellstone Creek (Bleckley Co.) (4)

Little Sturgeon Creek Headwaters to Sturgeon Creek (Ben Hill Co.) (4)

Little Tobesofkee Creek Lamar/Monroe Counties (4)

Little Towaliga River (4)

D/S Barnesville Reservoir (Lamar/Monroe Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-32

MILES 27 4 3 3 6 3 8 1 10 9 3 6 6 5 4 4 7 23 13

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Long Branch (4)
Mossy Creek (4)
Ocmulgee River (1)
Ocmulgee River (1)
Ocmulgee River (28)
Ocmulgee River (1)
Ocmulgee River (1)
Ocmulgee River (1)
Ocmulgee River (1,9)
Panther Creek (4)
Panther Creek (42)
Pates Creek (42)
Peeksville Creek (4)
Plymale Creek (4)
Pole Bridge Creek (15)
Pounds Creek (18)
Pounds Creek (18)
Prairie Creek (4)

LOCATION Upstream Big Sandy Creek (Butts Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

Taylors Mill Pond to Mule Creek (Peach Co.)

Fishing

Downstream Lloyd Shoals Dam (Butts/Jasper Co.)
3 Miles Downstream Lloyd Shoals Dam to Towaliga River (Butts/Jasper/Monroe Co.)
Hwy 18 to Beaverdam Creek (Monroe/Jones/Bibb Co.)
Beaverdam Creek to Walnut Creek (Jones/Bibb Co.)
Big Indian Creek to Pulaski/Wilcox Co. Line (Pulaski Co.)
Cedar Creek to House Creek (Wilcox/Dodge/Telfair Co.)
House Creek to Altamaha River (Telfair,Ben Hill, Coffee, Jeff Davis, Wheeler Co.)
Tributary to Yellow Water Creek (Butts Co.)

Fishing Fishing
Drinking Water Drinking Water/Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

Headwaters to Big Cotton Indian Creek (Clayton/Henry Co.)
Blalock Water Reservoir to Little Cotton Indian Creek (Henry Co.)
Headwaters to Tussahaw Creek (Henry/Butts Co.)
Butts County

Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

DeKalb County

Fishing

Upstream Lakeview Ct. Lake (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

Downstream Lakeview Court Lake (Gwinnett Co.)
Lamar County

Fishing Fishing

MILES 4 6 3 14
9 10 25 36 67 4 6 5 6 7 10 1 1 5

A-33

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Pughs Creek (18)

Tributary to Yellow River (Gwinnett Co.)

Reedy Creek (4)

Tributary to Tobesofkee Creek (Monroe Co.)

Reeves Creek (42)

Minska Pinska Dam to Little Cotton Indian Creek (Henry Co.)

Richland Creek (4)

Schuffle Creek to Savage Creek (Twiggs Co.)

Rock Creek (4)

Downstream Lite-N-Tie Rd. (Jones Co.)

Rocky Creek (4)

Downstream Lake Wildwood (Bibb Co.)

Rum Creek (42)

Lake Spivey to Little Cotton Indian Creek (Henry Co.)

Rum Creek (4)

Downstream Lake Juliette (Monroe Co.)

Sabbath Creek (4)

Tributary to Ocmulgee River (Bibb Co.)

Sand Creek (4)

Jones County

Sandy Run Creek (1,2,4)

Downstream Warner Robins (Houston Co.)

Savage Creek (4)

Headwaters to Ocmulgee River (Twiggs Co.)

Scott Creek (23)

Headwaters to Deer Run Lake (Rockdale Co.)

Shellstone Creek (4)

U.S. Hwy. 23 to Ocmulgee River (Twiggs/Bleckley Co.)

South Prong Creek (4)

Headwaters to Big (Tucsawhatchee) Creek (Dooly/Pulaski Co.)

South Shellstone Creek Downstream Coley, NW Cochran (Bleckley Co.) (1)

Spring Branch (4)

Tributary to Wise Creek (Jasper Co.)

Stalking Head Creek (4)

Jones/Jasper Counties

Standard Creek (4)

Monroe County

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-34

MILES 5 4 5 5 6 4 4 2 4 7 2 18 1 8 12 4 1 7 2

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Stone Mountain Creek Downstream Stone Mountain Lake (DeKalb

(15)

Co.)

Strouds Creek (2)

Social Circle (Walton/Newton Co.)

Swan Creek (4)

Headwaters to Little Towaliga River (Lamar Co.)

Todd Creek (4)

Tributary to Tobesofkee River (Monroe Co.)

Tom George Creek (2)

DeKalb County

Towaliga River (4)

Thompson Creek to Indian Creek (Spalding/Butts/Monroe Co.)

Towaliga River (4)

Indian Creek to High Falls Lake (Butts Co.)

Town Creek (4)

Jones County

Troublesome Creek (4)

Spalding County

Tussahaw Creek Tributary (4)

Headwaters to Tussahaw Creek (Henry Co.)

Upton Creek (42)

Headwaters to Big Cotton Indian Creek (Clayton Co.)

Walnut Creek (2)

Downstream McDonough Walnut Creek WPCP (Henry Co.)

Whitewater Creek (4)

Headwaters to Echeconnee Creek (Crawford Co.)

Wolf Creek (4)

Bibb County

Wood Creek (4)

D/S Ga. Hwy. 83 to Echeconnee Creek (Monroe Co.)

Yellow Creek (4)

Tributary to Little Tobesofkee Creek (Monroe Co.)

Yellow River (18)

Centerville Creek to Hammock Creek (Gwinnett/DeKalb/Rockdale Co.)

OCONEE RIVER BASIN

Apalachee River (18)

Apalachee Road to Williamson Creek (Gwinnett/Barrow/Walton Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing

MILES 5 3 4 5 2 10 7 4 5 3
3 2 5 2 4 9 8
10

A-35

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Bay Branch (4)
Beaverdam Creek (4)
Beaverdam Creek (4)
Beaverdam Creek (4)
Big Indian Creek (1)
Big Sandy Creek (4)
Black Spring Branch (4)
Buck Creek (4)
Buffalo Creek (1,4)
Camp Creek (4)
Carter's Mill Creek (4)
Cedar Creek (1)
Cedar Creek (4)
Commissioner Creek (4)
Commissioner Creek (4)
Copeland Creek (4)
Crooked Creek (4)
Deep Creek (4)
Fishing Creek (4)

LOCATION Tributary to Oconee River (Putnam Co.) Northwest of Smyrna Church (Hancock Co.) Putnam County Hancock County Little Indian Creek to Little River (Morgan/Putnam Co.) Clear Creek to Porter Creek (Wilkinson Co.) Baldwin County Tributary to Oconee River (Baldwin Co.) St. Road 787 to Swift Creek (Hancock Co.) Tributary to Oconee River (Baldwin Co.) Headwaters to Keg Creek (Washington Co.) Winder Reservoir to Mulberry River, Winder (Barrow Co.) Headwaters to King Branch (Jasper Co.) Jones County Beaver Creek to Little Commissioner Creek (Wilkinson Co.) Headwaters to Lundy Creek (Hancock Co.) Bleckley County Washington County Tributary to Oconee River (Baldwin Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-36

MILES 1 2 2 4 7 6 4 4 9 7 6 4 6 9 5 3 3 5 12

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Ford Creek (4)

Hancock County

Gap Creek (4)

Jasper County

Glady Creek (4,36)

Putnam County

Glady Creek Tributary Near Reids Crossroads (Putnam Co.) (4)

Greenbriar Creek (28)

Salem Scull Shoals Road to Lake Oconee (Oconee/Greene Co.)

Hard Labor Creek (28)

Big Sandy Creek to Apalachee River (Morgan Co.)

Hitchcock Branch (4)

Putnam County

Hog Creek (4)

Tributary to Big Cedar Creek (Jones Co.)

Hunger and Hardship Creek (4)

Headwaters to Strawberry Creek (Laurens Co.)

Jacks Creek (1)

D/S abandoned Monroe Jacks Creek Pond to Grubby Creek (Walton Co.)

Jenkins Branch (4)

Tributary to Oconee River (Putnam Co.)

Lake Sinclair Tributary Near Putnam Beach (Putnam Co.) (4)

Lake Sinclair Tributary North of Key Cemetery (Putnam Co.) (4)

Lick Creek (4)

Upstream Lake Oconee (Putnam Co.)

Little Buffalo Creek (4)

Hancock County

Little Camp Creek (4)

Tributary to Camp Creek (Baldwin Co.)

Little Cedar Creek (4)

Headwaters to Lake Sinclair (Jones/Baldwin Co.)

Little Creek (4)

Jones County

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 2 3 3 1 8 4 1 7 6
2 1 1 1 4 1 4 9 3

A-37

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Little Creek (4)

Tributary to Town Creek (Hancock Co.)

Little Glady Creek (36)

Rock Eagle Lake to Glady Creek (Putnam Co.)

Little Keg Creek (4)

Washington County

Little Red Bluff Creek Headwaters to Red Bluff Creek (Treutlen Co.) (4)

Little River (36)

Big Indian Creek to Glady Creek (Putnam Co.)

Little River Tributary (4)

Near Martin's Mill Road (Putnam Co.)

Little Rocky Creek (4)

Headwaters to Rocky Creek (Laurens Co.)

Little Rocky Creek (4)

Twiggs County

Little Sandy Hill Creek Washington County (4)

Log Dam Creek (4)

Tributary to Oconee River (Hancock Co.)

Long Creek (4)

Hancock County

Lowry Branch (4)

Jasper County

Lundy Creek (4)

Hancock County

Maiden Creek (4)

Wilkinson County

Mercer Creek (1)

D/S Graham Pond to Red Hill Creek (Laurens/Treutlen Co.)

Miller Creek (4)

Jones County

Milsap Creek (4)

Jones County

Moore Creek (4)

Tributary to Fishing Creek (Jones/Baldwin Co.)

North Oconee River (10)

Curry Creek to Clarke County (Jackson Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing/Drinking Water

MILES 1 3 5 4 5 3 9 3 3 5 1 3 2 2 9 1 5 6 7

A-38

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Oconee River (1)
Oconee River (1)
Oconee River (1)
Oconee River (1)
Oconee River (1)
Pinkston Creek (4)
Pittman Creek (4)
Plunkett Creek (4)
Porter Creek (4)
Robinson Creek (4)
Rock Creek (4)
Rocky Creek (4)
Rocky Creek (1,10)
Rocky Creek (4)
Sand Creek (4)
Sandy Hill Creek (4)
Sandy Run Creek (4)
Sheppard Creek (4)
Shoal Creek (1)

LOCATION Lake Sinclair to Fishing Creek (Baldwin Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Drinking Water

Fishing Creek to Gumm Creek (Baldwin Co.)

Fishing

Gumm Creek to US Hwy 319/80 (Washington/Wilkinson/Laurens Co.)
Turkey Creek to Red Bluff Creek (Laurens/Treutlen/Wheeler Co.)
Red Bluff Creek to Altamaha River (Montgomery/Wheeler Co.)
Tributary to Buffalo Creek (Hancock Co.)

Fishing/Drinking Water Fishing Fishing Fishing

Jasper County

Fishing

Tributary to Whitten Creek (Hancock Co.)

Fishing

Headwaters to Big Sandy Creek (Wilkinson Co.)
Jasper County

Fishing Fishing

Putnam County

Fishing

Tributary to Lake Sinclair (Baldwin Co.)

Fishing

Little Rocky Creek to Turkey Creek (Laurens Co.)
Bleckley County

Fishing Fishing

Tributary to Lake Sinclair (Baldwin Co.)

Fishing

Headwaters to Oconee River (Washington Co.)

Fishing

Tributary to Buffalo Creek (Hancock Co.)

Fishing

Jasper County

Fishing

Little Shoal Creek to Apalachee River (Walton Co.)

Fishing

MILES 5 20 52 26 38 1 7 1 12 4 1 2 6 3 3 9 2 5 2

A-39

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Shoal Creek (4)

Jasper County

Shoulderbone Creek (4)

Tributary to Oconee River (Hancock Co.)

Smokey Hollow Creek Gainesville (Hall Co.) (20)

South Fork Wolf Creek Jasper County (4)

South Sandy Creek (4)

Chappells Pond to Big Sandy Creek (Laurens/Wilkinson Co.)

Swift Creek (4)

Tributary to Buffalo Creek (Hancock Co.)

Taylor Creek (4)

Jones County

Tributary 1 to Allen Creek (1,20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Tributary 2 to Allen Creek (20)

Gainesville-D/S Old Landfill (Hall Co.)

Tributary 4 to Allen Creek (1,20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Tributary 5 to Allen Creek (20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Tributary 7 to Allen Creek (20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Tributary 8 to Allen Creek (20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Tributary 9 to Allen Creek (1,20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Tributary to North Oconee River (20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Tributary to Turkey Creek (4)

Twiggs County

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing

A-40

MILES 3 1 1 6 5 1 7 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 2

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Tributary to Whitten Creek (4)
Ugly Creek (4)
Whitehouse Branch (4)
Whiteoak Creek (4)
Whitten Creek (4)
Wildcat Branch (4)
Will Hunter Branch (2)
Wolf Creek (1,4)
Buckhead Creek (4)
Flemming Branch (4)
Hannah Branch (4)
Joe's Creek (4)
Kittrell Creek (4)
Little Lotts Creek (1)
Mill Creek (1)
North Newport River (1)
Ogeechee River (1,4)

LOCATION
Hancock County
Twiggs County
Jasper County
Jasper County
Hancock County
Wilkinson County
Tributary to North Oconee River, Athens (Clarke Co.) Gray (Jones Co.)
OGEECHEE RIVER BASIN Hills Pond/Lambert Branch to Eightmile Creek (Burke Co.) Headwaters to Big Creek (Jefferson Co.)
Headwaters to Big Creek (Jefferson Co.)
~0.1 mi d/s GA Hwy 102 to Rocky Comfort Creek (Glascock Co.) ~1.2 mi u/s Kitrell Creek Road to Jordan Mill Pond/Williamson Swamp Creek (Washington Co.) Downstream South Main Street, Statesboro (Bulloch Co.) Upstream Taylors Creek, Fort Stewart (Liberty Co.) Lower Carrs Neck Creek to Timmons River (Liberty Co.) Long Creek to Hwy. 102 near Jewell (Hancock/Washington Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 3
4 3 4 2 1 1 3
8 4 4 6 4
1 2 4 12

A-41

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Taylors Creek (1)
Tributary to Taylors Creek (1)
Alabaha River (1)
Bishop Creek (1)
Hurricane Creek (1)
Little Satilla River (1)
Satilla River (1)
Seventeen Mile River (1)

LOCATION
Upstream WPCP Drainage Canal, Fort Stewart (Liberty Co.) Drainage Canal to Taylors Creek, Fort Stewart (Liberty Co.)
SATILLA RIVER BASIN Tan Trough Cr. to Satilla River (Pierce Co.)
Downstream Hazelhurst (Jeff Davis Co.)
Whitehead Cr. to d/s Little Cr.(Jeff Davis/Bacon Co.) Sixty Foot Branch to Satilla River (Pierce/Wayne/Brantley Co.) Seventeen Mile River to US Hwy 84/Ga. Hwy. 38 (Ware Co.) Otter Cr. (Douglas) to Twentynine Mile Cr. (Coffee Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

Bear Creek (1)
Bear Creek (1)
Beaverdam Creek (1)
Beaverdam Creek (4)
Beaverdam Creek (1)
Boggy Gut Creek (4)

SAVANNAH RIVER BASIN SCS Pond to Unawatti Creek, Lavonia (Franklin Co.) Lavonia (Franklin Co.)
Commerce (Jackson/Banks Co.)
Looks Branch to Little Beaverdam Creek (Burke/Jenkins/Screven Co.) McDonald Branch to Brier Creek, near Sylvania (Screven Co.) McDuffie/Columbia/Richmond Co. Line to Brier Creek (Richmond Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

Butler Creek (1)
Cedar Creek (1)

Boardmans Pond to SR56, South Augusta (Richmond Co.)
Downstream Hartwell WPCP to Little Cedar Creek (Hart Co.)

Fishing Fishing

MILES 3 2
12 2 9 6 27 8
1 1 5 9 5 7 8 8

A-42

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Chattooga River (1)

Stateline to Lake Tugaloo (Rabun Co.)

Coleman River (4)

State Line to Tallulah River (Rabun Co.)

Crawford Creek (1,2)

Downstream Columbia Co. WPCP to Tudor Branch (Crawford Co.)

Davidson Creek (4)

Headwaters to Panther Creek near Tallulah Falls (Habersham/Stephens Co.)

Fitz Branch (4)

Headwaters to Brier Creek (Burke Co.)

Grindstone Branch (1)

Rhodes Pond to Spirit Creek, Hephzibah (Richmond Co.)

Hannah Creek (1)

Royston to Broad River (Franklin/Madison Co.)

Holcomb Creek (4)

Headwaters to Billingsley Creek (Rabun Co.)

Hoods Creek (4)

Headwaters to Walnut Fork (Rabun Co.)

Kiokee Creek (1)

Greenbrier Creek to Savannah River near Evans (Columbia Co.)

Little Bear Creek (1)

Tributary to Unawatti Creek, Lavonia (Franklin Co.)

Little Panther Creek (4)

Headwaters to Big Panther Creek (Habersham Co.)

Little Toccoa Creek (4)

Headwaters to Toccoa Creek, Toccoa (Stephens Co.)

Middle Fork Broad River (4)

Dicks Creek to Reservoir No. 44, upstream of Lake Russell (Stephens Co.)

Moccasin Creek (4)

Headwaters to Lake Burton (Rabun Co.)

North Fork Broad River Habersham/Stephens Co. Line to Old Rock

(4)

Quarry Rd. near Toccoa (Stephens Co.)

Phinizy Ditch (1)

Augusta (Richmond Co.)

Pistol Creek (1)

Headwaters to Clarks Hill Lake near Tignall (Wilkes/Lincoln Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Wild/Scenic Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 36 5 2 6 5 1 8 4 3 6 1 5 4 4
5 5 2 8

A-43

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Sarahs Creek (4)
Savannah River (1)
Savannah River (1)
Savannah River (1)
Savannah River (1,9)
Savannah River (1,9)
Savannah River (1,9)
Spirit Creek (1)
St. Augustine Creek (1)
Tiger Creek (4)
Toccoa Creek (4)
Unawatti Creek (1)
Walnut Fork (4)
Warwoman Creek (4)
West Fork Chattooga River (1,4)
Wildcat Creek (4)
Alapahoochee River (1)
Bear Creek (1,3)

LOCATION Headwaters to Warwoman Creek (Rabun Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

Lake Hartwell to Cedar Creek (Hart Co.)

Recreation

Cedar Creek to Coldwater Creek (Hart/Elbert Co.)
Stevens Creek Dam to US Hwy 78/278 (Columbia/Richmond Co.)
US Hwy. 78/278 to Johnsons Landing (Richmond/Burke/Screven Co.)
Johnsons Landing to Brier Creek (Screven Co.)

Recreation Drinking Water
Fishing Fishing/Drinking Water

Brier Creek to Tide Gate (Screven/Effingham/Chatham Co.)
Marcum Branch to McDade Pond (Richmond Co.)
Walthour Swamp to Front River near Port Wentworth (Effingham/Chatham Co.)
Headwaters to Pole Bridge Creek near Clayton (Rabun Co.)
Stephens County

Fishing/Drinking Water/Coastal Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing
Fishing

Downstream Lavonia (Franklin Co.)

Fishing

Headwaters to Hoods Creek (Rabun Co.)

Fishing

Finney Creek to Sarah's Creek (Rabun Co.)

Fishing

Rabun County

Wild/Scenic

Headwaters to Lake Burton (Rabun Co.)
SUWANNEE RIVER BASIN Confluence of Mud and Grand Bay Cr. to Stateline (Echols Co.) U/S Giddons Mill Cr. to d/s Ga. Hwy. 37/76, Adel (Cook Co.)

Fishing
Fishing Fishing

MILES 5 6 9 9 78 26 84 14 7 8 5 6 4 6 6
6
11 3

A-44

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Grand Bay Creek (1)

Grand Bay to Alapahoochee River (Lanier/Lowndes Co.)

Gum Creek (2)

Headwaters to New River, Tifton (Tift Co.)

Hat Creek (1)

SR S1989 S.E. of Sycamore to Middle Creek (Turner/Tift/Irwin Co.)

Heard Creek (10)

Headwaters to Little River, near Tifton (Tift Co.)

Little River (1)

Wells Mill Cr. to Slaughter Creek (Brooks Co.)

Rough Creek (1)

U/S Alapaha River near Tifton (Tift Co.)

Warrior Creek (10)

Briar Creek to Horse Creek (Worth Co.)

TALLAPOOSA RIVER BASIN

Baxter Creek (2)

Bremen to Little River (Haralson Co.)

Beach Creek (4)

Headwaters to Tallapoosa River (Haralson Co.)

Brooks Creek (4)

Headwaters to Tallapoosa River (Carroll/Haralson Co.)

Buck Creek (4)

Little Buck Creek to Bear Creek (Carroll Co.)

Cochran Creek (6)

Upstream Tallapoosa River (Haralson Co.)

Greene Creek (4)

American Legion Lake to Tallapoosa River (Haralson Co.)

Harris Creek (4)

Headwaters to Beach Creek (Haralson Co.)

Indian Creek (4)

Headwaters to Little Tallapoosa River near Roopville (Carroll Co.)

Lassetter Creek (4)

Headwaters to Tallapoosa River (Haralson Co.)

Little Tallapoosa River Little Tallapoosa Lake to Sharpe Creek (Carroll

(4)

Co.)

Little Tallapoosa River Buck Creek to Buffalo Creek (Carroll Co.) (1,6)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 18 5 13 5 16 4 3
2 8 10 3 2 4 4 3 3 7 11

A-45

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Little Turkey Creek (4)
Mann Creek (4)
Mud Creek (4)
Tallapoosa River (4)
Tallapoosa River (1,4)
Thomasson Creek (4)
Trestle Creek (6)
Walton Creek (4)
Water Mill Creek (4)
Allison Creek (4)
Arkaqua Creek (1,13)
Back Valley Creek (4)
Big Creek (13)
Bitter Creek (1)
Bryant Creek (4)
Butler Creek (13)
Canada Creek (13)
Cedar Grove Creek (4)

LOCATION
Headwaters to Turkey Creek (Carroll Co.)
Haralson County
Headwaters (Carroll/Paulding Co.)
McClendon Creek to Water Mill Creek (Paulding/Haralson Co.) Water Mill Creek to Little River (Haralson Co.)
Confluence of Rabbit Branch and Caney Branch to Water Mill Creek (Haralson/Paulding Co.) Temple (Carroll Co.)
Headwaters to Walker Creek (Haralson Co.)
White Creek to Tallapoosa River (Haralson/Paulding Co.)
TENNESSEE RIVER BASIN Headwaters to Lookout Creek (Dade Co.)
Pine Ridge Road to Nottely River (Union Co.)
Harris Lake Dam to Mill Creek (Walker Co.)
Tributary to Toccoa River (Gilmer/Fannin Co.)
Headwaters to Brasstown Creek (Union Co.)
Headwaters to Cooper Creek (Union Co.)
Tributary to Nottely River (Union Co.)
Union County
Headwaters to Mud (Walker Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Drinking Water Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

A-46

MILES 5 6 5 7 9 4
2 4 5
2 4 1 9 3 3 3 2 3

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Charlie Creek (13)
Conley Creek (13)
Coosa Creek (13)
Corbin Creek (4)
Crawfish Creek (4,13)
Crawfish Creek (4,13)
Dooley Creek (13)
Dry Creek (4,13)
East Chickamauga Creek (4,13)
Fodder Creek (13)
Helton Creek (13)
Hightower Creek (13)
Hog Creek (13)
Hogjowl Creek (4)
Hopkins Creek (4)
Hothouse Creek (13)
Hurricane Creek (4,13)
Ivylog Creek (13)

LOCATION
Fannin County
Tributary to Lake Nottely (Union Co.)
Union County
Headwaters to Hiawassee River (Towns Co.)
Tributary to Lookout Creek (Dade Co.)
Headwaters to W. Chickamauga Creek (Walker Co.) Tributary to Nottely River (Union Co.)
Tributary to Lookout Creek (Dade Co.)
Headwaters to Tanyard Creek (Whitfield/Catoosa Co.)
Towns County
Union County
Towns County
Towns County
Headwaters to Mud Creek (Walker Co.)
Headwaters to E. Chickamauga Creek (Whitfield Co.) Tributary to Toccoa River (Fannin Co.)
Tributary to S. Chickamauga Creek (Catoosa Co.) Tributary to Lake Nottely (Union Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 2 3 2 5 3 7 6 3 14
3 1 1 2 10 5 8 2 7

A-47

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

Kiutuestia Creek (13)

Union County

Left Fork Coulter Branch (4)

Headwaters to Coulter Creek (Walker Co.)

Little Fightingtown Creek (4)

Headwaters to Fightingtown Creek (Fannin Co.)

Little Hightower Creek Downstream Berrong Lake (Towns Co.) (1)

Lookout Creek (1,14,13)

Upstream Trenton (Dade Co.)

Mill Creek #1 (4)

Headwaters to Mud Creek, trib. to W. Chickamauga Creek (Walker Co.)

Mill Creek #2 (4)

Coulter Creek to W. Chickamauga Creek (Walker Co.)

Moccasin Creek (13)

Union County

Mud Creek (4)

Hogjowl Creek to W. Chickamauga Creek (Walker Co.)

Noontootlah Creek (13)

Fannin County

Peavine Creek (4)

Rock Spring Creek to Jackson Lake Dam (Walker/Catoosa Co.)

Pope Creek (4)

Tributary to Lookout Creek (Dade Co.)

Rock Creek (13)

Fannin County

Rock Creek (1,13)

Headwaters to Chattanooga Creek (Dade/Walker Co.)

Skeenah Creek (13)

Fannin County

Spring Creek (4)

Headwaters to State Line (Catoosa Co.)

Squirrel Town Creek (13)

Dade County

Stanley Creek (4)

Headwaters to Toccoa River (Gilmer/Fannin Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing
Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

MILES 3 5
6
1 21 3 2 2 1 3 5 3 5 14 1 2 5 4

A-48

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Star Creek (13)
Stink Creek (13)
Suches Creek (13)
Sugar Creek (4)
Sugar Creek (13)
Toccoa River (13)
Toccoa River (13)
Town Creek (13)
Upper Bell Creek (13)
Wauhatchie Branch (4)
West Chickamauga Creek (4)
West Chickamauga Creek Tributary (4)
Wilscot Creek (13)
Wolf Creek (13)

LOCATION Tributary to Blue Ridge Lake (Fannin Co.) Union County Union County State Line to Tiger Creek (Catoosa Co.) Upstream Toccoa River (Fannin Co.) Headwaters to Big Creek (Union/Fannin Co.) Hothouse Creek to Stateline (Fannin Co.) Union County Towns County State line to Lookout Creek (Dade Co.) Mud Creek to Mill Creek (Walker Co.)
Headwaters to W. Chickamauga Creek, near intersection of SR 136 & 341 (Walker Co.) Fannin County Union County

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Recreation Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing
Fishing
Fishing Fishing

MILES 1 2 2 5 2 22 5 3 2 2 7
4
3 3

A-49

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Altamaha River (1,55)
Bullard Creek (4)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

CRITERION EVALUATED VIOLATED CAUSE(S)
ALTAMAHA RIVER BASIN

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Penholoway Creek to Butler River (Wayne/Glynn/McIntosh Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 23

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

~0.25 mi u/s Altamaha Road to Altamaha River (Jeff Davis Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

8

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Five Mile Creek (4)
Goose Creek (1,10)
Little Ohoopee River (1,10)

Headwaters to Altamaha River (Appling/Wayne Co.)
U/S Rd. S1922 (Walton Griffis Rd.) to Little Goose Creek (Wayne
Co.)
Sardis Creek to Ohoopee River (Emanuel Co.)

Ohoopee River (1,10)

Neels Creek to Little Ohoopee River (Johnson/Emanuel Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

Ohoopee River (1,10)
Ohoopee River (1,9)

Little Ohoopee River to U.S. Highway 292
(Emanuel/Candler/Tattnall Co.)

Fishing

Hwy 292 to Hwy 147 (Tattnall Co.)

Fishing

Ohoopee River (1,9,10)

Ga. Hwy 147 to Confluence with Altamaha River (Tattnall Co.)

Fishing

Pendleton Creek (1,10)

Sand Hill Lake to Reedy Creek (Treutlen Co.)

Fishing

Bio FC FC,DO DO,FC,TWR DO,FC,TWR TWR TWR DO,FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

watershed protection strategy.

9

X

X

3

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 8

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 18

X 3,3 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 18

X 3,3,3 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 23

X 3,3,3 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 12

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 13

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 7

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

X 3,3 2

A-50

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Pendleton Creek (1,10)
Thomas Creek (1,10)
Acorn Creek (1)
Anneewakee Creek (1,4,16)
Baldwin Creek (16)
Bear Creek (1,16)
Big Creek (26)
Big Creek (1)
Black Creek (4)
Blue John Creek (1,21,26)
Browns Creek (4)

LOCATION
Wildwood Lake to Tiger Creek (Treutlen/Toombs Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
DO,FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 12

X 3,3 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

D/S CR203 to Ohoopee River (Tattnall Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 12

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER BASIN

Carroll County

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

House Creek to Lake Monroe (Douglas Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 3

through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3 3

Douglas County

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Dorsett Shoals Rd. to Little Bear Creek (Douglas Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Hall County

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Cheatham Creek (Forsyth Co.)

Fishing

FC,Cu

UR,I2

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 3 through a watershed protection strategy. Tyson Foods WPCP will be addressed through EPD's Basin Planning Permitting Strategy. Areawide Stormwater Permit was issued in 2000.

X 3,3 2

Headwaters to Hannahatchee Creek (Stewart Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

6

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

LaGrange (Troup Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 8

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Cedar Creek (Coweta Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-51

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Bull Creek (1,4,10,38)
Bustahatchee Creek (4)
Camp Creek (1,10)
Cavender Creek (4)
Cedar Creek (1,10)
Centralhatchee Creek (1,4,10)
Chattahoochee River (1,10)
Chattahoochee River (1,9,10)
Chattahoochee River (1)
Chattahoochee River (1,10)
Chattahoochee River (1)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Flat Rock Creek to Cooper Creek, Columbus (Muscogee Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 3

X

X

3

Stormwater Management Strategy. An areawide

stormwater permit was issued on 4/14/00.

Confluence with North Fork to Lake Walter F. George (Quitman
Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

1

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Fulton County

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 4

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Carroll County

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Coweta County

Fishing

DO

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

3

2

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Heard County

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 19

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Ga. Hwy. 17, Helen to SR255

Recreation

FC

(White/Habersham Co.)

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 8

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

Soquee River to Mossy Creek

Recreation

FC

(Habersham/White/Hall Co.)

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

Stormwater Permit issued for Hall Co. 12/9/02.

Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Recreation/Drinking

Creek (Fulton/Cobb Co.)

Water

FC,FCG

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 12

X 3,3 3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was

reissued in 1999. Fish Consumption Guidelines due to

PCBs. PCBs have been banned in the U.S. and

levels have been declining.

Wahoo Creek to Franklin (Coweta/Carroll/Heard Co.)

Fishing

FC,FCG

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 21

X 3,3 3

through a watershed protection strategy. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs. PCBs have

been banned in the U.S. and levels have been

declining.

Oliver Dam to N. Highland Dam (Muscogee Co.)

Fishing

FCG

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 2

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy. An areawide

stormwater permit was issued 4/14/00. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs. PCBs have

been banned in the U.S. and levels have been

declining.

A-52

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Chattahoochee River (1)
Chattahoochee River (1,11)
Chestatee River (1)
Clear Creek (1)
Coheelee Creek (4)
Cracker Creek (1)
Crawfish Creek (4,16)
Day Creek (4)
Dixie Creek (46)
Drag Nasty Creek (1,4)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

N. Highland Dam to Upatoi Creek (Muscogee Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC,FCG

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 12

X 3,3 3

Stormwater Management Strategy. An areawide

stormwater permit was issued on 4/14/00. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs. PCBs have

been banned in the U.S. and levels have been

declining.

Downstream W.F. George Dam (Clay Co.)

Fishing

Tate Creek to Testnatee Creek (Lumpkin Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC FC

Dam Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2 Release,NP developed plan that includes the remedial actions
necessary for problem resolution. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

7

watershed protection strategy.

X 3,3 2

X

3

3

Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

Chancy Mill Creek to Chattahoochee River (Early Co.)
Douglas County

Fishing Fishing

Douglas County

Fishing

Bluff Springs Branch to Hodchodkee Creek (Stewart Co.)
LaGrange (Troup Co.)

Fishing Fishing

Tributary to W. F. George (Quitman/Clay Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO
Bio FC FC Bio FC FC

CSO,UR Atlanta's Federal CSO Consent Decree, effective 3 9/98, requires compliance with water quality standards, including fecal coliform, by 11/7/07. The TMDL for DO does not call for any changes to the CSO permit. Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater Management Strategy for Metropolitan Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

watershed protection strategy.

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 3

through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

1

watershed protection strategy.

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 7

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

X 3,3 2

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

A-53

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Etta Vista Creek (20)
Flowery Branch (26)
Fourmile Creek (7)
Foxwood Branch (2)
Hannahatchee Creek (1,10)
Hichitee Creek (4)
Hilly Mill Creek (1,4)
Hodchodkee Creek (4)
Hodchodkee Creek (4)
Hog Creek (4)
Hog Waller Creek (17)
Kelly Mill Branch (1)

LOCATION Gainesville (Hall Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Hall County

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Lake Lanier Tributary (Forsyth Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was issued in 2000.

Tributary to Rottenwood Creek (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 1

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide Stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

U.S. Hwy 27 to Lake W.F. George (Stewart Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 14

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Cany Creek to Sand Branch (Chattahoochee/Stewart Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Heard/Coweta Counties

Fishing

FC,Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

watershed protection strategy.

X 3,3 3

SR 27 to Wimberly Mill Branch (Stewart Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

3

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Day Creek to Foreman Mill Branch (Stewart Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Cemochechobee Creek (Randolph/Clay Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

9

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Roswell (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 4

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Headwaters to Orr Creek (Forsyth Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 2

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was issued in 2000.

A-54

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Little Hichitee Creek (4)
Little Juniper Creek (4)

LOCATION
Headwaters to Hichitee Creek (Chattahoochee Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Kings Mill Pond (Marion/Chattahoochee Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

6

X

3

3

7

X

3

3

Little Pine Knot Creek (4)

Headwaters to Pine Knot Creek (Chattahoochee Co.)

Long Branch (4)

Coweta County

Maple Branch (4)

Headwaters to Mountain Creek (Coweta Co.)

Mineral Springs Branch (1,4)

Newnan Upstream from Bonnell (Coweta Co.)

Mineral Springs Branch Newnan Downstream from Bonnell

(1,4)

(Coweta Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

Mountain Creek (4)

Trib. to Mountain Creek (d/s SR 34) to Maple Branch (Coweta Co.)

Mountain Oak Creek (1,10)
Mt. Hope Branch (4)
Mud Creek (1)
Mulberry Creek (1,10)

Hamilton (Harris Co.)
Meriwether County
South Hall County
Ossahatchie Creek to Five Points Branch West near Mulberry Grove
(Harris Co.)

Fishing
Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

Bio Bio Bio Bio Tox,Bio
Bio FC Bio FC FC

NP NP NP UR I1,UR
NP NP NP NP NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

4

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4 watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4 watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 1 through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Bonnell under enforcement order for not meeting WET 3 limits. The facility plans to use a reverse osmosis system to comply with permit. EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4 watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5 watershed protection strategy.

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4 watershed protection strategy.

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2 watershed protection strategy.

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 8 watershed protection strategy.

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

X

3

X

3

3

X 3,3 1

X

X

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

A-55

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
North Fork Balus Creek (20)
North Utoy Creek (1)
Ollie Creek (4)
Panther Creek (1)
Park Branch (1,21,46)
Pataula Creek (4)
Pataula Creek (1,10)
Pea Creek (1)
Pepperell Creek (2)
Pine Knot Creek (4)
Piney Woods Branch (4)
Roaring Branch (4)

LOCATION Gainesville (Hall Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 2

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 6

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Meriwether County

Fishing

Bio,DO

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 1

watershed protection strategy.

X 3,3 2

Coweta County

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

LaGrange (Troup Co.)

Fishing

FC,Cu

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. EPD will

address nonpoint sources (urban runoff) through a

watershed protection strategy.

X 3,3 2

Headwaters to Clear Creek (Stewart Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

9

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Hodchodkee Creek to W. F. George Lake (Quitman/Clay Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Fulton County

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 3

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

LaGrange (Troup Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Parkers Mill Creek to Little Pine Knot Creek
(Marion/Chattahoochee Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

6

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued for Chattahoochee

Co. 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Tom Keith Rd. (Meriwether Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Clay Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

7

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-56

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Sawnee Creek (7)
Shoal Creek (4)
Snake Creek (4)
Soquee River (1,10)
Sweetwater Creek (1,10)
Tanyard Branch (1)
Tanyard Creek (1,21)
Taylor Creek (26)
Tesnatee Creek (1)
Tiger Creek (4)
Toto Creek (26)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Lake Lanier Tributary (Forsyth Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was issued in 2000.

Headwaters (Mountville) to I85/Ga. Hwy. 403 (Troup Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Coweta County

Fishing

Bio

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 4

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

SR17, Clarkesville to Chattahoochee River (Habersham
Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 6

X

X

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

Noses Creek to Chattahoochee River (Cobb/Douglas Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 14

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide Stormwater permit was reissued

for Cobb Co. in 1999. A Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit was issued for Douglas Co.

12/9/02.

Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR,CSO Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 2

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999. Atlanta's Federal CSO Consent Decree,

effective 9/98, requires compliance with water quality

standards, including fecal coliform by 11/7/07.

LaGrange (Troup Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 2

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

Dawson/Forsyth Counties

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was issued in 2000 for

Forsyth Co.

U/S Hwy. 129 to Town Creek, Cleveland (White Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 5

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Upatoi Creek, Columbus (Muscogee Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was issued 4/14/00.

Dawson County

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

A-57

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Town Creek (4)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Headwaters to Little Creek (Heard Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Tributary to Flat Shoal Creek Headwaters to Flat Shoal Creek

(4)

(Meriwether Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Tributary to Mud Creek (14)

Cobb County

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 3

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Trib. to West Fork Little River (1)

Hall County

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Two Mile Creek (26)

Forsyth County

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was issued in 2000.

Wahoo Creek (4)

Upstream Arnco Mills Lake (Coweta Co.)

Fishing

Bio

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 7

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Ward Creek (1,14)

Cobb County

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 6

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Weaver Creek (4)

Headwaters to Sawhatchee Creek (Early Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Whooping Creek (1,4)

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Carroll Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 13

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Willeo Creek (1,10)

Gilhams Lake to Chattahoochee River (Cobb/Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 5

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Woodall Creek (1)

Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 3

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Yahoola Creek (1,10)

U.S. 19/SR 60 to Chestatee River (Lumpkin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

9

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-58

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Yellowjacket Creek (1,10,46)
Allatoona Creek (1,4,10)
Alpine Creek (4)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Hogansville to West Point Lake (Troup Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

watershed protection strategy.

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

5

X

3

3

COOSA RIVER BASIN

Headwaters to Little Allatoona Creek (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 9

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in April, 1999.

X 3,X 3

Headwaters to Stateline (Chattooga Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Amicalola Creek (1,10,47)
Armuchee Creek Tributary (4)

Headwaters near Hwy 52 to Etowah River (Dawson Co.)
Headwaters to Armuchee Creek (Floyd Co.)

Bow Creek (4)
Cane Creek (1,10)

Headwaters to Oostanaula River (Gordon Co.)
Dry Creek to Chattooga River (Walker/Chattooga Co.)

Fishing Fishing
Fishing Fishing

Cedar Creek (4)

Ballard Creek to Pine Log Creek (Bartow/Gordon Co.)

Fishing

Cedar Creek Tributary (4)
Chappel Creek (2)

Headwaters to Cedar Creek (Polk Co.)
Trion, u/s Chattoooga River (Chattooga Co.)

Chastain Branch (2)

Tributary to Noonday Creek (Cobb Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing

Chattooga River (1,4,10)

Towns Creek to Duck Creek (Walker Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 24

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

FC

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 7

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued for Walker

Co. 12/9/02.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued for Bartow Co.

12/9/02.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-59

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Chelsea Creek (4)
Conasauga River (1,10)
Coosawattee River (1,10)
Cox Creek
Drowning Bear Creek (4)
Duck Creek (1,10)
Ellijay River (1,10)
Etowah River (1,10)
Etowah River (1,10)
Etowah River Tributary (4)
Fish Creek (4)
Haig Mill Creek (4)

LOCATION
Headwaters to Teloga Creek (Chattooga Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Stateline to Hwy. 286 (Murray/Whitfield Co.)

Fishing/Drinking Water

FC,FCG

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 20

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Fish Consumption

Guidelines due to PCBs. PCBs have been banned in

the U.S. and levels have been declining. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued for

Whitfield Co. 12/9/02.

Salacoa Creek to Oostanaula River (Gordon Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Ellijay (Gilmer Co.)

Fishing

Tar Creek to Little Creek (Whitfield Co.)
Headwaters to Chattooga River (Walker Co.)
Upstream Coosawattee River (Gilmer Co.)
Sharp Mountain Creek to Lake Allatoona (Cherokee Co.)
Richland Creek to Euharlee Creek (Bartow Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

Headwaters to Etowah River (Lumpkin Co.)
Headwaters to Euharlee Creek (Bartow Co.)
Haig Mill Lake to Mill Creek (Whitfield Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing

FC Bio FC FC FC FCG
Bio Bio Bio

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 13

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 2

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 20

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy. Fish Consumption

Guidelines for PCBs. PCBs have been banned in the

U.S. and levels have been declining. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 13

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 1

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-60

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Heath Creek (1,10)
Hurricane Creek (4)
Jacks Creek (4)
Jacks River (1,10,12)
Jones Branch (4)
Lick Creek (4)
Lick Creek (4)
Little Allatoona Creek (14)
Little Cedar Creek (4)
Little River (1,10,41)
Lovejoy Creek (4)
Lynn Creek (4)
Macedonia Slough (4)

LOCATION
Downstream Rocky Mountain Project (Floyd Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Mill Creek to Etowah River (Lumpkin Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Pine Log Creek (Gordon Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Rough Creek to Stateline (Fannin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 9

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Euharlee Creek (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Redbud Creek (Gordon Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Redbud Creek to Salacoa Creek (Gordon Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Cobb County

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 3

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Headwaters to Cedar Creek (Polk/Floyd Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Floyd

Co.

Hwy. 140 to Lake Allatoona (Fulton/Cherokee Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 12

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999 for Fulton

Co. A Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit

was issued 12/9/02 for Cherokee Co..

Headwaters to MuckCreek (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Oothkalooga Creek (Gordon Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Etowah River (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-61

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Mill Creek (4)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Haig Mill Creek to Coahulla Creek (Whitfield Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Mill Creek Tributary (4)

Headwaters to Mill Creek (Murray Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Mud Creek (4)

Headwaters to Clear Creek (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Nancy Creek (4)

Headwaters to Pettit Creek (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Noblet Creek (4)

Headwaters to Coosawattee River (Murray/Gordon Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Noonday Creek (4)

Headwaters to Little Noonday Creek (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

Noonday Creek (1,10,41)

Little Noonday Creek to Lake Allatoona (Cobb/Cherokee Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 8

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999 for Cobb Co.

A Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit was

issued for Cherokee Co. 12/9/02.

Oostanaula River (1,10)

Conasauga/Coosawattee to

Drinking Water

Oothkalooga Creek (Gordon Co.)

FCG

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 11

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy. Fish Consumption

Guidelines for PCBs. PCBs have been banned in the

U.S. and levels have been declining.

Oostanaula River (1,10)

Oothkalooga Creek to Hwy 156 (Gordon Co.)

Fishing

FC,FCG

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 5

through a watershed protection strategy. Fish

Consumption Guidelines for PCBs. PCBs have been

banned in the U.S. and levels have been declining.

X 3,3 3

Oostanaula River (1,10)

Hwy 156 to Hwy. 140 (Gordon/Floyd Co.)

Fishing

FC,FCG

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 18

X 3,3 3

through a watershed protection strategy. Fish

Consumption Guidelines for PCBs. PCBs have been

banned in the U.S. and levels have been declining. A

Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit was

issued 12/9/02 for Floyd Co.

Oostanaula River Tributary Headwaters to Kings Lake (Gordon

(4)

Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-62

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Oothkalooga Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

U/S Bartow Co. line to Oostanaula River (Bartow/Gordon Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 14

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. A Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit was issued 12/9/02 for

Bartow Co.

Perennial Springs Tributary Headwaters to Perennial Springs

(4)

(Chattooga Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Polecat Creek (4)

Headwaters to Conasauga River (Murray/Gordon Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Rocky Creek (17)

D/S Garrett Lake (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 1

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Settingdown Creek (4)

Squattingdown Creek to Thalley Creek (Forsyth Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Shoal Creek (1,10,41)

Hwy. 140 to Lake Allatoona (Cherokee Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 17

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Snake Creek (4)

Headwaters to Oostanaula River (Walker/Gordon Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 11

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. A Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit was issued 12/9/02 for

Walker Co.

Stamp Creek (1,10)

Lake Allatoona Tributary (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Stover Creek (4)

Headwaters to Swamp Creek (Whitfield Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Tails Creek (1,10)

Hwy. 282 to Carters Lake (Gilmer Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Toonigh Creek (4)

Headwaters to Lake Allatoona (Cherokee Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Town Creek (4)

Queen City Lake to Chattooga River (Walker Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-63

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Tributary to Oothkalooga Creek (2)
Angelica Creek (4)
Avera Creek (aka Spring Creek) (4)
Aycocks Creek (1,10)
Bailey Branch (4)
Baptist Branch (1,4)
Basin Creek (4)
Beaver Creek (4)
Beaver Creek (1,4)

LOCATION
Peters Street to Oothkalooga Creek, Calhoun (Gordon Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 1

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

Unnamed Tributary 1.9 miles U/S US Hwy 19 to Lake Collins (Sumter Co.)
Headwaters to Beaver Creek (Crawford Co.)

Fishing Fishing

FLINT RIVER BASIN

Bio

NP

EPD will address through a watershed protection

2

strategy.

Bio,pH

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

watershed protection strategy.

X

3

3

X 3,3 3

Kaney Head Creek to Spring Creek (Miller Co.)
Headwaters to Browns Millpond (Sumter Co.)
Downstream Blakely (Early Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing

Upson County
Headwaters to Spring Creek (Crawford Co.)
Headwaters to Patsiliga Creek, Butler (Taylor Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing

FC Bio Bio
Bio Bio,DO TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 15

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

6

watershed protection strategy.

UR

According to the finalized TMDL, the cause of the 2

impairment is sediment. No changes to the permit for

the Blakely WPCP are required. EPD will address

nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed

protection strategy.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

watershed protection strategy.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 11

watershed protection strategy.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

watershed protection strategy. City of Butler LAS

completed and discharge eliminated 12/5/98.

Trophic-Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue

exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

X 3,3 2

X

3

3

Beaver Dam Creek (42)
Bell Creek (1,10)
Buck Creek (1,4,10)

Lake Joy to Flint River (Clayton Co.)
Headwaters, d/s Thomaston, to Potato Creek (Upson Co.)
Fox Branch to Flint River near Oglethorpe (Schley/Macon Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in April 1999.

FC

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 4

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 16

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

A-64

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Dry Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Headwaters, d/s Blakely, to Spring Creek (Early Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
DO

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 12

X

3

2

through a watershed protection strategy.

East Jesters Creek (42)

Headwaters to Jesters Creek (Clayton Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

Flat Creek (1)

Lake Peachtree to Line Creek, Peachtree City (Fayette Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

3

2

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Flint River (1,10,42)

Hwy 138 to N. Hampton Road (Clayton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 8

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Fowltown Creek (1,10)

D/S Armena Rd. To Kinchafoonee Creek (Lee Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Heads Creek (4)

D/S Griffin Reservoir to Wildcat Creek (Spalding Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Hurricane Creek (42)

Headwaters to Flint River (Clayton Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in April 1999.

Lanahassee Creek (1,4,10)

W. Fork Lanahassee Creek to Kinchafoonee Creek (Webster Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Lee Creek (4)

D/S Lake Henry to Beaver Creek (Crawford Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 1

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Lewis Creek (4)

Pike County

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Lime Creek (1,4,10)

Little Lime Creek to Lake Blackshear (Sumter Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy for the basin.

Little Whitewater Creek (aka Black Creek to Whitewater Creek

Big Whitewater Creek)

(Taylor Co.)

(4)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

6

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Mercer Mill Creek (Mill Creek) (4)

Boy Scout Road to Flint River (Worth Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

7

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Middle Creek (4)

Headwaters to Kinchafoonee Creek (Terrell Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

8

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-65

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Muckaloochee Creek (4)
Mud Creek (1,42)
North Branch (4)
Patsiliga Creek (4)
Patsiliga Creek (1,4,9,10)
Pessell Creek (4)
Potato Creek (4)
Rambulette Creek (4)
Red Oak Creek (1,10)
Shoal Creek (4)
Spring Creek (1,4,10)
Spring Creek (25)
Swift Creek (1,10)
Swift Creek (1,10)

LOCATION
Little Muckaloochee Creek to Smithville Pond (Sumter Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

watershed protection strategy.

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

5

X

3

3

Downstream Hapeville (Fulton/Clayton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 5

X

3

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued

in 1999.

Crawford County

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to McCants Mill Pond (Talbot/Taylor Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

15

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Beaver Cr. to Flint River, Butler (Taylor Co.)

Fishing

TWR,FC

NP

City of Butler completed LAS, discharge eliminated 6

12/5/98. EPD will address nonpoint sources through

a watershed protection strategy. Trophic-Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

X 3,3 3

Headwaters to Kinchafoonee Creek (Sumter Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

8

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to U.S. Hwy. 333 (Spalding/Lamar Counties)

Fishing

Bio

NP,UR EPD will address through a watershed protection 11

X

3

3

strategy. Griffin Potato Creek WPCP attained

compliance with its WET limit 6/01.

Headwaters to Whitewater Creek (Taylor Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

9

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Little Red Oak Creek to Flint River near Imlac (Meriwether Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 8

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Little Shoal Creek to Little Creek (Marion Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

3

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

SR62 near Arlington to Aycocks Creek (Early/Miller Co.)

Fishing

DO,Bio

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 22

X 3,3 2

through a watershed protection strategy. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to mercury in fish tissue.

Lake Blackshear (Sumter Co.)

Fishing

Zn*,Pb*

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

watershed protection strategy for the basin.

X 3,3 3

Tobler Creek to Flint River (Upson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

U/S Lake Blackshear (Turner/Crisp Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 7

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-66

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Town Branch (4)

LOCATION Thomaston (Upson Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 4

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

Tributary to Nash Creek (2)

Fayetteville (Fayette Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Ulcohatchee Creek (1,10)

Headwaters to Auchumpkee Creek (Crawford Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 16

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Wasp Creek (4)

Headwaters to Little Wasp Creek (Spalding/Pike Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

White Oak Creek (1,10)

Chandlers Creek to Bear Creek (Coweta/Meriwether Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 14

X

3

2

through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Whitewater Creek (4)

Upstream Lees Lake (Fayette Co.)

Fishing

Bio

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 6

X

3

3

through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Whitewater Creek (4)

Headwaters to Little Whitewater Creek (Taylor Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

9

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Willingham Spring Creek (4)

Upson County

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Wolf Creek (4)

Headwaters to Ichawaynochaway Creek (Terrell Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

9

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

OCHLOCKONEE RIVER BASIN

Attapulgus Creek (1)

Callahan Br. to Little Attapulgus Cr. (Decatur Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 8

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Barnetts Creek (1,10)

West Branch to Ochlockonee River, W. of Thomasville (Thomas/Grady Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 8

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

E. Br. Barnetts Creek (1,10)

Horse Cr. to Barnetts Cr. near Ochlocknee (Thomas Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Little Tired Creek (1,2,3,10)

SR188 downstream Cairo to Tired Cr. (Grady Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

X 3,3 2

A-67

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Ochlockonee River (1,10)
Ochlockonee River (1,9,10)
Olive Creek (2)
Tired Creek (1,10)
Alcovy River (18)
Beaver Ruin Creek (2,18)
Big Grocery Creek (4)
Big Haynes Creek (1,23)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

SR 37 downstream Moultrie to Bridge Creek (Colquitt/Thomas
Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC,TWR

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR,M

The permit for the Moultrie WPCP was reissued on 14 8/30/02 in accordance with the DO and FCG (Hg) TMDLs. The reissued permit contains phosphorus limts and stricter limits for ammonia along with schedules to meet them. It also includes a requirement to conduct a mercury characterization study. The City has been required to develop and implement a mercury minimization plan based on the characterization study. Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally developed plan that includes the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

X 3,3 3

Oquina Creek to Stateline (Thomas/Grady Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 33

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

Headwaters to upstream U.S. Hwy. 19, Thomasville (Thomas Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

X 3,3 2

Turkey Cr. to Ochlockonee River (Grady Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

OCMULGEE RIVER BASIN

Headwaters to Walton Co. line (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 15

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in April, 1999.

Gwinnett County

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 8

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in April,

1999.

Headwaters to Ocmulgee River (Houston Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Brushy Fork Creek to Little Panther Drinking Water

FC

Creek (Rockdale Co.)

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-68

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Big Haynes Creek (23)

LOCATION
Little Haynes Creek to Yellow River (Rockdale Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Drinking Water

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Big Horse Creek (1,4)

Alligator Creek to Ocmulgee River (Telfair Co.)

Fishing

DO,Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 15

X 3,X 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. EPD will

address nonpoint sources through a watershed

protection strategy.

Big Indian Creek (1,4)

Mossy Creek to Ocmulgee River (Houston Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 7

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Big Sandy Creek (4)

Upstream Indian Springs (Butts Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 8

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Bluff Creek (4)

Ten Mile Creek to Ocmulgee River (Pulaski Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Boar Tusk Creek (2)

Headwaters to Yellow River (Rockdale Co.)

Fishing

pH

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Bromolow Creek (1,18)

Headwaters to Beaver Ruin Creek (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in April,

1999.

Brown Branch (4)

Headwaters (Locust Grove) to Wolf Creek (Henry Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Butlers Creek (4)

Tributary to Ocmulgee River (Jones Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Calaparchee Creek (aka Colaparchee Creek) (4)

Upstream Lake Wildwood (Monroe/Bibb Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 13

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in April

2000 for Bibb Co.

A-69

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Cedar Creek (1,10)
Cedar Creek (4)
Cole Creek (4)
Crooked Creek (4)
Deep Creek (4)
Doless Creek (1)
Eightmile Creek (4)
Falling Creek (1)
Flat Creek (4)
Folsom Creek (4)
Gladesville Creek (4)
Gum Swamp Creek (4)
Hansford Branch (4)

LOCATION
Headwaters to Alcovy River (Gwinnett Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in April

1999.

Headwaters to Brushy Creek (Wilcox Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Tributary to Tobesofkee Creek (Lamar/Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Cypress Lake to Ocmulgee River (Dodge Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Echeconnee Creek (Crawford Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Dolittle Creek (DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

X 3,3 2

Tributary to Towaliga River (Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Little Falling Creek to Ocmulgee River (Jones Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

~0.4 mi u/s of US Hwy 41 to Big Indian Creek (Houston Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

~0.2 mi d/s CR 33 to Ocmulgee River (Wilcox Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

9

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Little Falling Creek (Jasper Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Reedy Creek to Ga. Hwy. 257 (Bleckley/Dodge Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

12

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Monroe County

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

A-70

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Harmon Pye Branch (4)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Tributary to Wise Creek (Jasper Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Hartley Branch (4)

Tributary to Deep Creek (Crawford Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Herds Creek (4)

D/S Ga. Hwy. 212 to Ocmulgee River (Jasper Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Horse Creek (4)

Headwaters to Alligator Creek (Dodge/Telfair Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

17

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

House Creek (4)

Headwaters to Haw Pond Creek (Wilcox Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Jackson Creek (1,18)

Gwinnett County

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 7

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Limestone Creek (4)

Okeetuck Creek to Big Indian Creek (Houston Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Limestone Creek (1)

Headwaters to Ocmulgee River (Pulaski Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 7

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Little Chehaw Creek (4)

Headwaters to Chehaw Creek (Jones Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little Deer Creek (4)

Headwaters to Deer Creek (Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Little Deer Creek Tributary Headwaters to Little Deer Creek

(4)

(Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Little Ocmulgee River (1,4)

Wilcox Creek to Alligator Creek (Wheeler Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 12

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

A-71

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Long Branch (4)

LOCATION
Tributary to Ocmulgee River (Jasper Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Malholms Creek (4)

Headwaters (Jenkinsburg) to Tussahaw Creek (Butts Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Mill Dam Creek (4)

Monroe County

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Mossy Creek (4)

Mule Creek to Lake Joy (Peach/Houston Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

8

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Houston Co..

No Business Creek (1,18)

Headwaters to Norris Lake (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

North Branch South River

Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR,CSO Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Atlanta's Federal CSO Consent Order, effective 9/98,

requires compliance with water quality standards,

including fecal coliform, by 11/7/07.

Ocmulgee River (1)

Walnut Creek to Tobesofkee Creek (Bibb Co.)

Fishing

FCG

UR

Urban runoff in Macon/Bibb County is being 11

X

X

3

addressed in the EPD Stormwater Management

Strategy. An areawide stormwater permit was

reissued 4/14/00. Fish Consumption Guidelines due

to PCBs in Flathead Catfish. PCBs have been

banned in the U.S. and levels have been declining.

Ocmulgee River (1,10)

Tobesofkee Creek to Echeconnee Creek (Bibb/Twiggs Co.)

Fishing

FC,FCG

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 7

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued 4/14/00 for

Bibb Co. Fish Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs

in Flathead Catfish. PCBs have been banned in the

U.S. and levels have been declining.

X 3,X 3

A-72

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Ocmulgee River (1)
Ocmulgee River (1)
Otter Creek (4)
Pew Creek (1,18)
Phinazee Creek (4)
Red Creek (4)
Rock Creek (4)
Rocky Creek (4)
Rocky Creek (4)
Rocky Creek (4)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Echeconnee Creek to Sandy Run Creek (Twiggs/Houston Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FCG

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

Urban runoff in Macon/Bibb County is being 10

X

X

3

addressed in the EPD Stormwater Management

Strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater

Permit issued 12/9/02 for Houston Co. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs in Flathead

Catfish. PCBs have been banned in the U.S. and

levels have been declining.

Sandy Run Creek to Big Indian Creek (Houston/Twiggs/Bleckley
Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 23

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Houston Co.

~1.7 mi u/s GA 182 (Old River Road) to Ocmulgee River (Ben Hill
Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Gwinnett County

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Lamar/Monroe Counties

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to Rocky Creek (Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Upstream Lite-N-Tie Rd. (Jones Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Jasper County

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Upstream Big Sandy Creek (Monroe/Butts Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

D/S English Rd. (CR152) to Towaliga River (Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

A-73

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Rocky Creek (4)
Rocky Creek (1)
Rum Creek (4)
Sand Branch (4)
Scoggins Creek (4)
South River (1,10,23)
Sturgeon Creek (4)
Ten Mile Creek (4)
Third Branch (4)
Tobesofkee Creek (4)

LOCATION
Upstream Lake Wildwood (Monroe/Bibb Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 7

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued 4/14/00 for

Bibb Co.

1 mi. u/s Rocky Creek Road to Tobesofkee Creek, Macon (Bibb
Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued 4/14/00.

Rum and Town Creeks, Upstream Lake Juliette (Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to Towaliga River (Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to Ocmulgee River (Jones Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Hwy 20 to Snapping Shoals Creek (Henry/Newton Co.)

Fishing

FC,FCG

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 11

X 3,3 3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Henry & Newton Counties. Fish Consumption

Guidelines due to PCBs in fish tissue. PCBs have

been banned in the U.S. and levels have been

declining.

Dickson Mill Creek to Ocmulgee River (Ben Hill Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

~0.7 mi u/s GA Hwy 257 to Bluff Creek (Pulaski Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Tributary to Ocmulgee River (Jones Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Barnesville to Cole Creek (Lamar/Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

William Carter Co. closed and eliminated all 8

X

3

3

discharges on 6/29/01. Impairment will be addressed

by implementing a locally developed plan that

includes the remedial actions necessary for problem

resolution.

A-74

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Tobler Creek (4)

LOCATION
Tributary to Ocmulgee River (Monroe Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to Tobesofkee Creek (1,3,4)

Barnesville (Lamar Co.)

Fishing

Bio

I1,NP William Carter Co. closed and eliminated all 2

X

3

3

discharges on 6/29/01. Impairment will be addressed

by implementing a locally developed plan that

includes the remedial actions necessary for problem

resolution.

Towaliga River (1)

High Falls Lake to Ocmulgee River (Butts/Monroe Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 27

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Walnut Creek (4)

Downstream Hwy 42 (Crawford Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

White Creek (4)

Lamar/Monroe Counties

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Wood Creek (4)

Headwaters to d/s Ga. Hwy. 83 (Lamar/Monroe Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

OCONEE RIVER BASIN

Allen Creek (1,20)

Monroe Drive to 1 mi. d/s Ga. Hwy. 11, Gainesville (Hall/Jackson Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Alligator Creek (4)

Headwaters to Ugly Creek (Twiggs Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Apalachee River (18)

Headwaters to Apalachee Road (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 6

X

X

3

Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan

Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was

reissued in April 1999.

Big Indian Creek (1)

I-20 to Little Indian Creek (Morgan Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 11

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Bottoms Branch (20)

Tributary 5 to North Walnut Creek, Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-75

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Carr Creek (1,10)

LOCATION
Headwaters to North Oconee River, Athens (Clarke Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio,pH,FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

I1,UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally developed plan that includes the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

2

X 3,3,3 3

Cedar Creek (36)

King Branch to Glady Creek (Jasper/Jones Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

11

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Jones

Co.

Cedar Creek (4)

Headwaters to Maiden Creek (Wilkinson Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

11

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Crooked Creek (4)

Putnam County

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Crooked Creek (4)

Headwaters to Commissioner Creek (Jones Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Crooked Creek (4)

Headwaters to Turkey Creek (Laurens Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Cypress Creek (4)

Little Cypress Creek to Oconee River (Montgomery Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

East Fork Trail Creek (1)

Headwaters to West Fork Trail Creek, Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

E. T. Creek (1,20)

Headwaters to North Walnut Creek, Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Hardeman Creek (4)

Headwaters to Sandy Creek (Jackson Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Hunnicutt Creek (aka Mitchell Headwaters to Middle Oconee

Bridge Branch)

River, Athens (Clarke Co.)

(1)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Keg Creek (4)

Little Keg Creek to Buffalo Creek (Washington Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

8

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Lamars Creek (4)

Headwaters to Buffalo Creek (Washington Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

8

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-76

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Limestone Creek (4)
Limestone Creek (4)
Little Commissioner Creek (1,4,10)
Little Fishing Creek (4)
Little River (36)
Little River (1,10)
Lotts Creek (4)
Middle Oconee River (1,2,10)
Mulberry River (1,10)
Murder Creek (1)
North Oconee River (1)

LOCATION
Kaolin Road to Keg Creek (Washington Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

Mount Vernon to Oconee River (Montgomery Co.)
Ga. Hwy. 18 to Commissioner Creek (Wilkinson Co.)

Fishing Fishing

Baldwin County

Fishing

Gap Creek to Big Indian Creek (Putnam Co.)
Glady Creek to Lake Sinclair (Putnam Co.)
Headwaters to Oconee River (Wheeler Co.)
Big Bear Creek to McNutt Creek (Clarke Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

Little Mulberry River to Middle Oconee River (Barrow Co.)

Fishing

Wolf Creek to Lake Sinclair (Putnam Co.)
Jackson County to Sandy Creek (Clarke Co.)

Fishing
Fishing/Drinking Water

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

I1,I2,NP Various point source discharges in the area including 8

X

3

3

some kaolin mining operations may be contributing to

the degradation in the creek. Impairment will be

addressed by implementing a locally developed plan

that includes the remedial actions necessary for

problem resolution.

Bio

NP

Mount Vernon WPCP is in compliance with its NPDES 2

X

X

3

permit. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

watershed protection strategy.

Bio,FC,pH

I1,I2,NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9 locally developed plan that includes the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy.

X 3,3,X 3

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

X

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 8

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 12

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a

18

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-77

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
North Oconee River (1)
North Walnut Creek (20)
North Walnut Creek (20)
Ochwalkee Creek (aka Okeewalkee Creek) (4) Oconee River (1,28)
Peterson Creek (4)
Red Bluff Creek (4)
Reedy Creek (4)
Rocky Creek (4)
Sandy Creek (4)
Sandy Run Creek (4)
Tiger Creek (4)

LOCATION
Trail Creek to Oconee River (Clarke Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR,M Impairment will be addressed by implementing a

8

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Athens No.

WPCP in compliance with permit limits. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Gainesville (Upstream Hall County Camp)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Gainesville (Downstream Hall County Camp)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Mayberry Road to u/s Little New York Road (Laurens Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Barnett Shoals to Lake Oconee (Oconee/Greene Co.)

Fishing

Headwaters to Oconee River (Wheeler Co.)
Little Red Bluff Creek to Oconee River (Treutlen Co.)
Headwaters to Turkey Creek (Laurens Co.)
Bay Branch to Buckhorn Branch (Laurens Co.)
Headwaters to Harrison's Lake/Little Sandy Creek
(Jones/Twiggs Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

Hancock County

Fishing

Headwaters to Buffalo Creek (Hancock/Washington Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a

16

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Oconee Co.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

8

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Jones Co.

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 5

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-78

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Tobler Creek (4)

LOCATION Baldwin County

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 8

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Town Creek (1,4,10)

Peavy Branch to Oconee River (Hancock/ Baldwin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 16

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to North Walnut Creek (20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Turkey Creek (1)

Rocky Creek to Oconee River (Laurens Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 11

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Walnut Creek (1)

Caney Fork to Middle Oconee River (Hall/Jackson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a

14

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Hall Co.

Wheeler Creek (18)

Headwaters to Duncan Creek (Gwinnett/Barrow Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999 for Gwinnett

Co. A Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit

issued 12/9/02 for Barrow Co.

Zoie Brown Creek (4)

Tributary to Buffalo Creek (Hancock Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

OGEECHEE RIVER BASIN

Big Creek (1,10)

Kelley's Pond to Ogeechee River, Louisville (Jefferson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Canoochee Creek (1,10)

Upstream SR 119, Fort Stewart (Liberty Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 7

X

X

2

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Canoochee Creek

Taylors Creek to Canoochee River,

Fishing

DO

M

The Hinesville/Ft. Stewart WPCP will have its permit 4

X

X

2

(1)

Fort Stewart (Liberty Co.)

reissued based on the completed TMDL. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Canoochee River (1,10)

Ga. Hwy. 192 to Fifteen Mile Creek near Metter (Emanuel/Candler Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC,TWR

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 21

X

X

2

through a watershed protection strategy. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

A-79

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Canoochee River (1)
Canoochee River (1,55)
Canoochee River (1,55)
Dry Branch (4)
Eightmile Creek (4)
Jackson Branch (1)
Little Ogeechee River (1,10)
Little Ogeechee River (1,10,50)
Ogeechee River (1,10,55)
Ogeechee River (1,10)
Ogeechee River (1)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Fifteen Mile Creek to Cedar Cr. (Candler/Evans Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
TWR

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 14

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Trophic-Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

Lotts Cr. to Savage Creek (Bryan/Evans/Liberty Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 38

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Trophic-Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued to

Liberty Co. on 12/9/02.

Savage Creek to Ogeechee River (Bryan/ Liberty Co.)

Fishing

TWR,DO

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 18

X

X

2

watershed protection strategy. Trophic Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued to

Liberty Co. on 12/9/02.

GA Hwy 24 to Rocky Creek (Burke Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Buckhead Creek (Burke Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Upstream King Finishing Company from SR17 to Co. Rd. 39, Dover (Screven Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Two Mile Creek to Hamburg Mill Pond near Culverton
(Hancock/Washington Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 9

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Little Ogeechee Pond to below US Hwy. 17 near Burroughs (Chatham
Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD

6

X

X

2

Stormwater Management Strategy. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued to Chatham County

on 4/14/00.

Hwy 102 to US Hwy 301 (Washington/Glascock/Jefferson/ Jenkins/Emanuel/Burke/Bulloch
Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 98

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Trophic-Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

U.S. Hwy. 301 to Black Creek (Bulloch/Bryan Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 59

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Trophic-Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

Black Creek to Richmond Hill (Bryan/Effingham/Chatham Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 21

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Trophic-Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

An areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued to

Chatham Co. on 4/14/00.

A-80

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Peacock Creek (1,10)
Rocky Comfort Creek (1,10)
Rocky Comfort Creek (1,10)
S. Newport River (1,10)
Taylors Creek (1)
Buffalo Creek (1,55)
Hog Creek (1,10)
Little Satilla River (1,55)
Satilla River (1,10)
Satilla River (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Hwy. 144 to North Newport River near McIntosh (Liberty Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
DO,FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 17

X

X

2

through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Joes Creek to Ivey Branch near Edgehill (Glascock/Jefferson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Duhart Creek to Ogeechee River, Louisville (Jefferson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Upstream US Hwy. 17, South Newport (Liberty/McIntosh Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

2

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Liberty

Co.

Downstream WPCP Discharge to

Fishing

DO

M

The Hinesville/Ft. Stewart WPCP will have its permit 4

X

3

2

Drainage Canal, Fort Stewart

reissued based on the completed TMDL. Impairment

(Liberty Co.)

will also be addressed by implementing a locally

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

SATILLA RIVER BASIN

Little Buffalo Cr. to Satilla River (Brantley Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 6

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Downstream CR185 to Hurricane Cr. near Nicholls (Coffee Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 10

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Big Satilla Cr. to Sixty Foot Branch (Pierce/Wayne/Brantley Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 10

X 3,3 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Pudding Cr. to Smut Br. near Pearson (Atkinson Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 8

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

X 3,X 2

U.S. Highway 84/Ga. Hwy. 38 to 6 miles downstream Hwy 15/121 (Ware/Pierce/Brantley Co.)

Fishing

TWR

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 23

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

A-81

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Satilla River (1,9,10,55)
Satilla River (1,55)
Beaverdam Creek (1)
Brier Creek (1,9,10)
Brier Creek (1,9,55)
Butler Creek (1,10,53)
Crawford Creek (1,10)
Headstall Creek (4)

LOCATION
Six miles d/s of Ga. Hwy. 15 to Bullhead Bluff
(Pierce/Brantley/Camden Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
TWR

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 76

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

Rose Cr. to White Oak Cr. (Camden Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 19

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

SAVANNAH RIVER BASIN

Downstream Commerce (Jackson

Fishing

DO

M

TMDL approved 3/00 for DO. Permit for Commerce 1

X

3

2

Co.)

Northside WPCP was modified based on the TMDL

on 8/23/00. The permit contains compliance schedule

to meet limits by 7/15/02. Enforcement action taken

for failure to meet the compliance date. The Order

and permit establish a new compliance date of

12/31/04.

Hwy 305 to MacIntosh Creek (Burke Co)

Fishing

TWR,FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 19

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Trophic-Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

MacIntosh Creek to Savannah River (Burke/Screven Co)

Fishing

TWR

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 26

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Trophic Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

Phinizy Ditch to Savannah River, Augusta (Richmond Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

TMDLs for DO and fecal coliform bacteria were 3

X

3

3

finalized March 2000. The permit for the Augusta

WPCP was reissued on 6/15/01. No changes needed

to be made to the permit based on the DO and fecal

coliform bacteria TMDLs. The permit was issued with

a monitoring requirement for selenium. Urban runoff is

being addressed in the EPD Stormwater Management

Strategy. An areawide stormwater permit was

reissued to Augusta/Richmond County 4/14/00.

Impairment will also be addressed by implementing a

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Upstream Lake Hartwell near Lavonia (Franklin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

U/S Tudor Road to Brier Creek (McDuffie Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-82

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Jones Creek (2)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Tributary to Savannah River near Evans (Columbia Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 3

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little River (1,10)

Confluence of N. & S. Forks to Kettle Creek near Washington
(Taliaferro/Wilkes Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Little River (1,10,49)

Rocky Creek to Clarks Hill Lake (Wilkes Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 8

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Middle Creek (1,10)

Childers Creek to Big Creek (trib. to Clark Hill Lake), near
Wrightsboro (McDuffie Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

2

watershed protection strategy.

Reed Creek (2)

Bowen Pond to Savannah River (Columbia Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Rocky Creek (1,2,9)

Washington to Little River (Wilkes Co.)

Fishing

Bio

UR

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) 12

X

X

3

through a watershed protection strategy.

Spirit Creek (1,10)

McDade Pond to Savannah River (Richmond Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD 7

X

X

3

Stormwater Management Strategy. An areawide

stormwater permit was issued to Augusta/Richmond

County on 4/14/00.

Whites Creek

Downstream Thomson WPCP

Fishing

Tox

M

Thomson under Order to meet whole effluent toxicity 2

X

3

1

(1)

(McDuffie Co.)

limits. Paying stipulated penalties for not meeting

permit requirements.

ST. MARYS RIVER BASIN

N. Prong St. Marys River Headwaters to Cedar Cr. (Charlton

(1,55)

Co.)

Fishing

TWR,DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 19

X 3,3 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

N. Prong St. Marys River (1,10)

Cedar Cr. to S. Prong St. Marys River (Charlton Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

A-83

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Spanish Creek (1,55) St. Marys River (1,9,55)
St. Marys River (1,10)
Alapaha River (1,55)
Alapaha River (1,9,10,55)
Bear Creek (1,10)
Big Creek (1,10)
Cow Creek (1,10)
Deep Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Long Branch to St. Marys River (Charlton Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
DO,FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

X 3,3 2

Confluence of North & South Prong of St. Marys River to St. Marys Cut (Charlton/Camden Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 55

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

Upstream Cabbage Bend to Catfish Cr. (Camden Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 15

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

SUWANNEE RIVER BASIN

Sand Creek to U.S. Hwy. 129/Ga. Hwy. 11 (Irwin/Tift/Berrien Co.)

Fishing

DO,TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 16

X 3,3 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

U.S. Hwy. 129/Ga. Hwy. 11 to Stateline
(Berrien/Atkinson/Lanier/Lowndes/ Echols Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 102 X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Lowndes Co. Trophic-Weighted Residue of mercury

in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

City of Adel Lake to Withlacoochee River (Cook Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

M

WPCP is a LAS with a hydrograph controlled release. 4

X 3,3 2

The permit was reissued 5/31/02 with a fecal coliform

bacteria limit and a schedule to meet it. The DO

TMDL did not require any changes to the permit limits.

The City has replaced the sprinklers on the sprayfield

due to a high water table. They are currently under

order to replace an old sewer line identified as a

significant problems. Impairment will be addressed by

implementing a locally developed plan that includes

the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution.

SR107 to Alapaha River near Irwinville (Irwin Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Alapaha River (Clinch/Lanier/Echols Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 14

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

W. Fork Deep Cr. to Lake Cr., E. of Ashburn (Turner Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

A-84

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Franks Creek (1,2,10)
Giddens Mills Creek (1,3)
Hardy Mill Creek (1,10)
Horse Creek (1,10)
Indian Creek (1,10)
Little Brushy Creek (1,10)
Little River (1,10)
Morrison Creek (1,3,10)
New River (1,10)
New River (1,10)
New River (1,2,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

St. Rt. S1780 to Little River near Hahira (Lowndes Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
DO,FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3 2

U/S U.S. Hwy. 41/SR 7 to Bear Cr., Adel (Cook Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

U.S. Hwy. 319, S. of Tifton to Withlacoochee River (Tift/Berrien
Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 17

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters near Sylvester to Warrior Cr. (Worth Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 13

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Upstream Little River near Berlin (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Stump Cr. to Reedy Cr. S. of Ocilla (Irwin Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

X 3,3 2

Ashburn Branch, W. of Sycamore to Warrior Cr. (Turner/Tift/Colquitt
Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 41

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Adel (Cook Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Reedy Cr. to Gum Branch near Lenox (Cook Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 7

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

X 3,3 2

Brushy Cr. to Withlacoochee River, E. of Sparks (Berrien/Cook Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 4

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Westside Branch to Gum Cr. downstream Tifton (Tift Co.)

Fishing

FC

M,UR The permit for Tifton Regional WPCP was reissued 5

X

3

3

6/3/02. No changes to the permit were required to be

made based on the TMDLs. Impairment will be

addressed by implementing a locally developed plan

that includes the remedial actions necessary for

problem resolution.

A-85

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Okapilco Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Upstream SR S1540 to U.S. Hwy. 319, Moultrie (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
DO

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 10

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Okapilco Creek (1,10)

SR 37 to Hog Cr., S. of Moultrie (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 10

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Reedy Creek (1,10)

Little Creek (upstream U.S. Hwy. 319/SR 35) to Little Brushy Cr., S.
of Ocilla (Irwin Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 10

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Sand Creek (1,10)

Headwaters E. of Sycamore to Alapaha River (Turner/Irwin Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 14

X 3,3 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Southside Branch (2)

Tributary to New River, Tifton (Tift Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 1

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Suwannee Canal (1)

Okefenokee Swamp (Charlton/Ware Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 27

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

Suwannee River (1,9,10)

Mainstem-Suwannee Canal to Stateline
(Charlton/Ware/Clinch/Echols Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 40

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

Town Creek (10)

Headwaters to Warrior Cr. near Sylvester (Worth Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 9

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to Withlacoochee Upstream Morris Pond, Nashville

River

(Berrien Co.)

(1)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Ty Ty Creek (1,10)

Little Cr. near Ty Ty to Tucker Cr. near Omega (Worth/Tift Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 10

X 3,3 2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

Warrior Creek (1,10)

Horse Cr. to Rock Cr. near Norman Park (Worth/Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 10

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

A-86

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Willacoochee River (1,10)
Willacoochee River (1,10)
Withlacoochee River (1,9,,10)
Withlacoochee River (1,9,10)
Buck Creek (1,10)
Indian Creek (1,10)
Little River (1,10)
Little Tallapoosa River (1,10)
Swinney Branch (4)
Tallapoosa River (1,10)
Tallapoosa River (1,10)
Turkey Creek (4)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Turkey Branch, upstream SR90/U.S. Hwy. 319 N. of Ocilla to
SR 90, S.E. of Ocilla (Irwin Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
DO

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 13

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

SR 158 to Alapaha River (Berrien Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 11

X

3

2

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

New River to Bay Branch (Cook/Berrien/Lowndes Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 23

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Lowndes Co. Trophic-Weighted Residue of mercury in

fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

Little River to Stateline (Lowndes/Brooks Co.)

Fishing

TWR

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 33

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Lowndes Co. Trophic-Weighted Residue of mercury in

fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

TALLAPOOSA RIVER BASIN

Bear Creek to Little Tallapoosa River (Carroll Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

D/S Brickyard Rd. to Little Tallapoosa River near Bowdon
(Carroll Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Baxter Creek to Tallapoosa River (Haralson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Sharpe Creek to Buck Creek (Carroll Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 11

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Headwaters to Tallapoosa River (Haralson/Polk Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Little River to Beach Creek (Haralson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 12

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Hwy. 100 to Stateline (Haralson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Little Turkey Creek to Jumpin In Creek (Carroll Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-87

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Walker Creek (1,10)
Bearmeat Creek (13)
Black Branch (4)
Butternut Creek (13)
Cat Creek (4)
Cherokee Creek (4)
Cooper Creek (1,10)
Corn Creek (1)
Coulter Creek (4)
Cove Branch (4)
Dry Branch (4)
Dry Creek (1,10,13)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Blalock Creek to Tallapoosa River (Haralson Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 7

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

TENNESSEE RIVER BASIN

Tributary to Hiawassee River (Towns Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Van Cleve St., Ft. Oglethorpe to Spring Creek (Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Blairsville (Union Co.)

Fishing

Bio,FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

watershed protection strategy.

X 3,3 3

Stateline to Little Creek (Catoosa/Whitfield Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Catoosa & Whitfield Counties.

Headwaters to Tiger Creek (Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Tributary to Toccoa River (Fannin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Tributary to Brasstown Creek, Young Harris (Towns Co.)
Headwaters to Little Chickamauga Creek (Catoosa Co.)
Headwaters to E. Chickamauga Creek (Whitfield Co.)
Stateline to Tiger Creek (Whitfield Co.)
Headwaters to East Chickamauga Creek (Whitfield/Catoosa Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing Fishing

FC Bio Bio Bio Bio,FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X 3,X 3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for

Whitfield & Catoosa Counties.

A-88

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Gulf Creek (4)

LOCATION
Headwaters to Lookout Creek (Dade Co.)

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Hiawassee River (1,10)

Upstream Lake Chatuge (Towns Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Kettle Branch (4)

Headwaters to S. Chickamauga Creek (Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 1

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little Chickamauga Creek (4)

Headwaters to Coulter Creek (Walker/Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 9

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Walker

& Catoosa Counties.

Little Chickamauga Creek Coulter Creek to S. Chickamauga

(1,10)

Creek (Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 11

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little Chickamauga Creek Headwaters to Little Chickamauga

Tributary #3

Creek near Alton Rd. & SR 151

(4)

(Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little Chickamauga Creek Headwaters to Little Chickamauga

Tributary #2 (4)

Creek near Temperance Hall Rd.,

Wood Station (Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 5

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little Chickamauga Creek Headwaters to Little Chickamauga

Tributary #1

Creek near SR 95 & McIntire Rd.

(4)

(Walker Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little Tiger Creek (4)

Headwaters to Ward Branch (Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 1

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Lookout Creek (1,10)

Trenton to Stateline (Dade Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 14

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Lower Youngcane Creek Headwaters to Youngcane Creek

(13)

(Union Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Nottely River (1,10,13)

Downstream Lake Nottely (Union Co.)

Recreation

Bio

Dam Release EPD will work with the TVA to identify cause(s) of 2

X

X

3

biological impact issues.

Nottely River

Right/Left Forks to US Hwy 19

Recreation

FC

(1,10)

(Union Co.)

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 6

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

A-89

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Peavine Creek (4)
Tanyard Creek (4)
Toccoa River (1,10)
Weaver Creek (13)
Yewell Branch (1)

LOCATION

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION

Headwaters to Rock Spring Creek (Walker Co.)

Fishing

CRITERION VIOLATED
Bio

EVALUATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 4

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Ga. Hwy. 201 to Chickamauga Creek (Whitfield/Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 3

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Big Creek to Lake Blue Ridge

Recreation

FC

(Fannin Co.)

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 10

X

X

3

watershed protection strategy.

Fannin County

Fishing

Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a 2

X

3

3

watershed protection strategy.

Darr Cove to Brasstown Creek (Towns Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a 2

X

3

3

locally developed plan that includes the remedial

actions necessary for problem resolution.

A-90

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Alex Creek (1,10)
Beards Creek (1,10)
Big Cedar Creek (1,10)
Cobb Creek (1,10)
Doctors Creek (1,10)
Jacks Creek (1,4,10)
Jones Creek (1,10)
Little Ohoopee River (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)
ALTAMAHA RIVER BASIN

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Mason Cowpen Branch to Altamaha River (Wayne Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Spring Branch to Altamaha River

Fishing

FC

M

The City of Glennville upgraded its treatment plant to a 11 X

2

1

(Tattnall Co.)

wetlands system. They initiated discharge from the new

WPCP in May 2003.

Little Cedar Creek to Ohoopee River (Johnson Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

M,NP The permit for the Wrightsville WPCP was reissued on 3

X 3,3

2

8/29/03 in accordance with TMDLs for DO and Fecal

Coliform. A fecal coliform limit was added to the permit.

Administrative Order No. EPD-WQ-4192 was issued with

the permit. The order provides a schedule for meeting

the fecal coliform limit, for performing stream studies and

to reduce or eliminate the discharge to Big Cedar Creek

within 83 months of the issuance of the Order.

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Oconee Creek to Altamaha River (Toombs Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 13 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

U/S Jones Creek (Long Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

U.S. Hwy. 1 to Ohoopee River (Emanuel Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC,Bio

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9 developed plan that includes the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy.

X 3,3,X 2

Still Creek to Doctors Creek (Long Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Gully Branch to Neeley Creek (Washington Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 14 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-91

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Little Ohoopee River (1,10)
Milligan Creek (1,10)
Oconee Creek (1,10)
Ohoopee River (1,10)
Penholoway Creek (1,10)
Rocky Creek (1,10)
Rocky Creek (1,10)
Swift Creek (1,10)
Ten Mile Creek (1,10)
Tiger Creek (1,10)
Yam Grandy Creek (1,10)

LOCATION
Neeley Creek to Sardis Creek (Johnson Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 15 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Uvalda to Altamaha River (Montgomery/Toombs Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Cobb Creek (Montgomery/Toombs Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Dyers Creek to Big Cedar Creek (Washington/Johnson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 15 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Little Creek to Altamaha River (Wayne Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 13 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Ga. Hwy. 130 to Little Rocky Creek (Toombs Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Little Rocky Creek to Ohoopee River (Toombs/Tattnall Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Old Normantown Rd. To Pendleton Creek (Toombs Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

UR,M The permit for the Lyons North WPCP was reissued on 5

X 3,3

2

8/9/02 in accordance with the TMDL for DO. The facility

is in compliance with its new limits. The permit already

had a fecal coliform limit. Impairment will be addressed

by implementing a locally developed plan that includes

the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution.

Little Ten Mile Creek to Altamaha River (Appling Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 13 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Little Creek to Pendleton Creek (Treutlen/Montgomery/Toombs Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 16 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

D/S Crooked Creek (Emanuel Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-92

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Arrow Creek (1,15)
Ball Mill Creek (1,15)
Balus Creek (1)
Big Creek (1)
Bishop Creek (2,14)
Bubbling Creek (2,15)
Burnt Fork Creek (2,15)
Buttermilk Creek (1,14)
Chattahoochee River (1,10)
Chattahoochee River (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)
CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER BASIN

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 3

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Fulton/DeKalb Counties

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 3

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 3

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Hwy 400 to Chattahoochee River Fishing/Drinking

FC

(Fulton Co.)

Water

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 5

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Cobb County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 2

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

DeKalb County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 2

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

DeKalb County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 6

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Cobb County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 4

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

SR255 to Soquee River (White/Habersham Co.)

Recreation

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Mossy Creek to Lake Lanier (Hall

Recreation

FC

Co.)

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 8

X

X

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-93

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Chattahoochee River (1,2,9,10,28)
Chattahoochee River (1,9)
Chattahoochee River (1,10)
Chattahoochee River (1,37)
Chestatee River (1,10)
Crooked Creek (1)
Flat Creek (1,10)

LOCATION
Peachtree Creek to Utoy Creek (Fulton/Cobb Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

Temp,FC,FCG I1,UR,CSO EPD working with Georgia Power to assess and 9 implement appropriate action with respect to the temperature issue. Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999. Atlanta's Federal CSO Consent Decree, effective 9/98, requires compliance with water quality standards, including fecal coliform, by 11/7/07. Fish Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs and is a partial support. PCBs have been banned in the U.S. and the levels have been declining.

X 3,3,3 3

Utoy Creek to Pea Creek (Fulton/Douglas Co.)

Fishing

FC,FCG

UR,CSO Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 14 X 3,3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999 for

Fulton Co. A phase II General NPDES Stormwater

Permit was issued for Douglas Co. 12/9/02. Atlanta's

Federal CSO Consent Decree, effective 9/98, requires

compliance with water quality standards, including fecal

coliform, by 11/7/07. Fish Consumption Guidelines due

to PCBs and is a partial support. PCBs have been

banned in the U.S. and levels have been declining.

Pea Creek to Wahoo Creek (Fulton/Douglas/Coweta/CarrollCo.)

Fishing

FC,FCG

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 21 X 3,3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999 for

Fulton Co. A phase II General NPDES Stormwater

Permit was issued for Douglas & Coweta Counties

12/9/02. EPD will address nonpoint source (urban

runoff) in Carroll Co. Fish Consumption Guidelines due

to PCBs and is a partial support. PCBs have been

banned in the U.S. and levels have been declining.

Upatoi Creek to Chattahoochee/Stewart Co. Line
(Chattahoochee Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 18 X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Yahoola Creek to Lake Lanier (Lumpkin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 9

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Tributary to Chattahoochee River (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 2

X

3

3

Management Strategy. An areawide stormwater permit

was reissued in 1999.

Headwaters, Gainesville to Lake Lanier (Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 6

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy for the basin. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-94

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Foe Killer Creek (17)
House Creek (16)
James Creek (1)
Johns Creek (1,10)
Lee Branch (46)
Level Creek (18)
Little Mud Creek (1)
Long Cane Creek (1,4,10)
Long Island Creek (1,10)
Longwood Park Creek (20)
Lullwater Creek (1,15)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Headwaters to Big Creek (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 7

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Douglas County

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Forsyth County

Fishing

FC

NP,UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was issued in 2000.

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 4

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

LaGrange (Troup Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 5

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in April 1999.

Headwaters to Mud Creek (Habersham Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 11 X

X

3

protection strategy.

Panther, Blue John & Long Cane Creeks (d/s LaGrange) to
Chattahoochee River (Troup Co.)
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Fulton Co.)
Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Fishing Fishing Fishing

DeKalb County

Fishing

Bio,FC FC FC FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint sources (urban runoff) 14 X 3,3

3

through a watershed protection strategy for the basin.

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 5

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 2

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

A-95

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Marsh Creek (aka March Creek) (1,17)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 4

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Mobley Creek (16)

Douglas County

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 7

X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Mossy Creek (1,10)

Totherow Rd. near Clermont to Chattahoochee River (White/Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Hall Co.

Mud Creek (1)

Headwaters to Little Mud Creek (Habersham Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 13 X

X

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Mud Creek (14)

Ga. Hwy. 120 to Noses Creek (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 5

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Nancy Creek (1,10)

Headwaters to Peachtree Creek, Atlanta (DeKalb/Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 16 X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

New River (1,10)

Corinth (Heard Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Nickajack Creek (1,10)

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 11 X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

North Fork Peachtree Creek Headwaters to Peachtree Creek

(1,15,18)

(Gwinnett/DeKalb/Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD stormwater 14 X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Olley Creek (14)

Cobb County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 11 X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Orr Creek (1)

U/S Castleberry Rd. (Tyson Foods) to Big Creek (Forsyth Co.)

Fishing

FC,Cu

UR,I1,I2 EPD will address nonpoint sources (urban runoff) 3

X 3,3

2

through a watershed protection strategy. Tyson Foods

WPCP will be addressed through EPD's Basin Planning

Permitting Strategy. An areawide Stormwater Permit

was issued in 2000.

A-96

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Peachtree Creek (1,43)
Peavine Creek (1,15)
Proctor Creek (1,43)
Richland Creek (18)
Rottenwood Creek (1,10)
Sandy Creek (1,10)
Sewell Mill Creek (1,10,14)
Six Mile Creek (1)
Slaughterhouse Creek (20)
Sope Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

I-85 to Chattahoochee River, Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR,CSO Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 7

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Atlanta's Federal CSO Consent Decree requires

compliance with water quality standards, including fecal

coliform, by 11/7/07.

DeKalb County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 3

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River, Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR,CSO Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 9

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Atlanta's Federal CSO Consent Decree requires

compliance with water quality standards, including fecal

coliform, by 11/7/07.

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 5

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in April 1999.

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 9

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

I-285 to Chattahoochee River (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 2

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Cobb County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 4

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Headwaters to Lake Lanier (Forsyth Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 2

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was issued 7/5/00.

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 11 X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

A-97

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Soquee River (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Goshen Creek to SR 17, Clarkesville (Habersham Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 29 X

3

3

protection strategy for the basin.

South Fork Balus Creek (20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

South Fork Limestone Creek (20)

Gainesville (Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

South Fork Peachtree Creek Headwaters to Peachtree Creek,

(1,10,15)

Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 15 X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

South Utoy Creek (8)

Headwaters to Fairburn Rd., Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 5

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

Suwanee Creek (1,10,18)

Mill Creek to Chattahoochee River (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 4

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

Sweetwater Creek (1,10)

U/S Pine Valley Rd. To Noses Creek (Paulding/Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 10 X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999 for

Cobb Co. EPD will address nonpoint source (urban

runoff) in Paulding County through a watershed

protection strategy.

Tesnatee Creek (1,10)

Town Creek to Chestatee River (White/Lumpkin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources throught a watershed 5

X

3

3

protection strategy for the basin.

Troup Branch (21,46)

LaGrange (Troup Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Utoy Creek (1,8,10)

Atlanta (Fulton Co.)

Fishing

FC,Cu,Zn

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 5 Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An area wide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

X 3,3,3 2

A-98

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Wahoo Creek (1)
Weracoba Creek (2,38)
West Fork Little River (1,10)
White Oak Creek (1)
Wolf Creek (1,4)
Acworth Creek (14,35)
Armuchee Creek (1,3,10)
Beech Creek (1,3,4,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

SR 52 to Lake Lanier (Lumpkin/Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Hall Co.

Columbus (Muscogee Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 6

X

3

3

Management Strategy. An areawide Stormwater Permit

was issued on 4/14/00.

Headwaters to above Lake Lanier (White/Hall Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Hall Co.

Fulton County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 2

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

Headwaters to Chattahoochee River (Douglas/Carroll Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Douglas

Co.

COOSA RIVER BASIN

Tributary to Lake Acworth (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 1

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

Oostanaula River Tributary (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FC

I2,NP DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 20 X 3,3 1,3 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Downstream Hicks Lake, near Rome to Coosa River (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FC,Bio

I2,NP

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 10 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3,X 1,3

A-99

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Big Cedar Creek/Cedar Creek Johnson Lake Rd., Cedartown to

(1,3,6)

Coosa River, Lake Weiss (Polk/Floyd

Co.)

Fishing

FC,CFB

UR,I2 EPD will address nonpoint sources (urban runoff) 25 X 3,3 3,1 through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Floyd Co. DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining.

Big Dry Creek (2,3)

Rome (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

FC,CFB

UR,I2

EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02. DNR

commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which originated

from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup

operations ongoing since the 1980s.

PCB

concentrations in fish tissue have been declining.

X 3,3 3,1

Burwell Creek (3)

Rome (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB

I2

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 3

X

3

1

originated from General Electric facility in Rome.

Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB

concentrations in fish tissue have been declining.

Butler Creek (4,14,35)

Headwaters to Lake Acworth (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 6

X 3,X

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in April 1999.

Cartecay River (1,10)

Owltown Creek to Coosawattee River (Gilmer Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 3

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Chattooga River (1,40)

Cane Creek, Trion to Henry Branch (Chattooga Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint source through a watershed 7

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Chattooga River (1,10)
Coahulla Creek (1,10)

Henry Branch to Lyerly (Chattooga Co.)
Below 728 Road to Mill Creek (Whitfield Co.)

Fishing Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint source through a watershed 8

X

3

3

protection strategy.

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Cochrans Creek (47)

Gab Creek to Amicalola Creek (Dawson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Conasauga River (1,10)

Hwy. 286 to Holly Creek (Whitfield/Murray Co.)

Fishing/Drinking Water

FC,FCG

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 18 X 3,3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Whitfield Co. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs. PCBs have been

banned in the U.S. and levels have been declining.

A-100

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Conasauga River (1,10)
Connesenna Creek (3,4)
Coosa River (1,3,10)
Coosa River (1,3,10)
Coosawattee River (1,10)
Dozier Creek (3)
Etowah River (1,9,10)
Etowah River (1,10)

LOCATION
Holly Creek to Oostanaula River (Murray/Gordon Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC,FCG

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 24 X 3,3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Fish Consumption

Guidelines due to PCBs and is a partial support. PCBs

have been banned in the U.S. and the levels have been

declining.

Etowah River Tributary (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

CFB,Bio

I2,NP

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 6 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,X 1,3

Rome to Hwy 100 (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FCG,FC

I2,UR

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 16 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. Note: Fish Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs and is a not support. EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3,3 1,3

Hwy 100 to Stateline (Floyd Co.) Fishing/Recreation CFB,FCG,DO

I2

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 15 X 3,3,3 1,2

originated from General Electric facility in Rome.

Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB

concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs and is a partial

support. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a

watershed protection strategy.

Confluence with Ellijay River to Mountaintown Creek (Gilmer Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 9

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy.

Oostanaula River Tributary (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB

I2

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 3

X

3

1

originated from General Electric facility in Rome.

Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB

concentrations in fish tissue have been declining.

Proctor Creek to Black Creek (Dawson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 8

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Settingdown Creek to Long Swamp Creek (Cherokee Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 6

X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-101

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Etowah River (1,10,24,44)
Etowah River (1,10)
Etowah River (1,3,10)
Euharlee Creek (1,10)
Flat Creek (1)
Hamilton Creek (3)
Holly Creek (1,10)
Holly Creek (1,10)
Holly Creek (4,47)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Lake Allatoona to Richland Creek (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

FC,FCG,DO

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 12 X 3,3,3 2 protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02. Fish Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs and is a partial support. PCBs have been banned in the U.S. and levels have been have been declining.

Euharlee Creek to US Hwy 411 (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

FC,FCG

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 10 X 3,3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs and is a partial

support. PCBs have been banned in the U.S. and levels

have been have been declining.

Hwy. 411 to Coosa River (Bartow/Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FC,FCG

I2,NP

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 21 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. Fish Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs and is a partial support. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3,3 1,3

Hills Creek to u/s Plant Bowen (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 4

X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Upstream Coosawattee River (Gilmer Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 1

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Coosa River Tributary (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB

I2

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 5

X

3

1

originated from General Electric facility in Rome.

Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB

concentrations in fish tissue have been declining.

Downstream Chatsworth (Murray Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 4

X

X

3

a watershed protection strategy.

Rock Creek to Conasauga River (Murray Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 8

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Headwaters to Amicalola Creek (Dawson Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 4

X

X

3

protection strategy.

A-102

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Horseleg Creek (3)
Johns Creek (1,10)
Kings Creek (3,4)
Little Amicalola Creek (47)
Little Dry Creek (3)
Little Noonday Creek (14)
Long Swamp Creek (1,10)
Mountaintown Creek (1,10)
Mt. Hope Creek (3,4)

LOCATION Rome (Floyd Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

CFB

I2

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 4

X

3

1

originated from General Electric facility in Rome.

Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB

concentrations in fish tissue have been declining.

Oostanaula River Tributary (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 6

X

X

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Coosa River Tributary (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,Bio

I2,NP

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 4 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,X 1,3

Headwaters to Amicalola Creek (Dawson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Rome (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB

I2

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 6

X

3

1

originated from General Electric facility in Rome.

Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB

concentrations in fish tissue have been declining.

Cobb County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 3

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Hwy 53 to Etowah River, near Ball Ground (Pickens/Cherokee Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 8

X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Cherokee Co.

Hwy. 282 to Coosawattee River (Gilmer Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Coosa River Tributary (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,Bio

I2,NP

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 5 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,X 1,3

A-103

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Oostanaula River (1,3,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Hwy 140 to Coosa River (Floyd Co.) Fishing/Drinking CFB,FCG,FC Water

I2,NP

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 14 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. Fish Consumption Guidelines due to PCBs and is a partial support. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3,3 1,3

Owl Creek (24,41)

Lake Allatoona Tributary (Cherokee Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 2

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Pine Log Creek (1,10)

Cedar Creek to Salacoa Creek (Gordon Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 6

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Proctor Creek (4,14)

Headwaters to Lake Acworth (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 4

X 3,X

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in April, 1999.

Pumpkinvine Creek (1,10)

Little Pumpkinvine Creek to Etowah River (Paulding/Bartow Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 15 X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Bartow Co.

Raccoon Creek (1,10)

U/S Chattooga River, Berryton (Chattooga Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 3

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Raccoon Creek (1,10)

Pegamore Lake to Etowah River (Paulding/Bartow Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 13 X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Bartow Co.

Rowland Springs Branch Lake Allatoona Tributary (Bartow Co.) (24)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Rubes Creek (4,14,41)

Headwaters to Little River (Cobb/Cherokee Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 7

X 3,X

3

Management Strategy for Cobb County. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued for Cobb County in

1999. EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff)

in Cherokee County through a watershed protection

strategy. A Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit

was issued for Cherokee County on 12/9/02.

Salacoa Creek (1,10)

Pine Log Creek to Coosawattee River (Gordon Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 6

X

X

3

protection strategy.

A-104

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Sharp Mountain Creek (1,10,47)

LOCATION
Rock Creek to Etowah River (Cherokee Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 14 X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Silver Creek (1,3,4,10)

Headwaters to Etowah River, Rome (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FC,Bio

I2,UR

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 15 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3,X 1,3

Smith Creek/Cabin Creek Smith Creek Headwaters to Coosa

(1,3,10)

River, Lake Weiss (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FC

I2,UR

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 5 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,X 1,3

Spring Creek (1,10)

Walker/Chattooga County

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Spring Creek (1,3,10)

Etowah River Tributary (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FC,Hg

I2,NP

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 2 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3,3 1,2

Talking Rock Creek (1,9,10)

Ga. Hwy. 136 to Pickens/Gilmer County Line (Pickens Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 19 X

3

3

protection strategy.

Tanyard Creek (14,24)

White Lake to Lake Allatoona (Cobb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 4

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Tom's Creek (3)

Etowah River Tributary (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

CFB

I2

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 1

X

3

1

originated from General Electric facility in Rome.

Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB

concentrations in fish tissue have been declining.

Tributary to Allatoona Creek (14)

Cobb County

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 2

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

A-105

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Tributary to Pettit Creek (2)

LOCATION Cartersville (Bartow Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 1

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Two Run Creek (1,3,10)

Clear Creek to Etowah River (Bartow Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FC

I2,NP DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 10 X 3,3 1,3 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Webb Creek (1,3,10)

Coosa River Tributary (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FC

I2,NP

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 4 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3 1,3

Woodward Creek (1,3,10)

Oostanaula River Tributary (Floyd Co.)

Fishing

CFB,FC

I2,NP

DNR commercial fishing ban due to PCBs which 8 originated from General Electric facility in Rome. Cleanup operations ongoing since the 1980s. PCB concentrations in fish tissue have been declining. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3 1,3

FLINT RIVER BASIN

Beaver Creek (1,48)

Headwaters to Spring Hill Creek, SW Marshallville (Macon Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X 3,X

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Beaver Creek (1,10)

Spring Hill Creek to Flint River (Macon Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 9

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy.

Big Slough (1,10)

Near Pelham (Mitchell Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 4

X 3,3

2

a watershed protection strategy.

Brantley Creek (1)

Downstream Dawson WPCP (Terrell Co.)

Fishing

Tox

M

EPD will be addressing violations of the City's toxicity 2

X

1

1

limit through its Enforcement Management Strategy.

Cooleewahee Creek (1,4,10)

Piney Woods Branch to Flint River near Newton (Dougherty/Baker Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 16 X 3,3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-106

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Elkins Creek (1,10) Fish Pond Drain (1,10)
Flint River (1,10,42)
Flint River (1,10,42)
Gulley Creek (1,10,24)
Gum Creek (1,4,10)
Muckaloochee Creek (1,10)
Pennahatchee Creek (1,10,48)
Potato Creek (1,4,10)
Sweetwater Creek (1,4,10,25)
Tributary to Flint River (1)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Bull Creek to Flint River near Molena (Pike/Upson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 11 X

3

3

protection strategy.

U.S. Hwy. 84, Donalsonville to Wash Pond (Seminole Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. EPD will address

nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed

protection strategy.

Hartsfield Airport to Hwy 138 (Clayton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 8

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in April, 1999.

Road S1058/Woolsey Rd. to Horton

Drinking

FC

Creek (Clayton/Fayette/Spalding Co.) Water/Fishing

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 9

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued for Clayton

County in 1999. A Phase II General NPDES Stormwater

Permit was issued for Fayette & Spalding Counties

12/9/02.

Upstream Lake Blackshear (Crisp Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 4

X

3

2

protection strategy.

Downstream Cordele to Lake Blackshear (Crisp Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 6

X 3,3

3

a watershed protection strategy.

Smithville Pond (aka Wells Mill Pond) to Muckalee Creek (Lee Co.)

Fishing

FC

M,NP EPD plans to add a fecal coliform bacteria limit to the 10 X

3

3

permit for Smithville Pond along with a schedule to meet

the limit when the permit is reissued during the

Chattahoochee/Flint River Basin permitting cycle. EPD

will address nonpoint sources through a watershed

protection strategy for the basin. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little Pennahatchee Creek to Turkey Creek (Dooly Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 3

X

X

3

protection strategy for the basin.

U.S. Hwy. 333 to Upson Co. Line (Lamar Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 11 X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy for the basin.

Headwaters to Flint River, Andersonville (Sumter/Macon Co.)

Fishing

pH,Bio

NP,UR EPD will address through a watershed protection 9

X 3,3

3

strategy.

College Park (Clayton Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 1

X

3

3

Management Strategy for metropolitan Atlanta. An

areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

A-107

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Turkey Creek (1)
Turkey Creek (4,48)
Turkey Creek (1,10,48)
White Oak Creek (1,4,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Newnan to Reese Lake (Coweta Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 4

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Rogers Branch to Pennahatchee Creek (Dooly Co.)

Fishing

FC

M,NP Fecal Coliform Bacteria limit and schedule added to

9

X

X

3

Byromville NPDES permit on 9/11/03. EPD will address

nonpoint sources through a watershed protection

strategy.

Pennahatchee Creek, NW Cordele to Flint River (Dooly Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Newnan - I-85 to Chandlers Creek (Coweta Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Whitewater Creek (1,10)
Whitewater Creek (1,10)
Wildcat Creek (1,10)
Aucilla River (1,10)
Big Creek (1,10)
Big Creek (1,10)
Bridge Creek (1,10)

Big Whitewater Creek to Cedar Creek (Taylor/Macon Co.)
Cedar Creek to Flint River (Macon Co.)
Heads Creek to Flint River (Spalding Co.)
Masse Branch to Brooks County line near Boston (Thomas Co.)
Headwaters to Little Cr. near Meigs (Mitchell/Thomas Co.)
Woodhaven Rd. E. of Coolidge to Ochlockonee River (Thomas Co.)
Mill Cr. to upstream Ga. Hwy. 111 near Moultrie (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

FC,pH

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 17 X 3,3

3

protection strategy.

Fishing

FC,pH

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 13 X 3,3

3

a watershed protection strategy.

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 2

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

OCHLOCKONEE RIVER BASIN

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 12 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 12 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-108

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Bridge Creek (1,10)

LOCATION
Upstream Ga. Hwy. 111 near Moultrie to Ochlockonee River
(Colquitt/Thomas Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Little Attapulgus Creek (1,10)

Downstream Crescent Lake to Attapulgus Creek (Decatur Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Little Creek (1,10)

Ga. Hwy. 37 to Ochlockonee River near Moultrie (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Little Ochlockonee River Slocumb Branch to downstream SR

(1,10)

111 near Moultrie (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Little Ochlockonee River (1,10)

Big Cr. to Ochlockonee River near Ochlocknee (Thomas Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Lost Creek (1)

Upstream Ga. Hwy. 93 N.E. of Cotton to Little Ochlockonee River (Mitchell/Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Ochlockonee River (1,10)

Headwaters, upstream Ga. Hwy. 112 near Sylvester to Bay Branch, E. of
Bridgeboro (Worth Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 8

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Ochlockonee River (1,10)

D/S Ga. Hwy. 270 to Wolf Pit Branch (d/s Giles Millpond) (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Ochlockonee River (1,10)

Bridge Cr. to Oquina Creek (Thomas Co.)

Fishing

DO,TWR

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 16 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

Oquina Creek (1,10)

Bruces Branch to Cassidy Rd., Thomasville (Thomas Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-109

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Parkers Mill Creek (1,2,10)

LOCATION
Headwaters to Tired Cr., Cairo (Grady Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

M

Cairo began operating its land application system in 5

X

3

3

3/98. The system has not operated as designed and the

City is under enforcement action to address run-off

problems. Other treatment options are being

considered, including return to a direct discharge.

Impairment will also be addressed by implementing a

locally developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Swamp Creek (1,10)

SR 262 to Stateline (Decatur Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Wards Creek (1,10)

Pine Cr. to McKeever Slough E. of Metcalf (Thomas Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

OCMULGEE RIVER BASIN

Alcovy River (1,10)

Cedar Creek to Bay Creek (Walton Fishing/Drinking

FC

Co.)

Water

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Alligator Creek (1,10)

Batson Creek to Lime Sink Creek (Dodge/Laurens Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 12 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Almand Branch (1,10)

Tanyard Branch to Snapping Shoals (Rockdale Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Bay Creek (1,4,10)

Headwaters to Beaver Creek (Peach/Houston Co.)

Fishing

Bio,FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X 3,3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. EPD will address

nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Houston Co.

Big Cotton Indian Creek Panther Creek to Brush Creek (Henry

(1,10)

Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-110

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Big Flat Creek (1,10)
Big Haynes Creek (18)
Big Sandy Creek (1,4,10)
Brushy Fork Creek (1,10,18)
Cabin Creek (1,3,4,10)
Camp Creek (1,2,10)
Cobbs Creek (1,10,15)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Headwaters to Flat Creek (Walton Co.)

Fishing

FC

M,UR In July 2001, the City of Loganville completed facility 13 X

3

3

construction and began startup operations of the

upgraded facility. The City went from a rotating

biological contact system to a sequencing batch reactor.

Loganville WPCP passed last two consecutive toxicity

tests in 8/01 and 10/01 and is meeting toxicity limits in

permit and water quality standards for toxicity achieved.

The permit for the facility contains a fecal coliform

bacteria limit of 200/100ml. Impairment will be

addressed by implementing a locally developed plan that

includes the remedial actions necessary for problem

resolution. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit

issued 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Brushy Fork Creek Fishing/Drinking

FC

(Gwinnett Co.)

Water

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

Aboothlacoosta Creek to Ocmulgee River (Butts/Monroe Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Lake Carlton to Big Haynes Creek (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An area wide

Stormwater Permit was reissued in 1999.

Headwaters, Griffin to Towaliga River (Spalding Co.)

Fishing

Bio,Tox,FC, DO

I1,UR

Spring Industries granted temporary exception to 16 meeting water quality standards for whole effluent toxicity criteria pursuant to section 391-3-6.06(4)(d)(5)(vii) of the Georgia DNR's Rules and Regulations for Water Quality Control. Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally developed plan that includes the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

X 3,3,3,3 2

Headwaters to Jackson Creek (DeKalb/Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR An areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999. 6

X

3

3

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Shoal Creek (DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR An areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999. 7

X

3

3

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-111

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Conley Creek (1,10,15,42)
Doolittle Creek (1,10,15)
Gum Swamp Creek (1,10)
Honey Creek (1,10,23)
Hopkins Creek (1,10)
Horse Creek (1,2,10)
House Creek (1,10)
Intrenchment Creek (1,10,15)

LOCATION
Headwaters to South River (Clayton/DeKalb Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

UR An areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999. 9

X

3

3

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to South River (DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR An areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999. 5

X

3

3

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Hwy 257 to Little Creek (Dodge Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 19 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to South River (DeKalb/Rockdale Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 13 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999 for DeKalb Co.

A Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit was

issued 12/9/02 for Rockdale Co.

Headwaters to Alcovy River (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR An areawide stormwater permit was reissued in 1999. 4

X

3

3

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Ocmulgee River, Warner Robins (Houston Co.)

Fishing

DO,pH

M,UR Warner Robins relocated discharge from Horse Creek to 4

X

2

1

the Ocmulgee River on 8/31/99. EPD will address

nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Ball Creek to Little House Creek (Wilcox/Ben Hill Co.)

Fishing

DO,pH,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 8 developed plan that includes the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy.

X 3,3,3 2

Headwaters to South River, Atlanta (Fulton/DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR,CSO Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999. Atlanta's

Federal CSO Consent Decree, effective 9/98, requires

compliance with water quality standards, including fecal

coliform, by 11/7/07.

A-112

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Jacks Creek (1,10)

LOCATION
Headwaters to Yellow River (Gwinnett Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Little Haynes Creek (1,10,23)

Hwy 20 to Big Haynes Creek (Walton/Rockdale Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little Stone Mountain Creek Headwaters to Stone Mountain Lake

(1,10,15)

(DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Little Suwanee Creek (1,10,18)

Tributary to Yellow River (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

McClain Branch (1,10,23)

Headwaters to Honey Creek (Rockdale Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Shetley Creek (1,10)

Headwaters to Bromolow Creek (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Shoal Creek (1,10,18)

Headwaters to Alcovy River, Lawrenceville (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Shoal Creek (1,10,15)

Headwaters to South River (DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Snapfinger Creek (1,10,15)

DeKalb County

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 18 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

A-113

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Snapping Shoals Creek (1,10,23)
South River (1,10,43)
South River (1,10)
South River (1,10)
South River (1,10)
Stone Mountain Creek (1,10,15)
Sugar Creek (1,10,15)

LOCATION
Almand Branch to South River (Rockdale/Newton Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Atlanta to Flakes Mill Road (Fulton/DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR,CSO Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 16 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permiit was reissued in 1999. Atlanta's

Federal CSO Consent Decree requires compliance with

water quality standards, including fecal coliform, by

11/7/07.

Flakes Mill Road to Pole Bridge Creek (DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR,CSO Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999. Atlanta's

Federal CSO Consent Decree requires compliance with

water quality standards, including fecal coliform, by

11/7/07.

Pole Bridge Creek to Hwy 20 (Rockdale/Henry Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR,CSO Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 15 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02. Atlanta's

Federal CSO Consent Decree requires compliance with

water quality standards, including fecal coliform, by

11/7/07.

Snapping Shoals to Jackson Lake (Newton Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Stone Mountain Lake (DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

U/S Memorial Drive to South River (DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

A-114

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Sugar Creek (1,4,10)
Sweetwater Creek (1,10,18)
Swift Creek (1,10,15)
Tobesofkee Creek (1,10)
Tobesofkee Creek (1,10)
Town Branch (1,4,10)
Turkey Creek (1,10,18)
Turnpike Creek (1,10)
Tussahaw Creek (1,4,10)
Walnut Creek (1,4,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Turnpike Creek to Little Ocmulgee River (Telfair Co.)

Fishing

DO,pH

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Lee Daniel Creek to Yellow River (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Headwaters to Yellow River (DeKalb Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Cole Creek to Todd Creek (Monroe Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 8

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Lake Tobesofkee to Rocky Creek (Bibb Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

UR

Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10

X 3,X

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued 4/14/00.

Headwaters (Jackson) to Aboothlacoosta Creek (Butts Co.)

Fishing

Bio,FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X 3,3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Yellow River (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Hwy 280 to Sugar Creek (Telfair Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC,pH

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 24 X 3,3,3 2 developed plan that includes the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution.

Wolf Creek to Lake Jackson (Butts Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Ocmulgee River (Jones/Bibb Co.)

Fishing

Bio,FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 20 X 3,3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued on 4/14/00 for Bibb Co.

a Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit was

issued 12/9/02 for Jones Co.

A-115

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Watson Creek (1,10,18)
Wise Creek (1,4,10)
Yellow River (1,18)
Yellow River (1)
Yellow River (1,10)
Yellow Water Creek (1,4,10)
Anne Court Branch (1,2,10)
Apalachee River (1,10)
Apalachee River (1)

LOCATION
Headwaters to Yellow River (Gwinnett Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Headwaters to Ocmulgee River (Jasper Co.)

Fishing

Bio,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X 3,3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Sweetwater Creek to Centerville Creek (Gwinnett Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 15 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued in 1999.

Hammock Creek to Big Haynes

Drinking Water

FC

Creek (Rockdale Co.)

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Big Haynes Creek to Jackson Lake Fishing/Drinking

FC

(Newton Co.)

Water

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 25 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

1 mile d/s Stark Road (Rd. S763), Jackson to Ocmulgee River (Butts
Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

OCONEE RIVER BASIN

Headwaters to Middle Oconee River, Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Williamson Creek to Marburg Creek (Barrow/Walton Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Marburg Creek to Lake Oconee (Oconee/Morgan/Greene Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 35 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Oconee

Co.

A-116

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Beaverdam Creek (1,10,28)
Big Cedar Creek (1,10,36)
Big Sandy Creek (1,4,10)
Bluff Creek (1,10)
Brooklyn Creek (1,2,10)
Buffalo Creek (1,4,10)
Carver Branch (2)
Cedar Creek (1,10)
Cedar Creek (1,2,10)
Cedar Creek (36)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Oliver Creek to Lake Oconee, S. of Greensboro (Greene Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Hog Creek to Lake Sinclair (Jones/Putnam/Baldwin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Jones Co.

Porter Creek to Oconee River (Wilkinson/Laurens Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 14 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

D/S Wiggins Road to Oconee River (Washington Co.)

Fishing

DO,pH

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Middle Oconee River, Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Keg Creek to Oconee River (Washington Co.)

Fishing

pH,Zn

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to Trail Creek, Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Winder Reservoir (Barrow Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Headwaters to Oconee River, Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Glady Creek to Big Cedar Creek (Jones Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 3

X

X

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-117

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Cloverhurst Branch (2)
Commissioner Creek (1,10)
Fishing Creek (1,10,28)
Kingswood Branch (1,2,10)
Little River (1,2,10)
Little River (1,10)
Little Sugar Creek (1,10,28)
Marburg Creek (1,10)

LOCATION Athens (Clarke Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Little Commissioner Creek to Upstream Oconee River (Wilkinson
Co.)

Fishing

pH

NP,I2 Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 16 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

McWhorter Creek to Lake Oconee (Greene Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to McNutt Creek, Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC,pH

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X 3,3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Social Circle to Nelson Creek (Walton/Newton Co.

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Shoal Creek to Gap Creek (Morgan/Putnam Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 14 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Lake Oconee (Morgan Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Masseys Lake to Apalachee River (Barrow Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02. The Winder

Marburg Cr. WPCP was upgraded to treat wastewater to

reuse limits 12/6/02. The facility passed the four toxicity

tests submitted with its application. They were

conducted in 10/02, 12/02, 2/03 & 5/03. The permit

contains fecal coliform bacteria limits in which the facility

is in compliance.

A-118

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Middle Oconee River (1,10)
N. Bypass Branch (2)
North Oconee River (1,10)
North Oconee River (1,10)
North Oconee River (1)
Ochwalkee Creek (aka Okeewalkee Creek) (1,4,10)
Oconee River (1,10)
Oconee River (1,10)
Pughes Creek (1,10)
Richland Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Mulberry River to Big Bear Creek (Jackson/Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Clarke

Co.

Tributary to Middle Oconee River, Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Chandler Creek to Bordens Creek (Jackson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 12 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Bordens Creek to Curry Creek (Jackson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 8

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Sandy Creek to Trail Creek, Athens

Drinking

FC

(Clarke Co.)

Water/Fishing

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

U/S Little New York Rd. to Oconee River (Laurens/Wheeler Co.)

Fishing

DO,pH,Bio

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 18 X 3,3,X 2 developed plan that includes the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution. EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed protection strategy.

Confluence of North & Middle Oconee Rivers, Athens to Barnett Shoals Dam (Clarke/Oconee Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Long Branch to Turkey Creek (Laurens Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Indian Branch to Oconee River (Laurens Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 8

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Upstream Greensboro to Interstate 20 (Greene Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP,UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-119

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Richland Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Interstate 20 to Beaverdam Creek (Greene Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 8

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Rooty Creek (1,4,10)

Rd. S926, Eatonton to Little Creek, (Putnam Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

NP,UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X 3,3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Sugar Creek (1,10,28)

South Sugar Creek to Lake Oconee (Morgan Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Tanyard Creek (1,10)

U/S North Oconee River, Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Town Creek (1,2,10)

Hwy. 15 to Richland Creek, Greensboro (Greene Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Town Creek (1,10,28)

Penfield to Lake Oconee (Greene Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Trail Creek (1,2,10)

East Fork Trail Creek to North Oconee River, Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Tributary to Little River (1,9,10)

Eatonton to Little River (Putnam Co.)

Fishing

Tox,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X 3,X

1

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Turkey Creek (1,10)

Horse Branch to Rocky Creek (Laurens Co.)

Fishing

FC

M,NP The permit for the City of Dudley WPCP was modified on 10 X

3

3

1/10/03 to include fecal coliform bacteria limits and a

schedule to meet them by 1/10/05. Impairment will be

addressed by implementing a locally developed plan that

includes the remedial actions necessary for problem

resolution.

Unnamed Tributary to Middle Downstream closed UGA Botanical

Oconee River

Gardens Landfill (Milledge Ave. Site),

(56)

Athens (Clarke Co.)

Fishing

Benzene, Chloroform

I2

UGA has submitted plan to EPD for a groundwater

1

X

2

1

recovery and treatment system. The proposed system

would replace the surface water treatment system.

A-120

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
West Fork Trail Creek (1,2,10)

LOCATION Athens (Clarke Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

OGEECHEE RIVER BASIN

Black Creek (1,10)

Ash Branch to Mill Creek near Blitchton (Bulloch/Bryan Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 11 X

X

2

protection strategy.

Buckhead Creek (1,10)

Downstream Spring Mill Branch to Ogeechee River, Millen (Jenkins Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 4

X

X

3

a watershed protection strategy.

Bull Creek (1,10)
Canoochee River (1,10)

Strickland Pond to Canoochee River near Daisy (Evans Co.)
Cedar Creek to Lotts Creek (Evans Co.)

Fishing Fishing

DO TWR,DO

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 6

X

X

2

a watershed protection strategy.

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 13 X

X

2

protection strategy. Trophic-Weighted Residue of

mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0/3 mg/kg.

Casey Canal (1,10,50,51)

Head of Canal to DeRenne Ave., Savannah (Chatham Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 3

X

X

2

Management Strategy. An areawide stormwater permit

was reissued to the City of Savannah in 4/14/00.

Casey Canal (1,10,50,51)

DeRenne Ave. to Montgomery Crossroad, Savannah (Chatham Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC,FCG

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 3

X

X

2

Management Strategy. An areawide stormwater permit

was reissued to the City of Savannah in 4/14/00. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to levels of Dieldrin in the

fish tissue of striped mullet and is a partial support.

Dieldrin is a pesticide that has been restricted from use

in the U.S.

Cedar Creek (1,10)

Water Hole Creek to Canoochee River, Claxton (Evans Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 6

X

X

2

a watershed protection strategy.

Fifteenmile Creek (1,10)

Stocking Head Branch to Canoochee River near Metter (Candler Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 6

X

X

2

protection strategy.

Hayners Creek (known upstream as Casey Canal)
(1,10,50,51)

Casey Canal (Montgomery Crossroad) to Vernon River
(Chatham Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC,FCG

UR Urban runoff is being addressed in the EPD Stormwater 2

X

X

2

Management Strategy. An areawide stormwater permit

was reissued to Chatham County in 4/14/00. Fish

Consumption Guidelines due to levels of Dieldrin in the

fish tissue of striped mullet and is a partial support.

Dieldrin is a pesticide that has been restricted from use

in the U.S.

A-121

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Horse Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Little Horse Creek to Ogeechee River near Rocky Ford (Screven Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

X

2

protection strategy.

Jackson Branch (1)

Downstream King Finishing Company from SR17 to Ogeechee River, Dover
(Screven Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 1

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Lotts Creek (1,10)

U.S. Hwy. 301 to Little Lotts Creek near Register (Bulloch Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 8

X

X

2

protection strategy.

Mill Creek (1,10)

Newsome Branch to Ogeechee River near Statesboro (Bulloch Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 16 X

X

2

protection strategy.

Nevills Creek (1,10)

Bay Gull Creek to Ogeechee River near Rocky Ford (Bulloch Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 3

X

X

2

protection strategy.

N.Fork Ogeechee River

Hwy. 77 to Ogeechee River near

(1,10)

Crawfordville (Greene/Taliaferro Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 13 X

X

3

protection strategy.

Ogeechee Creek (1,10)

Rd. S2178 to Ogeechee River near Oliver (Screven Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 7

X

X

2

protection strategy.

Ogeechee River (1,10)

Powell Creek to Beaverdam Creek near Powelton (Hancock Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Sculls Creek (1,4,10)

Richardson Creek to Ogeechee River near Scarboro (Jenkins Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 4

X

X

2

protection strategy.

Tenmile Creek (1,10)

Upstream Canoochee River, Excelsior (Candler Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 3

X

X

2

a watershed protection strategy.

Williamson Swamp Creek (1,10,55)

Hwy. 24 to Limestone Creek, Davisboro (Washington/Jefferson
Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 12 X

X

3

protection strategy.

Williamson Swamp Creek (1,10)

Mill Creek to Ogeechee River, Wadley (Jefferson Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 9

X

X

2

protection strategy.

SATILLA RIVER BASIN

Big Creek (1,10,55)

S. Prong Big Cr. to Satilla River (Brantley Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-122

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Big Satilla Creek (1,10,52,55)
Boggy Creek (1,10,55)
Broxton Creek (1,10)
City Drainage Canal (2)
Colemans Creek (1,10,55)
Hog Creek (1,10)
Hurricane Creek (1,10)
Little Hurricane Creek (1,10)
Little Satilla Creek (1,10)
Little Satilla Creek (1,10,55)
Pudding Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Headwaters near Hazlehurst to Sweetwater Cr. near Baxley (Jeff
Davis/Appling Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 34 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Dry Creek to Little Satilla Cr. N. of Screven (Wayne Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Seven Cr. to Seventeen Mile River near Broxton (Coffee Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Trib. to Satilla River, Waycross (Ware Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Dry Branch S. of Surrency to Big Satilla Cr. near Screven (Appling/Wayne Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 17 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Hurricane Cr. to Satilla River S. of Nicholls near Bickley (Coffee/Ware
Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 15 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Downstream Little Cr. to Ten Mile Cr. near Alma (Bacon Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 20 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Ga. Hwy. 32 to Hurricane Cr. (Bacon/Ware/Pierce Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 22 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Keene Bay Branch to Dry Branch near Odum (Wayne Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Boggy Cr. to Little Satilla River near Screven (Wayne Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Park Bay to Satilla River N. of Pearson (Atkinson Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X 3,X

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-123

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Red Bluff Creek (1,10)
Reedy Creek (1,10,55)
Roses Creek (1,10)
Satilla Creek (1,10)
Satilla River (1,10)
Seventeen Mile River (1,10,55)
Seventeen Mile River (1,10,55)
Sweetwater Creek (1,10)
Bear Creek (1,2)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Little Red Bluff Cr. to Satilla River E. of Pearson (Atkinson Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Big Satilla Cr. near Screven (Appling/Wayne Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 13 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Upstream Ga. Hwy. 206 to Seventeen Mile River near Broxton
(Coffee Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Hunters Cr. E. of Ocilla to Satilla River (Irwin/Coffee Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Satilla Cr. to Reedy Cr. near Douglas (Coffee Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 12 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Twenty Mile Cr. N. of Douglas to Otter Cr. downstream Gen. Coffee St.
Park (Coffee Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Twentynine Mile Cr. to Satilla River (Coffee/Atkinson/Ware Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 13 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Black Water Cr. to Big Satilla Cr. near Baxley (Appling Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 12 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

SAVANNAH RIVER BASIN

Downstream Lavonia WPCP (Franklin Co.)

Fishing

DO

M

The TMDL for DO for Bear Creek was finalized March 2

X

3

2

2000. The permit for the Lavonia WPCP was modified

on 8/24/00 to include the limits given in the TMDL. The

permit was issued with an Order which contained a

compliance schedule to meet limits by 8/24/03.

Consent Order No. EPD-WQ-4199 was executed 9/5/03.

The City is to submit a schedule by 12/03 for attaining

compliance with the limits in the permit or moving the

discharge from Bear Creek.

A-124

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Beaverdam Creek (1,10)
Brier Creek (1,10)
Broad River (1,10)
Broad River (1,10)
Brushy Creek (1,10)
Buck Creek (1,10)
Cedar Creek (1,10)
Clark Creek (1,10)
Cold Water Creek (1,10)
Eastanollee Creek (1,2,3,10)
Ebenezer Creek (1,10,55)

LOCATION
Confluence of North & South Beaverdam Creeks to Savannah River near Elberton (Elbert Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 22 X

X

3

protection strategy.

Big Brier Creek to Sweetwater Creek near Thomson (McDuffie Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 3

X

X

3

protection strategy.

SR 281 to Scull Shoal Creek near Danielsville (Madison Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Hwy. 77 to Clarks Hill Lake (Elbert Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 15 X

X

3

protection strategy.

SR 80 (Rd. S1571) west Wrens to Brier Creek (Jefferson/Burke Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 15 X

X

3

protection strategy.

Downstream Sylvania WPCP to Savannah River (Screven Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

M

The permit for the Sylvania WPCP was reissued 12 X 2,X

2

7/31/01. The permit contains lower ammonia limits to

prevent toxicity and to reduce the oxygen demand.

Little Cedar Creek to Savannah River near Montevideo (Hart Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 4

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Greensboro Branch to Long Creek near Tignall (Wilkes Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 6

X

X

3

protection strategy.

SR 77 to Little Cold Water Creek near Ruckersville(Elbert Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 6

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Toccoa to Lake Hartwell (Stephens Co.)

Fishing

FC,Tox

M,UR,I1 The City has been making sewage collection system 14 X 3,X 3,1 improvements under an order. The permit contains limits for fecal coliform bacteria. A toxicity limit was placed in the permit 7/19/00 with a 3 year schedule to meet the limit. The facility has been in compliance with its toxicity limit since 3/03. Coats American permit was reissued based on this TMDL. Permit still under appeal, working towards reissuance. Impairment will also be addressed by implementing a locally developed plan that includes the remedial actions necessary for problem resolution. EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed protection strategy.

Long Bridge to Savannah River near Springfield (Effingham Co.)

Fishing

DO,pH

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X 3,X

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Multi-agency study

ongoing to address issues and implement solutions.

A-125

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Falling Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Dry Fork Creek to Broad River near Fortsonia (Elbert Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 4

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Fortson's Creek (2)

Elberton to Beaverdam Creek (Elbert Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Hudson River (1,10)

Mountain Creek to Webb Creek near Homer (Banks Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR,M EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 13 X

X

3

a watershed protection strategy. The Homer Housing

Authority's permit contains a fecal coliform limit and the

facility is in compliance with the limit.

Hudson River (1,10)

Black Creek to Nails Creek near Fort Lamar (Franklin/Madison Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 8

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Long Creek (1,10)

Macks Creek to Clark Creek (Wilkes Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 3

X

X

3

protection strategy.

McBean Creek (1,10)

Poorly Branch to Savannah River (Richmond/Burke Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 14 X

X

3

protection strategy. An areawide Stormwater Permit

was reissued 4/14/00 for Richmond Co.

Middle Fork Broad River Nancy Town Creek to Hunters Creek

(1,10)

(Banks/Franklin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 13 X

X

3

protection strategy.

No. Fork Broad River (1,10)

Unawatti Creek to Broad River near Carnesville (Franklin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Panther Creek (1,10)

Upstream Lake Yonah (Habersham/Stephens Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 9

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Reed Creek (1,10)

Upstream Lake Hartwell (Hart Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 5

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Reed Creek (1,10)

Rd. S1727 to Bowen Pond near Martinez (Columbia Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 8

X

X

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Reedy Creek (1,10)

Warren Co. line to Brier Creek near Wrens (Jefferson Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 12 X

X

3

protection strategy.

Rocky Creek (1,10,53)

SR 56 to below New Savannah Road, Augusta (Richmond Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. An areawide

stormwater permit was reissued to Augusta/Richmond

County in 4/14/00.

A-126

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Runs Branch (Ebenezer Creek) (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Cowpen Creek to Little Ebenezer Creek near Clyo (Effingham Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 11 X

X

2

protection strategy.

Savannah River (1,10)

Clarks Hill Lake to Stevens Creek Dam (Columbia Co.)

Drinking Water

DO

Dam Release EPD will continue to work with the Corps of Engineers to 9

X

3

2

assess and implement feasible actions to address

TMDL. Phase II General NPDES Stormwater Permit

issued 12/9/02.

Shoal Creek (1,10)

Pooles Creek to Lake Hartwell, Parkertown (Hart Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 1

X

X

3

protection strategy.

So. Fork Broad River (1,10)

Brush Creek to Beaverdam Creek near Comer (Madison Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 3

X

X

3

protection strategy.

So. Fork Broad River (1,10)

Clouds Creek to Fork Creek near Carlton (Madison/Oglethorpe Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 7

X

X

3

protection strategy.

Stekoa Creek (1,10)

Clayton to Chattooga River (Rabun Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 14 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Tallulah River (1,10)

Upstream Lake Burton (Rabun Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 11 X

X

3

protection strategy.

Toccoa Creek (1,2,10)

Little Toccoa Creek to Lake Hartwell (Stephens Co.)

Fishing

FC

M,UR The City of Toccoa WPCP is in compliance with its fecal 3

X

X

3

coliform limit. The City has been making sewage

collection system improvements under an Order. EPD

will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a

watershed protection strategy.

Uchee Creek (1,10)

Tudor Branch to upstream Little River near Evans (Columbia Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 3

X

X

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Warwoman Creek (1,10)

Sarah's Creek to Chattooga River (Rabun Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 4

X

X

3

protection strategy.

ST. MARYS RIVER BASIN

Boone Creek (1,10,55)

Upstream St. Marys River (Charlton Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Corn House Creek (1,10,55)

Upstream St. Marys River (Charlton Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X 3,X

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-127

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Horsepen Creek (1,10,55)

LOCATION
Headwaters to St. Marys River (Camden Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

St. Marys River (1,55)

Catfish Creek to Millers Branch (Camden Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X

X

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

St. Marys Trib. 5 (aka Cooner Upstream St. Marys River (Charlton

Branch)

Co.)

(1,10,55)

Fishing

DO

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

SUWANNEE RIVER BASIN

Alapaha River (1,10)

U.S. Hwy. 280 to Sand Creek (Wilcox/BenHill/Turner/Irwin Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 29 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Bear Creek (1,10)

Reedy Cr. to Indian Cr. near Berlin (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 7

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Cane Creek (1,10)

Rooty Branch to Okeefenokee Swamp near Homerville (Clinch Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 6

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Cat Creek (1,10)

Beaverdam Cr. downstream SR 37 to Withlacoochee River near Ray City (Berrien/Lowndes Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 8

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02 for Lowndes

Co.

Double Run Creek (1,10)

Upstream SR 90 to Alapaha River near Rebecca (Turner Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Fivemile Creek (1,10)

Downstream Gaskins Pond to Big Cr. near Nashville (Berrien/Lanier
Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Greasy Branch (1,10)

U.S. Hwy. 84/SR38 to Okeefenokee Swamp (Ware Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-128

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Little River (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Newell Branch, d/s Hwy. 32 to Ashburn Branch, W. of Sycamore
(Turner Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 4

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Mill Creek (1,10)

Reynolds Cr. to Alapaha River (Wilcox Co.)

Fishing

DO

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 3

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Mud Creek (also known as Mud Swamp Creek) (1,2,10)

D/S Valdosta Mud Cr. WPCP to Alapahoochee River (Lowndes Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 10 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Mule Creek (1,10)

Headwaters to Reedy Cr. near Pavo (Thomas/Brooks Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 8

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Negro Branch (1,10)
Okapilco Creek (1,10)

Headwaters to Piscola Cr., Quitman (Brooks Co.)
SR 76, Quitman to Withlacoochee River (Brooks Co.)

Fishing Fishing

DO,FC DO,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 5

X 3,X

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. EPD will address

nonpoint sources through a watershed protection

strategy.

Piscola Creek (1,10)

Downstream Whitlock Branch @ Ozell Road to Okapilco Creek near
Boston (Thomas/Brooks Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 25 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Suwannee Creek (1,10)

Headwaters to Little Suwannee Cr. near Manor (Clinch/Ware Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 16 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Suwannoochee Creek Bear Branch to Lees Bay (Clinch Co.) (1,10)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 30 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Suwannoochee Creek (1,10)

Lees Bay to Suwannee River (Clinch Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Tatum Creek (1,10)

Tower Rd. to Jones Cr. (Clinch Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-129

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source) Tenmile Creek (1,10)
Toms Creek (1,10)
Turkey Branch (1,2,10)
Two Mile Branch (2)
Ty Ty Creek (1,10)
Warrior Creek (1,10)
West Fork Deep Creek (1,10)
Westside Branch (2)

LOCATION
Averys Millpond to Big Cr. near Nashville (Berrien/Lanier Co.)

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Fishing

DO

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Stateline (Echols Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 23 X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Headwaters to Willacoochee River downstream Fitzgerald (Ben Hill Co.)

Fishing

DO,FC

M

The permit for Fitzgerald WPCP was issued 6/19/99 with 8

X 3,3

2

a toxicity limit. The facility has been in compliance with

the toxicity limit since 9/00. The permit contains a limit

for fecal coliform. The permit was modified on 8/28/02

based on TMDLs for DO, Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn. Monitoring

requirements for the metals were added to the permit

based on the TMDL and EPD's Reasonable Potential

Procedures. The permit also contains requirements to

gather instream data to be used to verify assumptions

used in the DO TMDL. Impairments will also be

addressed by implementing a locally developed plan that

includes the remedial actions necessary for problem

resolution.

Headwaters to Sugar Cr., Valdosta (Lowndes Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Tucker Cr. to Warrior Cr. near Omega (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Rock Cr. to Ty Ty Cr. near Norman Park (Colquitt Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 8

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Downstream SR S1798 to downstream SR 159 N. of Ashburn
(Turner Co.)

Fishing

DO

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to Little River, Tifton (Tift Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

A-130

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Withlacoochee River (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Headwaters (Hardy Mill Creek) to New River (Berrien Co.)

Fishing

DO,TWR

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 17 X 3,3

2

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Trophic-Weighted

Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded 0.3 mg/kg.

Withlacoochee River (1,9,10)

Bay Branch to Little River (Lowndes Co.)

Fishing

FC,TWR

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 9

X 3,3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02. Trophic-

Weighted Residue of mercury in fish tissue exceeded

0.3 mg/kg.

TALLAPOOSA RIVER BASIN

Buffalo Creek (1,4,10,54)

Downstream Southwire Corp. (Carroll Co.)

Fishing

Cu,FC,Bio

I2,UR

EPD Hazardous Waste Management Branch is working 3 with the Southwire Corporation to complete final site cleanup. EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through a watershed protection strategy.

X 3,X,X 2

Buffalo Creek (1,10)

Upstream Little Tallapoosa River (Carroll Co.)

Fishing

FC,Cu

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 6

X 3,3

2

a watershed protection strategy.

Little Tallapoosa River (1,10)

Buffalo Creek to Stateline (Carroll Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 14 X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy.

Tributary to Baxter Creek (2)

Bremen (Haralson Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to Buck Creek (2)

Bremen (Haralson Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 1

X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Tributary to Buffalo Creek (1,54)

Carrollton (Carroll Co.)

Fishing

Cu

I2

EPD Hazardous Waste Management Branch is working 1

X

3

2

with the Southwire Corporation to complete final site

cleanup.

TENNESSEE RIVER BASIN

Brasstown Creek (1,10)
Chattanooga Creek (1,10,13)

Little Bald Cove to Stateline (Union/Towns Co.)
High Point to Flintstone (Walker Co.)

Fishing Fishing

FC Bio,FC

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 11 X

3

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 7

X 3,3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

A-131

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)
Chattanooga Creek (1,10)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

Flintstone to Stateline (Walker Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 4

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Dry Creek (1,4,10)

Headwaters to Chattanooga Creek at State Line (Walker Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 5

X 3,X

3

a watershed protection strategy for the basin. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

East Chickamauga Creek (1,10)

Tanyard Creek to Dry Creek (Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 3

X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Fightingtown Creek (1,10,13)

CR 159 to Stateline (Fannin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 7

X

3

3

protection strategy.

Hemptown Creek (1,10)

Mitchell Branch to Young Stone Creek (Fannin Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 10 X

3

3

protection strategy.

Little Tennessee River (1,10)

Dillard to Stateline (Rabun Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 3

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy.

McFarland Branch (1,10)

Rossville to Stateline (Walker Co.)

Fishing

FC,DO

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 1

X 3,3

2

a watershed protection strategy for the basin. Phase II

General NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Mill Creek (1,10)

Pheasant Branch to Hiawassee River (Towns Co.)

Fishing

FC,pH

NP Impairment will be addressed by implementing a locally 2

X 3,X

3

developed plan that includes the remedial actions

necessary for problem resolution.

Nottely River

US Hwy 19 to Lake Nottely (Union

Recreation

FC

(1,10)

Co.)

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 8

X

3

3

protection strategy for the basin.

Peavine Creek (1,10,13)

Upstream South Chickamauga Creek (Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

Bio,FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 8

X 3,3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

South Chickamauga Creek Ringgold to Stateline (Catoosa Co.) (1,10,13)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 15 X

3

3

protection strategy for the basin. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Tiger Creek (1,10,13)

Dry Branch to E. Chickamauga Creek (Whitfield/Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 8

X

3

3

protection strategy. Phase II General NPDES

Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Toccoa River (1,10,13)

Downstream Lake Blue Ridge

Recreation

FC

(Fannin Co.)

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 7

X

3

3

protection strategy.

A-132

2002-2003 RIVERS/STREAMS NOT SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

BASIN/STREAM (Data Source)

LOCATION

WATER USE CRITERION POTENTIAL CLASSIFICATION VIOLATED CAUSE(S)

ACTIONS TO ALLEVIATE

MILES 305(b) 303(d) Priority

West Chickamauga Creek Mill Creek to Crawfish Creek (Walker

(1,10,13)

Co.)

Fishing

FC,Bio

NP

EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 16

X 3,X

3

protection strategy for the basin. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

West Chickamauga Creek (1,10)

Hwy 2 to Stateline (Catoosa Co.)

Fishing

FC

UR EPD will address nonpoint source (urban runoff) through 7

X

3

3

a watershed protection strategy. Phase II General

NPDES Stormwater Permit issued 12/9/02.

Youngcane Creek (1,10)

Little Youngcane Creek to Nottely Lake (Union Co.)

Fishing

FC

NP EPD will address nonpoint sources through a watershed 4

X

3

3

protection strategy.

*Indicates minimal data set.

A-133

2002-2003 LAKES/RESERVOIRS NOT FULLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

LAKE NAME

LOCATION

BASIN

Acworth Lake (1,14,35) Albany By-Pass Pond (1)
Allatoona Lake (1)
Banks Lake (1) Big Haynes Reservoir (Black
Shoals Lake) (1,9)
Goat Rock Lake (1)

Upper/Mid-Lake (Cobb County) Dougherty County
Little River Embayment (Cherokee County) Lanier County Rockdale County

Coosa Flint
Coosa
Suwannee Ocmulgee

Harris County

Chattahoochee

Harding Lake (1,37)

Bartletts Ferry (Harris County) Chattahoochee

Hartwell Lake (1)
Jackson Lake (1) Jackson Lake (1) Little Ocmulgee State Park Lake (Gum Creek Swamp) (1) Oliver Lake (1,37) Reed Bingham Lake (1)
Sand Hill Lake (previously known as Treutlen
County PFA) (1)
Sinclair Lake (1,3) West Point Lake (1)

Tugaloo Arm/Main Body, Hartwell
(Hart/Franklin Counties) Newton, Butts and Jasper
Counties Newton, Butts and Jasper
Counties Telfair and Wheeler Counties
Near Columbus (Muscogee County) Reed Bingham State Park (Colquitt/Cook Counties)
Treutlen County
Putnam, Baldwin, and Hancock Counties
Troup and Heard Counties

Savannah
Ocmulgee Ocmulgee Ocmulgee Chattahoochee Suwannee Altamaha
Oconee Chattahoochee

SUPPORT CATEGORY Partial Support Partial Support Not Support Partial Support Partial Support
Partial Support Partial Support
Not Support
Partial Support Partial Support Partial Support Partial Support Partial Support Partial Support
Partial Support Partial Support

WATER USE CLASSIFICATION
Fishing Fishing Drinking Water/Recreation Fishing Drinking Water
Drinking Water/Recreation Recreation/Drinking
Water Recreation
Recreation Recreation
Fishing Drinking Water/Recreation Fishing Fishing
Recreation Recreation

CRITERION VIOLATED
FC FCG(DDE/DDD)
Chlorophyll a
TWR TWR
FCG(PCBs) FCG(PCBs) FCG(PCBs)

POTENTIAL CAUSE(S)
UR UR,NP NP,UR

ACRES AFFECTED
194 20 950

305(b)
X X X

303(d) Priority

3

3

3

3

3

3

NP

2900

X

3

3

NP

650

X

3

3

NP

941

X

3

3

NP

5,851

X

3

3

I2

55,950

X

3

3

FCG(PCBs) FCG(PCBs),FC
TWR FCG(PCBs)
TWR TWR

UR,NP UR,NP
NP NP NP NP

4,102 650 224 2,150 179 166

X

3

3

X

3,3

3

X

3

3

X

3

3

X

X

3

X

3

3

Temp FCG(PCBs)

I1

650

X

3

3

UR,NP

22,911

X

3

3

A-134

2002-2003 ESTUARINE WATERS NOT FULLY SUPPORTING DESIGNATED USES

ESTUARY NAME (Data Source)

LOCATION

BASIN

Back River (1,9)

One mile above confluence with Terry Creek to Torras Causeway, Brunswick
(Glynn Co.)

Satilla

Gibson Creek (1,5)

Brunswick (Glynn Co.)

Satilla

Purvis Creek (1,5)

Brunswick (Glynn Co.)

Satilla

Savannah Harbor (1,45)

SR25 (Old US Hwy 17) to Elba Island Cut
(Chatham Co.)

Savannah

St. Simons Sound (1,5)

Brunswick (Glynn Co.)

Satilla

Terry and Dupree Creeks (1,3,5,9)

Terry & Dupree Creeks North of Torras Causeway to confluence with Back River, Brunswick
(Glynn Co.)

Satilla

Terry Creek (1)

South of Torras Causeway to Lanier Basin,
Brunswick
(Glynn Co.)

Satilla

Turtle River System (1,5)

Brunswick: Turtle River, Buffalo River, and South Brunswick River (Glynn Co.)

Satilla

WATER USE
CLASSIFICATI ON
Fishing
Fishing Fishing Coastal Fishing
Fishing Fishing
Fishing
Fishing

USE SUPPORT CATEGORY
N
N N P
N N
N
N

CRITERION VIOLATED
SB,FCG(toxaphene-like chlorinated camphenes)
PCBs,Hg,SB, FCG(PCBs,Hg) Hg,Cd,PCBs, CFB,SB,FCG(PCBs,Hg)
FC,DO
DO SB,FCG(toxaphene-like chlorinated camphenes)
SB,FCG(PCBs)
[SB,FCG(PCBs,Hg)],DO

POTENTIAL CAUSE(S)

SQUARE MILES
AFFECTED

305(b)

303(d)

Priority

I1,I2

1

X

X

3

I2

1

I1,I2

1

UR,M,I1

4

I1,M,UR,NP

66

I1,I2

1

X

3

2

X

3

2

X

3,X

3,2

X

3

2

X

3

3

I1,I2

1

X

3

3

I1,M

18

X

3,3

2

A-135

APPENDIX B WATERS ADDED TO THE GEORGIA 303(d) LIST
BY THE USEPA
B-1

WATERSHED IDENTIFICATION

WATER

LOCATION

ALTAMAHA RIVER BASIN

3070103200

Tobesofkee Creek

Monroe, Bibb, and Lamar

3070101240

Little River

Morgan and Putnam

3070101070

Lower Middle Oconee River

Barrow, Clarke, and Jackson

3070101060

Middle Mulberry River

Barrow and Jackson

3070101050

Upper Mulberry River

Hull, Barrow, and Jackson

3070101020

Walnut Creek

Hall and Jackson

3070101010

North Oconee River

Hall and Jackson

CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER BASIN

3130006020

Spring Creek

Macon

3130005180 3130001050

Red Oak Creek White Creek

Meriwether White 4

3130001020

Hazel Creek

Habersham

COOSA RIVER BASIN

3150108190

Lower Little Tallapoosa River

Carroll

3150108180 3150104170

Little Tallapoosa River Dykes and Conaseena Creeks

Carroll Bartow and Floyd 2

3150104150

Euharlee Creek

Polk and Bartow

POLLUTANT(S)

PRIORITY

Biota 1, Habitat 7

3

Habitat 7

3

7

3

Habitat 7

3

Habitat/Sediment 7

3

Habitat 7

3

Habitat 7

3

Biota 1, Habitat7

3

Habitat7

3

Biota 1, Habitat/Sediment7 3

Biota 1, Habitat/Sediment7 3

Habitat/Sediment7 Biota 1, Habitat7 Habitat/Sediment7 Biota1, 7

3 3 3 3
B-2

WATERSHED IDENTIFICATION
3150104030

WATER

LOCATION

Settingdown and Bannister Creeks Dawson and Forsyth 2

3150103020

Oothklooga Creek

Gordon and Bartow

3150102060

Pinelog Creek

Bartow and Gordon

3150102050

Sallacoa Creek

Pickens and Gordon

FLINT RIVER BASIN

3130009030

Upper Chickasawhatchee Creek Terrell County

OCHLOCKONEE RIVER BASIN

3120002070

Tired Creek

Grady

3060203070

Bull and Cedar Creeks

OGEECHEE RIVER BASIN
Evans and Tattnall 6

3060203050

Lotts Creek

Bulloch

3060203020

Fifteen Mile Creek

Emanuel and Candler

3060202080

Black Creek

Bulloch

SAVANNAH RIVER BASIN

3060104080 3060104070

South Fork Broad River South Creek/Biger Creek

Madison and Oglethorpe Madison 2

3060104060

Broad River

Madison

3060104030

Middle Fork Broad River

Franklin, Habersham, and Stephens

POLLUTANT(S)

PRIORITY

Biota 1,7, Habitat7

3

Biota 1, 7, Habitat/Sediment7 3

Sediment7

3

Biota 1, 7, Habitat7

3

Biota1,7, Habitat1,7

3

Biota 1, 7

3

Biota 1, Habitat

3

3

3

Biota 1, Habitat

3

Biota 1, 7 Biota 1, Sediment Biota 1, Habitat Habitat 7

3 3 3 3
B-3

WATERSHED IDENTIFICATION

WATER

3060104020

Lower North Fork Broad River

3060104010

North Fork Broad River

3060102140

Lake Hartwell Tributaries

3060102110

Crawford Creek Little Crawford Creek Little Shoal Creek Shoal Creek 2
Toccoa Creek
Scott Creek

Saddle Gap Creek

Chechero Creek

She Creek Stekoa Creek

Pool Creek Warwoman Creek (upper)

LOCATION

POLLUTANT(S)

Franklin Franklin and Stephens Franklin and Hart
Stephens Rabun County - entire length of 3.5 miles Rabun County - entire length of 2.0 miles Rabun County - entire length of 1.5 miles Rabun County from upstream of Clayton, Georgia area to Chattooga River (Rabun County) - entire length of 13 miles Rabun County - entire length of 1.6 miles from source to Black Diamond Road (Rabun County) - 3.5 miles

Biota 1, Habitat Habitat 7
Biota 1 Biota 1, Habitat Biota 1, 7, Habitat 7 Habitat Biota 1, 7
Fecal coliform, Biota, Sediment 7
Fecal coliform, Biota, Sediment 7
Fecal coliform, Biota, Sediment 7
Fecal coliform, Biota Biota 7 Sediment 7
Sediment 7
Sediment 7

PRIORITY 3 3 3
3 3 3 3 3 3
3 3
B-4

WATERSHED IDENTIFICATION

WATER

Roach Mill Creek

Law Ground Creek

LOCATION

POLLUTANT(S)

PRIORITY

Rabun County - entire length of 1.5 miles
Rabun County - entire length of 2.3 miles

Biological community and 3 habitat impairment

Sediment 7

3

1 A designated "Biota" pollutant reflects that the biological community is impacted and further monitoring studies are needed to determine factor(s) that cause the impairment.
2 The name of the waterbody has been revised since EPA's December 1996 addition to Georgia's 303(d) list.
3 This water segment was dry at the time of the July - August 1996 investigation. No existing water quality-related data or information was available
in order to determine the actual status of the water with respect to compliance with applicable water quality standards. No pollutant(s) of concern could be identified at the time of the December 1996 listing. Additional data regarding water quality was gathered in March - April 1997 when water was present in each of these segments. Analyses of the data is pending.
4 The watershed identification has been revised since EPA's December 1996 addition to Georgia's 303(d) list.
5 Water was not wadeable at the time of the July - August 1996 investigation and water quality data collection was not done at that time. Data collection is planned for the summer of 1998.
6 Bull Creek was dry at the time of the July - August 1996 investigation. Additional data regarding water quality was gathered in March - April 1997
when water was present in the segment. Analyses of the data is pending. Cedar Creek has identified pollutants of Biota and Habitat.
7 TMDL has been established, but water/pollutant remain on list until it is confirmed that water quality standards have been attained.

B-5

APPENDIX C FISH CONSUMPTION GUIDELINES (Reproduction of Guidelines for Eating Fish
from Georgia Waters - 2003)
Image Credits:
Covers: Duane Raver Art Collection, courtesy of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Rainbow Trout on Front Cover and Spotted Seatrout on Back Cover (deleted). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Line Drawings by Robert Shallenberger: Snowy Egret; Fisherman ; Sunfish ; Raccoon(s) ; Yellow Bullhead. Diagram of Fish Fat Areas: Redrawn by Georgia EPD from other sources USEPA Watershed Clip Art (turtle and leaping fish).
C-1

APPENDIX C Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters - 2003 Update
(This Appendix is a Partial Reproduction of Guidelines For Eating Fish From Georgia Waters - 2003 Update; Some of the graphics, a River Basins of Georgia map, and the index were removed from this reproduction.)
Introduction

Fishing is a popular pastime in Georgia. Whether you go alone to relax and enjoy nature, with your friends to enjoy camaraderie and "fish tales" or with your family to pass on a sport you learned as a child, fishing is a fun and rewarding sport enjoyed by many people.
Not only does fishing give people an excuse to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, but it can also put a healthy, satisfying meal on the table. Fish are low in saturated fat, high in protein, and can have substantial health benefits when eaten in place of other high-fat foods. The quality of sport fish caught in Georgia is very good; however, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), mercury, chlordane, DDT residues (DDT/DDE/DDD), toxaphene (and related compounds), and dieldrin have been found in some fish. In most cases, the levels of these chemicals are low. However, to help ensure the good health of Georgians, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has developed guidelines for how often certain species of fish can be safely eaten. These guidelines are based on the best scientific information and procedures available. As more advanced procedures are developed, these guidelines may change.
It is important to keep in mind that the consumption recommendations are based on health-risk calculations for someone eating fish with similar contamination over a period of 30 years or more.
These guidelines are not intended to discourage people from eating fish, but should be used as a guide for choosing which type (species) and size of fish to eat from Georgia waters.
The guidelines are non-binding recommendations EPD determines based on the body of water a fish comes from, the species of fish and the amount of fish a person consumes. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide detailed information in an understandable format for people who eat fish. Waters listed in the fish consumption guidelines are not necessarily assessed as impaired using USEPA guidelines for Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act.
The river basin where tested sites are located has been identified in the tables. The fourteen major river basins in Georgia are shown on the map provided, preceding the consumption guidance tables. The listings for lakes have been divided into those with a surface area of 500 acres or more, and small lakes and ponds less than 500 acres in size. The Georgia rivers have also been divided into freshwater rivers and creeks, and estuarine systems. An index is provided at the back of the booklet for quick page reference to lake, river and estuarine locations that have been tested.

Are Georgia's Fish Safe to Eat?
Yes. The quality of fish in Georgia is good. Fish and seafood are nutritious and can play a role in maintaining a healthy well-balanced diet. This booklet provides you with the guidance and recommendations to use in eating fish in a healthy and informed manner. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has one of the most progressive fish testing programs in the southeast. A variety of different fish species were tested for 43 separate contaminants, including metals, organic chemicals and pesticides. Many of these contaminants did not appear in any fish. However, two contaminants, PCBs and mercury, were frequently detected in significant amounts in a few species from some bodies of water in Georgia. Four additional

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-2

contaminants, chlordane, DDT residues (DDT/DDE/DDD), toxaphene-like compounds, and dieldrin were also detected infrequently. This publication provides you with information on those six contaminants: PCBs, mercury, chlordane, DDT/DDE/DDD, toxaphene and dieldrin.
In some areas, fish are contaminated with low concentrations of PCBs, which stands for polychlorinated biphenyls. It is now illegal to manufacture PCBs; however, in the past, these synthetic oils were used regularly as fluids for electrical transformers, cutting oils, and carbonless paper. Although they were banned in 1976, they do not break down easily and remain in aquatic sediments for years. Over time levels of PCBs are decreasing.
Mercury is a naturally occurring metal that does not break down as it cycles between land, water, and air. As mercury cycles through the environment it is absorbed and ingested by plants and animals. Nearly all of the mercury found in fish flesh is an organic form, called methylmercury. Most of the mercury absorbed or ingested will be returned to the environment but some will remain in the plant and animal tissues. It is not known where the mercury in Georgia's fish originated. Mercury may be present in fish because of the mercury content of soils and rocks in the southeast, from municipal and industrial sources, or from fossil fuel use. Scientific evidence is growing that mercury is transported long distances through the upper atmosphere, making its control a global environmental issue. Although mercury has always been present, scientific research shows that the amount of mercury cycling through the environment has increased significantly following the dawn of the Industrial Revolution in the late 1800s.
Chlordane is a man-made pesticide used in the U.S. from the late 1940s to the early 1980s. Historically, chlordane was used as an agricultural pesticide, but in 1978 it was restricted to termite control use only. It is now banned for all uses. Chlordane is persistent in the environment and may remain in aquatic sediments for years.
Fish at only one site (Albany By-Pass Pond), had enough DDE/DDD residues to recommend a restriction in consumption. The DDE/DDD contaminants are chemical breakdown products of the pesticide DDT. DDT was first synthesized in 1874 and its insecticidal properties were discovered in 1939. In the United States DDT was used extensively until 1969. The U.S. production of DDT was discontinued in 1969. Residues of DDE/DDD are persistent and break down slowly in the environment.
Fish at only one site (Casey Canal), had enough dieldrin to recommend a restriction in consumption. Dieldrin is another chlorinated pesticide like chlordane and DDT, and has been restricted from use in the United States. It was used to control corn and citrus pests, termites, and in moth proofing. Dieldrin is persistent in the environment because of the slow breakdown rate.
Toxaphene was a chlorinated camphene pesticide used extensively on cotton. In 1982 registration for all uses were cancelled, and a ban on all uses went into effect in 1990. One estuarine area (Terry and Dupree Creeks, and the Back River), adjacent to a site where toxaphene was once manufactured has remaining residues of toxaphene-like compounds present in some fish. Toxaphene is also persistent in the environment.
Like PCBs, the chlorinated pesticides do not break down easily and remain in aquatic sediments for years. These organic contaminants tend to concentrate in fat and fatty tissues of fish such as the liver and other organs. Over time levels of PCBs and chlorinated pesticides are decreasing. Some fish in the Savannah River below Augusta contain the radioactive elements cesium-137 and strontium-90. Exposure to large amounts of these elements may increase the risk of developing cancer.

How Do Georgia's Fish Compare?

Georgia has one of the most extensive fish monitoring programs in the southeast. This is not because Georgia has highly contaminated fish, but because the DNR has made a serious commitment to evaluate fish quality and provide detailed information to the people of Georgia. Review and comparison of data collected nationally on fish tissue contamination that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has assembled shows the quality of fish in Georgia is similar to that in surrounding southeastern states.

C-3

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

How Do Fish Become Contaminated?
Contaminants get into water as a result of storm water runoff, industrial and municipal discharges, agricultural practices, nonpoint source pollution and other factors. When it rains, chemicals from the land and in the air are washed into the water.
Contaminants are carried downstream by rivers and creeks into lakes, reservoirs, and estuaries. Contaminants can get into fish in a variety of ways. Fish absorb PCBs, chlordane and other pesticides from either water, suspended sediments, or their food. These chemicals concentrate in the fat of fish tissue and in fatty fish such as carp and catfish. Cleaning and cooking a fish to remove fat will lower the amount of PCBs, chlordane or other pesticides in a fish meal. Larger, older fish and fish which eat other fish may accumulate more contaminants than smaller, younger fish. Contaminants are not usually detected in panfish such as crappie and bluegill.
Once in the water, mercury is converted to methylmercury by bacteria and other processes. Fish absorb methylmercury from their food and from water as it passes over their gills. Mercury is bound to proteins in fish tissue, including muscle.
What is Being Done?
The DNR is committed to protecting Georgia's rivers, streams, lakes and other waters. Both PCBs and chlordane have been banned and the levels of these chemicals are steadily decreasing over time.
The Department began this progressive program to evaluate problem areas and to protect public health by giving people the information they need to make decisions about eating fish from different waters. Although the DNR has evaluated fish tissue since the 1970's, the program was significantly expanded in the 1990's to support development of riskbased consumption guidelines. Testing on additional lakes and rivers is balanced with retesting of waters where changes may be occurring. Contaminant levels in fish change very slowly and sampling the same species of fish from the same locations over time will allow the DNR to document changes and trends in contamination levels.
Georgia has more than 70,150 miles of rivers and streams and more than 425,382 acres of lakes, reservoirs and ponds. It will not be possible for the DNR to sample every stream and lake in the state. However, high priority has been placed on the 26 major reservoirs that make up more than 90% of the total lake acreage. Waterways listed in this guide will continue to be sampled as part of a five year rotating schedule of river basin planning and monitoring to track any trends in fish contaminant levels. The Department has also made sampling fish in rivers and streams downstream of urban and/or industrial areas a high priority. The DNR also focuses attention on areas which are frequented by a large number of anglers.
Most lakes and rivers contain a wide variety of fish and selecting which species of fish to test is important. The DNR samples fish that are top predators (high in the food chain) and fish that feed on the bottom. For this reason, largemouth bass and channel catfish are usually the primary species tested. Hybrid bass are also tested in areas with good fisheries for this species. Smaller fish, such as crappie, bluegill and redbreast sunfish, are tested in secondary studies after testing the larger target fish. This is because smaller fish accumulate contaminants more slowly and in smaller amounts than larger fish and bottom feeders.
To prevent future contamination, the Department seeks to identify pollution sources and to work with industries, cities, farms and others to reduce the threat posed by pollutants. In many cases this means implementing new technologies or practices that eliminate the use or creation of contaminants and thus the need to dispose of or discharge these chemicals. State laws have tough Restrictions and penalties for discharge of toxic substances. The DNR is responsible for enforcing these laws in Georgia and for ensuring compliance with these regulations.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-4

Individuals can play a role in preventing contamination of Georgia's waters by recycling and disposing of chemicals, such as oil, antifreeze, paint, and other wastes properly. Manufacturers are working to reduce the use of mercury in their products, but it is still found in common household products such as thermostats, electrical switches, thermometers, some batteries, and fluorescent and mercury vapor lamps. To protect Georgia's waterways from contamination, individuals, industries, farmers and others must learn to modify their day-to-day activities and work practices to apply new ways to prevent pollution. The DNR will continue to work closely with these groups to improve water quality in Georgia. Planning, regulations, facilities modernization, public education and other activities will play a major role in protecting Georgia's waters for future generations.
Benefits of Eating Fish
Fish has long been recognized as a nutritious "protein food". It's nutritional value as a protein source is greater than that for beef, pork, chicken or milk. Additionally, the types and amounts of dietary fats are generally more "heart healthy" than the fats found in other protein foods. Fish is also an important source of the fatty acids which are critical for the development of the brain and nervous system. Fish is an excellent source of several vitamins, and also contributes appreciable amounts of dietary calcium, iron and zinc. These minerals are essential nutrients that tend to be low in people's diets. Many studies suggest that eating fish regularly may help protect against heart and inflammatory diseases. These guidelines are based on a range in fish meal size from 4 to 8 ounces (1/4 to 1/2 pound). Where the guidelines recommend only 1 meal per week or month, you may prefer to have two smaller meals over that period.
Risks of Contaminated Fish
These guidelines were designed to protect you from experiencing health problems associated with eating contaminated fish. PCBs, methylmercury, chlordane, DDT/DDE/DDD, toxaphene and dieldrin build up in your body over time. It may take months or years of regularly eating contaminated fish to accumulate levels which would affect your health. Keep in mind that these guidelines are based on eating fish with similar contamination over a period of 30 years or more. Current statistics indicate that cancer will affect about one in every four people nationally, primarily due to smoking, diet and hereditary risk factors. If you follow Georgia's consumption guidelines, the contaminants in the fish you eat may not increase your cancer risk at all. At worst, using the USEPA estimates of contaminant potency, your cancer risk from fish consumption should be less than 1 in 10,000.
PCBs, chlordane, DDT/DDD/DDE, toxaphene and dieldrin can cause cancer in laboratory animals exposed to large amounts, and may cause cancer in humans. Effects other than cancer from these chemicals may include developmental problems in children whose mothers were exposed to them before or during pregnancy. Studies of people who have been exposed to very large quantities of these chemicals (pesticide workers, etc.), have indicated a relationship between high exposures and health effects on the nervous system, digestive system, and the immune system.
Exposure to methylmercury has not been linked to cancer. Methylmercury is a concern because of it's potential to damage the nervous system, especially in the developing fetus and young child.
The consumption advice provided in this booklet is developed in a conservative manner. It is intended to protect both children and adults from cancer and the other potential toxic effects of these chemicals.

C-5

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Special Notice for Pregnant Women, Nursing Mothers and Children
If you are pregnant or a nursing mother, or plan to become pregnant soon, you and children under 6 years of age are sensitive to the effects of contaminants such as mercury. DNR's guidelines are designed to be protective for these sensitive groups. In early 2001 the USEPA issued a national advisory recommending that these sensitive groups limit consumption of all freshwater fish to one meal per week due to mercury. People may wish to follow USEPA's recommendation, especially in areas where DNR has not tested fish and offered detailed guidelines. For most other healthy adults, DNR's recommendations may actually be overly conservative.
Ways to Reduce Risk
Keep smaller fish for eating. Generally, larger, older fish may be more contaminated than younger, smaller fish. You can minimize your health risk by eating smaller fish (within legal size limits) and releasing the larger fish.
Vary the kinds of fish you eat. Contaminants build up in large predators and bottom-feeding fish, like bass and catfish, more rapidly than in other species. By substituting a few meals of panfish, such as bream (e.g. bluegill, redear), and crappie, you can reduce your risk.
Eat smaller meals when you eat big fish and eat them less often. If you catch a big fish, freeze part of the catch (mark container or wrapping with species and location), and space the meals from this fish over a period of time.
Clean and cook your fish properly. How you clean and cook your fish can reduce the level of contaminants by as much as half in some fish. Some chemicals have a tendency to concentrate in the fatty tissues of fish. By removing the fish's skin and trimming fillets according to the following diagram, you can reduce the level of chemicals substantially. Mercury is bound to the meat of the fish, so these precautions will not help reduce this contaminant.
Remove the skin from fillets or steaks. The internal organs (intestines, liver, roe, and so forth), and skin are often high in fat and contaminants.

Trim off the fatty areas shown in black on the drawing. These include the belly fat, side or body fat, and the flesh along the top of the back. Careful trimming can reduce some contaminants by 25 to 50%.
Cook fish so fat drips away. Broil, bake or grill fish and do not use the drippings. Deep-fat frying removes some contaminants, but you should discard and not reuse the oil for cooking. Pan frying removes few, if any, contaminants.

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-6

Using These Guidelines
Check the following pages (or Index), for the area where you fish. The lakes and rivers on the list are arranged in alphabetical order. If your fish or fishing location is NOT in this booklet, follow the suggestions in Ways to Reduce Risk.
The current Georgia Sport Fishing Regulations should be consulted for the legal sizes and creel limits for different species in a water body. Some legal size limit information is provided in the following tables. The regulations also provide detailed information on how to measure fish length or other seafood size measures.
If your fish or fishing location is in the booklet, it does not necessarily mean that there are contaminants present, but only that the fish have been tested. Meal advice will depend on what contaminant(s) were found and how much was found in different species and sizes of fish. Follow these instructions carefully.

Measure fish from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail fin.
On the charts find your lake or river and the species and size of fish you caught. If there is no meal frequency listed for a particular size fish, that size has not been tested or is illegal to keep. For rivers, the size that was tested was the common creel size for that species.
Listed below are the four different recommended meal frequencies that are possible for different species and sizes of fish.
no restriction 1 meal per week 1 meal per month
do not eat
For the purposes of these guidelines, one meal is assumed to range from 1/4 to 1/2 pound of fish (4-8 ounces) for a 150 pound person. Subtract or add 1 ounce of fish to the range for every 20 pounds of body weight. For example, one meal is assumed to be 3 - 7 ounces for a 130 pound person and 5 - 9 ounces for a 170 pound person.

Fish Consumption Guidelines
The tables for public lakes have been separated into two categories based on size. The first set of lakes are those with a surface area of 500 or more acres. The second listing of public lakes includes those having less than 500 acres in surface area. These include Georgia DNR Public Fishing Areas (PFAs) and State Parks with small lakes and ponds, and municipal or other public fishing impoundments.
These guidelines are based on a range in fish meal size from 4 to 8 ounces (1/4 to 1/2 pound). Where the guidelines recommend only 1 meal per week or month, you may prefer to have two smaller meals over that period.

C-7

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

GEORGIA PUBLIC LAKES 500 ACRES OR LARGER

Lake Allatoona Species
Black Crappie Carp
White Bass Largemouth Bass
Spotted Bass Golden Redhorse Channel Catfish
Hybrid Bass

Less than 12" No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
No Restrictions

Coosa River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

1 meal/week 1 meal/week
1 meal/week

Lake Andrews Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish

Less than 12"

Chattahoochee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

Banks Lake Species
Largemouth Bass Bluegill Sunfish

Less than 12" No Restrictions

Suwannee River Basin

12 - 16"

Over 16"

1 meal/month

Big Haynes Reservoir (Black Shoals)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

1 meal/month

1 meal/week

Lake Blackshear

Flint River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12 - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass *

1 meal/week

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

*Only Largemouth Bass 14 inches and longer may be legally retained.

Lake Blue Ridge

Tennessee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions*

1 meal/week

White Bass

1 meal/week

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

* Lake Blue Ridge has no minimum size on Largemouth Bass

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Chemical
Mercury Mercury
Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury
C-8

Lake Burton

Savannah River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions*

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

White Catfish

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

Bluegill Sunfish

No Restrictions

Spotted Bass

1 meal/week

* Lake Burton has no minimum size on Largemouth Bass

Carters Lake Species
Largemouth Bass Spotted Bass
Channel Catfish Walleye

Less than 12" No Restrictions

Coosa River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Lake Chatuge Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Spotted Bass

Less than 12"

Tennessee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

Clarks Hill Lake (J. Strom Thurmond)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Black Crappie

No Restrictions

White Perch

No Restrictions

Redear Sunfish

No Restrictions

Hybrid Bass

Striped Bass

No Restrictions

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

Spotted Sucker

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury
Mercury
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Chemical Mercury

C-9

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Goat Rock Lake Species
Largemouth Bass White Bass Hybrid Bass
Spotted Sucker Black Crappie Channel Catfish

Less than 12"
1 meal/month 1 meal/week
No Restrictions

Chattahoochee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

1 meal/month

Chemical PCBs, Mercury
PCBs PCBs
PCBs

Lake Harding (Bartletts Ferry)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Channel Catfish

1 meal/week

Crappie

No Restrictions

Hybrid Bass

1 meal/week

Chattahoochee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

1 meal/month

No Restrictions

1 meal/month

Chemical PCBs, Mercury
PCBs
PCBs

Lake Hartwell: Tugaloo Arm

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Black Crappie

No Restrictions

Hybrid/Striped Bass

No Restrictions

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

Carp

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

1 meal/week

1 meal/month

No Restrictions

1 meal/month

Do Not Eat

No Restrictions

1 meal/month

1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury
PCBs PCBs Mercury

Lake Hartwell: Main Body, Georgia/South Carolina Listing Savannah River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Chemical

Largemouth Bass

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

PCBs

Hybrid/Striped Bass

Do Not Eat

Do Not Eat

Do Not Eat

PCBs

Channel Catfish

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

PCBs

Information on Main Body ((M) Downlake of Andersonville Island) provided courtesy of the South Carolina DHEC (Ph.: 1888-849-7241) to ensure consistency of guidance.

High Falls Lake Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish Redear Sunfish
Hybrid Bass Black Crappie

Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Chemical

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-10

Jackson Lake Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish Black Crappie Redear Sunfish

Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

Lake Juliette

Ocmulgee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass *

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Redear Sunfish

No Restrictions

Bullhead species

No Restrictions

* Lake Juliette has no minimum size on Largemouth Bass

Lake Sydney Lanier Species

Less than 12"

Chattahoochee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Striped Bass

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

Spotted Bass *

1 meal/week *

Largemouth Bass *

1 meal/week *

1 meal/week

White Catfish

1 meal/week

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

Carp

1 meal/week

Bluegill Sunfish

No Restrictions

Black Crappie

No Restrictions

* Only Largemouth, Spotted and Shoal Bass 14 inches and longer may be legally retained.

Lake Nottely Species
Largemouth Bass Striped Bass
Channel Catfish Black Crappie

Less than 12" No Restrictions

Tennessee River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury
PCBs
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury

C-11

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Lake Oconee

Oconee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

Largemouth Bass *

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Hybrid Bass

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

White Catfish

No Restrictions

Black Crappie

No Restrictions

* Only Largemouth Bass under 11 inches, and 14 inches or longer may be legally retained.

Lake Oliver Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Hybrid Bass Bluegill Sunfish Redear Sunfish

Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chattahoochee River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

Lake Rabun Species
Largemouth Bass White Catfish Bluegill Sunfish

Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Lake Richard B. Russell Species
Largemouth Bass Black Crappie Bluegill Sunfish White Perch Channel Catfish Bullhead

Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Lake Seminole Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Bullhead Spotted Sucker

Chattahoochee/Flint River Basin (Apalachicola)

Less than 12"

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Chemical
Chemical PCBs, Mercury
PCBs
Chemical Mercury Mercury Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-12

Lake Sinclair Species
Largemouth Bass Hybrid Bass Catfish Black Crappie

Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Oconee River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Lake Tobesofkee Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Lake Tugalo Species
Largemouth Bass White Catfish Bluegill Sunfish

Less than 12" No Restrictions Less than 12" No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

No Restrictions

Lake Varner (Cornish Creek Reservoir, Newton County) Ocmulgee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

Lake Walter F. George (Eufaula)

Chattahoochee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

Largemouth Bass *

*

No Restrictions

Hybrid Bass

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Black Crappie

No Restrictions

Spotted Sucker

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

* Only Largemouth Bass 14 inches and longer may be legally retained.

West Point Lake

Chattahoochee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

Largemouth Bass *

1 meal/week

Hybrid Bass

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

Channel Catfish

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

Carp

1 meal/week

Black Crappie

No Restrictions

* Only Largemouth Bass 14 inches and longer may be legally retained.

Chemical
Chemical Mercury Chemical Mercury
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical PCBs, Mercury
PCBs PCBs PCBs

C-13

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Lake Worth (Lake Chehaw; Flint River Reservoir)

Flint River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

Largemouth Bass

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury

GEORGIA PUBLIC LAKES AND PONDS LESS THAN 500 ACRES
These guidelines are based on a range in fish meal size from 4 to 8 ounces (1/4 to 1/2 pound). Where the guidelines recommend only 1 meal per week or month, you may prefer to have two smaller meals over that period.

Lake Acworth Species
Largemouth Bass Bluegill Sunfish

Less than 12" No Restrictions

Coosa River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury

City of Adairsville Pond Species Carp

Less than 12"

Coosa River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

Chemical

Albany By-Pass Pond Species
Largemouth Bass Brown Bullhead

Less than 12"

Flint River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

Chemical DDE/DDD DDE/DDD

Allen Creek Wildlife Management Area, Ponds A and B

Oconee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions

Bluegill Sunfish

No Restrictions

Chemical

Lake Bennett (Marben PFA, Charlie Elliot Wildlife Center) Oconee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass *

1 meal/week*

1 meal/week

*Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.

Chemical Mercury

Big Lazer PFA (Gum Creek Impoundment)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass *

Channel Catfish

*Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.

Flint River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-14

Bowles C. Ford Lake, City of Savannah

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

White Catfish

No Restrictions

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Brasstown Valley Kids Fishing Pond

Species

Less than 12"

Bluegill Sunfish

No Restrictions

Tennessee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Bush Field Airport, Augusta: Unnamed Pond

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions

Bluegill Sunfish

No Restrictions

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

1 meal/week

Clayton County Water Authority: Blalock Reservoir

Ocmulgee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions

Black Crappie

No Restrictions

Clayton County Water Authority: J.W. Smith Reservoir

Flint River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions

Redear Sunfish

No Restrictions

Clayton County Water Authority: Shamrock Reservoir

Ocmulgee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions

Bluegill Sunfish

No Restrictions

Dodge County PFA (Steve Bell Lake)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass *

Channel Catfish

*Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.

Ocmulgee River Basin

12 - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Evans County PFA

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass *

Channel Catfish

*Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.

Ogeechee Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

C-15

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Chemical
Chemical Chemical Mercury Chemical
Chemical Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury

Fort Yargo State Park Lake (Marburg Cr. Watershed Proj.) Oconee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Carp

No Restrictions

Ken Gardens Lake (Albany, Georgia)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

Flint River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

Little Ocmulgee State Park Lake (Gum Creek Swamp))

Ocmulgee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass

1 meal/month

Brown Bullhead

1 meal/week

Lake Mayer (City of Savannah)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Redear Sunfish

No Restrictions

Speckled Bullhead

Ogeechee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

McDuffie PFA (East Watershed Ponds)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass *

Channel Catfish

*Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

McDuffie PFA (West Watershed Ponds)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass *

Channel Catfish

*Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

1 meal/week *

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Nancy Town Lake (Habersham County)

Species

Less than 12"

Bluegill Sunfish

No Restrictions

Largemouth Bass

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury
Chemical

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-16

Lake Olmstead (Richmond County)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Spotted Sucker

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Paradise PFA (Horseshoe 4)

Species

Less than 12"

Channel Catfish

Suwannee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

Paradise PFA (Lake Patrick))

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass *

Brown Bullhead

*Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.

Suwannee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Payton Park Pond, Valdosta

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Bluegill Sunfish

No Restrictions

Suwannee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

Reed Bingham State Park Lake

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

White Catfish

Suwannee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

Lake Rutledge (Hard Labor Creek State Park)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Channel Catfish

No Restrictions

Oconee River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

No Restrictions

No Restrictions

Lake Seed Species
Bluegill Sunfish

Less than 12" No Restrictions

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Shepherd Lake (Marben PFA, Charlie Elliot Wildlife Center) Oconee River Basin

Species

Less than 12"

12" - 16"

Over 16"

Largemouth Bass *

No Restrictions

*Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.

Chemical
Chemical Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury Chemical
Chemical Chemical

C-17

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Stone Mountain Lake Species
Largemouth Bass Catfish

Less than 12" No Restrictions

Treutlen County PFA (Sand Hill Lake)

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

Lake Chubsucker

1 meal/week

Tribble Mill Lake, Gwinnett County

Species

Less than 12"

Largemouth Bass

No Restrictions

Black Crappie

No Restrictions

Bluegill Sunfish

No Restrictions

Yonah Lake Species
Largemouth Bass Catfish (mixed sp.)
Bluegill Sunfish

Less than 12" No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

1 meal/week

No Restrictions

Altamaha River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

1 meal/month

Ocmulgee River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

1 meal/week

Savannah River Basin

12" - 16 "

Over 16 "

1 meal/week

1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury

GEORGIA FRESHWATER RIVERS AND CREEKS
Please note that the consumption guidelines for Georgia rivers are presented in a different format from the lake charts. Due to the flow of rivers, the site tested is important to the consumption guidelines. Consumption guidelines may vary from one stretch of river to another. The fish tested was the common creel size for the location and species. Freshwater rivers and creeks are tabulated first, followed by listings for Georgia tidal estuarine systems. These guidelines are based on a range in fish meal size from 4 to 8 ounces (1/4 to 1/2 pound). Where the guidelines recommend only 1 meal per week or month, you may prefer to have two smaller meals over that period.

Alapaha River (Tifton to Stockton)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S.Hwys. 82 to 84

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Suwannee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury Mercury

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-18

Alapaha River (Near State Line)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Near Statenville

Bullhead

See Above

Alapahoochee River (Near State Line)

Species

Site Tested

Bullhead

Echols County

Alcovy River Species
Spotted Sucker Chain Pickerel

Site Tested Arrowhatchee Farms See Above

Allatoona Creek, Cobb County

Species

Site Tested

Spotted Bass

Ga. Hwy. 176

Alabama Hog Sucker

See Above

Altamaha River, Near Baxley and Near Jesup, Ga.

Species Largemouth Bass

Site Tested U.S. Hwy 1

Channel Catfish

See Above

Flathead Catfish

See Above

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwys 25/84

Channel Catfish

See Above

Flathead Catfish

See Above

Apalachee River Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish

Site Tested Apalachee Beach See Above

Beaver Creek (Tributary to Patsiliga Creek)

Species

Site Tested

Yellow Bullhead

Taylor County

Boen Creek Species
Bluehead Chub

Site Tested Rabun County

Suwannee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/month

Chemical Mercury Mercury

Suwannee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury

Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week 1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury Mercury

Altamaha River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week 1 meal/week 1 meal/week 1 meal/week No Restrictions 1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury
Mercury

Oconee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/month

Chemical Mercury

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Chemical

C-19

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Brasstown Creek Species
Northern Hog Sucker

Site Tested Towns County

Tennessee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Chemical

Brier Creek (Burke County) Species
Largemouth Bass Spotted Sucker

Site Tested Ga. Hwy. 56 See Above

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury Mercury

Broad River Species
Channel Catfish Flathead Catfish

Site Tested Ga. Hwy 17 See Above

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical

Buffalo Creek Species
Bluegill Sunfish

Site Tested Carroll County

Tallapoosa River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions

Chemical

Butternut Creek Species
Hog Sucker

Site Tested Union County

Tennessee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Chemical

Cane Creek (Wimpy's Air Field)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Lumpkin County

Chattahoochee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Chemical

Canoochee River (Hwy 192 to Lotts Cr.)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy. 280

Channel Catfish

See Above

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week 1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury

Canoochee River (Lotts Cr. To Ogeechee River)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Below Canoochee Creek (Taylor Creek)

Channel Catfish

See Above

Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month
1 meal/month

Chemical Mercury
Mercury

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-20

Casey Canal (Tributary to Hayners Cr. / Vernon River)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Eisenhower Dr.

Bluegill Sunfish

See Above

Striped Mullet

See Above

Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions No Restrictions 1 meal/week

Chattahoochee River (Near Helen, and Above Lake Lanier)

Species

Site Tested

Redeye Bass

Ga. Hwy 75, Helen

Snail Bullhead

See Above

Golden Redhorse

See Above

Largemouth Bass

Belton Bridge Road

Channel Catfish

See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin
Recommendation 1 meal/week 1 meal/week 1 meal/week 1 meal/month No Restrictions

Chattahoochee River (Buford Dam to Morgan Falls Dam)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Multiple, Dam to Dam

Carp

See Above

Brown Trout

See Above

Rainbow Trout

See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin
Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chattahoochee River (Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Creek)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Below Morgan Falls

Carp

See Above

Brown Trout

See Above

Jumprock Sucker

See Above

Chattahoochee River (Peachtree Creek to Franklin, Ga.)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Multiple Sites

Spotted Bass

See Above

Carp

See Above

Channel Catfish

See Above

Striped Bass

See Above

White Sucker

See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin
Recommendation No Restrictions 1 meal/month No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chattahoochee River Basin
Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions 1 meal/month No Restrictions

Chemical Dieldrin
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical PCBs
Chemical Mercury
PCBs

C-21

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Chattahoochee River (West Point Dam to Interstate 85)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Below Dam

Spotted Bass

See Above

Flat Bullhead Catfish

See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin
Recommendation No Restrictions 1 meal/week No Restrictions

Chattahoochee River

Chattahoochee River Basin

(Oliver Dam to Oswichee Creek, Chattahoochee County)

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Largemouth Bass

Below Eagle Phoenix Dam No Restrictions

Channel Catfish

See Above

1 meal/week

Chattahoochee River

Chattahoochee River Basin

(Chattahoochee County to Stewart County; Oswichee Creek to Omaha, Ga.)

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Largemouth Bass

Oswichee Creek

No Restrictions

Spotted Sucker

See Above

No Restrictions

Crappie

See Above

No Restrictions

Channel Catfish

See Above

No Restrictions

Chattahoochee River (Early County)

Chattahoochee River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Hybrid Bass

Downstream of Plant Farley No Restrictions

Chattanooga Creek Species
Bluegill Sunfish Northern Hog Sucker

Site Tested Ga. Hwy 193 See Above

Tennessee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chattooga River (Northeast Georgia, Rabun County)

Species

Site Tested

Northern Hog Sucker

Hwy. 24

Silver Redhorse

Above Lake Tugalo

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week 1 meal/week

Chattooga River (Northwest Georgia)

Species

Site Tested

Bluegill Sunfish

Chattoogaville

Black Crappie

See Above

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury
Chemical PCBs
Chemical
Chemical Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-22

Chickamauga Creek (East and South)

Species

Site Tested

Rock Bass

Ga. Hwy 2

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Tennessee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chickamauga Creek (West) Species Spotted Bass Redbreast Sunfish

Site Tested Ga. Hwy 2 See Above

Tennessee River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions

Chickasawhatchee Creek, WMA near Elmodel, Ga.

Species

Site Tested

Spotted Sucker

Wildlife Mgm't Area

Flint River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions

Coleman River, Near Mouth, Rabun County

Species

Site Tested

Rainbow Trout

Near Tate City Rd.

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Conasauga River: Headwaters in Cohutta Nat'l Forest

Species

Site Tested

Rainbow Trout

Upstream Rough Cr.

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Conasauga River: State Line - Hwy 286; Hwy 286 - Calhoun Coosa River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Spotted Bass

Ga. Hwy. 2

1 meal/week

Smallmouth Buffalo

See Above

1 meal/month

White Bass

Old Tilton Bridge

1 meal/month

Smallmouth Buffalo

See Above

1 meal/month

Coosa River (River Mile Zero to Hwy 100)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

River Mile 2, Rome

Spotted Bass

See Above

Striped Bass

See Above

Blue Catfish

See Above

Smallmouth Buffalo

See Above

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week 1 meal/month 1 meal/month Do Not Eat

Chemical
Chemical Mercury
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs PCBs, Mercury
Chemical PCBs PCBs, Mercury PCBs PCBs PCBs

C-23

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Coosa River (Hwy 100 to Stateline)

Species

Site Tested

Smallmouth Buffalo

Below Hwy 100 and at Brushy Branch

Largemouth Bass

See Above

Striped Bass

See Above

Spotted Bass

See Above

Channel Catfish

See Above

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month
1 meal/week 1 meal/month No Restrictions 1 meal/month

Daniels Creek (Dade County)

Tennessee River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Bluegill Sunfish

Cloudland Canyon State Park No Restrictions

Dukes Creek (Near Helen) Species
Rainbow Trout Brown Trout

Site Tested Near Ga.Hwy. 75 See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Etowah River (Dawson County)

Species

Site Tested

Blacktail Redhorse

Kelly Bridge Road

Coosa River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week

Etowah River (Above Lake Allatoona, Cherokee County)

Species

Site Tested

Spotted Bass

York Street

Golden Redhorse

See Above

Coosa River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions

Etowah River (Below Lake Allatoona, Bartow/Floyd Co.s)

Species

Site Tested

Channel Catfish

U.S. Hwy. 411

Largemouth Bass

See Above

Striped Bass

See Above

Spotted Bass

See Above

Bluegill Sunfish

See Above

Smallmouth Buffalo

See Above

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions 1 meal/week No Restrictions 1 meal/week No Restrictions 1 meal/month

Flint River (Spalding/Fayette Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwy. 92

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions

PCBs

Chemical

PCBs PCBs

PCBs

Chemical

Chemical

Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury
Chemical Mercury

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-24

Flint River (Meriwether/Pike/Upson Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Shoal Bass

Ga. Hwy. 18

Channel Catfish

See Above

Flathead Catfish

See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions No Restrictions

Flint River (Taylor County) Species Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish Shoal Bass

Site Tested U.S. Hwy. 80 See Above See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions No Restrictions

Flint River (Above Lake Blackshear, Macon/Dooly Co.s)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Oglethorpe, Ga. Hwy 49

Channel Catfish

See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions

Flint River (Below Lake Blackshear, Worth/Lee Co.s)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

No. Albany, Ga. Hwy 32

Channel Catfish

See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions

Flint River (Dougherty/Baker/Mitchell Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Below Albany & Merck

Sucker

See Above

Flathead Catfish

See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Goldmine Branch (Tributary to Warwoman Cr.)

Species

Site Tested

Brook Trout

Rabun County

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Gum Creek Species
Largemouth Bass Carp

Site Tested Crisp County See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restriction

Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury

C-25

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Ichawaynochaway Creek Species
Largemouth Bass Spotted Sucker

Site Tested Cordays Millpond See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restriction

Jacks River (Fannin County)

Species

Site Tested

Brown Trout

Watson Gap

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Jones Creek (U.S. Forest Service Rd. 28-1)

Species

Site Tested

Brown Trout

Lumpkin County

Kinchafoonee Creek (Sumter/Lee Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwys 49 to 118

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions
Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week 1 meal/week

Little Dry Creek (Floyd County)

Species

Site Tested

Bluegill Sunfish

Near Rome

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Little River (Above & Below Rocky Cr., Wilkes Co.)

Savannah River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Largemouth Bass

Above & Below Rocky Creek 1 meal/week

Silver Redhorse

See Above

No Restrictions

Spotted Sucker

See Above

No Restrictions

Little River (West of Valdosta, Lowndes County)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Above Ga. Hwy 133

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Little Tallapoosa River Species
Largemouth Bass Black Crappie Brown Bullhead

Site Tested U.S. Hwy. 27 See Above See Above

Suwannee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week No Restrictions
Tallapoosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-26

Little Tennessee River (Rabun County)

Tennessee River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Chemical

Mixed Bass/Sunfish

Above John Kelly Rd.

No Restrictions

Mixed Sucker Spp.

See Above

No Restrictions

Mixed Bass/Sunfish Species: Rock Bass, Redbreast and Green Sunfish Mixed Sucker Species: Black Redhorse, Striped Jumprock and Northern Hog Sucker

Middle Oconee River (Above & Below Athens)

Species

Site Tested

Redbreast Sunfish

U.S. Hwy 29, (Above)

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Silver Redhorse

Below Barber Creek

Oconee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical

Mill Creek (Whitfield County)

Species

Site Tested

Spotted Sucker

Near Dalton

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical

Moccasin Creek (Lake Burton Hatchery)

Species

Site Tested

Rainbow Trout

DNR Hatchery

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Chemical

Muckalee Creek (Sumter/Lee Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

McLittle Bridge Rd. To Ga. Hwy 118

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week
1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury
Mercury

Mud Creek, Near Powder Springs, Cobb County

Species

Site Tested

Alabama Hog Sucker

Ga. Hwy 360

Bluegill Sunfish

See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical

Nickajack Creek, Cobb County

Species

Site Tested

Alabama Hog Sucker

Cooper Lake Road

Bluegill Sunfish

See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical

C-27

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Noonday Creek Species
Alabama Hog Sucker Redbreast Sunfish

Site Tested Cobb County See Above

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

North Oconee River (Above and Below Athens, Clarke Co.) Oconee River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Redbreast Sunfish

Newton Bridge Road

No Restrictions

Redbreast Sunfish

Whitehall Rd. (Below)

No Restrictions

Flat Bullhead

See Above

No Restrictions

Ochlockonee River (Moultrie to Thomasville)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Above Thomasville

White Catfish

See Above

Ochlockonee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week

Ochlockonee River (Thomasville to State Line)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwy. 93

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Ochlockonee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River (Butts/Monroe Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Below Lloyd Shoals Dam, Lake Jackson

Brown Bullhead

See Above

Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions
No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River (Bibb County)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

6 Miles Downstream of Tobesofkee Creek

Flathead Catfish

See Above

Channel Catfish

See Above

Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week
1 meal/month No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River (Houston/Twiggs Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Channel Catfish

Ga. Hwy. 96

Flathead Catfish

See Above

Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical
Chemical Mercury PCBs, Mercury
Chemical

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-28

Ocmulgee River (Pulaski County)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Hawkinsville

Channel Catfish

See Above

Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River (Wilcox/Telfair Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy 280

Flathead Catfish

See Above

Channel Catfish

See Above

Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week 1 meal/week No Restrictions

Ocmulgee River (Telfair/Wheeler Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy 341

Flathead Catfish

See Above

Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week 1 meal/week

Oconee River (Clarke and Oconee Counties)

Oconee River Basin

Confluence of North and Middle Oconee to Barnett Shoals Dam

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Largemouth Bass

Above Barnett Shoals

1 meal/week

Silver Redhorse

See Above

1 meal/week

Oconee River (Oconee and GreeneCounties)

Barnett Shoals Dam to Lake Oconee

Species

Site Tested

Silver Redhorse

Ga. Hwy. 15

Channel Catfish

See Above

Common Carp

See Above

Oconee River Basin
Recommendation No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Oconee River (Baldwin/Wilkinson Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Flathead Catfish

Milledgeville to Dublin

Largemouth Bass

See Above

Channel Catfish

See Above

Oconee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Oconee River (Laurens County)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

I-16

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Channel Catfish

See Above

Oconee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical

C-29

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Ogeechee River (Washington County; near Davisboro)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwy 88

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Ogeechee River (Jefferson County; Louisville)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy 1

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Ogeechee River (Burke County; Midville)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwy. 56

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Ogeechee River (Jenkins County; Millen)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy 25

Snail Bullhead

See Above

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Ogeechee River (Bulloch County; near Statesboro)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy 301

Channel Catfish

See Above

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Snail Bullhead

See Above

Spotted Sucker

Ga. Hwy. 24 (so. bridge)

Ogeechee River (Bryan County; near Ellabelle)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwy 204

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Channel Catfish

See Above

Ogeechee River (Near Ft. McAllister)

Species

Site Tested

Mullet

Fort McAllister

Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week
Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week
Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week 1 meal/week 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-30

Ohoopee River (Near Oak Park, Ga.)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

I-16

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Altamaha River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week

Ohoopee River (Near Reidsville, Ga., Tattnall Co.)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwys 280 to 56

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Okefenokee Swamp (Stephen Foster State Park)

Species

Site Tested

Bowfin

Billy's "Lake"

Flier (sunfish)

See Above

Altamaha River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Suwannee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week

Olley Creek, Near Austell, Cobb County

Species

Site Tested

Large Scale Stoneroller

Clay Road

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Oostanaula River (Floyd/Gordon Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Smallmouth Buffalo

Ga. Hwy 156, Calhoun

Bluegill Sunfish

See Above

Spotted Bass

Ga. Hwy 140

Bluegill Sunfish

See Above

Largemouth Bass

See Above

Striped Bass

See Above

Smallmouth Buffalo

See Above

Channel Catfish

See Above

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week No Restrictions 1 meal/week No Restrictions 1 meal/week 1 meal/month No Restrictions 1 meal/week

Patsiliga Creek (Upstream of Beaver Creek, Taylor Co.)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass Spotted Sucker

From McCants Millpond to Ga. Hwy 208

Chain Pickerel

See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions No Restrictions 1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical
Chemical PCBs, Mercury Mercury PCBs PCBs PCBs
Chemical
Mercury

C-31

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Patsiliga Creek (Downstream of Beaver Creek)

Flint River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Bass Spp. *

Taylor County

1 meal/month

Sucker Spp. *

See Above

1 meal/week

*Bass: Largemouth & Shoal; Suckers: Grayfin Redhorse, Spotted & Greater Jumprock

Pipe Makers Canal (Near Savannah, Georgia)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Chatham County

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week

Ponder Branch (Walker County, Villanow)

Species

Site Tested

Redeye Bass

Ga. Hwy 136

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Proctor Creek, Near Acworth, Cobb County

Species

Site Tested

Green Sunfish

Ga. Hwy 293, Old US 41

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Satilla River (Near Waycross, Ware/Brantley Co.s)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy 84

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Channel Catfish

U.S. Hwy 301

Satilla River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week 1 meal/week

Satilla River (Folkston, Burnt Fort, Charlton/Camden Co.s) Satilla River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwy. 252

1 meal/month

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

1 meal/month

Savannah River (Columbia County)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Above New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week
1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-32

Savannah River (Richmond/Burke Counties)

Savannah River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Chemical

Largemouth Bass

Downstream of New

1 meal/week

Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam

Mercury

Sucker

See Above

No Restrictions

Specific fish consumption guidelines have not been issued for the radionuclides cesium-137 and strontium-90, in the Savannah River (Burke & Screven Counties), adjacent to the Savannah River Site (SRS). The guidelines based on mercury were evaluated and deemed to be protective.

Savannah River (Screven County)

Savannah River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Chemical

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy 301

1 meal/week

Mercury

Redear Sunfish

See Above

No Restrictions

Channel Catfish

See Above

No Restrictions

Specific fish consumption guidelines have not been issued for the radionuclides cesium-137 and strontium-90, in the Savannah River (Burke & Screven Counties), adjacent to the Savannah River Site (SRS). The guidelines based on mercury were evaluated and deemed to be protective.

Savannah River (Effingham County)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwy 119

Channel Catfish

See Above

Savannah River (Fort Howard)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Near Rincon

White Catfish

See Above

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Bowfin

See Above

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week No Restrictions 1 meal/month

Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury

Savannah River (Chatham County)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy. 17

Channel Catfish

See Above

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week No Restrictions

Chemical Mercury

Savannah River (Tidal Gate)

Species

Site Tested

Red Drum

Tidal Gate

White Catfish

See Above

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions 1 meal/week

Chemical Mercury

C-33

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Sewell Mill Creek, Cobb County

Species

Site Tested

Alabama Hog Sucker

Ga. Hwy 120

Bluegill Sunfish

See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Short Creek (Warren County)

Species

Site Tested

Sunfish

Warren County

Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week

Slab Camp Creek (Oconee County)

Species

Site Tested

Greater Jumprock

Watson Spring Road

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

South River (Henry County) Species
Largemouth Bass Silver Redhorse Channel Catfish

Site Tested Snapping Shoals See Above Below Snapping Shoals

Oconee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions
Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week No Restrictions No Restrictions

South River (Butts County) Species
Black Crappie Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish Redbreast Sunfish

Site Tested Ga. Hwy. 36 See Above See Above See Above

Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions

Spirit Creek Species
Largemouth Bass
Spotted Sucker Redear Sunfish

Site Tested Above Richmond Factory Pond See Above See Above

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions
No Restrictions No Restrictions

Spring Creek (Seminole/Decatur/Miller Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Ga. Hwy. 84

Spotted Sucker

See Above

Flint River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions

Chemical

Chemical Mercury
Chemical

PCBs

Chemical

Chemical

Chemical
Chemical Mercury

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-34

Stamp Creek (Cherokee County)

Species

Site Tested

Rainbow Trout

Pine Log WMA

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Stekoa Creek Species
Striped Jumprock

Site Tested Rabun County

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

St. Marys River (Charlton County)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Near St. George

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

St. Marys River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month No Restrictions

St. Marys River (Camden County)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

U.S. Hwy. 17

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Striped Mullet

See Above

Suwannee River (Off Ga. Hwy. 177, Clinch/Ware Co.s)

Species

Site Tested

Largemouth Bass

Short Camp Road

Bullhead Catfish

See Above

Chain Pickerel

See Above

St. Marys River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month No Restrictions No Restrictions
Suwannee River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week 1 meal/week

Swamp Creek (Whitfield County)

Species

Site Tested

Redeye Bass

Redwine Cove Road

Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week

Talking Rock Creek (Downtown Talking Rock, Pickens Co.) Coosa River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Redeye Bass

Near Fire Department

1 meal/week

Tallapoosa River Species
Blacktail Redhorse Bluegill Sunfish Blacktail Redhorse

Site Tested U.S. Hwy. 27 See Above Ga. Hwy. 100

Tallapoosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions 1 meal/week

Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical
Mercury

C-35

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Tallulah River, Towns County

Species

Site Tested

Rainbow Trout

Charlies Creek Road

Tributary to Hudson River (Alto, Ga., Banks County)

Species

Site Tested

Redeye Bass

Below Alto Prison

Brown Bullhead

See Above

Savannah River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week No Restrictions

Upatoi Creek Species
Grayfin Redhorse

Site Tested Above Mouth

Withlacoochee River

(Hahira to State Line, Berrien/Lowndes Counties)

Species

Site Tested

Redbreast Sunfish

Ga. Hwy 122

Largemouth Bass

Near Clyattville

Redbreast Sunfish

See Above

Chattahoochee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions
Suwannee River Basin
Recommendation 1 meal/week 1 meal/month 1 meal/week

Yahoola Creek (Consolidated Goldmine)

Species

Site Tested

Alabama Hog Sucker

Lumpkin County

Chattahoochee River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions

Yellow River Species Flat Bullhead Catfish

Site Tested Porterdale Dam

Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions

Chemical
Chemical Mercury
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical
Chemical

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-36

GEORGIA ESTUARINE SYSTEMS
Estuaries and freshwaters in Georgia are included in the watersheds of 14 different river basins, using the United States Geological Survey Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC), cataloging system. Estuarine systems often communicate with adjoining basins due to natural interconnections and manmade structures and actions such as causeways, tidal gates and dredging. Terry Creek, Dupree Creek, the Back River, Academy Creek and the lower Brunswick River are technically in the Satilla River Basin, but because of tidal dynamics, water exchange occurs between them and the Altamaha River system.
These guidelines are based on a range in fish meal size from 4 to 8 ounces (1/4 to 1/2 pound). Where the guidelines recommend only 1 meal per week or month, you may prefer to have two smaller meals over that period.

Turtle River System:

Purvis and Gibson Creeks , (St. Simons Estuary)

Species

Site Tested

Blue Crab, Shrimp, Clams, Mussels, Oysters, and other seafood

Purvis & Gibson Creeks

Satilla River Basin

Recommendation Do Not Eat

Chemical PCBs, Mercury

Upper Turtle & Buffalo Rivers (St. Simons Estuary)

Species

Site Tested

Shrimp Blue Crab

Turtle and Buffalo Rivers, Upriver of Georgia Hwy 303

Flounder

Red Drum

Croaker

Spotted Seatrout

Black Drum

Clams, Mussels, Oysters

* Shellfish Ban per the National Shellfish Sanitation Program

Satilla River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions 1 meal/week 1 meal/week 1 meal/week 1 meal/month 1 meal/month Do Not Eat Do Not Eat

Middle Turtle River (St. Simons Estuary)

Species

Site Tested

Shrimp Flounder

State Hwy 303 to Channel Marker 9

Black Drum

Red Drum

Spotted Seatrout

Croaker

Blue Crab

Clams, Mussels, Oysters

* Shellfish Ban per the National Shellfish Sanitation Program

Satilla River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions 1 meal/week 1 meal/month 1 meal/month 1 meal/month 1 meal/month 1 meal/month Do Not Eat

Chemical
PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury Shellfish Ban *
Chemical
PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury Shellfish Ban *

C-37

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

Lower Turtle & South Brunswick Rivers (St. Simons Estuary) Satilla River Basin

Species

Site Tested

Recommendation

Shrimp Red Drum Flounder Blue Crab

Turtle River (From Channel Marker 9) and South Brunswick River (Downstream to Dubignon and Parsons Creeks)

No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions 1 meal/week

Croaker

1 meal/week

Black Drum

1 meal/month

Spotted Seatrout

1 meal/month

Clams, Mussels, Oysters

Do Not Eat

* Shellfish Ban per the National Shellfish Sanitation Program

Chemical
PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury Shellfish Ban *

SPECIAL LISTINGS

Terry & Dupree Creeks & Back River to St. Simons Sound

(St. Simons Estuary)

Location

Species

Terry Creek South of Torras Causeway to Lanier Basin

Silver Perch (Yellowtail)
Blue Crab, Shrimp, Spot, Striped Mullet, Atlantic Croaker, Southern Kingfish (e.g. Ga. whiting), Spotted Seatrout

Terry & Dupree Creeks North of Torras Causeway to Confluence with Back River

Blue Crab, Shrimp
Striped Mullet, Atlantic Croaker, Southern Kingfish, Spotted Seatrout

Spot

Back River 1 mi. above Terry Cr. to Confluence w/ Torras Causeway

Blue Crab, Shrimp, Striped Mullet, Atlantic Croaker, Southern Kingfish , Spotted Seatrout

Spot

Satilla River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions
No Restrictions 1 meal/month
Do Not Eat No Restrictions
1 meal/month

Back River From Causeway to St. Simons Sound

Blue Crab, Shrimp, Spot, Striped Mullet, Atlantic Croaker, Southern Kingfish, Spotted Seatrout

No Restrictions

Do Not Eat Clams, Mussels or Oysters; Shellfish Ban, Nat'l Shellfish Sanitation Prog.

Chemical PCBs, Mercury
Toxaphene and related compounds
Toxaphene and related compounds

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA

C-38

Academy Creek Species Blue Crab

Site Tested Academy Creek

Satilla River Basin Recommendations No Restrictions

Floyd Creek (to St. Andrews Sound)

Species

Site Tested

Blue Crab Southern Kingfish

Floyd Creek, So. of Floyd Basin

Satilla River Basin Recommendations No Restrictions No Restrictions

Chemical Chemical

SPECIAL MERCURY GUIDANCE ON KING MACKEREL
On March 23, 2000, Georgia joined together with North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida in issuing a joint health advisory for the consumption of large king mackerel caught offshore in the South Atlantic Ocean that have been found to have high mercury concentrations. This advisory was issued to provide guidance on the safe consumption of king mackerel to the general public and sensitive populations such as pregnant women, nursing mothers and young children. It does not prevent fishermen from landing fish larger than 39 inches.
Georgia DNR officials began working with the other Southeast States to determine levels of mercury in king mackerel in 1998 after learning that Gulf Coast States initiated a similar program. Each State's findings documented consistent levels of mercury over a range of sizes with high levels found in large king mackerel. This is Georgia's first consumption advisory for ocean waters. The king mackerel is a migratory species with the Atlantic population ranging from South Florida through North Carolina and into the Mid-Atlantic.

King Mackerel: Atlantic Ocean Offshore Georgia Coast

Atlantic Ocean

Size Range (Fork Length = FL) Recommendation

24 to Less than 33 inches

No Restrictions

33 to 39 inches (a 33 inch fish weighs approximately 10 pounds)

1 meal per month ** for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children age 12 and younger 1 meal per week ** for other adults

Over 39 inches (approximately 15 to Do Not Eat 17 pounds)

King Mackerel are measured in Fork Length (FL), which is from the tip of the snout to the fork of the tail. The minimum legal size in Georgia is 24 inches FL, with a maximum daily creel limit of 3 fish per person. Federally permitted commercial fishermen are limited to 3500 pounds per trip, and a minimum size of 24 inches FL. ** One meal portion in this special guidance is 8 ounces or 1/2 pound.

King mackerel spawn along the continental shelf of the Atlantic Coast, rapidly growing to approximately 20 inches in length in the first year. Their diet consists almost exclusively of other fish. King mackerel typically have a maximum life span of 15 years, reaching approximately 4 feet in length and 25 to 30 pounds in weight. Most fish landed are considerably smaller. As a fast-growing, long-lived top predator, the king mackerel has a propensity for accumulating high levels of mercury.

C-39

WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA