WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
Georgia Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
Georgia Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division 205 Butler Street, SE Floyd Towers East Atlanta, Georgia 30334
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
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 EPD 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 EPD files.
This report covers a two-year period, January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2007. 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
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PAGE
Purpose................................................................................................ 9
Watershed Protection In Georgia.................................................................9
Watershed Protection Programs................................................................. 10
Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Planning...................... 10
Watershed Projects...................................................................... 10
Monitoring and Assessment............................................................10
Water Quality Modeling/Wasteload Allocation/TMDL Development......... 10
TMDL Implementation Plan Development.......................................... 11
State Revolving Loan Fund............................................................. 11
GEFA Implementation Unit............................................................. 11
NPDES Permitting and Enforcement................................................ 11
Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations......................................... 12
Zero Tolerance............................................................................ 12
Nonpoint Source Management Program........................................... 12
Stormwater Management............................................................... 12
Erosion and Sediment Control.........................................................13
Major Issues and Challenges..................................................................... 13
CHAPTER 2 COMPREHENSIVE STATEWIDE WATER MANAGEMENT PLANNING
Status of the Georgia Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Plan......... 15 Background ......................................................................................... 15
Vision........................................................................................ 16 Guiding Principles........................................................................ 16 Responsibility ............................................................................. 16 Stakeholder Participation.......................................................................... 17 Georgia Water Council.................................................................. 17 Statewide Advisory Committee....................................................... 17 Technical Advisory Committees...................................................... 18 Basin Advisory Committees............................................................ 18 Developing the Draft Georgia Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Plan................................................................................... 18 Major Elements of the Draft Georgia Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Plan....................................................................................19
CHAPTER 3 SURFACE WATER QUALITY MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT
Background............................................................................................ 21 Water Resources Atlas...................................................................21 Water Use Classifications and Water Quality Standards........................ 22
Water Quality Monitoring.......................................................................... 29 Goals......................................................................................... 29 Trend/River Basin/TMDL Monitoring................................................. 29 Intensive Surveys......................................................................... 40 Biological Monitoring .....................................................................41 Lake Monitoring............................................................................ 41 Fish Tissue Monitoring ................................................................ 42 Toxic Substance Stream Monitoring................................................. 43 Aquatic Toxicity Testing................................................................. 43 Coastal Monitoring........................................................................43 Facility Compliance Sampling.......................................................... 43
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Surface Water Quality Summary................................................................. 44 Data Assessment......................................................................... 44 Fecal Coliform Bacteria................................................................. 46 Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Temperature................................................ 46 Metals....................................................................................... 46 Priority Pollutant/Organic Chemicals................................................ 47 Toxicity Testing/Toxic Substances .................................................. 47 Lake Specific Criteria .................................................................... 47 Fish/Shellfish Guidelines................................................................ 47 Biotic Data.................................................................................. 47 Evaluation of Use Support ............................................................ 48 Assessment of Causes of Nonsupport of Designated Uses....................48 Assessment of Potential Sources of Nonsupport of Designated Uses....................................................................... 50 Priorities for Action........................................................................50 TMDL Schedules.......................................................................... 51
CHAPTER 4 WETLAND PROGRAMS
Introduction............................................................................................. 52 Extent of Wetland Resources.....................................................................52 Wetland Trends in Georgia ........ .............................................................. 53 Integrity of Wetland Resources.................................................................. 54
Wetland Use Support.................................................................... 54 Wetland Monitoring....................................................................... 56 Additional Wetlands Protection Activities...................................................... 56 Land Acquisition...........................................................................56 Education and Public Outreach........................................................56 State Protected Species in Wetlands.................................................57 Managing Wetlands on State Owned Properties.................................. 57 Assessment of DNR Managed Wetlands........................................... 58
CHAPTER 5 ESTUARY AND COASTAL PROGRAMS
Background............................................................................................ 59 Georgia Coastal Management Program ....................................................... 59 Public Health Water Quality Monitoring Program............................................ 59 Shellfish Sanitation Program..................................................................... 59 Beach Monitoring Program........................................................................ 59 Nutrient Monitoring Program...................................................................... 60 National Coastal Assessment.................................................................... 60 Coastal Streams, Harbors, and Sounds....................................................... 61 Coastal Beaches..................................................................................... 61 Data Not Included in Assessment............................................................... 61 Commercial and Recreational Fisheries Programs......................................... 62
CHAPTER 6 PUBLIC HEALTH/AQUATIC LIFE ISSUES
Fish Consumption Guidelines.................................................................... 64 Background................................................................................. 64 Fish Monitoring Program................................................................ 64 Evaluation of Fish Consumption Guidance for Use Support.................. 65 Risk-Based Assessment For Fish Consumption................................. 65 General Guidelines to Reduce Health Risks...................................... 66 Specific Water body Consumption Guidelines.................................... 66 Special Notice for Pregnant Women, Nursing Mothers, and Children............................................................................... 67
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Development of New Risk Communication Tools For Women of Childbearing Age and Children............................................. .......... 67 Recreational Public Beach Monitoring......................................................... 67 Shellfish Area Closures............................................................................ 67
CHAPTER 7 WATER PROTECTION PROGRAMS
Program Perspective............................................................................... 74 Comprehensive Statewide Water Planning................................................... 75 Watershed Projects................................................................................. 75 Water Quality Monitoring.......................................................................... 75 Water Quality Modeling/Wasteload Allocations/TMDL Development.................. 76 TMDL Implementation Plan Development ......................................... .......... 76 State Revolving Loan/Construction Grants ...................................................76 GEFA Implementation Unit ....................................................................... 77 Georgia's Land Conservation Program........................................................ 78 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit Program....................................................................................... 78 Concentrated Animal Feeding Program....................................................... 78 Combined Sewer Overflows...................................................................... 79 Compliance and Enforcement.................................................................... 80 Zero Tolerance....................................................................................... 81 Storm water Management......................................................................... 81 Erosion and Sedimentation Control............................................................. 82 Nonpoint Source Management Program...................................................... 84
Agriculture.................................................................................. 86 Silviculture ................................................................................. 87 Urban Runoff............................................................................... 89 Georgia Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) Program........................ 90 Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program.............................................................. 92 Emergency Response Program..................................................................93 Environmental Radiation........................................................................... 94
CHAPTER 8 GROUNDWATER AND SURFACE WATER SUPPLIES
Groundwater.......................................................................................... 96 Ground and Surface Water Withdrawals...................................................... 119 Ground and Surface Drinking Water Supplies............................................... 121 LT2 And Stage 2 Issues ...........................................................................122 Public Water Supervision Program ............................................................ 123
CHAPTER 9 MAJOR ISSUES AND CHALLENGES
Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning................................ 126 Nonpoint Source Pollution......................................................................... 126 Toxic Substances.................................................................................... 126 Public Involvement.................................................................................. 127
TABLE 3-1 TABLE 3-2
LIST OF TABLES
PAGE Water Resources Atlas....................................................... 21 Water Use Classifications and Instream Water Quality Standards for Each Use............................................ 22
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TABLE 3-3
TABLE 3-4 TABLE 3-5 TABLE 3-6
TABLE 3-7 TABLE 3-8 TABLE 3-9 TABLE 3-10 TABLE 3-11
TABLE 3-12
TABLE 3-13
TABLE 3-14
TABLE 4-1 TABLE 5-1 TABLE 6-1 TABLE 6-2 TABLE 6-3 TABLE 6-4
TABLE 7-1 TABLE 8-1 TABLE 8-2 TABLE 8-3
A&B TABLE 8-4 TABLE 8-5
Georgia Instream Water Quality Standards For All Waters: Toxic Substances................................................... 23 Water Quality Standards For Major Lakes............................... 27 Major River Basin Monitoring Groups.......................... .......... 30 Statewide Trend Monitoring Network (Core): Rivers/Streams Lakes/Reservoirs.............................................................. 32 Georgia Trend Monitoring Network 2006................................ 34 Georgia Trend Monitoring Network 2007............................... 37 Major Lakes Ranked by Sum of Trophic State Index Values....... 42 Mercury in Fish Trend Monitoring Stations.............................. 43 Contributors of Water Quality Data For Assessment of Georgia Waters................................................................. 44 Evaluation of Use Support by Water body Type and Assessment Category 2006-2007.......................................... 48 Causes of Nonsupport of Designated Uses By Water body Type 2006-2007....................................................................... 49 Potential Sources of Nonsupport of Designated Uses by Water body Type 2006-2007................................................ 50 Assessment of DNR Lands (1990)........................................ 58 Location and Size of Areas Approved for Shellfish Harvest........ 60 Parameters for Fish Tissue Testing....................................... 65 No Consumption Restrictions 2007..................................... 68 Guidelines for Limiting The Fish You Eat Lakes 2007........... 69 Guidelines for Limiting The Fish You Eat Rivers/Lakes and Estuarine Systems2007.............................................. 70 Municipal Facility Sources of Investment 2006-2007................ 77 Major Sources of Ground Water Contamination...................... 98 Summary of State Ground Water Protection Programs............. 99 Summary of Ground-Water Monitoring Results for 120 Piedmont and Blue Ridge Stations for CY 2006....................... 102 Ground-Water Monitoring Data For CY2006........................... 103 Ground-Water Monitoring Data for CY2007............................ 105
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE 1 Tasks and Milestones.............................................................. 19 FIGURE 2 Georgia Comprehensive Statewide Water Management
Planning Process ................................................................ 20 FIGURE 3 Georgia Trend Monitoring Network Station Locations 2006-2007...... 31 FIGURE 4 Hydrologic Provinces of Georgia................................................ 100 FIGURE 5 Ambient Groundwater Monitoring Network................................... 101 FIGURE 6 Insecticide/Herbicide Use in Georgia.......................................... 111 FIGURE 7 Areas Susceptible to Natural High Dissolved Solids and 24
County Area Covered by the Interim Coastal Management Strategy............................................................................. 112 FIGURE 8 Areas Susceptible to Natural and Human Induced Radiation................................................................ 114 FIGURE 9 Generalized Map of Significant Groundwater Recharge Areas of Georgia................................................................ 118
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APPENDICES
APPENDIX A WATERS ASSESSED FOR COMPLIANCE WITH DESIGNATED USES APPENDIX B FISH CONSUMPTION GUIDELINES
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Chapter 1
Executive Summary
Purpose The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) 2006-2007, prepared this report, Water Quality in Georgia. 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. This report describes water quality conditions of navigable waters across the State. The USEPA uses the individual State reports 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.
Watershed Protection In Georgia The GAEPD is 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 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.
The Watershed 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 GAEPD as the lead agency to deal with water quality problems due to commercial forestry operations.
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Watershed Protection Programs Background. Georgia is rich in water resources. The State has approximately 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. The State also 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, 1999-2002, and 2007-2008 serve as reminders that water resources cannot be taken for granted and sound regulatory programs are necessary to protect the resources.
In 2006-2007, the GAEPD placed emphasis on comprehensive statewide water 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.
Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Planning. 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 work is discussed in Chapter 2. Georgia will continue to use a rotating basin approach as a basis for watershed protection including monitoring, assessment, listing, TMDL development and NPDES permit reissuance.
Watershed Projects. The GAEPD is 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.
Monitoring and Assessment. Georgia's waters are currently classified as 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 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 standards, monitoring programs, and information on assessments of Georgia's waters are discussed in Chapter 3.
Water Quality Modeling/Wasteload Allocation/TMDL Development. In 2006-2007, 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 Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, and St. Marys River Basins. These TMDLs were finalized by EPD and approved by the EPA in 2006. TMDLs were also developed by EPD for listed waters in the Oconee, Ocmulgee and Altamaha River Basins and approved by the EPA in 2006. In addition, the dissolved oxygen TMDLs for listed waters in the Savannah and Ogeechee River Basins were revised and TMDLs were developed by EPD for listed waters in the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins and publicly noticed in 2007. The Savannah and Ogeechee DO TMDLs were finalized and approved by EPA in 2007 and the other TMDLs will be finalized and submitted to the EPA for approval in 2008. This work is discussed in Chapter 3. Over the two-year period, more than 276 TMDLs were developed and 26 were revised. To date more than 1400 TMDLs have been developed or revised for 303(d) listed waters in Georgia.
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TMDL Implementation Plan Development. In 2006, a total of 147 TMDL implementation plans and revisions were developed for TMDLs in the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Tennessee River Basins. Another 114 plans and revisions for TMDLs in the Savannah and Ogeechee River Basins were initiated in 2007 and 46 are scheduled for completion in 2008 for the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, and St. Marys River Basins. To date a total of 1115 TMDL plans and revisions have been prepared to implement TMDLs in Georgia. This work is discussed in Chapter 7.
State Revolving Loan Fund and Georgia Loan Fund. In 2006-2007 more than 266 million dollars were obligated to communities for wastewater system improvements through the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA) in the form of low-interest, SRF and Georgia Fund loans. The loan programs are discussed in Chapter 7.
GEFA Implementation Unit. The Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District (District) was created on April 5, 2001 (2001 S.B. 130) as a planning entity dedicated to developing comprehensive regional and watershed-specific plans to be implemented by local governments in the District. The enabling legislation required the District to develop plans for watershed management, wastewater treatment, and water supply and conservation in its 16-county area that includes Bartow, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Forsyth, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Paulding, Rockdale and Walton Counties and all the municipalities within the District. These plans are designed to protect water quality and public water supplies, protect recreational values of the waters, and to minimize potential adverse impacts of development on waters in and downstream of the region.
Limited water resources combined with the region's growth places the District in a unique position relative to other areas in Georgia. With a finite water resource and a population of nearly 4 million and growing, the need to carefully and cooperatively manage and protect Metropolitan Atlanta's rivers and streams has become a priority.
The EPD was charged with the enforcement of these plans. SB 130 states that the EPD Director shall not approve any application by a local government in the District to issue, modify, or renew a permit, if such permit would allow an increase in the permitted water withdrawal, public water system capacity, or waste-water treatment system capacity of such local government, or any NPDES Phase I or Phase II General Stormwater permit; unless such local government is in compliance with the applicable provisions of the plan, or the Director certifies that such local government is making good faith efforts to come into compliance.
EPD, upon application for a permit for an increase in the water withdrawal, public water system capacity, or wastewater treatment system capacity, or renewal of any NPDES Phase I or Phase II General Stormwater permit, will conduct an audit to determine whether the local government is in compliance with the District Plans. This audit process was initiated in the fall of 2005.
NPDES Permitting and Enforcement. A considerable amount of time was allocated to treated wastewater discharge permit reissuance activities in 2006-2007. NPDES permits were modified or reissued to 315 municipal/private dischargers and to 75 industrial dischargers. In addition, 70 private dischargers were covered under general permit No. GA550000.
Compliance and enforcement activities continued to receive significant attention in 2006-2007. By the end of 2007, of 138 major municipal discharges, 123 facilities were in general compliance with final limitations. The remaining 15 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, 36 facilities were achieving permit compliance at the end of 2007.
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The GAEPD utilizes all reasonable means to attain compliance, including technical assistance, noncompliance notification letters, conferences, consent 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 2006-2007, 613 Orders were issued and a total of $2,123,000 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, excluding stormwater. In 2006-2007 a total of 449 stormwater Orders were issued and a total of $2,376,883 in negotiated settlements was collected. 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. Work was continued in 2006-2007 to implement this program. 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 EPD 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 2006-2007 to implement this strategy. This process is discussed in Chapter 7.
Nonpoint Source Management Program. Nonpoint source management programs have 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 and has been designated as the 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, non-governmental organizations and individual citizens.
Georgia's nonpoint source goals and implementation strategies are delineated in the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program. The Program is an inventory of the full breadth of current nonpoint source management activities (regulatory and non-regulatory) in Georgia. 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.
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 of $4.5 million are made available annually to public agencies in Georgia. 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, and Phase II designation criteria was developed by GAEPD in July 2002. 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 2004. The 13 NPDES permits for medium MS4s were reissued in 2000 and 2005. In December 2007, GAEPD reissued the NPDES General Permit for Phase II MS4s, and this permit currently regulates 86 cities and counties.
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In 1993, a general NPDES permit for storm water associated with industrial activity was issued. This permit was most recently reissued in 2006, with approximately 2000 facilities retaining coverage. In addition, 350 industrial activity facilities have submitted an Industrial No Exposure Exclusion Certification Form.
Erosion and Sediment Control. The Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act was signed into law in 1975, and has been amended several times. 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 1 acre and greater. Erosion, Sedimentation & Pollution Control Plans must be reviewed and approved by the Soil and Water Conservation District or the local issuing authority before the land disturbing activity can issue permit. 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.
After several years of legal challenges, the NPDES General Permit for storm water from construction activities was successfully issued on June 12, 2000 and became effective on August 1, 2000. The permit was reissued by GAEPD on August 13, 2003. The permit was re-issued as three distinct permits; Stand Alone, Infrastructure and Common Development, and required coverage for projects disturbing one acre or more. The three general permits expire on July 31, 2008. Stakeholder meetings will be held in early 2008 to facilitate the re-issuance of the permits.
The Act was amended by House Bill 285 in 2003 to create an integrated permitting program for erosion and sedimentation control for land disturbing activities of one acre or greater, thereby standardizing the requirements for local Land Disturbing Activity Permits and the NPDES Construction Storm Water Permits. HB 285 also established a new, mandatory training and certification program for all individuals involved with erosion and sediment control. This new program, which is being administered by the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission, required those individuals to obtain the applicable certification by December 31, 2006. The third major component of HB 285 was to authorize the first NPDES permit fee program in Georgia. The bill authorized a fee of up to $80 per disturbed acre, with half of that amount to go to the local issuing authority. Local issuing authorities were required to amend their local ordinances to implement the changes in the Act by July 1, 2004. Senate Bill 460 amended the Act in 2004 to add three new criteria under which the EPD director can consider stream buffer variances. The legislation also required the Georgia Board of Natural Resources to adopt amendments to the Erosion and Sedimentation Control Rules to implement the new criteria. These amendments were effective on January 10, 2005. The Act was again amended in 2007 to give subcontrators an additional year to become certified under the mandatory training and certification program. Storm water management and erosion and sediment control are discussed in Chapter 7.
Major Issues and Challenges Georgia is one of the fastest growing states in the nation. The burgeoning population places considerable demands on Georgia's ground and surface water resources in terms of water supply, water quality and assimilative capacity. The problems and issues are further complicated by the fact that surface water resources are limited in South Georgia and groundwater resources
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are limited in North Georgia. In some locations, the freshwater resources are approaching their sustainable limits. Thus, several key issues and challenges to be addressed now and in the future years include (1) minimizing withdrawals of water by increasing conservation, efficiency and ruse, (2) maximizing returns to the basin through reducing interbasin transfers and limiting use of septic tanks and land application of treated wastewater where water is limited, (3) meeting instream and offstream water demands through storage, aquifer management and reducing water demands, (4) protecting water quality by reducing wastewater discharges and runoff from land to below the assimilative capacity of the streams. The implementation of the Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Planning process in Georgia provides a framework for addressing each of the key issues.
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, detergents and a variety of other pollutants being washed into rivers and lakes by stormwater. Even stormwater runoff itself, if rate and volume is unmitigated, can be extremely detrimental to aquatic habitat and hydrologic systems. Nonpoint source pollution, although somewhat less dramatic than raw sewage, must be reduced and controlled to fully protect Georgia's streams. Structural and nonstructural techniques such as green infrastructure, pollution prevention and best management practices must be significantly expanded to minimize nonpoint source pollution. These include both watershed protection through planning, zoning, buffer zones, and appropriate building densities as well as increased use of stormwater structural practices, low impact development, street cleaning and perhaps eventual limitations on pesticide and fertilizer usage.
Another issue of importance is 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.
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 what we do on the land has a direct impact on water quality. Adding more pavement and other impervious surfaces, littering, driving cars which drip oils and antifreeze, applying fertilizers and other activities and behaviors all contribute 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.
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CHAPTER 2
Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning
Status of the State-wide Water Management Plan The Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, with the help of numerous stakeholders, produced and submitted to the Georgia Water Council an initial draft of the statewide water plan, "Georgia's Water Resources: A Blueprint for the Future" on June 28, 2007. The Water Council approved the release of the initial draft and established a portal for public input at its website. EPD staff reviewed and summarized the initial input for the Water Council at its August, 2007 meeting. The Council discussed and approved a number of revisions to the initial plan. A second draft of the plan was prepared and noticed for public input on September 13, 2007.
The Water Council hosted thirteen public hearings across Georgia in November 2007 to solicit public comment on the draft water plan. A working group of Water Council designees reviewed each comment submitted and made recommendations for revisions to the Water Council. The Water Council considered and acted on recommendations from the designees and deliberated on individual member suggestions. The Council voted on each proposed change and each change approved by the Council was made in the draft plan.
A third draft of the plan was completed and noticed for public comment on December 5, 2007. The Water Council hosted six public meetings to discuss the revised water plan and solicit public input. The Water Council designees reviewed comments received and provided recommendations for changes to the Water Council. The Council reviewed the designee recommendations, discussed individual member suggestions and a vote was taken regarding each proposed change. Changes approved by the Water Council were made and a final draft of the plan was prepared and approved by the Water Council on January 8, 2008. This proposed plan, "Georgia Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Plan", was transmitted to the Georgia General Assembly for consideration on January 14, the first day of the 2008 regular session. A copy of the plan is available at www.georgiawatercouncil.org.
The Georgia General Assembly debated the provisions of the January 8, 2008 Water Council draft of the statewide water plan. Both chambers approved the plan on February 5. Governor Perdue signed HR1022, the Statewide Water Plan, on February 6, 2008. In signing the resolution, one of the Governor's comments was as follows; "Water management is one of the most critical issues facing Georgia today. This plan was created by an inclusive process, allowing all parties to contribute and offer their solutions from local governments to business owners to the agricultural community and the general public. Georgia now has a comprehensive, statewide plan for managing and conserving this precious resource."
The following paragraphs provide information on the legislation passed by the Georgia General Assembly in 2004 that initiated the planning process and on the plan signed into law by Governor Purdue on February 6, 2008.
Background Georgia's future relies on the protection and sustainable management of the state's limited water resources. In 2004 the Georgia General Assembly passed the "Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning Act" which called for the development of a statewide water management plan. The legislation created a framework for developing Georgia's first comprehensive statewide water management plan by providing a vision for water management in Georgia, guiding
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principles for plan development and the assignment of responsibility for developing the plan. The planning act can be found at the Georgia Water Council website: www.georgiawatercouncil.org.
Vision. The legislation established the following vision for water planning in Georgia:
"Georgia manages water resources in a sustainable manner to support the state's economy, to protect public health and natural systems, and to enhance the quality of life for all citizens".
Guiding Principles. The Act identified the following principles to guide the water planning process:
1. Effective water resources management protects public health, safety and welfare of Georgia's citizens. 2. Water resources are managed in a sustainable manner so that current and future generations have access to adequate supplies of quality water that supports both human needs and natural systems. 3. All citizens have a stewardship responsibility to conserve and protect the water resources of Georgia. 4. Water management efforts recognize that economic prosperity and environmental quality are interdependent. 5. Water quality and quantity and surface and ground water are interrelated and require integrated planning as well as reasonable and efficient use. 6. A comprehensive and accessible database is developed to provide sound scientific and economic information upon which effective water management decisions can be based. 7. Water resource management encourages local and regional innovation, implementation, adaptability and responsibility for watershed and river basin management. 8. Sound water resources management involves meaningful participation, coordination and cooperation among interested and affected stakeholders and citizens as well as all levels of governmental and other entities managing and/or utilizing water. 9. Periodic revisions of the plan are required to incorporate new scientific and policy insights, as well as changing social, economic, cultural, and environmental factors.
Responsibility. The legislation assigned the responsibility for developing the draft plan to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division of the Department of Natural Resources and established a planning oversight committee, the Georgia Water Council. The Water Council is composed of legislators, legislative appointees, and state agency heads that have water related responsibilities. The Water Council worked with the EPD in developing planning objectives and tools, and reviewed and approved the plan for recommendation to the General Assembly.
An additional framing element established for the state water planning process by the General Assembly required that the state water plan be developed within the context of existing laws and regulations. State and federal statutes and rules form the foundation for Georgia's water management programs. Two goals that resonate throughout federal and state statutes can be summarized as follows:
Protect public health and environmental quality; and Meet future needs while protecting aquifers, instream uses and downstream users.
The goals of the Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Planning Act are aligned with these statutory goals. Achieving these goals with the increasing demands for water for all purposes requires a comprehensive approach to planning and managing water resources. The statewide water planning process provided an opportunity for Georgians to evaluate and adjust water policies to achieve sustainable management of water resources.
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The EPD and the Georgia Water Council initiated work on the Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Plan shortly after the 2004 legislation was signed Governor Perdue. The legislation called for the Environmental Protection Division to submit a draft initial plan to the Water Council for review no later than July 1, 2007 and for the Water Council to provide input on the draft plan, modify the plan if necessary, approve the final plan and recommend a plan not later than the first day of the regular session of the 2008 General Assembly.
Stakeholder Participation The process used to develop the statewide plan provided for meaningful participation, coordination, and cooperation among interested and affected stakeholders and citizens as well as all levels of governmental and other entities managing or utilizing water. Opportunities for involvement in the statewide water plan development included oversight by the Water Council, the use of advisory committees, opportunities for stakeholders to provide comments and/or information on the development of water management objectives, sub-state planning and related tools and options, and by participating in Water Council Town Hall meetings and public hearings and public meetings on the draft plan.
Georgia Water Council. As noted above, the Council is a coordinating committee created by the Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Planning Act. According to the Act, the Water Council's purpose is to:
Ensure coordination, cooperation and communication among state agencies and their water-related efforts in the development of a comprehensive statewide water management plan.
Provide input to the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources concerning development of the plan.
Review, modify if necessary, and approve the final draft of the proposed plan. Recommend such proposed plan for consideration by the General Assembly.
The Water Council consists of eight state agency officials who serve ex officio; the chairperson of the Senate Natural Resources and Environment Committee, ex officio, and an additional member of that committee selected by the committee chairperson; the chairperson of the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee, ex officio, and an additional member of that committee selected by the committee chairperson; one member who is not a member of the General Assembly who is appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; and one member who is not a member of the General Assembly who is appointed by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate. The Director of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division serves as the chairperson of the Water Council. The membership and news regarding the work of the Council is available at www.georgiawatercouncil.org.
Statewide Advisory Committee (SAC). EPD convened a 32 member State Advisory Committee comprised of state-level representation of organizations such as associations of local governments, agricultural interests, forestry and mining interests, along with economic development representatives and recreation and environmental groups. The SAC provided EPD with statewide perspectives on Georgia's overarching goals for water management, water management objectives, and the array of new policy tools identified for development in the first state water plan. Statewide perspectives were needed to bring the full range of Georgia's geographic, economic, cultural, jurisdictional, and water resource realities into discussions of the water management. The committee was primarily composed of representatives of organizations that have statewide constituencies and interest. The state advisory committee was not asked to reach consensus on specific decisions, but to assess each set of policy option in some detail for the purpose of providing insight from diverse perspectives to help EPD refine and improve Georgia's water management policies and/or options. The membership along with the policy
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
17
options packages presented to the SAC, along with meeting summaries were posted at www.georgiawaterplanning.org.
Technical Advisory Committees (TAC) provided early input, when needed, by answering specific technical questions needed to inform water policy options. TAC members brought a broad range of scientific, technical, and practical experience to EPD during the planning process. The technical advisory committees worked with EPD associates to build the scientific and technical foundation upon which policy options were developed. TACs were convened to address technical questions related to water conservation, water reuse, target flow regimes, and onsite sewage management systems.
Basin Advisory Committees (BACs). Seven BACs were formed: Chattahoochee; Coosa, Tallapoosa, Tennessee; Flint, Ochlockonee; Oconee, Ocmulgee, Altamaha; Satilla, Suwannee, St. Marys; Savannah, Ogeechee; and an overlay that mirrored the boundaries of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District. The BACs, with 20 to 30 members per committee, represented a cross-section of entities with water resources management interests, including cities and counties, water providers, environmental groups, recreation interests, economic development groups, and representatives from the forestry, industrial, mining and agricultural sectors. The committees were convened six times to review information developed by EPD and provide a regional perspective on proposed policy options and management practices. The "regional" perspectives and input on water management objectives and potential policy tools and/or options. The names of those appointed to the BACs along with each policy options package presented to the BACs, and meeting summaries, were posted at www.georgiawaterplanning.org.
Developing the Draft Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Plan The work on the draft water plan was completed generally in accordance with the schedule shown in Figure 1. The process of preparing the initial draft plan involved the preparation of draft policies for each of four management objectives: minimizing withdrawals, maximizing returns, meeting instream and offstream demands, and protecting water quality. The draft policy options were drafted by the EPD, drawing on research from the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia, and presented to each basin advisory committee for review and input. The input from the BACs was considered and appropriate changes were made in the policy option packages. The revised policy option package was then presented to the State Advisory Committee for review and comment. The input from the SAC was considered and changes were made in the policy option packages. Each of the policy option packages were then presented to the public for input at a series of Town Hall Meetings hosted by the Water Council across the state. Based on input from the Town Hall Meetings the policy option packages were revised once again and a final set of policy options emerged for each of the management planning priorities. The policy options packages served as the basis for the initial draft comprehensive statewide water plan presented to the Water Council by the EPD on June 28, 2007.
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FIGURE 1. TASKS AND MILESTONES
Major Elements of the Georgia Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Plan The plan builds upon Georgia's current statutory framework to create a more integrated water management policy consistent with the vision and guiding principles presented in O.C.G.A. 125-522. Figure 2 depicts the overall approach to integrated water management laid out in the statewide water management plan. The process is a cycle, rather than a one-time plan. Based on current state laws and policies, the cycle has four major steps that will be addressed in regional planning conducted following the provisions of the plan.
1. The cycle begins with completion of a set of water resource assessments by EPD. These assessments will define the capabilities of Georgia's water resources in terms of water supply and capacity to assimilate pollution.
2. A regional water planning council will then be responsible for using regional population and employment estimates to forecast needs for water and assimilative capacity within a water-planning region.
3. A regional water development and conservation plan will be prepared by EPD and by regional water planning councils. The plan will identify the management practices to be employed to ensure that the forecasted regional water and wastewater needs can be met without exceeding the water quantity and water quality capacities identified in the resource assessments. This process provides the opportunity for regional planning councils to select the management practices that best fit the resource conditions and uses in different regions throughout the state. In some situations, the regional water plan may identify management practices that will supplement the resource capacities in a manner that conforms to policies
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
19
FIGURE 2. GEORGIA COMPREHENSIVE STATEWIDE WATER MANAGEMENT PLANNING PROCESS
4. Criteria presented in the statewide plan. The regional water management plans will be reviewed by the EPD, and if they are consistent with established guidance, adopted by EPD.
5. Once adopted, the water users in the water-planning region would implement the plans and EPD will make water-permitting decisions based on the plans.
EPD, in cooperation with federal agencies, local governments, and other partners, will continue to monitor water resources to maintain and update information on the status and condition of the state's waters. This information will support future revisions in resource assessments and management practices. This statewide water plan is intended to guide long-term planning for Georgia's water resources and is not intended to address responses to extreme conditions, like drought, or emergency circumstances that may result. It will be implemented in conjunction with the State Drought Management Plan, the Flint River Drought Protection Act, and other statutes and regulations that guide responses to drought or other emergency circumstances.
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CHAPTER 3
Water Quality Monitoring And Assessment
Background
Water Resources Atlas. The river miles and lake acreage estimates are based on the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 1:100,000 Digital Line Graph (DLG), which provides a national database of hydrologic traces. The DLG in coordination with the USEPA River Reach File provides a consistent computerized methodology for summing river miles and lake acreage. 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).
The estimates for Georgia 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 estimates for the number of lakes in Georgia are 11,813 with a total acreage of 425,382. This information is summarized in Table 3-1.
TABLE 3-1 WATER RESOURCES ATLAS
State Population (2006 Estimate) 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
9,383,941 57,906 sq.mi. 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 sq.mi. 100 4,500,000 acres 384,000 acres
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. 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.
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Water Use Classifications and Water Quality Standards. The Board of Natural Resources is authorized through the Rules and Regulations for Water Quality Control to establish water use classifications and water quality standards for the waters of the State.
For each water use classification, water quality standards or criteria have been developed, which establish the framework used by the Environmental Protection Division to make water use regulatory decisions. All of Georgia's waters are currently classified as fishing, recreation, drinking water, wild river, scenic river, or coastal fishing. Table 3-2 provides a summary of water use classifications and criteria for each use. Georgia's rules and regulations protect all waters for the use of primary contact recreation by having 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).
TABLE 3-2 WATER USE CLASSIFICATIONS AND INSTREAM WATER QUALITY STANDARDS FOR
EACH USE
Bacteria (fecal coliform)
Use Classification
30-Day Geometric Mean2 (no./100 ml)
Max. (no./100ml)
Dissolved Oxygen (other than trout
streams)1
Daily Average (mg/l)
Min. (mg/l)
pH
Std. Units
Chapter 1Temperature (other than trout streams)1
Max. Rise Max.
(F)
(F)
Drinking Water 1,000 (Nov-
4,000 (Nov-
5.0
4.0
6.0-8.5 5
90
requiring
April)
April)
treatment
200 (May-Oct)
Recreation
200
--
(Freshwater)
100 (Coastal)
Coastal Fishing3
5.0
4.0
6.0-8.5 5
90
Fishing
1,000 (Nov-
4,000 (Nov-
5.0
4.0
6.0-8.5 5
90
April)
April)
200 (May-Oct)
Wild River
No alteration of natural water quality
Scenic River
No alteration of natural water quality
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.
Georgia has also 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
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22
standards that apply to all waters in Georgia. Georgia has six large publicly owned lakes that have water quality standards. The lakes include West Point, Jackson, Walter F. George, Lanier, Allatoona, and Carter's. Standards were adopted for chlorophyll a, pH, total nitrogen, phosphorus, fecal coliform bacteria, dissolved oxygen, and temperature. Standards for major tributary phosphorus loading were also established. The standards for the six lakes are summarized in Table 3-4.
TABLE 3-3 GEORGIA INSTREAM WATER QUALITY STANDARDS FOR ALL WATERS: TOXIC
SUBSTANCES
(Excerpt from Georgia's 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 (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
340 g/l 1 69 g/l 1
150 g/l 1 36 g/l 1
2. Cadmium
(a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
2.0 g/l 1, 3 42 g/l 1
1.3 g/l 1, 3 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 (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
7.0 g/l 1,2*,3 4.8 g/l 1,2
5.0 g/l 1,2*,3 3.1 g/l 1,2
6. Lead
(a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
30 g/l 1,3 210 g/l 1
1.2 g/l 1,2*,3 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 (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
260 g/l 1,3 74 g/l 1
29 g/l 1,3 8.2 g/l 1
9. Selenium
(a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
-290g/l 1
5.0 g/l 71 g/l 1
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
23
10. Silver
-- 4
-- 4
11. Zinc (a) Freshwater (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. 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 (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
2. Cyanide (a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
3. Dieldrin (a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
4. 4,4'-DDT 5. a-Endosulfan
(a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters 6. b-Endosulfan (a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
0.0043 g/l* 0.004 g/l*
5.2 g/l* 1.0 g/l*
0.056 g/l* 0.0019 g/l* 0.001 g/l*
0.056 g/l* 0.0087 g/l*
0.056 g/l* 0.0087 g/l*
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
24
7. Endrin (a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
8. Heptachlor (a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
9. Heptachlor Epoxide (a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
10 Pentachlorophenol (a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
11. PCBs (a) Freshwater (b) Coastal and Marine Estuarine Waters
12. Phenol 13. Toxaphene
0.036 g/l* 0.0023 g/l*
0.0038 g/l* 0.0036g/l*
0.0038 g/l* 0.0036 g/l*
2.1 g/l* 7.9 g/l*
0.014 g/l* 0.03 g/l* 300 g/l 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 2. Acenaphthylene 3. Acrolein 4. Acrylonitrile 5. Aldrin 6. Anthracene 7. Antimony 8. Arsenic 9. Benzidine 10. Benzo(a)Anthracene 11. Benzo(a)Pyrene 12. 3,4-Benzofluoranthene 13. Benzene 14. Benzo(ghi)Perylene 15. Benzo(k)Fluoranthene 16. Beryllium 17. a-BHC-Alpha 18. b-BHC-Beta 19. Bis(2-Chloroethyl)Ether 20. Bis(2-Chloroisopropyl)Ether 21. Bis(2-Ethylhexyl)Phthalate 22. Bromoform (Tribromomethane) 23. Butylbenzyl Phthalate 24. Carbon Tetrachloride 25. Chlorobenzene 26. Chlorodibromomethane 27. 2-Chloroethylvinyl Ether 28. Chlordane 29. Chloroform (Trichloromethane) 30. 2-Chloronaphthalene 31. 2-Chlorophenol 32. Chrysene 33. Dibenzo(a,h)Anthracene 34. Dichlorobromomethane 35. 1,2-Dichloroethane 36. 1,1-Dichloroethylene 37 1,2 Dichloropropane 38. 1,3-Dichloropropylene 39. 2,4-Dichlorophenol 40. 1,2-Dichlorobenzene 41. 1,3-Dichlorobenzene
2700 g/l ** 780 g/l 0.66 g/l 0.00014 g/l 110000 g/l 4300 g/l 50 g/l 0.00054 g/l 0.049g/l 0.049g/l 0.049g/l 71 g/l ** 0.049g/l ** 0.013 g/l 0.046 g/l 1.4 g/l 170000 g/l 5.9 g/l 360 g/l 5200 4.4 g/l 21000 g/l 34 g/l ** 0.0022 g/l 470 g/l 4300 g/l 400 g/l 0.049 g/l 0.049 g/l 46 g/l 99 g/l 3.2 g/l 39 g/l 1700 g/l 790 g/l 17000 g/l 2600 g/l
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
25
42. 1,4-Dichlorobenzene 43. 3,3'-Dichlorobenzidine 44. 4,4'-DDT 45. 4,4'-DDD 46. 4,4'-DDE 47. Dieldrin 48. Diethyl Phthalate 49. Dimethyl Phthalate 50. 2,4-Dimethylphenol 51. 2,4-Dinitrophenol 52. Di-n-Butyl Phthalate 53. 2,4-Dinitrotoluene 54. 1,2-Diphenylhydrazine 55. Endrin 56. Endrin Aldehyde 57. alpha Endosulfan 58. beta Endosulfan 59. Endosulfan Sulfate 60. Ethylbenzene 61. Fluoranthene 62. Fluorene 63. Heptachlor 64. Heptachlor Epoxide 65. Hexachlorobenzene 66. Hexachlorobutadiene 67. Hexachlorocyclopentadiene 68. Hexachloroethane 69. Indeno(1,2,3-cd)Pyrene 70. Isophorone 71. Lindane [Hexachlorocyclohexane (g-BHC-Gamma)] 72. Methyl Bromide (Bromomethane) 73. Methyl Chloride (Chloromethane) 74. Methylene Chloride 75. 2-Methyl-4,6-Dinitrophenol 76. 3-Methyl-4-Chlorophenol 77. Nitrobenzene 78. N-Nitrosodimethylamine 79. N-Nitrosodi-n-Propylamine 80. N-Nitrosodiphenylamine 81. PCBs 82. Pentachlorophenol 83. Phenanthrene 84. Phenol 85. Pyrene 86. 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane 87. Tetrachloroethylene 88. Thallium 89. Toluene 90. Toxaphene 91. 1,2-Trans-Dichloroethylene 92. 1,1,2-Trichloroethane 93. Trichloroethylene 94. 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 95. 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 96. Vinyl Chloride
2600 g/l 0.077 g/l 0.00059 g/l 0.00084 g/l 0.00059 g/l 0.00014 g/l 120000 g/l 2900000 g/l 2300 g/l 14000 g/l 12000 g/l 9.1 g/l 0.54 g/l 0.81 g/l 0.81 g/l 240 g/l 240 g/l 240 g/l 29000 g/l 370 g/l 14000 g/l 0.00021 g/l 0.00011 g/l 0.00077 g/l 50 g/l 17000 g/l 8.9 g/l 0.049 g/l 2600 g/l 0.063 g/l 4000 g/l ** 1600 g/l 765 g/l ** 1900 g/l 8.1 g/l 1.4 g/l 16 g/l 0.00017 g/l 8.2 g/l ** 4,600,000 g/l 11,000 g/l 11 g/l 8.85 g/l 6.3 g/l 200000 g/l 0.00075 g/l 140000 42 g/l 81 g/l 6.5 g/l 940 g/l 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
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
26
long-term average stream flow conditions.
(f) Applicable State and Federal requirements and regulations for the discharge of radioactive substances shall be met at all times.
TABLE 3-4 WATER QUALITY STANDARDS FOR MAJOR LAKES
(16) 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:
11,000 pounds.
2. New River at Hwy 100:
14,000 pounds.
3. Chattahoochee River at U.S. 27:
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).
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).
(viii) 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:
179,000 pounds
2.Yellow River at Georgia Highway 212:
116,000 pounds
3.Alcovy River at Newton Factory Bridge Road:
55,000 pounds
4.Tussahaw Creek at Fincherville Road:
7,000 pounds
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
27
(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
10 ug/l
2. Allatoona creek upstream form I-75
10 ug/l
3. Mid-Lake downstream from Kellogg Creek
10 ug/l
4. Little River upstream from Highway 205
15 ug/l
5. Etowah River upstream from Sweetwater Creek
12 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 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
340,000 lbs/yr
2.Little River at State Highway 5 (Highway 754)
42,000 lbs/yr
3.Noonday Creek at North Rope Mill Road
38,000 lbs/yr
4.Shoal Creek at State Highway 108 (Fincher Road)
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/
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.
(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
178,000 pounds
2. Chestatee River at Georgia Highway 400
118,000 pounds
3. Flat Creek at McEver Road
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).
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
28
(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 Monitoring Goals. The goal of the watershed 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 that collect samples from groups of stations at specific, fixed locations throughout the year.
The cooperating agencies conduct certain tests in the field and ship stream samples to the GAEPD or UGA 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 sample collection on the Chattahoochee River below Columbus. In addition to monthly stream sampling, a portion of the work with the USGS involves flow monitoring and continuous water quality monitoring at several locations across the State. In 2006, flow monitoring was conducted at the South River off of Klondike Road near Lithonia, GA and continuous water quality monitoring that recorded dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH and conductivity data were 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. Funding from the GAEPD for the South River, Conasauga River and Ocmulgee River sites was discontinued in 2007 and resources redirected to the installation, operation and maintenance for a new continuous water quality monitoring site on the Savannah River.
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 GAEPD Atlanta Office. The Brunswick sampling team conducts monthly sampling at locations across southern Georgia in the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, Altamaha, Savannah and Ogeechee River basins. The Atlanta sampling team typically conducts monthly sampling at 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 complimenting the rotating basin trend monitoring program.
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
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
29
focus resources for sampling and analysis in a particular group of basins in any one year in accordance with the rotating river basin planning schedule. Statewide trend monitoring was continued at the statewide core station locations, along the Chattahoochee in the Atlanta and Columbus areas, and at most continuous monitoring locations. The remainder of the trend monitoring resources was devoted to the basins of focus each year. As a result, more sampling was conducted along the main stem and in the smaller tributaries of each river. Table 3-5 provides the focused monitoring years for Georgia's major river basins since the rotating river basin strategy was employed and the additional special project monitoring initiated in 2005.
TABLE 3-5 MAJOR RIVER BASIN MONITORING GROUPS
Major River Basin Grouping Chattahoochee, Flint Coosa, Tallapoosa, Oconee Savannah, Ogeechee Ochlockonee, Satilla, St. Marys, Suwannee Altamaha, Ocmulgee, Oconee Coosa, Tallapoosa, Tennessee Coosa Savannah, Ogeechee Ochlockonee, Satilla, St. Marys, Suwannee
Focus Year for Water Quality Monitoring 1995; 2000 1996; 2001 1997; 2002 1998; 2003 1999; 2004 2005 TMDL Modeling Project (Coosa River) 2006 TMDL Modeling Project (Coosa River) 2007 TMDL Modeling Project (Lake Lanier) 2008 TMDL Modeling Project (Carters Lake)
In 2005, water quality monitoring efforts were intensified in locations where data was needed for development of TMDL models. During the calendar years 2005 and 2006, data was collected in the Coosa River Basin to support the development of a Dissolved Oxygen and Temperature model for the Coosa River at the State Line. During 2007 and 2008, additional data collection efforts are being focused on Lake Lanier and Carters Lake for TMDL development of nutrient criteria.
Figure 3 shows the monitoring network stations for the sample collection period 2006-2007. A list of the Statewide trend monitoring network stations, which consists of the "core" stations that are sampled every year, is presented in Table 3-6. Tables 3-7 and 3-8 provide a list of stations and parameters for the 2006 and 2007 rotating basin networks.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
30
FIGURE 3. GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK STATION LOCATIONS 2006-2007
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
31
TABLE 3-6 STATEWIDE TREND MONITORING NETWORK (CORE):
RIVERS/STREAMS; LAKES/RESERVOIRS
Rivers and streams stations are sampled monthly for field and chemical parameters every year. Four fecal coliform bacterial samples are collected each calendar quarter to calculate four geometric means. Lakes and reservoir stations are sampled monthly during the "growing season" from April through October.
Station Number 01001001 01011001 01014001 02023001 03035001 03051001
04220111 04500001 05009901
05015001 05025001 06016001 07021001 09001001
09044501 10017001 11018001 11060011 11090401 11102001 11109001 12030141
12030151
12030161 12030171
12030201
12033201
12037001 12038001 12038610 12038651
12038681 12038781 12039601
12038801
12039401 12039621
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 Ogeechee River - GA Highway 24 nr Oliver, GA Oconee River at Barnett Shoals Road near Athens, GA Oconee River at Interstate Highway 16 near Dublin, GA Lake Jackson at confluence of Alcovy River and Yellow/South River Branch Lake Jackson - Dam Forebay Ocmulgee River - New Macon Water Intake Ocmulgee River - 6.0 Miles Downstream from Tobesofkee Creek Ocmulgee River - U.S. Highway 341 at Lumber City Altamaha River - 6.0 Miles Downstream From Doctortown Satilla River - GA Highways 15 and 121 Suwannee River - U.S. Highway 441 near Fargo, GA Withlacoochee River at Clyattsville-Nankin Rd nr Clyattsville, GA Ochlockonee River @ Hadley Ferry Rd. nr Calvary, GA Flint River at State Road 92 near Griffin, 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 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 (State Road 53) on Chattahoochee River Dicks Creek at Forest Service Road 144-1 near Neels Gap, GA Lake Sidney Lanier at Boling Bridge (State Road 53) on Chestatee River Lake Sidney Lanier at Browns Bridge Road (State Road 369) 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 Sixmile Creek at Burrus Mill Road near Coal Mountain, GA Lake Sidney Lanier - Mud Crk Embayment, Betw Marina & Ramp Lake Lanier upstream from Flowery Branch Confluence (Midlake) Lake Sidney Lanier - Six Mile Creek Embayment, 300' E
River Basin
Savannah Savannah Savannah Ogeechee Oconee Oconee Ocmulgee
Ocmulgee Ocmulgee Ocmulgee
Ocmulgee Altamaha Satilla Suwannee Suwannee
Ochlockonee Flint Flint Flint Flint Flint Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee
Parameters1
Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
Standard Standard Standard
Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
Standard
Standard Standard
Standard
Standard
Standard Standard Standard Standard
Standard Standard Standard
Standard
Standard Standard
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
32
Station Number
12040001 12048001 12055001 12060001
12070001 12080001 12090001 12106001 12120001 12140001
12180001 12189001 12210001 12212001 12216001 12218001 12218501
12219001
12219101 12219501 12230001 13010001 14010051 14030001 14119301 14119401 14250001
14302001 14304801
14305801
14307501 14309001 14330001
14450001 14560001
15090001
Location
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 Chattahoochee River at Cobb County Water Intake near Roswell 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 West Point Lake at LaGrange Water Intake near LaGrange, Georgia (aka Chatt. River at Lagrange Intake) West Point Lake - Dam Forebay Chattahoochee River upstream from Bartlett's Ferry Dam Lake Oliver (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 - GA Highway 100 near Bowden, GA Conasauga at U.S. Highway 76 near Dalton, GA Conasauga River at Tilton Bridge near Tilton, GA Carters Lake (CR1) - Upper Lake, Coosawattee Arm Carters Lake - Midlake (upstream from Woodring Branch) Oostanaula River at Rome Water Intake near Rome, GA Lake Allatoona at Etowah River upstream from Sweetwater Creek (Marker 44E/45E) 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 Hardin Bridge (FAS 829) near Euharlee, GA Coosa River - GA/Alabama State Line Monitor near Cave Springs Chattooga River at Holland-Chattoogaville Rd (FAS1363) West Chickamauga Creek - GA Highway 146 near Ringgold, GA
River Basin
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Tallapoosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa
Coosa Coosa
Coosa
Coosa Coosa Coosa
Coosa Coosa
Tennessee
Parameters1
Standard Standard Standard Standard
Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
Standard
Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
Standard Standard
Standard
Standard Standard Standard
Standard Standard
Standard
1 Standard field parameters include: gage height, air temperature, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, and turbidity.
Standard chemical parameters include: BOD5, alkalinity, hardness, ammonia, nitrite+nitrate nitrogen, phosphorus, TOC and fecal coliform bacteria.
Standard lakes field, chemical and biological parameters include: 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.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
33
TABLE 3-7 GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2006
Rivers and stream stations are sampled monthly for field and chemical parameters for one calendar year every five years. Four fecal coliform bacterial samples are collected each calendar quarter during the focused monitoring year. Basin lakes and reservoirs are sampled on a five-year rotational schedule. Samples are collected quarterly for nonstandard basin lakes and reservoirs within the river basin of focus for the calendar year.
Station Number 02023431 02024301 02024311 02024321 02024331 02024351
Sampling Site
Mill Creek at Lakeview Rd. Upper Black Creek at CR 582 (Arcola Rd.) Iric Branch at CR 588 (Mud Rd.) near Arcola, GA Pole Branch at CR 588 (Mud Rd.) Ash Branch at CR 2021 (Kangeter Loop) Lower Black Creek at CR 582 (Arcola Rd.)
River Basin Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee
Sampling Organization1 Bruns WP
Water Body Type
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Latitude 32.4926 32.2757 32.3048 32.2934 32.2325 32.2600
Longitude -81.7782 -81.6283 -81.5944 -81.5480 -81.5702 -81.6372
02027311 02027321 06010001 06011001 06014001 07004001 07005201 07006101
07006151 07016951 07016971 07022601 07022751 07023201 07023301 07024201 07024301
Lotts Creek at Pulaski Road
Wateringhole Branch at Country Club Rd.
Ohoopee River - GA Highway 56
Ohoopee River at State Road 178 near Glennville, GA
Altamaha River - U.S. Hwy 301 near Doctortown, GA.
Turtle River off Hermitage Island
Turtle River - GA Highway 303
Little Satilla River at US Hwy 17 near Waverly, GA
Little Satilla River at Hickory Bluff Boa tramp near Waverly, GA
Hurricane Creek at CR 552 near Nichols, GA
Dry Creek at CR 552 (Flying Hawk Rd.) near Nichols, GA
Little Hurricane Creek at SR 32 near Alma, GA
Big Branch at Beach Rd. near Alma, GA
Alabaha River at US Hwy 84 near Blackshear, GA
Alabaha River at County Road 160 near Blackshear , GA
Big Satilla Creek @ US Hwy 1 near Baxley, GA.
Big Satilla Creek at State Road 203 near Baxley, GA
Ogeechee Ogeechee Altamaha Altamaha Altamaha Satilla Satilla Satilla
Satilla Satilla Satilla Satilla Satilla Satilla Satilla Satilla Satilla
Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP
Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP
Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
32.4151 32.4149 32.0783 31.9203 31.6664 31.2203 31.1869 31.1138
-81.9147 -81.8482 -82.1775 -82.1128 -81.8386 -81.5642 -81.5314 -81.6135
Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
31.0924 31.5087 31.4842 31.5449 31.4650 31.3163 31.2744 31.6583 31.5908
-81.5670 -82.6349 -82.6314 -82.5447 -82.4472 -82.2257 -82.1906 -82.4322 -82.3117
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
34
Station Number 07024501 07027001 07028001 08009851
09000421 09001551 11061741 11062601 11063101
11069001 11088001 11700051 12201921 12211301
Sampling Site
Big Satilla Creek @ SR 121 near Blackshear, GA.
Satilla River at State Road 252 near Burntfort, GA
Satilla River at U.S. Highway 17 at Woodbine, GA
Spanish Creek at Post Road near Folkston, GA
Tatum Creek at CR 37 (Clarence Smith Rd.) near Homerville, GA
Big Branch at Colon Road near Fargo. GA
Lake Blackshear Midlake
Lake Blackshear - Dam Forebay
Flint River Reservoir - Midlake, Flint River Arm
Lake Worth (original) - Above Hwy 91 Bridge / Diversion Dam (aka Lake Chehaw)
Flint River Reservoir (Lake Worth) - Dam Forebay
Lake Seminole - Flint River Arm @ Spring Creek
Lake Harding - Upper Lake (Chattahoochee Arm)
Goat Rock Lake - Dam Forebay
River Basin Satilla Satilla Satilla St. Marys
Suwannee Suwannee Flint Flint Flint
Flint Flint Flint Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
12212501 12219791 12650001 12900001 14009001 14015501 14020501 14030101 14120001 14120201 14125501 14126001 14130001
Lake Oliver - Dam Forebay
Lake Andrews - Dam Forebay Lake Seminole Chattahoochee Arm, Lower
Lake Seminole - Dam Forebay Conasauga River at SR 286 near Eton, GA Coahulla Creek at Keiths Mill Rd (FAS 2354) East Of Dalton Holly Creek at GA Highway 225 near Chatsworth, GA Swamp Creek at Old Tilton Road at Tilton, GA Coosawattee River at U.S. Highway 411 near Carters, GA Sugar Creek at Coniston Road near Carters, GA Salacoa Creek at Lovebridge Road NE near Redbud, GA Coosawattee River at Owens Gin Rd. near Pine Chapel, GA Coosawattee River at State Road 225 near Calhoun, GA
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa
Sampling Organization1
Water Body Type
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP Bruns WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
Stream Stream Lake Lake Lake
Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
Latitude Longitude
31.5065
-82.1997
30.9456
-81.8994
30.9744
-81.7258
30.8224
-82.0547
30.9934 30.7749 31.9665 31.8479 31.6085
-82.7175 -82.6692 -83.9342 -83.9394 -84.1190
31.6109
-84.1500
31.6033
-84.1365
30.7627
-84.8171
32.7379
-85.1125
32.6112 32.5160 31.2632
-85.0794 -85.0009 -85.1130
30.7662 30.7115
-84.9201 -84.8647
34.8278
-84.8508
34.7433
-84.8806
34.6719
-84.8247
34.6675
-84.9431
34.6036
-84.6956
34.6367
-84.7422
34.5167
-84.7972
34.5642
-84.8331
34.5411
-84.9008
35
Station Number 14220001 14230021
14232101 14234001 14239001
14240001
14310001 14317201 14317451 14326011 14326501 14329501 14340001
14340201 14340991 14346001 14357551 14400001 14403901 14410001 14425001
Sampling Site
Oostanaula River at U.S. Highway 41 near Resaca, GA Oothkalooga Creek at SR53 Spur at Calhoun, GA Oostanaula River at Reeves Station Road near Calhoun, GA Johns Creek at State Road 156 near Curryville, GA Armuchee Creek at Old Dalton Road near Rome, GA Oostanaula River - 4.5 Miles U/S From Rome (Coker's Farm) Etowah River - 0.75 Mile Downstream From Allatoona Dam Etowah River at Douthit Ferry Road near Cartersville, GA Pettit Creek at CR450 near Cartersville, GA Raccoon Creek at Picklesville Road near Stilesboro, GA Pumpkinvine Creek at SR293 near Emerson, GA Euharlee Creek at County Road 32 near Stilesboro, GA Etowah River - U.S. Highway 411 Near Kingston Two Run Creek at Reynolds Bridge Road near Kingston, GA Spring Creek at State Road 20 near Rome, GA Etowah River at SR1 Loop near Rome, GA Silver Creek at Crescent Avenue near Rome, GA Coosa River - Mayo's Bar On Upstream End Of Lock Beech Creek at Mays Bridge Road SW near Rome, GA Coosa River at State Road 100 near Coosa, GA Cedar Creek - Cave Spring Road near Cedartown, GA
River Basin Coosa Coosa
Coosa Coosa Coosa
Coosa
Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa
Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa Coosa
Sampling Organization1
Water Body Type
Atl WP
Stream
Atl WP
Stream
Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
Stream Stream Stream
Atl WP
Stream
Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
Latitude Longitude
34.5783 34.4956
-84.9414 -84.9653
34.4511 34.4412 34.3608
-85.0283 -85.0953 -85.1403
34.2983
-85.1381
34.1631 34.1203 34.1653 34.1244 34.1011 34.1186 34.2088
-84.7411 -84.8197 -84.8164 -84.8919 -84.7375 -84.9483 -84.9785
34.2152 34.2061 34.2322 34.2328 34.2003 34.2332 34.2486 34.0606
-84.9686 -85.0749 -85.1169 -85.1781 -85.2567 -85.2933 -85.3556 -85.3138
1 Sampling Organization: Atl WP = GAEPD Atlanta office; Bruns WP = GAEPD Brunswick Regional office; USGS = U.S. Geological Survey. Standard field parameters include: gage height, air temperature, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, turbidity. Standard chemical parameters include: BOD5, alkalinity, hardness, ammonia, nitrite+nitrate nitrogen, phosphorus, TOC and fecal coliform bacteria. Basin lakes field and chemical parameters include: 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.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
36
TABLE 3-8 GEORGIA TREND MONITORING NETWORK 2007
Rivers and streams stations are sampled monthly for field and chemical parameters for one calendar year every five years. Four fecal coliform bacterial samples are collected each calendar quarter during the focused monitoring year. Basin lakes and reservoirs are sampled on a five-year rotational schedule. Samples are collected quarterly for nonstandard basin lakes and reservoirs within the river basin of focus for the calendar year.
Station Number 01002001 01003051
01003101 01003151
01003201 01003251 01003301 01003521
Sampling Site
Stekoa Creek - FAS 881 Near Chechero, GA
Lake Burton - 1/4 mile South of Burton Island (aka Tallulah River)
Lake Burton - Dam pool (aka Tallulah River u/s Lake Burton Dam)
Lake Rabun - Approx. 4.5 mi u/s Dam (Mid Lake)
Lake Rabun - Dam pool (aka Tallulah River - Upstream From Mathis Dam)
Lake Tugaloo - u/s Tugaloo Lake Rd (aka Bull Sluice Rd.)
Lake Tugaloo - Upstream From Tugaloo Dam
Eastanollee Creek at Tower Road nr Avalon, GA
River Basin Savannah Savannah
Savannah Savannah
Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah
Sampling Organization1
Water Body Type
USGS
Stream
Atl WP
Lake
Atl WP Atl WP
Lake Lake
Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP USGS
Lake Lake Lake Stream
Latitude Longitude
34.8353
-83.3469
34.8352
-83.5538
34.7953 34.7635
-83.5401 -83.4558
34.7647 34.7378 34.7150 34.5260
-83.4178 -83.3406 -83.3517 -83.1855
01003601 01003731 01004501
01004801 01005101 01007351 01007471 01007951 01008001 01008301 01008401 01008491 01008551 01008601
Lake Hartwell @ Interstate 85
Lake Hartwell - Dam Forebay Lake Russell Between Markers 42 and 44 (Mid Lake) Beaverdam Creek at Road S985 (Ruckersville Road) near Elberton, GA Lake Richard B. Russell - Dam Forebay Hudson River at US Hwy 29 near Fort Lamar, GA Broad River at State Road 72 nr Carlton, GA Long Creek @ Wilkes Co. Rd 109 (Pete Johnson Rd) nr Tignall
Broad River - GA Highway 17 Clarks Hill Lake- Savannah River At U.S. Highway 378 Clarks Hill Lake- Savannah River At Dordon Crk. Little River at SR 80 near Washington, GA Middle Creek @ Wrightsboro Rd. near Wrightsboro, GA Clarks Hill Lake - Little River at Hwy 47
Savannah Savannah Savannah
Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah
Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
USGS Atl WP USGS USGS USGS USGS Atl WP Atl WP USGS USGS Atl WP
Lake Lake Lake
34.4842 34.3587 34.1278
-83.0298 -82.8244 -82.6736
Stream Lake Stream Stream Stream Stream Lake Lake Stream Stream Lake
34.1413 34.0263 34.2397 34.0733 33.9414 33.9725 33.8579 33.7659 33.6083 33.5498 33.6927
-82.8405 -82.5942 -83.1792 -83.0033 -82.8241 -82.7709 -82.3996 -82.2718 -82.6486 -82.5643 -82.3388
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
37
Station Number 01008701 01008901 01008951 01009961 01010701 01011201 01012001 01012801 01013001 01013341 01013501 01014151 01014351 01014471 01014481 01014611 01016381
02001501 02004501 02008001 02008701 02011771 02011801 02019101 02023421 02023451 02024251 02025001 02025151
Sampling Site
Clarks Hill Lake - Dam Forebay Uchee Creek @ State Road 104 near Evans, GA Savannah River at State Road 28 near Evans, GA Butler Creek at SR56 Spur at Augusta, GA Spirit Creek at State Road 56 near McBean, GA McBean Creek at State Road 56 at McBean, GA Savannah River - U.S. Highway 301 Brier Creek at State Road 56 near Waynesboro, GA
Brier Creek Millhaven Beaverdam Creek at Beaverdam Rd. at Bascom, GA Buck Creek - Brannens Bridge Road (S1321) nr Sylvania, GA Devils Branch at Pitts Rd. near Oliver, GA Jacks Branch at Early Street, Springfield, GA Ebenezer Creek at Log Landing Rd. Ebenezer Creek at Long Bridge Road (CR 307) near Stillwell, GA Lockner Creek at Old Augusta Rd. (CR284) near Rincon, GA Pipemakers Canal at US Hwy 21 at Savannah, GA Ogeechee River at Hancock County Road 28 near Powelton, GA Little Ogeechee River at Road S1098 near Culverton, GA Ogeechee River at State Road 88 near Grange, GA Rocky Comfort Creek at Fred Williams Road near Edgehill, GA Williamson Swamp Creek at U.S. Highway 1 East at Wadley, GA Ogeechee River at State Road 56 at Midville, GA Ogeechee River at Rocky Ford Road nr Rocky Ford, GA Ogeechee Creek at State Road 17 at Oliver, GA Mill Creek at Bulloch County Road 386 Old River Road near Brooklet, Ogeechee River at U.S. Hwy 17 Canoochee River at State Road 192 near Stillmore, GA Sterling Creek at Timber Trail, Richmond Hill, GA.
River Basin Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah Savannah
Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee
Sampling Organization1 Atl WP
Water Body Type
Lake
USGS
Stream
USGS
Stream
USGS
Stream
USGS
Stream
USGS
Stream
USGS
Stream
USGS USGS
Stream Stream
USGS
Stream
USGS
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
USGS USGS USGS USGS USGS USGS USGS Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP USGS Bruns WP
Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
Latitude 33.6627
Longitude -82.1985
33.5669
-82.1834
33.5928
-82.1233
33.3894
-81.9728
33.3184
-81.9551
33.2414
-81.9474
32.9389
-81.5028
33.1182 32.9333
-81.9637 -81.6514
32.8408
-81.6633
32.7689
-81.5872
32.5364
-81.4442
32.3794
-81.3097
32.3500
-81.2675
32.3646
-81.2308
32.3608
-81.1795
32.1213
-81.1676
33.4374 33.2571 33.0439 33.1592 32.8498 32.8140 32.6494 32.5244 32.4384 31.9782 32.4942 31.9280
-82.8461 -82.8578 -82.6044 -82.5829 -82.3974 -82.2355 -81.8409 -81.5397 -81.5786 -81.2887 -82.2052 -81.3016
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
38
Station Number 02025901 02026001 02026111
02026201 02026801 02027201 02028101 02029101 02029501 02148001 02160001 06014001 07004001 07005201 07025201
07026001 08010001 1200010101 1200010501 1200010502 1200010503 1200010601 1200010602 1200010603 1200010604 1200010605 12015101 12016501 12028001
Sampling Site
Canoochee River at SR 121 near Metter, GA. Fifteenmile Creek at Candler County Road 28 near Metter, GA Wolfe Creek @ SR129 near Metter, GA Tenmile Creek at Road S2242 (Adabelle Road) near Excelsior, GA Cedar Creek at State Road 129 at Claxton, GA Canoochee River - Daisy Nevils Rd. near Daisy, GA Bull Creek at Road S2664 (Sunbury Road) near Daisy, GA Taylors Creek at SR119/144 near Hinesville, GA Canoochee River - GA Highway 67 Salt Creek at US Hwy 17 at Savannah, GA Casey Canal South at Montgomery Cross Road at Savannah, GA Altamaha River - U.S. Hwy 301 near Doctortown, GA.
River Basin Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee
Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Ogeechee Altamaha
Sampling Organization1
Water Body Type
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP
Stream
Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP
Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
Turtle River off Hermitage Island Turtle River GA Highway 303 Little Satilla River at SR32 near Hortense, GA Satilla River - U.S. Highway 82 nr Atkinson, GA (formerly identified as Hwy 84) Saint Marys River - U.S. Highway 301 near Folkston, GA
Chattahoochee River at Bottom Road near Helen, GA Chestatee River at Roy Grindle Road (CR 49) near Dahlonega, GA Shoal Creek at Ashbury Mill Road near Cleveland, GA Tesnatee Creek at Gene Nix Road near Cleveland, GA Chestatee River at Copper Mines Road (CR 41) near Dahlonega, GA Baldridge Creek at Pilgrim Mill Road near Cumming, GA Sawnee Creek at Pilgrim Mill Road near Cumming, GA Four Mile Creek at Browns Bridge Road near Cumming, GA Two Mile Creek at Wallace Ford Road near Cumming, GA Chattahoochee River at Bottom Road near Helen, GA Sautee Creek at SR17/255 (Sky Lake Rd.) near Helen, GA Soquee River at State Road 105 near Demorest, GA
Satilla Satilla Satilla
Satilla St. Marys Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Bruns WP Bruns WP Bruns WP
Bruns WP Bruns WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
Stream Stream Stream
Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
Latitude Longitude
32.3559 32.3473 32.3087
-82.0899 -82.0434 -82.0524
32.2797 32.1743 32.1786 32.1441 31.8935 31.9831 32.0399 31.9924 31.6664 31.2203 31.1869 31.3512
-81.9616 -81.9223 -81.8289 -81.7935 -81.6324 -81.3853 -81.2037 -81.1019 -81.8386 -81.5642 -81.5314 -82.0336
31.2211 30.7764 34.6782 34.5788 34.5506 34.5685 34.5438 34.2319 34.2245 34.2494 34.2859 34.6782 34.6789 34.5731
-81.8675 -81.9789 -83.6856 -83.8880 -83.8347 -83.8358 -83.8871 -84.0917 -84.1149 -84.0120 -83.9872 -83.6856 -83.6683 -83.5908 39
Station Number 12030025 12030031 12030041 12030103 12030141
12030151 12030171 12030301 12033901 12034101 12034401 12034691
12036001 12038610 12038781 12039001 12039501 12039601 12039801 12039811 12039831
Sampling Site
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 Flat Creek - Glade Farm 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 Wahoo Creek at Ben Parks Road near Murrayville, GA White Creek at New Bridge Road near Demorest, GA Chestatee River at Roy Grindle Road (CR 49) near Dahlonega, GA Chestatee River at Copper Mines Road near Dahlonega, GA Shoal Creek at Ashbury Mill Road near Cleveland, GA Testnatee Creek at Gene Nix Road near Cleveland, GA Yellow Creek at Yellow Creek Road (CR158) near Murrayville, GA Balus Creek at McEver Road near Oakwood, GA Mud Creek at McEver Road near Flowery Branch, GA Two Mile Creek at Wallace Wood Road near Cumming, GA Big Creek At McEver Road near Buford, GA Sixmile Creek at Burrus Mill Road near Coal Mountain, GA Bald Ridge Creek at Pilgrim Mill Road near Cumming, GA Four Mile Creek at Browns Bridge Road near Cumming, GA Sawnee Creek at Pilgrim Mill Road near Cumming, GA
River Basin Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Chattahoochee
Sampling Organization1 Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP Atl WP
Water Body Type Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream Stream
Latitude Longitude
34.5134 34.4828 34.4673 34.4233
-83.6855 -83.6387 -83.6323 -83.7369
34.4153
-83.8213
34.3941 34.4348 34.5426 34.5788 34.5438 34.5506 34.5685
-83.7979 -83.8862 -83.6597 -83.8880 -83.8871 -83.8347 -83.8358
34.4305 34.2504 34.2059 34.2859 34.1606 34.2591 34.2319 34.2494 34.2245
-83.9395 -83.8929 -83.9148 -83.9872 -83.9622 -84.0578 -84.0917 -84.0120 -84.1149
1 Sampling Organization: Atl WP = GAEPD Atlanta office; Bruns WP = GAEPD Brunswick Regional office; USGS = U.S. Geological Survey. Standard field parameters include: gage height, air temperature, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, turbidity. Standard chemical parameters include: BOD5, alkalinity, hardness, ammonia, nitrite+nitrate nitrogen, phosphorus, TOC and fecal coliform bacteria. Basin lakes field and chemical parameters include: 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.
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
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
40
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.
Biological Monitoring. Biological monitoring is performed in order to assess the biological integrity of the States waters. The Department of Natural Resources' Wildlife Resource Division has been conducting bioassessments using fish as the indicator species since the early 1990's. The primary technique for determining the quality of fish communities is called the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI). This index utilizes the numbers and types of fish species present in a stream to produce a stream score or rating for comparison across streams within a particular ecoregion or to the same stream over time. Biological monitoring is useful in detecting intermittent sources of pollution that may not be caught in trend monitoring of water quality parameters. The Tennessee Valley Authority has also collected fish IBI data in Georgia. In 2007, the GAEPD utilized macroinvertebrate biological data in addition to fish data for assessing the biotic integrity of wadeable streams in Georgia. Waters assessed as meeting or not meeting its designated uses based on fish and/or macroinvertebrate were included in Georgia's 2008 305(b)/303(d) List of Waters.
Lake Monitoring. The GAEPD has maintained monitoring programs for Georgia's public lakes since the late 1960's. Currently, Georgia has six major lakes that have standard criteria approved by legislature, which include: Sydney Lanier, Allatoona, West Point, Walter F. George, Jackson and Carters. These lakes are sampled every year from April to October when primary productivity is highest. All other major lakes are sampled according to a basin rotation schedule. Lakes in the basin rotation schedule are sampled once per quarter in accordance with which basin is targeted that year. In 2005, the basins of focus were the Coosa, Tallapoosa, and Tennessee. Lakes sampled in this rotation were Blue Ridge, Nottely, and Chatuge. Lakes in the Chattahoochee and Flint basins were targeted in 2006. These lakes included Goats Rock, Seminole, Blackshear, and Worth. Lakes in the Savannah and Ogeechee basins were targeted in 2007, and included Rabun, Burton, Tugalo, Hartwell, Clarks Hill and Russell. 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.
In 2007, Georgia participated in a USEPA's National Lakes Assessment Survey. Sampling sites were randomly selected nationally and each state was given the opportunity to participate in sampling sites selected within their respective states. Fourteen randomly selected lakes were identified in Georgia and were sampled by the GAEPD using the USEPA's national lake sampling protocol from May through September. Data obtained from the survey will be assessed by the USEPA and conclusions will be published in a report on the quality of the Nation's Lake waters between 2008 and 2009.
Lake Lanier and its watershed were sampled heavily during 2007 due to three segments being listed on the 2006 303(d) List of Waters for chlorophyll-a. This project consisted of sampling of 27 tributaries in the watershed twice a month, 10 sites on the main body of the lake, and 5 continuous monitors in the lake. Data collected during this intensive evaluation will be used for TMDL modeling for development of nutrient criteria for Lake Lanier.
The monitoring of major lakes (> 500 acres) since 1984 has continued to use Carlson's Trophic State Index (TTSI) as a tool to mark trophic state trends. Three measures are 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. The major lakes listed in Table 3-9 are ranked according to the TTSI. Work on major lakes is conducted as a part of the basin rotation or lakes standards monitoring projects. Data are either from the second quarter or May for basin or standards lakes, respectively.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
41
TABLE 3-9 MAJOR LAKES RANKED BY SUM OF TROPHIC STATE INDEX VALUES (2003-2007)
Major Lake
TTSI
Major Lake
TTSI
Major Lake
TTSI
Ranking
Ranking
Ranking
Banks (2003)
184
Oliver (2006)
162
Tugalo (2007)
143
Carters (2007)*
181
Nottely (2005) 161
Chatuge (2005) 143
Worth (2006)
178
Oconee (2004) 159
Sinclair (2004) 140
Tobesofkee (2004) 175
Blackshear
157
Hartwell (2007) 139
(2006)
Seminole (2006)
172
Jackson (2007) 156
Blue Ridge
139
(2005)
Walter F. George
171
Russell (2007) 152
Rabun (2007)
138
(2007)
West Point (2007) 167
Lanier (2007) 152
Juliette (2004)
137
Goat Rock (2006)
165
Harding (2006) 151
Clarks Hill (2007) 133
High Falls (2004)
162
Allatoona
149
Burton (2007)
128
(2007)
*Carters Lake does not have a dam pool site due to the pump-back activity from the re-
regulation reservoir. Data listed is from the mid-lake station.
Fish Tissue Monitoring. This general contaminants 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 typically 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 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. The first risk-based consumption guidance was published in 1995. As part of the implementation of the Federal Clean Air Mercury Rule (CAMR), it was recognized that a more rigorous monitoring program of mercury in fish tissue would be required to support trend analysis and the efficacy of future reductions in air mercury emissions. A subproject was designed and implemented in 2006 consisting of 22 fish mercury trend stations, which will be monitored annually. Nineteen stations are fresh water and 3 are estuarine. As no new resources were provided in support of the mercury in fish trend monitoring, the general contaminants program has been reduced. The mercury in fish trend monitoring sites is provided in Table 3-10.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
42
TABLE 3-10 MERCURY IN FISH TREND MONITORING STATIONS
Antioch Lake at Rocky Mtn. PFA
Flint River below Ichawaynochaway Creek
Oostanaula River at Georgia Hwy. 140
Lake Kolomoki at Kolomoki State Park
Lake Acworth
Satilla River below U.S. Hwy. 82
Lake Tugalo
Okefenokee Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Bear Creek Reservoir
Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Randy Pointer Lake (Black Shoals Reservoir) Savannah River at U.S. Hwy. 301
Chattahoochee River below Morgan Falls
Savannah River at I-95
Chattahoochee River Below Franklin
Ogeechee River at Ga. Hwy. 204
Lake Tobesofkee
Wassaw Sound
Ocmulgee River below Macon at Ga. Hwy. 96 Altamaha Delta and Sound
Lake Andrews
St. Andrews Sound
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 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. Continued work is performed on a site-specific basis and as part of the rotating river basin monitoring program.
Aquatic Toxicity Testing. Biomonitoring requirements are currently addressed in all municipal and industrial NPDES permits. In January 1995, the GAEPD issued approved NPDES Reasonable Potential Procedures that further delineate required conditions for conducting whole effluent toxicity (WET) testing for municipal and industrial discharges. The Reasonable Potential Procedures were updated in 2001 and the GAEPD additionally developed a WET Strategy that provided more detail as to how the State would determine which facilities needed a WET limit in their permit. This strategy outlined minimum data requirements for different types of facilities. The GAEPD conducted aquatic toxicity tests on municipal and industrial water pollution control plant effluents from 1985 through 1997. Funding for GAEPD's aquatic toxicity testing laboratory was redirected to TMDL monitoring and the toxicity testing requirements were turned over to the individual permittees.
Coastal Monitoring. The Coastal Resources Division (CRD) conducts the majority of coastal monitoring. 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. This work 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 2006-2007. The results were used, in part, to verify the validity of permittee selfmonitoring data and as supporting evidence, as applicable, in enforcement actions. This work
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
43
follows the major river basin rotation strategy. Compliance sampling in 2006 was focused in the Coosa River basin and in 2007 in the Savannah and Ogeechee River basins.
Surface Water Quality Summary
Data Assessment. Water quality data are assessed to determine if standards are met and if the water body supports its designated or classified water use. If monitoring data show that standards are not achieved, the water body is said to be not supporting the designated use. The data reviewed included GAEPD monitoring data, and data from other State, Federal, local governments, contracted Clean Lakes projects, data from three electrical utility companies and data from groups with approved QA/QC programs. Table 3-11 provides a list of agencies that contributed data for use in assessing water quality in this report.
TABLE 3-11 CONTRIBUTORS OF WATER QUALITY DATA FOR ASSESSMENT OF GEORGIA WATERS
GAEPD Ambient Monitoring Unit GAEPD Watershed Planning and Monitoring Program GAEPD Permitting and Compliance Program GAEPD Brunswick District Office GAEPD Hazardous Waste Branch DNR, Georgia Parks Recreation & Historic Sites Division DNR Coastal Resources Division DNR Wildlife Resources Division State University of West Georgia Gainesville College Georgia Institute of Technology Chattahoochee/Flint RDC Upper Etowah Adopt-A-Stream Middle Flint RDC Heart of Georgia RDC Central Savannah RDC U.S. Environmental Protection Agency U.S. Geological Survey U.S. Army Corps of Engineers U.S. Forest Service Tennessee Valley Authority Cobb County DeKalb County Douglas County WSA Fulton County Gwinnett County City of Clayton Cartersville Georgia Ports Authority Cherokee County Forsyth County
City of Gainesville Tyson Foods, Inc
City of LaGrange City of Savannah Chatham County City of Augusta
Georgia Mountains RDC City of Conyers Kennesaw State University Lake Allatoona (Kennesaw State University) Lake Lanier (University of Georgia) West Point (LaGrange College/Auburn University) Lake Blackshear Watershed Association University of Georgia Southwire Company Ellijay High School LaGrange College/Auburn University Georgia Power Company Oglethorpe Power Company South Carolina Electric & Gas Co. South Carolina DHEC Jones Ecological Research Center Alabama DEM City of College Park Columbus Water Works Columbus Unified Government St. Johns WMD Town of Trion Clayton County Water Authority City of Atlanta
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
44
Appendix A includes an integrated list of waters for which data have been assessed including those that had indications the designated uses for those waters were not fully met and requiring the development of a TMDL for a specific pollutant of concern.
Substantial changes have been made to the format of Georgia's 2008 305(b)/303(d) List of Waters assessed from earlier listing years. The USEPA has required States to move to a fivepart categorization of their waters. The GAEPD adopted the five-part categorization method with the 2008 305(b)/303(d) report. Assessed waters were placed into the five categories as described below:
Category 1 Data indicate that waters are meeting their designated use(s). The placement of a water body in Category 1 is comparable to a water body having been on the "supporting" list in previous 305(b)/303(d) lists.
Category 2 A water has more than one designated use and data indicate that at least one designated use is being met, but there is insufficient evidence to determine that all uses are being met. GAEPD did not have a designation similar to Category 2 on previous 305(b)/303(d) lists.
Category 3 There is insufficient data or other information to make a determination as to whether or not the designated use(s) is being met.
Category 4a Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met, but TMDL(s) have been completed for the parameter(s) that are causing a water not to meet its use(s). In GAEPD's previous 305(b)/303(d) lists, a water body that was determined not to be supporting its use, but a TMDL had been completed for the parameter of concern would have been indicated by the presence of the number "3" in the 303(d) column of the report.
Category 4b - Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met, but there are actions in place (other than a TMDL) that are predicted to lead to compliance with water quality standards. In previous 305(b)/303(d) lists, waters meeting this condition would have been indicated by the presence of the number "2" in the 303(d) column of the report.
Category 4c - Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met, but a pollutant does not cause the impairment. The Clean Water Act (502(6)) defines a pollutant as dredged spoil, solid waste, incinerator residue, biological materials, radioactive materials, heat, wrecked or discarded equipment, rock, salt, cellar dirt, and industrial, municipal, and agricultural waste discharged into water. An example of a situation that may call for a water to be placed in Category 4c is the case of a highly modified stream (such as a stream that has been channelized) and therefore has insufficient habitat to support an acceptable biological community.
Category 5 - Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met and TMDL(s) need to be completed for one or more pollutants. In previous 305(b)/ 303(d) lists, a water body that was determined not to be supporting its use and for which a TMDL still needed to be completed was indicated by the presence of an "x" in the 303(d) column of the report.
In accordance with Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act, the 303(d) list is a list of waters not meeting their uses and for which TMDL(s) have not been completed for the parameter(s) of concern. Once the TMDL is completed, the water may still not be supporting its use; however, it is no longer on the 303(d) list. In the new 5-part categorization method, waters that are assessed as "not supporting" their uses will either be placed in Category 4a, 4b, 4c or 5. Only those waters in Category 5 make up the federally mandated 303(d) list.
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Georgia's 5-part categorized Integrated List of Waters is organized by river basin to aid the public in identifying waters in their local watershed. Water bodies within a river basin are alphabetized and information is provided on the location, data source, designated water use classification, criterion violated, potential cause, estimates of stream miles, lake acres and square miles of estuaries affected and the assessment category (1-5). For waters within category 5, an entry in the priority column indicates the proposed year for TMDL development for the pollutant of concern.
Another change that occurred with the 2008 List, was the merging of the USEPA's assessed waters with GAEPD's assessed waters. The USEPA's list of assessed waters were presented in a separate list in Appendix B in former Water Quality in Georgia... Reports. Beginning with the 2008 List, all waters assessed will be included within the list contained in Appendix A of this report.
Assessment of water quality data during 2006 and 2007 followed Georgia's Listing Methodology for Assessment of Data for the 2008 305(b)/303(d) Integrated List and Report. The following provides a brief overview of the assessment methodology. For more detail, refer to Appendix A.
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 yearround 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 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 2006-2007 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 in category 5 with a schedule proposed for development of a TMDL for this pollutant of concern.
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 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 more than 10 percent of the samples had fecal coliform bacterial densities greater than the applicable review criteria (400 or 4,000 MPN/100 ml).
Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Temperature. When available data indicated that these parameters were out of compliance with the State's water quality criteria more than 10% of the time, the waters were evaluated as not supporting the designated use and placed in category 5. Chapter 391-3-6-.03(7) of the Rules and Regulations for Water Quality Control states "It is recognized that certain natural waters of the State may have a quality that will not be within the general or specific requirements contained herein. These circumstances do not constitute violations of water quality standards. This is especially the case for the criteria for dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH and fecal coliform." In cases where data was collected from South Georgia black water streams indicating low pH and DO values which may be natural, those waters were placed in category 3 requiring more data before a determination could be made if the water was meeting its designated use(s).
Metals. In general, data on metals from any one given site are not frequent. Clean sampling techniques are used when metals are collected. If one sample was in excess of an acute criterion
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46
or if more than one sample was in excess of a chronic criterion, the stream segment was placed in category 5. This is in accordance with USEPA guidance that suggests listing if more than one sample exceeds the criteria in a three-year period. The goal for collecting representative metals data when only a minimal number are collected is to sample in the winter and summer for comparison to water quality standards.
Priority Pollutant/Organic Chemicals. In general, data for priority pollutant/organic chemicals from any one given site are also not frequent as with metals. If more than one sample was in excess of a standard, the stream segment was placed in category 5.
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 were placed in category 5.
Lake-Specific Criteria.
Chlorophyll a.: If during the 5-year assessment period, the average exceeds the site-specific growing season criteria 2 (or more) times out of the 5-year assessment period, the lake area representative for that station is assessed as not supporting designated uses and placed in category 5.
Total Nitrogen: Data indicates greater than 10% of the Total Nitrogen values assessed exceed the site-specific criteria, the lake area representative for that station is assessed as not supporting designated uses and placed in category 5.
Fish/Shellfish Guidelines. Following USEPA's guidance for evaluating fish consumption guidelines formation for 305(b)/303(d) use support determinations, waters are placed in category 5 as not supporting if little or no consumption of fish is recommended. For more information, see Georgia's Listing Assessment Methodology for the 2008 List in Appendix A.
A segment or water body was assessed as not supporting its designated uses for mercury in fish tissue if the Trophic-Weighted Residue Value (as described in the October 19, 2001 GAEPD "Protocol"), was in excess of the USEPA water quality criterion (Water Quality Criterion for the Protection of Human Health: Methyl mercury, EPA-823-R-01-001, January 2001). The USEPA criteria represents a national approach to address what mercury levels is protective for fishing waters. For mercury, waters were placed in category 5 if the calculated Trophic-Weighted Residue Value was greater than 0.3 g/g wet weight total mercury. Waters were included in category 1 (supporting designated uses provided all other criteria were met) if the calculated Trophic-Weighted Residue Value was less than or equal to 0.3 g/g. It is possible that some of these waters may have fish consumption guidelines in place for mercury. Georgia's fish consumption guidelines were developed using a risk-based approach to generate simple, understandable information for fish consumption that is species specific, and in many cases, size specific. It is published to help consumers of locally caught fish to make choices regarding consumption. However, for the purpose of assessing State waters, it is appropriate to use the State's criteria that accounts for different contaminant loads in different trophic levels of fish.
Biotic Data. The "Bio-F" and "Bio-M" designation in the "Criterion Violated" column indicates that studies showed a modification of the biotic community for fish ("Bio-F") and/or macroinvertebrate organisms ("Bio-M"). Studies of fish populations by the DNR Wildlife Resources Division and the Tennessee Valley Authority 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 category 5. The GAEPD's macroinvertebrate data indicating "Poor" or "Very Poor" stream health were included in category 5. Waters where additional information was needed to
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47
make a determination of whether a water body was meeting its designated use was placed in category 3.
Evaluation of Use Support. Table 3-12 provides summary information from Appendix A on the total number of stream miles, lake acres, or square miles of estuarine and coastal waters that fall in each assessment category. Separate totals are given for water bodies 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.
TABLE 3-12 EVALUATION OF USE SUPPORT BY WATER BODY TYPE AND ASSESSMENT CATEGORY
2006-2007
Degree of Use Support Support
Not Support Assessment
Pending Total
Streams/Rivers (miles)
Assessment Basis
Evaluated Monitored Total
3,139 2,045
2,206 5,540
5,345 7,585
204
565
769
5,388
8,311
13,699
Lakes/Reservoirs (acres)
Assessment Basis
Evaluated Monitored Total
997
210,383 211,380
816
129,581 130,397
0
58,751
58,751
1,813
398,715 400,528
Sounds/Harbors (sq. miles)
Assessment Basis
Evaluated Monitored
Total
0
33
33
0
14
14
0
25
25
0
72
72
Degree of Use Support Support
Not Support Assessment
Pending Total
Coastal Streams/Rivers (miles)
Assessment Basis
Evaluated Monitored Total
0
134
134
1
42
43
23
152
175
24
328
352
Coastal Beaches (miles)
Assessment Basis
Evaluated Monitored
0
30
0
4
0
0
0
34
Total 30 4 0 34
Assessment of Causes of Nonsupport of Designated Uses. There are many potential pollutants that may interfere with the designated use of rivers, streams, lakes, estuarine, and coastal waters. These can be termed the causes of use nonsupport. Based on information presented in Appendix A, Table 3-13 summarizes the parameters of concern or the causes which contributed to nonsupport of water quality standards or designated uses of a particular water body type.
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TABLE 3-13 CAUSES OF NONSUPPORT OF DESIGNATED USES BY WATER BODY TYPE
2006-2007
Cause Category
Fish Guidance Toxicity Pesticides Priority Organics Metals Ammonia pH Dissolved Oxygen Temperature Pathogens Biota Impacted
Rivers/Streams (miles) Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
896
602
0
39
0
0
1
3
3
23
0
0
35
243
528
752
0
26
2,623
1,806
1,467
790
Cause Category
Fish Guidance Toxicity Pesticides Priority Organics Metals pH Dissolved Oxygen Temperature Pathogens Chlorophyll a
Lakes/Reservoirs (acres) Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
96,642
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
650
0
194
0
32,911
0
Cause Category
Fish Guidance Priority Organics Metals Dissolved Oxygen Pathogens
Sounds/Harbors (sq. miles) Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
0
0
0
0
0
0
14
0
0
0
Cause Category
Fish Guidance Toxicity Pesticides Priority Organics Metals Ammonia pH Dissolved Oxygen Temperature Pathogens Biota Impacted
Cause Category
Fish Guidance Priority Organics Metals Dissolved Oxygen Pathogens
Coastal Streams (miles) Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
2
28
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
4
0
0
0
0
6
26
0
0
5
2
0
0
Coastal Beaches (miles) Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
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 12 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 3-14 summarizes information presented in Appendix A concerning the sources of pollutants that prevent achievement of water quality standards and use support in various water bodies in Georgia.
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TABLE 3-14 POTENTIAL SOURCES OF NONSUPPORT OF DESIGNATED USES BY WATER BODY TYPE
2006-2007
Cause Category
Industrial Point Industrial Nonpoint Municipal Point Municipal Nonpoint Combined Sewer Overflows Urban Runoff/ Stormwater Hydropower (Dam Release) Thermal Modification Nonpoint Source
Rivers/Streams (miles) Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
0
66
17
236
40
145
0
0
0
93
1,634
506
11
2
0
0
5,141
462
Cause Category
Industrial Point Industrial Nonpoint Municipal Point Municipal Nonpoint Combined Sewer Overflows Urban Runoff/ Stormwater Hydropower (Dam Release) Thermal Modification Nonpoint Source
Coastal Streams (miles) Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
0
28
2
7
0
21
0
0
0
0
8
5
0
0
0
0
0
8
Cause Category
Industrial Point Industrial Nonpoint Municipal Point Municipal Nonpoint Urban Runoff/ Stormwater Nonpoint Source
Lakes/Reservoirs (acres)
Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
650
0
55,950
0
0
0
0
0
194
60,594
13,009
60,594
Cause Category
Industrial Point Industrial Nonpoint Municipal Point Urban Runoff/ Stormwater Nonpoint Source Marina
Sounds/Harbors (sq. miles) Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
0
14
0
0
0
14
0
14
0
10
0
0
Cause Category
Industrial Point Industrial Nonpoint Municipal Point Municipal Nonpoint Combined Sewer Overflows Urban Runoff/ Stormwater Nonpoint Source
Coastal Beaches (miles)
Contributions to Impairment1
Major2
Moderate/Minor3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
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 12 or Appendix A. i. 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. ii. 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.
Assessment of Potential Sources of Nonsupport of Designated Uses. Pollutants that impact water bodies 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.
Priorities for Action. The list of waters in Appendix A includes all waters for which available data was assessed against applicable water quality standards and designated uses were determined to be supported or not fully supported. This list of waters has become a
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50
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 within the 5-part category assessments are active 305(b) waters. Lakes or reservoirs within these categories provide 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 all waters within category 5. The proposed date for development of a TMDL for category 5 waters is indicated within the priority column of the report.
TMDL Schedules. The rotating river basin approach process provides the framework for the long-term schedule for developing TMDLs for 303(d) listed segments. In 2006, TMDLs were proposed for 303(d) listed waters in the Altamaha, Oconee and Ocmulgee River Basins. The model used for fecal coliform bacteria TMDLs was changed in 2006 from a WCS modeling program to a loading curve modeling method. The fecal coliform bacteria TMDLs were revisited in 2006 using the new modeling program. In 2007, TMDLs were proposed for 303(d) listed waters in the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins. In addition, a number of dissolved oxygen TMDLs for impaired streams within the Savannah and Ogeechee River Basins were developed.
The list in Appendix A 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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CHAPTER 4
Wetland Programs
Introduction 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 sinkholes, springheads, 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 broadleaved 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 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 The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, the USFWS National Wetland Inventory, and the state Department of Natural Resources have carried out assessments of wetland resources in Georgia with varying degrees of success. 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
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52
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 straightforward. The inclusion of other upland landcover classes adds to the utility of this database in environmental analysis and landuse planning.
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, 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 measures of Georgia's wetland acreages were developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wetland Inventory efforts. This statistically sound study was based upon 206 sample 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 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
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78,000 acres was estimated for the seven (7) year period, while timber harvesting altered 455,000 acres. 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. The Coastal Marshlands Protection Committee, a State permitting authority, issues separate permits for alterations to salt marsh and the State's waterbottoms. 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. 3913-16-03) 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.
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. Land use 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.
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Whether the project contains significant state historical and archaeological resources, defined as "Properties On or Eligible for the National Register of Historic Places".
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 DNR-EPD.
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 60-90% 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 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.
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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.
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 more than 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, DNR and The Nature Conservancy at Moody Forest Natural Area jointly manage a total of 3,600 acres containing significant floodplain acreage. 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 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
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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 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 priories these wetlands for value in protecting wetland functions and in providing significant habitat to support wetland-dependant 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, more than 1.2 million dollars have been spent on habitat projects in the state of Georgia involving thousands of acres of wetlands. Completed projects include:
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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 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
Total
Total
Acreage Suitable for Mitigation
Acreage Wetland
Acreage
Restoration Enhancement
WMA/PFA Sites Park Sites
128,106 38,754 43,850 6,158
1,782 509
9,749 86
Other Sites*
58,712 12,126 83
2,322
230,668 57,038 2,374
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) manages Georgia's coastal resources. The CRD's Ecological Services Section administers Georgia's Coastal Management Program and its enforceable authorities, manages Georgia's shellfish harvest program, and conducts water quality monitoring based on specific grants and programmatic requirements. The CRD's Marine Fisheries Section manages Georgia's marine fisheries, balancing the long-term health of fish populations with the needs of those who fish for commercial and recreational purposes. The Section conducts scientific surveys of marine organisms and their habitats; collects harvest and fishing effort information; and assesses, restores and enhances fish habitats; along with other responsibilities. The DNR Wildlife Resources (WRD) and Environmental Protection Divisions (GAEPD) each play additional roles to manage resources in the Georgia coastal environment.
Georgia Coastal Management Program 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 develop and implement coastal zone management programs that fulfill the guidelines established by the Act. Georgia entered this national framework in 1998 upon the approval of the Georgia Coastal Management Program (GCMP) by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Financial assistance under the federal grant to the GCMP has been used, in part, to support the Public Health Water Quality Monitoring Program described below.
The Coastal Management Program has provided guidance and technical assistance to improve coastal water quality in general, and in the development of a Coastal Non-Point Source Control Program in particular. Under the Coastal Zone Management Act Reauthorization Amendments of 1990, Congress added a section entitled "Protecting Coastal Waters." That section directs states with federally approved coastal management programs to develop a Coastal Non-Point Source Program. To that end, the GAEPD is assisting the GCMP 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.
Public Health Water Quality Monitoring Program The CRD conducts water quality monitoring in estuarine and near-shore coastal waters through its Public Health Water Quality Monitoring Program. This Program has four distinct parts. The Shellfish Sanitation and Beach Water Quality Monitoring Programs are concerned with public health. The Nutrient Monitoring Program and the National Coastal Assessment are designed to generate baseline-monitoring data for trends.
Shellfish Sanitation Program CRD's Shellfish Sanitation Program monitors the quality of Georgia's shellfish harvest waters for harmful bacteria that might affect the safety of shellfish for human consumption. Nine (9) harvest areas are designated for recreational picking of oysters and clams by the general public. An additional seventeen (17) harvest areas are designated for the commercial harvest of oysters and clams.
The US Food and Drug Administration's National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP) establishes national standards to 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." Water samples from each approved harvest area are collected by CRD and
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analyzed regularly to ensure 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 NSSP.
TABLE 5-1. LOCATION AND SIZE OF AREAS APPROVED FOR SHELLFISH HARVEST
County
Chatham Bryan/Liberty McIntosh Glynn/Camden
Approved
15,351 acres 55,747 acres 50,170 acres 37,018 acres
Leased
4,887 acres 1,706 acres 13,756 acres 4,855 acres
Public
1,267 acres 936 acres 1,974 acres 7,188 acres
Water quality sampling occurs every other month at eighty-four (84) stations in five (5) counties on the coast including Chatham, Liberty, McIntosh, Glynn, and Camden counties. These stations are located to provide representative coverage of all the approved harvest areas along the coast.
Beach Monitoring Program The Beach Monitoring Program was developed in response to the federal Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act of 2000. The BEACH Act is an amendment to the Federal Clean Water Act. The Act requires states to: 1) identify and prioritize their coastal recreational beaches; 2) monitor the beaches for the presence of the bacterial indicator Enterococcus; 3) notify the public when the EPA threshold for Enterococcus has been exceeded; and 4) report the location, monitoring, and notification data to EPA.
Georgia's recreational beaches have been identified and prioritized into three (3) tiers based on their use and proximity to potential pollution sources. Tier 1 beaches are high-use beaches. Tier 2 beaches are lower-use beaches. Tier 3 beaches are lowest-use or at low probability for potential pollution. Water quality sampling occurs regularly depending upon the tier: Tier 1 beaches are monitored weekly year-round; Tier 2 beaches are monitored monthly from April through November; and Tier 3 beaches are not monitored. Beaches that exceed the threshold for Enterococcus are put under a swimming advisory that is not lifted until the levels of bacteria are sufficiently reduced, based on resampling. Beaches under a permanent swimming advisory are monitored quarterly.
Nutrient Monitoring Program The Nutrient Monitoring Program assesses nutrient baseline concentrations in coastal 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. CRD has been monitoring nutrients at eighty-four (84) stations along the coast since 2000 to establish trends in nitrite nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen, total dissolved phosphorus, ortho- phosphate, and silicate.
Nutrient samples are collected monthly in the Ogeechee, Altamaha, and St. Marys Rivers at six (6) sites in each river to provide data for the upper estuary/lower salinity environments. Samples are also collected at thirty (30) of the eighty-four (84) shellfish sample sites to provide both nutrient and fecal coliform bacteria data from tidal rivers and sounds. Nutrient data for the lower sounds are collected at twenty-four (24) sites in conjunction with the monthly Ecological Monitoring Survey performed by the Marine Fisheries Section with the Research Vessel ANNA. Altamaha and Doboy Sounds, which are not routinely sampled on the Ecological Monitoring Survey, are also sampled monthly with an additional six (6) sites per sound system.
National Coastal Assessment Program The National Coastal Assessment Program (NCA) was a five-year pilot study (2000-2006) funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a baseline condition as part of a national survey of
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estuarine environmental health. As a participant in the national program, Georgia's NCA Program sampled fifty (50) sites each year throughout 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 selected the sample sites randomly, and data were collected in July and August of each year. The same sampling time frame, sample site design, and protocol were followed by each participating state to generate a comparable "snapshot" of national estuarine conditions.
NCA data are being used nationally by EPA to generate the National Coastal Condition Reports. CRD recently completed a two-year Georgia Coastal Condition Report (2000-2001); an update to this report is currently being drafted to summarize all available data from Georgia's National Coastal Assessment Program.
Coastal Streams, Harbors, and Sounds This 305(b) report contains information on many coastal streams, harbors, and sounds. Several water bodies have been shown to have low dissolved oxygen (DO) readings over discrete periods of time during an annual cycle. EPD has categorized these streams as needing further assessment. A large percentage of the low dissolved oxygen readings occurred in the late summer and early fall of 2003, a period of prolonged, extreme drought. In addition to the dry conditions, water temperatures and salinities during this period were noted to be well above average for all of the water quality monitoring stations in coastal Georgia. To more accurately represent and report on natural dissolved oxygen levels in coastal water bodies, additional directed effort will be required at each location to increase the general state of knowledge for these estuarine systems.
Coastal Beaches This report contains information on twenty-seven (27) coastal beaches. Of these, twenty-one (21) are considered to be supporting their designated use of coastal recreation. Six (6) beaches are considered as not supporting their designated use: two (2) are located on Jekyll Island at the St. Andrews picnic area and at Clam Creek; and one (1) beach is on St. Simons Island near Gould's inlet. All three (3) of these beaches are Tier 1 and are sampled weekly year-round. The other three (3) "not supporting" beaches are Tier 2 beaches, which are sampled less frequently. The Kings Ferry beach is located at a small municipal park on the Ogeechee River in Chatham County. Reimold's Pasture is a small island in Buttermilk sound at the mouth of the Altamaha River. The Blythe Island sandbar is located in the South Brunswick River in Glynn County.
None of the listed beaches have an identified point source of pollution. A bacterial source tracking study, Targeted Sampling And Bacterial Source Tracking To Identify Sources Of Fecal Contamination Responsible For Beach Advisories On The Georgia Coast (Hartel, 2006), conducted at St. Simons and Jekyll Island beaches, found that bacteria levels were generally higher in the marsh areas adjacent to the beaches and were attributed to wildlife. Similar results were reported in another study, Combining Targeted Sampling and Fluorometry to Identify Sources of Human Fecal Contamination in Georgia's Coastal Waters (Hartel, 2007), performed at Kings Ferry Beach. No traces of human bacteria were found at any of the sites involved in these studies.
Data Not Included in Assessment Much of the data used to generate the 305(b)/303(d) list for coastal streams, harbors, and sounds were collected by CRD for the programs as described earlier in this chapter. Other data are used by CRD to address fisheries management or recreational use in specific areas along the coast, but much of these data do not meet the minimum spatial or temporal (frequency) criteria of the GAEPD 2008 listing methodology guidance document and cannot be used to assess the ability of a water body to support its designated use(s). Data from the Georgia National Coastal Assessment (NCA) Program were not included for this listing period. NCA data are based on a probabilistic, random sampling design with only one sample per year at each location. For the purposes of 305(b)/303(d), these data may be used in the future to augment existing data sets.
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The state's list of assessed waters for beaches does not contain all the coastal beaches that have been identified and prioritized by CRD. Tier 3 beaches are not monitored, so no data are available for assessment. Tier 3 beaches have few potential pollution sources.
Commercial and Recreational Fisheries CRD has several projects that produce information used to determine the status of commercially and recreationally important fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The Ecological Monitoring Survey conducts monthly assessment trawls (blue crabs, shrimp, and beginning in 2003, finfish) in the Wassaw, Ossabaw, Sapelo, St. Simons, St. Andrew and Cumberland estuaries. Data from this survey is used to describe the abundance, size composition, reproductive status of penaeid shrimp and blue crab. 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 estuaries. The Marine Sport fish Population Health Study uses gill and trammel nets to capture finfish in the Wassaw and Altamaha River Delta estuaries.
The Fisheries Dependent Work Unit collects catch and effort information from the recreational and commercial fisheries in cooperation with the National Marine Fisheries Service. Total annual commercial landings in Georgia ranged from 7.03 to 12.84 million pounds of product during the period from 1997 to 2006, with an annual average of 8.76 million pounds. Penaeid shrimps are the most valuable catch in Georgia commercial landings, typically totaling over 13 million dollars (3.51 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 50 years with a recent downward trend due to declining fishing effort. 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 that can produce wide scale kills of white shrimp, and to a suite of environmental variables impacting the salt marsh ecosystem that produce a range of growing conditions. Cold weather kills have been associated with abnormally cold winters in 1984, 1989, and 2000.
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 has occurred each year since with the exception of 1997, 1998, and 2001. The disease appears to progress from north to south, first appearing in the Wassaw estuary in August and being most prevalent in September. The disease seems to dissipate by December. Annual infection rates in 2002 were the highest ever recorded, with the coast-wide annual rate at 18.1%. 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 after the disease outbreak dropped 50% below the long-term average. Although catch rates from fisheries independent monitoring surveys appear to have a negative relationship with infection rates, this relationship is not statistically significant. The annual infection rate in 2007 reached 13.5% but was as high as 82% in particular estuaries (St. Simons) during specific months (October). Research is needed to understand this organism's life cycle and the environmental factors causing it to proliferate in some years but not others.
Trends in the brown shrimp fishery present a different picture. While recent landings and scientific survey 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 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
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fisheries are declining, primarily due to low unit prices kept down by high volumes of imported product, and by increasing costs of operation.
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 annual blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) landings in 2006 were above the most recent 10-year average of 3.7 million pounds (2006 = 4.1 million pounds). A severe drought from 1998 to 2002 reduced annual harvest 80% of the long-term average of 7.99 million pounds. The drought resulted in a reduction in the quantity of oligohaline and mesohaline areas within Georgia's estuaries. This effect was more pronounced in estuaries that did not receive direct freshwater inflow from rivers. It is believed this altered salinity profile resulted in (1) higher blue crab predation, (2) increased prevalence of the fatal disease caused by the organism, Hematodiniun sp, (3) reduction in the quantity of oligohaline nursery habitat, and (4) recruitment failure. In 2007, drought conditions existed in the foothills, piedmont, and upper coastal plain regions of Georgia. However, localized rainfall moderated the severity of the drought along the coast.
Commercial finfish landings fluctuate annually depending on market conditions and the impacts of 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 to be cyclical on a 5-7 year time scale. From 1982 to 1983 the population increased from 92,687 to 201,683. Shad populations were generally stable from 1983-1985 and then declined from 214,928 shad in 1985 to a low of 70,396 fish in 1990. The population then entered a period of increase reaching a peak abundance level of 284,442 in 1996. A statistically significant decrease in commercial fishing effort occurred from 1982 to 1991, however, it does not appear that this decrease in effort was directly related to an increase in American shad abundance. From 1997 through 2002 shad abundance steadily declined to a low of 87,267 fish and by 2006 population numbers had once again increased to an estimated 223,046 fish. Anecdotal evidence indicates that participation in the American shad fishery continues to decline. Apparently, as older fishermen leave, there are few new entrants into the fishery. Since 2001, effort estimates have been collected using a trip ticket system with effort being recorded as the number of trips for both the set and drift gill net fisheries. Effort generally declined from a high of 860 trips in 2001 to a low of 193 trips in 2005. However, in 2006 effort increased to 645 trips and was likely related to the relatively strong shad run that occurred that spring. Regulations have remained fairly constant over the past 15 years. The only modifications were a 15-day season extension in 1983, change in commercial fishing regulations in 1984 to clarify open and closed areas on the Altamaha River, and 15-day season extensions on the Savannah River from 2003-2007. No changes were made to shad sport fishing regulations. While the increases in landings and stock size during the early 1990's and 2000's were significant, they still represent only a fraction of the 1968 run.
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 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 2006, clam harvest was 45,962 lbs of meat. Oyster harvest in 2006 was only 14,480 lbs of meat 86% 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 due to deteriorating water quality. Current research is focusing on improvements in stock genetics (growth and appearance enhancements), cultch substrate comparisons, and establishing new populations.
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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 water bodies 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 monitored 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 that are frequented by a large number of anglers.
In response to regulatory actions requiring reductions in air emissions of mercury, DNR recognized the need to establish a mercury in fish trend network that would provide a database for evaluating potential changes that may result in fish body burdens. Twenty-two stations were established in 2006 having spatial significance to major air-emission sources in Georgia (coal-fired electric generating units and a chlor-alkali plant), waters with TMDLs for mercury in fish, and near State boundaries for out-of-state sources. Each station has a designated predator species that will be monitored annually. Mercury trend samples of individual fish muscle tissue are analyzed for mercury and other metals. Additional resources were not available to support this initiative and reductions in the general contaminants program were required.
The general contaminants 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, 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. 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. Currently there are no restricted consumption recommendations due to chlordane. 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.
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TABLE 6-1. PARAMETERS FOR FISH TISSUE TESTING
Antimony Arsenic Beryllium Cadmium Chromium, Total Copper Lead Mercury Nickel Selenium Silver Thallium
a-BHC b-BHC d-BHC g-BHC (Lindane) Chlordane 4,4-DDD 4,4-DDE 4,4-DDT Dieldrin Endosulfan I Endosulfan II Endosulfan Sulfate
Heptachlor Heptachlor Epoxide Toxaphene PCB-1016 PCB-1221 PCB-1232 PCB-1242 PCB-1248 PCB-1254 PCB-1260 Methoxychlor HCB
Zinc Aldrin
Endrin Endrin Aldehyde
Mirex Pentachloroanisole Chlorpyrifos
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 2007 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. If consumption needs to be limited, or no consumption is recommended, the water is not supporting this use. 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 2002-2008 305(b)/303(d) List for all fish tissue contaminants except mercury. Mercury in fish tissue was assessed and a segment or water body was listed if the trophic-weighted fish community tissue mercury was in excess of the 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 not support list if the calculated trophic-weighted residue value was greater than 0.3 g/g wet weight total mercury. For contaminants other than mercury (PCBs, dieldrin, DDT/DDD/DDE) waters were placed on the not support list if the assessment indicated any limited or no consumption of fish. The USEPA criterion represents a national approach to address what mercury levels is protective for fishing waters. The existence of risk-based recommendations to reduce consumption was used with respect to other contaminants detected in fish tissue. EPD formally adopted the 2001 EPA national human health criterion for methylmercury 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 "risk-based" 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
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
65
Per Month, or Do Not Eat. In 2007, 57.5% of recommendations for fish tested in Georgia waters were for No Restriction, 27.9% were to Limit Consumption to One Meal Per Week, 13.1% were to Limit Consumption to One Meal Per Month, and 1.5% was Do Not Eat Advisories. Eighty-five percent of the recommendations available in 2007 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 in 1995, 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. Trim off the fatty areas shown in black on the drawing below. 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 Water body 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 that would affect your health. It is important
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
66
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. Fish tissue consumption guidelines are discussed in detail in the DNR publication Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters-2007 Update that is reproduced in Appendix C.
Development Of New Risk Communication Tools For Women of Childbearing Age and Children. 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 childbearing 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 collaborated in the development of the brochures. The information will be updated as needed, and all brochures are currently available on the DNR website.
Recreational Public Beach Monitoring coliform monitoring at its reservoir bathing beaches in Georgia. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Georgia Power, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service, Georgia State Parks, and counties and cities throughout the state have also conduct some sampling at the public beaches they operate. The Coastal Resources Division of DNR conducts enterococcus monitoring at public coastal beaches and other recreationally used estuarine locations such as boat ramps and sandbars, and works with the local County Health Department in issuance of swimming advisories.
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 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 coastlines 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
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
67
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.
TABLE 6-2 NO CONSUMPTION RESTRICTIONS - 2007
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 Mayer (Savannah) McDuffie PFA East Watershed Ponds Nancy Town Lake Oconee Olmstead Paradise PFA (Patrick & Horseshoe 4) Payton Park Pond Rocky Mountain PFA (Lakes Antioch & Heath) 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
Chattooga River (NW Ga.)
Chestatee River (Headwaters to
Tesnatee River)
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
Hart Co. WMA (Tributary to Cedar
Creek)
Hayner's Creek
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 Noonday Creek (Cobb Co.) North Oconee River 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
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
68
TABLE 6-3. GUIDELINES FOR LIMITING THE FISH YOU EAT LAKES 2007
LAKES
NO RESTRICTIONS
1 MEAL/ WEEK
1 MEAL/ MONTH
Albany By-Pass
Redear
LMB, Catfish
Carp
Acworth
Allatoona
Andrews Banks Bartlett's Ferry Bear Cr. Reservoir
Bluegill, LMB < 16"
LMB > 16"
Carp, Crappie, SPB< 16", LMB 12-16", CCF, White redhorse
bass
<
12",
G.
SPB > 16", HB >16"
LMB
>
16",
CCF, Spotted Sucker
LMB > 12"
Bluegill Blk crappie <12", LMB <16", SPB <12"
LMB > 12"
HB & Striped bass & LMB > 16", CCF, Blk crappie & SPB >12"
Sunfish
LMB < 12", CCF >12"
Bennett CEWC PFA
Black Shoals Poynter)
(Randy CCF < 12", Redear
Blackshear
CCF < 12"
LMB > 12"
LMB 12-16", CCF >12", Blk crappie
CCF > 12", LMB > 12"
Big Lazer PFA Blue Ridge Burton
LMB 12-16", CCF CCF < 16", LMB < 12" LMB <16", CCF, Bluegill, White catfish
LMB > 16"
White bass & LMB 12-16", CCF > 16"
LMB > 16", SPB 12-16"
Pond N. Bush Field
Bluegill, LMB < 12"
LMB 12-16"
Chatuge Clarks Hill Evans County PFA Goat Rock
Hartwell (Tugaloo Arm)
LMB >12", CCF >12"
SPB 12-16"
CCF, Blk crappie, Striped bass, Spotted
Redear, White sucker, HB, LMB
perch, <16"
LMB
>
16"
CCF, LMB 12-16"
LMB > 16"
Blk crappie, Bluegill
LMB
12-16",
Spotted
sucker, HB < 12", CCF 12-16"
Blk crappie, HB/Striped bass < 12", CCF < 16" LMB < 16", Carp > 16"
DO NOT EAT Hybrid and Striped bass > 16 inches in length
CCF & LMB > 16", HB >12", White bass HB/Striped bass 1216"
CCF & LMB > 16"
Hartwell - main body of DO NOT EAT Hybrid and Striped bass
lake
(S C Dept. Health and Environmental Control 1-888-849-7241)
Hugh M. Gillis PFA
Channel catfish, Bluegill
Largemouth bass 12-16"
LMB, CCF
Jackson
Blk crappie, Redear sunfish, Catfish < 16" Catfish > 16", LMB
Ken Gardens
<16" Channel catfish, Brown bullhead, Bluegill Largemouth bass >12"
Kolomoki (DNR S.P.) Lanier L. Ocmulgee St. Pk.
Redear Sunfish
Largemouth Bass > 12"
CCF & Striped crappie White catfish
bass
<
16",
Bluegill,
Blk Striped bass, Carp & CCF > 16", LMB, SPB
Brown bullhead 12-16"
LMB > 16"
McDuffie PFA, West
CCF
LMB
Nottely
CCF, Blk crappie
LMB > 12", Striped bass > 16"
Oliver
Hybrid bass < 12", CCF < 16", Redear, LMB > 12"
CCF > 16"
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
69
LAKES
NO RESTRICTIONS Bluegill
1 MEAL/ WEEK
1 MEAL/ MONTH
Rabun Reed Bingham S.P. Richard B. Russell
LMB 12-16", Bluegill, White catfish < 16"
White catfish & LMB > 16"
Crappie, Bluegill, White perch, Catfish
LMB > 12"
LMB > 12"Catfish > 16"
Seminole
CCF, Spotted sucker, Blk crappie, Redear
So. Slappy (Albany)
Blvd.
Offramp Bluegill
Stone Mountain
Catfish
LMB > 12" Largemouth bass 12-16" LMB > 16"
Largemouth bass > 16"
Tobesofkee
CCF
LMB > 16"
Tugaloo
White catfish 12-16", Bluegill
LMB > 12"
Tribble Mill Park
Blk Crappie, Bluegill, LMB < 12"
LMB 12-16"
West Point
LMB, Carp, SPB, Crappie, CCF & HB < 16" CCF & HB > 16"
Striped bass
Worth (Chehaw)
Spotted sucker, Redear
LMB 12-16", Channel catfish > 16"
Worth (Flint Res.)
CCF > 12"
LMB > 12"
Yohola (DNR S.P.)
Bluegill
Largemouth Bass > 12"
Yonah
Bluegill
LMB 12-16", catfish 12-16"
Abbreviations used in table: < means "less than", > means "more than", Blk = Black, CCF = Channel
catfish, HB = Hybrid bass, LMB = Largemouth bass, SPB = Spotted bass
TABLE 6-4. GUIDELINES FOR LIMITING THE FISH YOU EAT RIVERS/CREEKS AND ESTUARINE SYSTEMS 2007
RIVERS/CREEKS Alapaha River Alapahoochee River Allatoona Creek, Cobb Co. Altamaha River Apalachee River Beaver Creek (Taylor Co.) Brier Creek (Burke Co.) Canoochee River Casey Canal
NO RESTRICTIONS
1 MEAL PER WEEK
1 MEAL PER MONTH
Redbreast sunfish
Spotted sucker
LMB, Bullhead
Bullhead
Spotted bass, Alabama Hog Sucker
Bluegill (US 1), CCF US 25), Striped mullet
(below Flathead catfish, LMB, CCF
CCF
LMB
Spotted sucker
Yellow bullhead LMB LMB, Catfish, Redbreast
LMB, Bluegill
Striped mullet
Chattooga River (NE Ga., Rabun County)
Northern Hog Sucker, Silver Redhorse
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
70
RIVERS/CREEKS
NO RESTRICTIONS
1 MEAL PER WEEK
1 MEAL PER MONTH
Chattahoochee River (Helen to Lanier)
CCF
Redeye bass, Redhorse
Bullhead, LMB
Chattahoochee River (Buford Dam to Morgan Falls Dam)
Brown trout, Carp, Rainbow trout, Yellow perch
LMB
Chattahoochee River (Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Creek)
Brown trout, LMB, Bluegill
Rainbow
trout, Jumprock sucker
Carp
Chattahoochee River (Peachtree Creek to Pea Creek)
CCF, White sucker
Bluegill, Black bass
Carp
Chattahoochee River (Pea Creek to West Point Lake, belowCCF Franklin)
LMB, Spotted bass
Chattahoochee River Special Striped (Morgan Falls Dam to West Point Lake)
Bass
This Falls
striped Dam.
bass DNR
population migrates annually between recommends the general public restrict
West Point Lake and Morgan consumption to one meal per
month.
Chattahoochee River (Oliver Dam to Upatoi Creek)
Bullhead catfish
LMB
Chattahoochee River (West Point dam to I-85) LMB, Bullheads
Spotted bass
Chestatee River (below Tesnatee River)
Channel catfish, Redbreast Spotted Bass
Chickamauga Creek (West)
Redbreast sunfish
Spotted bass
Cohulla Creek (Whitfield County)
Blacktail redhorse
Conasauga River (below Stateline)
Spotted bass
White bass, Buffalo
Coosa River (Rome to Hwy 100, Floyd Co.)
Spotted bass DO NOT EAT SMALLMOUTH BUFFALO
LMB, Striped bass
Coosa River (Hwy 100 to State line, Floyd Co.) Spotted bass
LMB
Striped bass, CCF, Buffalo
Coosa River Zero River Mile to Stateline
Blue Catfish: < 18" one meal per week; 18-32" one meal per month; and >32" do not eat.
Special Striped Bass: this population migrates annually between Weiss Lake and the
Coosa River System Special (Coosa, Etowah Coosa River system. DNR recommends the general public restrict consumption of fish
below Thompson-Weinman dam, Oostanaula) less than 20 inches to one meal per month, and to not eat any striped bass 20 inches
or greater in length.
Coosawattee River below Carters
Bluegill
Smallmouth buffalo
Etowah River (Dawson County)
Blacktail Redhorse
Etowah River (above Lake Allatoona) Etowah River (below Lake Allatoona dam) Flint River (Spalding/Fayette cos.)
Golden redhorse
Spotted bass
CCF, Bluegill, Striped bass (above Thompson WeinmanSpotted bass, LMB dam)
Spotted sucker
LMB
Smallmouth buffalo
Flint River (Meriwether/Upson/Pike cos.)
CCF, Flathead catfish
Shoal bass
Flint River (Taylor co.)
CCF, Shoal bass
LMB
Flint River (Macon/Dooly/Worth/Lee)
CCF
LMB
Gum Creek (Crisp Co.) Holly Creek (Murray County)
Carp
LMB Blacktail redhorse
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
71
RIVERS/CREEKS
NO RESTRICTIONS
1 MEAL PER WEEK
1 MEAL PER MONTH
Ichawaynochaway Creek
Spotted Sucker
LMB
Kinchafoonee Creek (above Albany)
Little River (above Clarks Hill Lake)
Little River, (above Ga. Hwy 133, Valdosta) Mill Creek (Murray County) Muckalee Creek (above Albany) Ochlockonee River (near Thomasville) Ocmulgee River (below Macon, Bibb co.) Ocmulgee River (Telfair/Wheeler cos.) Oconee River (above Barnett Shoals)
Spotted sucker, Redhorse Spotted sucker
Redbreast sunfish CCF CCF
LMB, Spotted sucker Silver LMB
LMB
Golden redhorse
LMB, Spotted sucker
Spotted sucker, White catfish LMB
LMB
Flathead catfish
Flathead catfish, LMB
Silver redhorse, LMB
Gum Creek (Crisp Co.)
Carp
LMB
Redbreast sunfish, CCF,
Ogeechee River (all to Ft. McAllister)
Spotted sucker, Snail LMB
bullhead
Ohoopee River (Emanuel/Toombs Cos.)
Spotted sucker, Redbreast LMB
Okefenokee Swamp (Billy's Lake)
Flier
Bowfin
Oostanaula River, Hwy. 156, Calhoun
Bluegill
Smallmouth buffalo
Oostanaula River, Hwy 140, to Coosa River Bluegill
LMB, CCF, Spotted bass, Buffalo
Patsiliga Creek (Taylor Co.)
Suckers, Chain Pickerel
Bass
Pipemaker Canal
LMB
Satilla River (Waycross, Ware/Pierce Cos.)
Redbreast sunfish, CCF
LMB
Satilla River (near Folkston, Camden Co.)
LMB,
Redbreast,
Flathead catfish < 36"
Savannah River (above & Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam)
below
New Redear, mullet
Redbreast,
Striped Spotted sucker, LMB
Savannah River (Chatham/Screven cos.)
CCF, Redear sunfish
LMB, Bluegill
Savannah River (Effingham Co.)
CCF
White catfish, Redbreast
LMB, Bowfin
Savannah River (Tidal Gate)
Red drum, Striped mullet White catfish
DNR recommends the general public restrict consumption of legal size striped bass 27
Savannah River Special (New Savannah Lock inches and larger to one meal per month. Women who are pregnant or nursing and
and Dam to Savannah Estuary)
young children may wish to further restrict their consumption due to the variable
mercury levels in these striped bass.
Short Creek (Warren Co.)
Sunfish
South River (Panola Shoals, Rockdale Co.)
Snail bullhead, Bluegill
South River (Henry Co., Snapping Shoals) Silver redhorse, CCF
LMB
Spring Creek (Seminole/Decatur/Miller cos)
LMB, Spotted sucker, Redear
St. Marys River (Camden Co.)
Redbreast, Striped mullet
LMB
St. Marys River (Charlton Co.)
Redbreast sunfish
LMB
Sugar Creek (Murray Co.)
Golden redhorse
Sumac Creek (Murray Co.)
Golden redhorse
Suwannee River
Bullhead, Chain pickerel
LMB
Swamp Creek (Redwine Cove Road)
Redeye bass
Talking Rock Creek
Redeye bass
Tallapoosa River
Bluegill
Blacktail Redhorse
Trib. To Hudson River, Alto, Banks Co.
Brown bullhead
Redeye bass
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
72
RIVERS/CREEKS
NO RESTRICTIONS
Withlacoochee River (Berrien/Lowndes Cos.)
1 MEAL PER WEEK Redbreast sunfish
1 MEAL PER MONTH LMB
ESTUARINE SYSTEMS
NO RESTRICTIONS
1 MEAL PER WEEK
1 MEAL PER MONTH
DO NOT EAT
Turtle River System (Purvis, Gibson Cr.s)
Black & Red drum, Flounder
Shrimp, Blue crab,
SST,
SKF,
Sheepshead, Spot
STM, ACR, Bivalves*
Turtle & Buffalo (upriver Hwy 303)
Rivers
White Shrimp
Red drum, Blue crab, Flounder, SST
SKF, BDR, ACR, Spot, Sheepshead
Striped Mullet, Bivalves *
Turtle River (Hwy 303 Channel Marker 9)
White Shrimp
Red drum, Flounder
Blue crab, ACR, BDR,
SST,
SKF, Spot, STM, Bivalves *
Sheepshead
Turtle River (C. Marker 9 & So. Brunswick River to Dubignons & Parsons creeks)
White Flounder
Shrimp,
Blue RDR,
crab,
Sheepshead
BDR, SST, ACR, STM,SKF, Spot
Bivalves *
Terry Creek South of Torras Causeway to Lanier Basin
Spot, STM, Shrimp, ACR, SST, SKF, Blue crab
Yellowtail perch)
(Silver
Bivalves *
Terry and Dupree Creeks
North of Torras Causeway Blue crab, Shrimp
Red drum
STM, ACR, SST, SKF Spot, Bivalves *
to Confluence w/ Back River
Back River One mile above STM, Shrimp, ACR,
Terry Creek to Confluence SST, SKF, Blue crab,
Spot
Bivalves *
with Torras Causeway
Red drum
Back River South of Torras Spot, STM, Shrimp,
Causeway to St. Simons SST, SKF, Blue crab, Atlantic croaker
Bivalves *
Sound
Red drum
Floyd Creek
Blue crab, Southern kingfish
Academy Creek
Blue crab
Altamaha Estuary
Striped mullet
Hayner's Creek (Savannah) Blue crab
Savannah Estuary
Striped mullet
Striped bass >=27"
* Bivalves are all clams, mussels and oysters; Shellfish ban under National Shellfish Sanitation Program; Species codes used
above are: SST = Spotted Seatrout; ACR = Atlantic Croaker; SKF = Southern Kingfish (whiting); STM = Striped Mullet; BDR = Black
Drum; RDR = Red Drum; SHH = Sheepshead
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
1 meal per month for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children age 12
33 To 39 Inches
and younger.
1 meal per week for other adults
Over 39 Inches
Do Not Eat
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
73
CHAPTER 7
Watershed 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 that 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, Congress enacted the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972. 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. This work was initiated and completed by the GAEPD in the late 1980s. The Act also required each State to evaluate nonpoint source pollution impacts and develop a management plan to deal with documented problems.
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 that required 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 required the GAEPD develop and implement plans for water protection for each major river basin in Georgia.
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In 2004, the General Assembly passed the Statewide Comprehensive Water Management Planning Act. This legislation replaced the river basin management planning legislation and charged the EPD with the responsibility of developing a comprehensive statewide water management plan for Georgia in accordance with the following policy statement: "Georgia manages water resources in a sustainable manner to support the state's economy, protect public health and natural systems, and to enhance the quality of life for all citizens."
In 2006-2007 high priority was placed on Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Planning, monitoring and assessment, 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.
Comprehensive Statewide Water Planning Georgia's future relies on the protection and sustainable management of the state's limited water resources. In 2004 the Georgia General Assembly passed the "Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning Act" which called for the development of a statewide water management plan. The legislation created a framework for developing Georgia's first comprehensive statewide water management plan by providing a vision for water management in Georgia, guiding principles for plan development and the assignment of responsibility for developing the plan. A copy of the planning act can be found at www.georgiawatercouncil.org.
The Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, with the help of numerous stakeholders, produced and submitted to the Georgia Water Council an initial draft of the statewide water plan on June 28, 2007. Following several rounds of public input and changes in response to the input, the Georgia Water Council approved the "Georgia Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Plan" on January 8, 2008. The water plan was debated and approved in the 2008 session of the General Assembly and signed by Governor Perdue on February 6, 2008. This work is discussed in Chapter 2.
Watershed Projects The GAEPD is 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. In addition, GAEPD conducted detailed monitoring of the Lake Lanier Watershed in 2007. Significant work was also performed by the States of 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
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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 2006-2007 in support of the development of wasteload allocations and total maximum daily loads (TMDLs). In 2004, TMDLs were developed and publicly noticed for segments on the Georgia 2002 303(d) list in the Ochlockonee, Suwannee, Satilla, and St. Marys River Basins. These TMDLs were finalized, submitted to and approved by the EPA in 2005. In 2005, TMDLs were developed and publicly noticed for segments on the Georgia 2004 303(d) list for the Oconee, Ocmulgee and Altamaha River Basins. These TMDLS were finalized, submitted to and approved by EPA in 2006. Also in 2006, TMDLs were developed and public noticed for segments on the 2004 303(d) list for waters in the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins. These TMDLs will be finalized and submitted to EPA for approval in early 2007. Over the 2006-2007 period, more than 276 TMDLs were developed and 26 were revised. To date more than 1400 TMDLs have been developed for 303(d) listed waters in Georgia.
TMDL Implementation 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 point 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 2006, a total of 147 TMDL implementation plans and revisions were developed for TMDLs in the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Tennessee River Basins. Another 114 plans and revisions for TMDLs in the Savannah and Ogeechee River Basins were initiated in 2007 and scheduled for completion in 2008. To date a total of 1115 plans and revisions have been prepared to implement TMDLs in Georgia.
State Revolving Loan and Georgia Fund Loan Programs Georgia presently administers loans through the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA) and the GAEPD a State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF) and a Georgia Fund program that provide low interest loans for the construction of municipal wastewater treatment facilities and nonpoint source pollution control projects. The SRF program was initiated in1988 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. Considerable amounts of money have been required for water pollution abatement in Georgia
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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 and the Georgia Fund program, other funding sources are available, 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 2006-2007 for wastewater treatment system and CSO control construction and improvements.
TABLE 7-1 Municipal Facility Sources of Investment
2006-2007
SRF & GEFA Loans Local or Federal TOTAL
$265,864,454 $318,634,217 $584,498,671
Of the eighteen wastewater treatment projects funded by SRF/GEFA loans during 2006-2007, seven were for upgrades of existing systems. The eighteen projects represented 169 million gallons per day of treatment capacity.
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 2007, of the nearly 2.5 million pounds per day of oxygen demanding pollutants produced by municipalities, approximately 95% was removed by municipal water pollution control plants.
GEFA Implementation Unit. The Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District (District) was created on April 5, 2001 (2001 S.B. 130) as a planning entity dedicated to developing comprehensive regional and watershed-specific plans to be implemented by local governments in the District.
The enabling legislation required the District to develop plans for watershed management, wastewater treatment, and water supply and conservation in its 16-county area that includes Bartow, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Forsyth, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Paulding, Rockdale and Walton Counties and all the municipalities within the District. These plans are designed to protect water quality and public water supplies, protect recreational values of the waters, and to minimize potential adverse impacts of development on waters in and downstream of the region.
Limited water resources combined with the region's growth places the District in a unique position relative to other areas in Georgia. With a finite water resource and a population of nearly 4 million and growing, the need to carefully and cooperatively manage and protect Metropolitan Atlanta's rivers and streams has become a priority.
The EPD was charged with the enforcement of these plans. SB 130 states that the EPD Director shall not approve any application by a local government in the District to issue, modify, or renew a permit, if such permit would allow an increase in the permitted water withdrawal, public water system capacity, or waste-water treatment system capacity of such local government, or any NPDES Phase I or Phase II General Stormwater permit; unless such local government is in
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compliance with the applicable provisions of the plan, or the Director certifies that such local government is making good faith efforts to come into compliance.
EPD, upon application for a permit for an increase in the water withdrawal, public water system capacity, or wastewater treatment system capacity, or renewal of any NPDES Phase I or Phase II General Stormwater permit, will conduct an audit to determine whether the local government is in compliance with the District Plans. This audit process was initiated in the fall of 2005.
Georgia's Land Conservation Program On April 14, 2005, Governor Sonny Perdue signed House Bill 98, creating the Land Conservation Program. The act created a flexible framework within which cities and counties, the Department of Natural Resources, other state and federal agencies, and private partners can protect the state's valuable natural resources. The Land Conservation Program will protect Georgia's valued resources by developing a process that will strategically align the state's conservation needs with the ability to steward the land through public/private partnerships.
The land conservation goals set forth in the Act include: water quality protection for rivers, streams, and lakes; flood protection; wetlands protection; reduction of erosion through protection of steep slopes, erodible soils, and stream banks; protection of riparian buffers, natural habitats and corridors for native plant and animal species; protection of prime agricultural and forestry lands; protection of cultural sites, heritage corridors, and archaeological and historic resources; scenic protection; provision of recreation and outdoor activities; and connection of existing or planned areas.
Since inception, the Georgia Land Conservation Council has approved state and local projects totaling approximately 37,771 acres (32 tracts) of land and 25 acres of mineral rights within 29 counties. During 2006-2007, grants and loans were awarded to 9 local governments, which will protect 1,056 acres of land. Land conservation projects have been acquired through fee simple purchase, conservation easement, lease, or donation. To date, six landowners fully donated conservation easements totaling 7,568 acres. Funds came from a variety of sources including U.S. Forest Service Forest Legacy Grant, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and state bond funds.
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. In 2006-2007, a significant amount of personnel time was allocated to the reissuance of NPDES permits. Permits were issued, modified or reissued for 315 municipal and private discharges and for 75 industrial discharges. In addition, 70 private dischargers were covered under general permit No. GA0550000. 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 203 (municipal and private) and 55 (industrial and Federal) permits for land application systems were in effect in 2007.
Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations 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." Georgia rules require medium size animal feeding operations with more than 300 animal units (AU) but less than 1000 AU (1000 AU equals 1000 beef cows, 700 dairy cows, or 2500 swine) to apply for a wastewater permit under Georgia's Land
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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. GAEPD has been delegated authority to administer the NPDES program in Georgia by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
On December 15, 2002, EPA promulgated greatly expanded NPDES permit regulations and effluent limitation guidelines for CAFOs (40 CFR 122 and 40 CFR 412). Dry manure poultry operations larger than 125,000 broilers or 82,000 layers were added, as well as other changes. In order to implement the new Federal rules, the GAEPD completed necessary State rule amendments on September 15, 2003. Dry litter poultry and swine nursery permit applications were due by October 31, 2005. Where possible, permits were issued and nutrient management plans implemented for dry litter poultry and swine nurseries by October 31, 2006.
The USEPA CAFO regulation was successfully appealed on February 28, 2005 [decision by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals issued in Waterkeeper v. EPA, 399 F.3d 486 (2nd Cir. 2005)]. The EPA is in the process of developing options for revising their CAFO regulation to comply with the Second Circuit Court of Appeals' decision. However, the Georgia rules are enforceable irrespective of changes in the USEPA CAFO regulation. GAEPD has deferred issuing permits where allowed in order to give the Georgia Board of Natural Resources time to reconsider its rules if and when the USEPA revisions become available. The Georgia general LAS and NPDES CAFO permits expired on April 30, 2007, but have been administratively extended due to the delays in Federal rule promulgation.
There are currently 741 farms that require general LAS or NPDES permits. That includes approximately 163 large farms with liquid manure handling systems. Of these, 45 have federal NPDES concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) permits and 118 have state LAS permits. These farms, with their liquid waste lagoons and spray fields, are important managers of water resources. Also included are 578 large dry manure (chicken litter) poultry farms that require NPDES CAFO permits. The Division would need 10 additional full-time professional staffers to regulate this community. However, it has been deemed more efficient to redirect these regulatory activities to the Georgia Department of Agriculture Livestock/Poultry Section (GDA) where appropriate. Therefore, the GAEPD has contracted with the GDA for inspections, complaint investigations, nutrient management plan reviews, permit administrative support, and enforcement assistance.
An important goal of Georgia's Nonpoint Source Management Program is to encourage and support all animal feeding operations to develop and implement Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMPs). Georgia has over 4000 livestock and poultry farms. Cooperating organizations working toward this goal include the GSWCC, GSWCD, GA Milk Producers Association, Georgia Farm Bureau Federation, GA Pork Producers Association, CES, and NRCS. In 2006 more than 200 CNMPs were completed, covering 300,000 acres.
Activities include statewide and watershed-based demonstrations and BMP implementation of Comprehensive Nutrient Planning, lagoon maintenance or decommissioning, irrigation systems, and waste and effluent management systems. The GSWCC, using Section 319(h) Grant funds and local inkind funds have worked in the Upper Chattahoochee and Upper Oconee Watersheds to demonstrate the effectiveness of Comprehensive Nutrient Management Planning. Over the course of these projects numerous CNMPs have been developed with cooperating landowners.
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
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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 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 which was extended to 2008. 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 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. The date established for compliance with water quality standards in the Consent Decree has been extended from November 7, 2007 to November 2008.
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 that 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 2007, of the 138 major municipal water pollution control plants (facilities with design flow equal to or greater than 1.0 mgd), eight were in significant noncompliance with the final limitations. These eight facilities are under compliance schedules and/or enforcement actions to resolve the noncompliance, or implementing infiltration/ inflow strategies which will allow compliance at the plant to be achieved. 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
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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 2006-2007. The forty-two major industrial facilities were in compliance about 98% of the time during 2006-2007.
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 2006-2007, 613 Orders were issued and approximately of $2,123,000 in negotiated settlements was collected.
Storm water compliance for municipalities and industries is most often reached through education and inspections. The vast majority of storm water enforcement Orders are used in connection with construction activities. In 2006-2007 a total of 449 stormwater Orders were issued and a total of $2,376,883 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 all violations of permitted effluent limitations, with the exception of flow, and all sanitary sewer system overflows into the waters of the State. The strategy includes simple orders (Expedited Enforcement Compliance Order and Settlement Agreement) with a directive to correct the cause of noncompliance 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 Federal Clean Water Act Amendments of 1987 require NPDES 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 the Phase I Storm Water Regulations on November 16, 1990. GAEPD has developed and implemented a storm water strategy which assures compliance with the Federal Regulations.
The Phase I 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 the incorporated cities within these counties were required to comply with the application submittal target dates for a large municipal area. Forty-five individual storm water permits were issued to the Atlanta area municipalities on June 15, 1994 and reissued in 1999 and 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 Phase I Storm Water Regulations. Thirteen individual storm water permits were issued to
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the medium municipal systems in April and May, 1995. These permits were reissued in April 2000 and 2005.
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. Construction sites from 1 to 5 acres and municipallyowned industrial facilities also became regulated.
The Phase II regulations for MS4s required permit coverage for all municipalities with a population less than 100,000 and located within an urbanized area, as defined by the latest Decennial census. In addition, EPD was required to develop criteria to designate any additional MS4s that had the potential to contribute to adverse water quality impacts. In December 2002, EPD issued NPDES General Permit No. GAG610000 which covers 86 Phase II MS4s, including 57 cities and 29 counties. This Permit was reissued in December 2007. The NPDES General Permit does not require any monitoring or contain specific effluent limitations. Instead, each Phase II MS4 permittee is required to institute best management practices that will control stormwater pollution. As part of the NOI, the MS4 was required to develop a SWMP that included best management practices in six different areas or minimum control measures. These six minimum control measures are Public Education, Public Involvement, Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination, Construction Site Stormwater Runoff Control, Post-Construction Storm Water Management, and Pollution Prevention.
The storm water permits for MS4s require the submittal of Annual Reports to GAEPD. Each year, the Georgia storm water permitting program reviews the Annual Reports from all of these 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.
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 NPDES General Permit No. GAR000000 that regulates the discharge of storm water from 10 categories of industrial activities. This permit was reissued in 1998 and 2006, with approximately 2000 facilities retaining coverage. An additional 350 facilities have submitted an Industrial No Exposure Exclusion Certification Form.
An important component of storm water management in Georgia is information exchange/technology transfer. GAEPD staff participated in many meetings and seminars throughout Georgia in an effort to disseminate information concerning Georgia's storm water requirements to the regulated community. In addition, staff from the central Atlanta office conducted inspections at approximately 85 industrial facilities to assess compliance with the industrial general storm water permit during 2006-2007. Approximately 12 of these inspections involved coordination with GAEPD Regional Office personnel.
The GAEPD will continue to regulate storm water runoff from industrial facilities and urban areas as a part of the point-source permitting process to protect water quality.
Erosion and Sedimentation Control The Georgia 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.
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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 which 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 delegates local "Issuing Authority" and administers the GAEPD rules where there is no local authority, and oversees local program implementation. Currently 339 cities and counties have adopted erosion and sediment control ordinances which have been reviewed by the GAEPD for compliance with the Act.
The Erosion and Sediment Control Overview Council (Council) was created bySenate Bill 524, which amended the Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act in May 2000. The Council was tasked with developing recommendations governing the preparation of plans and the installation and maintenance of best management practices for erosion and sediment control for Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) projects. The Erosion and Sediment Control Overview Council did not meet during 2006 or 2007.
House Bill 285 was passed during the 2003 legislative session. The legislation amended the Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act to create an integrated permitting program for erosion and sedimentation control for land disturbing activities of one acre or greater, thereby standardizing the requirements for local Land Disturbing Activity Permits and the NPDES Construction Storm Water Permits. The legislation incorporated feedback from the Erosion and Sediment Control Overview Council, recommendations from an Erosion and Sedimentation Program Performance Audit of September 2001, and information from various erosion and sedimentation committees. The amendment to the Act required that the Georgia Board of Natural Resources establish new rules to implement the changes to the Act, created Georgia's first NPDES permit fee system, and established training and education requirements for individuals involved in land development design, review, permitting, construction, monitoring or inspection of any land disturbing activity. The changes to the Act included elimination of Land Disturbing Activity Permits for jurisdictions that do not have a local issuing authority, requirement of a site visit by the plan preparer before creation of a erosion and sedimentation plan, replaced mandatory penalties with mandatory stop work orders for three specific types of violations, changes to permit exemptions, and reduction of the minimum permitting acreage limit from 1.1 project acres to 1.0 disturbed acres.
Senate Bill 460 was passed during the 2004 legislative session. The legislation amended the Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act to add three new criteria under which the EPD director can consider stream buffer variances. The legislation also required the Georgia Board of Natural Resources to adopt amendments to its Rules to implement the new criteria. In December 2004, the Georgia Board of Natural Resources adopted amendments to the Erosion and Sedimentation Control Rules. These amendments, which went into effect on January 10, 2005, established three new criteria, deleted one existing criteria, and amended another criteria for the consideration of stream bank buffer variances. Also amended were the procedures for the review of stream buffer variances to implement the changes to the criteria.
The Act was amended by House Bill 463 in 2007 to give subcontrators an additional year to meet the training and eduacation requirements established in HB 285. The erosion and sediment
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control (E&SC) education and training program provides training to all participants as to the applicable laws, requirements and methods recognized by the State to effectively control erosion and sedimentation. The Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission continues to administer the training and certification program. As of September 2007, more than 51,000 people have been certified.
During the 2006-2007 period, the GAEPD decertified as issuing authorities 2 counties and 2 cities. All four requested decertification. During this same period, 6 cities and 2 counties were certified as local issuing authorities. The GAEPD issued a number of stream buffer variances in 2006 and in 2007.
A NPDES general permit that would regulate storm water discharges from construction activities was issued by GAEPD and subsequently appealed in 1992, 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1999. After several months of settlement negotiations involving the regulated community, environmental organizations, GAEPD, and a professional facilitator, GAEPD issued a revised NPDES General Permit GAR100000 for construction activities on June 12, 2000. The permit became effective on August 1, 2000, and regulated storm water discharges associated with land disturbances of five acres or greater. A three-tiered permitting structure allowed a differentiation of responsibility between permittees.
The NPDES general permit for construction activities was reissued by GAEPD on August 13, 2003. The permit was re-issued as three distinct general permits: Stand Alone, Infrastructure and Common Development, and required coverage for projects disturbing one acre or more in accordance with the USEPA Phase II storm water regulations. Changes to the permit included a reduction in monitoring requirements, and the addition of a plan submittal requirement for projects located in areas that do not have a local issuing authority or are exempt from local issuing authority ordinances. The re-issuance of the permit was facilitated by a Storm Water General Permit Advisory Committee (GPAC), which was comprised of those parties who were involved in the 1999 settlement negotiations, as well as additional stakeholders such as Georgia DOT. The NPDES construction permits require permittees to implement best management practices, conduct inspections, and sample storm water leaving their site after certain rainfall events. Approximately 5,700 active NOIs have been received by GAEPD as of September 30, 2007.
The three construction general permits expire on July 31, 2008. Stakeholder meetings will be held in early 2008 to facilitate the re-issuance of these permits. The GAEPD will continue to regulate storm water runoff from construction sites as a part of the point-source permitting process to protect water quality.
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.
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.
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
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governments, State colleges and universities, businesses and industries, non-governmental organizations and individual citizens.
The Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC) has 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, and the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has been designated the lead agency and point of contact for urban/rural nonpoint source pollution.
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 2006-2007, as required by Section 305(b) of Public Law 92-500, serves as the current process to update the Nonpoint Source Assessment Report.
Currently, GAEPD is in the process of revising the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program to update the goals, activities and implementation strategies of the Program. The plan update will focus 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, and will be developed through a consultation 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, non-governmental organizations. This revision of the State's Nonpoint Source Management Program will encourage 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 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. Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act provides grants to the States to implement nonpoint source projects. The funds are distributed via competitive process to public agencies and governmental agencies. Receiving agencies are required to show substantial local commitment by providing at least 40% of the total project cost in local match or in-kind efforts. In FY 06 FY07, Georgia's Section 319(h) grant project funded 30 projects for over $8 million. For FY08, Georgia is poised to award $3.5 million to local governments and agencies to support streambank restoration, watershed planning, TMDL implementation, and support of Georgia's Coastal Nonpoint Source Management Program.
Currently, Georgia's Nonpoint Source Program administers more than 130 Section 319(h) projects, totaling more than $35 million dollars in funds awarded to cooperating agencies. Projects activities include implementing TMDL implementation plans and Watershed Management Plans, watershed planning, monitoring and assessment, enforcement, technical assistance, and information and education.
Priorities for projects include projects implementing the nonpoint source components of TMDL implementation plans, or projects addressing the violated criteria of listed streams. Education, demonstration, and technical assistance projects are also eligible for funding, subject to restrictions. 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
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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.
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.
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.
Agriculture 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 is a critical State initiative to identify priority waters and to target nonpoint source management activities.
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 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.
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
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Considerations for Animal Waste Systems, A Georgia Guide to Controlling EROSION with Vegetation, and Guidelines for Streambank Restoration.
In 2006-2007, approximately $2 million in Section 319(h) Grant monies have been used to fund projects that target agricultural sources of nonpoint source pollution.. In addition to the minimum 40% required non-federal in-kind match, the NRCS has contributed hundreds of hours of time worth many millions of 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 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. 2002 Farm Bill Programs under NRCS supervision include the Forestry Incentive Program (FIP), Wetland Reserve Program (WRP), the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the Wildlife Habitats Incentives Program (WHIP), the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), the Farmland Protection Program and the Conservation Security Program (CSP). Collectively these programs will continue to have a significant and positive impact on Georgia's natural resources. These Federal cost-share programs 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.
The Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) is a voluntary conservation program that promotes environmental quality to producers and helps farmers and ranchers reduce soil erosion, improve water use efficiency and protect grazing land by installing conservation practices that protect natural resources. EQIP provides technical, financial and educational assistance. NRCS is the lead agency for EQIP and works with many State and local partners to identify local priorities and recommend priority areas and program policy. In 2006 - 2007, the EQIP program provided over $24 million in incentive payments and cost-sharing for conservation practices.
The Conservation Security Program (CSP) is a voluntary conservation program that supports ongoing stewardship of working agricultural lands by providing payments for maintaining and enhancing natural resources. CSP identifies and rewards those farmers who are meeting the highest standards of conservation and environmental management on their operations.
Watersheds that are selected to participate contain a variety of land uses and input intensities, have high-priority resource issues to be addressed, including issues that meet State priorities, have a history of good land stewardship on the part of landowners, and have the technical tools necessary to streamline program implementation. Additional information may be found at: www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/csp/.
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.
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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.
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. 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.
A long-term goal of Georgia's Nonpoint Source Management Program is to achieve 100% compliance in implementation of recommended Best Management Practices for silviculture. To determine the success of educational programs, and the effectiveness of recommended BMPs, the GFC (with financial support from Section 319(h) funds) conducts a biennial Statewide BMP Compliance Survey. The survey assesses the application of best management practices by logging operations.
In 2007, 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. Overall, BMP compliance was 99.7% (out of 36,878 acres evaluated). This is 0.26 percent better then 2004. Out of the 9,605 applicable, individual BMPs evaluated, 91.8% were implemented. This is a 2.2 percent increase from 2004. Out of the 129 miles of streams evaluated, more than 92% were found to have no impacts or impairments from forestry practices. This is however, a slight decrease from the 2004 survey, which was at nearly 95% no impacts. The results from the biennial Statewide BMP Compliance Surveys will be used to update and revise the Silviculture Nonpoint Source Management Program.
As of this report, the Georgia Forestry Commission has instructed over 11,135 individuals in proper BMP uses. In addition, the Georgia Forestry Commission continues to address and resolve logging complaints, and to conduct one-to-one conferences with silviculture workers and professionals on-site or in the field.
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
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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 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 deleterious materials, and intermittent failure of sewerage systems. During urbanization, pervious, vegetated ground is converted to impervious, unvegetated surfaces such as rooftops, roads, parking lots and sidewalks. 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.
Consistent with the multiple sources of urban runoff, strategies to manage urban runoff 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, cooperative intergovernmental partnerships 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.
In this next decade, water resource management and the regulatory issues pertaining to water will be the most critical environmental issues faced by many local governments. Unlike many of the environmental issues local governments have faced in the past, water issues must be addressed on a regional or watershed basis to be truly effective. The major urban/industrial region of the State is highly dependent upon limited surface water resources found in the northern portion of the State. With limited storage capacity and limited ground water resources in this region, it is imperative that these limited water resources be used wisely and their quality be maintained. In South Georgia, groundwater resources must be managed carefully to prevent contamination and salt water intrusion from excess water withdrawals. A stable, reliable framework and clearinghouse for regional cooperation, information sharing, and technical assistance is needed to prepare local governments and citizens to meet these challenges. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs' Urban Nonpoint Source Management Program will fulfill this need.
Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is a key partner and point of contact for urban nonpoint source pollution. Georgia DCA is developing an Urban Nonpoint Source Management Program to foster regional watershed approaches to protect and enhance water quality. The Program will establish a single point of contact for local governments to use when they are seeking state or federal support to address issues related to water quality in their community. As an information and networking center, the Program will provide water resources tools, one-on-one technical assistance, and workshops to address regional water quality issues to more than 2,500 local elected officials currently serving 159 counties and 532 cities. The Urban Nonpoint Source Management Program will also provide tools to link land-use and water quality in land-use
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planning, promote smart growth principles, and provide public education materials and programs on protecting water resources.
Additionally, an array of programs to manage urban runoff are under development or being implemented in a variety of locales. 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.
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. The ARC will be developing Volume 3: Pollution Prevention in 2008-2009. Also, In partnership with GAEPD, ARC, numerous local governments and other stakeholders, the Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission and the Center for Watershed Protection are currently developing a Coastal Stormwater Supplement to the Georgia Stormwater Management Manual, to specifically address coastal stormwater. The supplement will be complete September 2008.
The University of Georgia's Marine Extension Service (MAREX) has partnered with local government officials to improve water quality through the Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials (NEMO) program, part of the national Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials (NEMO) network. The project is funded with a Coastal Incentive grant funds, and is also working closely with the Department of Community Affairs on their overall Statewide nonpoint source education efforts. MAREX provides educational programming, applied research, and technical assistance to communities along Georgia's coast.
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.
Georgia Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) Program In October 1996, the Georgia EPD selected Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) curriculum as the most appropriate water science and nonpoint source education curriculum for the State. The Project WET curriculum is an interdisciplinary water science and education curriculum that can be easily integrated into the existing curriculum of a school, museum, university pre-service class, or a community organization. The goals of the Georgia Project WET Program are to facilitate and to promote awareness, appreciation, knowledge and stewardship of water resources through the development and dissemination of classroom (K-12) ready teaching aids.
The success of the Georgia Project WET Program has been phenomenal. Since 1997, several Project WET facilitator training workshops have been successfully completed across the State with over 550 Project WET facilitators trained statewide. In addition, more than 300 Project WET educator workshops have been completed in Georgia with more than 7,000 formal and nonformal educators implementing the Project WET curriculum in Georgia with a substantial number of students over 600,000 students annually!
The Georgia Project WET Program provides educators with additional resources such as the Enviroscape Nonpoint Source, Wetlands and Groundwater Flow Models demonstration tools
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used to emphasize the impacts of nonpoint source pollution to 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 bi-annual newsletter, is published and distributed to over 4000 educators statewide and nationally. Information is also available on the Georgia Project WET website, www.GaProjectWET.org
Each year, the Georgia Project WET Program partners with the Environmental Education Alliance of Georgia to conduct a Statewide conference and awards ceremony. The 2007 conference was held on Jekyll Island, Georgia with over 250 participants.
During the conference, Georgia Project WET recognizes a Facilitator, Teacher and School of the Year. Awardees are selected based on their efforts to increase awareness about water issues and their commitment to water education. The Project WET School of the Year also receives a Project WET certification workshop for its faculty at no charge.
In 2004, Georgia Project WET partnered with the City of Atlanta's Department of Watershed Management to produce The Urban Watershed: A Supplement to the Project WET Curriculum and Activity Guide. This supplement includes twelve real-world, engaging activities that have been designed for 4-8th grade students. The activities address topics such as water quality, nonpoint source pollution, drinking water systems, wastewater systems and impervious surfaces. It is the first curriculum of its kind, focusing on the Chattahoochee River watershed and the unique issues that face an urban watershed. Since its first printing in August of 2005, over 500 educators have been trained to implement the curriculum in their classrooms and in the field. In addition, the City of Atlanta was honored with the Public Education Award from the Association of Water Professionals as a result of its part in developing this Urban Supplement to Project WET.
The Georgia Project WET Program has been nationally recognized as a model program for its training strengths and techniques specifically, the use of arts in environmental education. The Georgia Project WET Program offers educators in Georgia the opportunity to participate in the River of Words, an international poetry and art contest for students (K-12). This contest provides students with the opportunity to explore their own watersheds and to learn their "ecological" addresses through poetry and art. The Georgia Project WET Program offers a free River of Words Teacher's Guide for educators with specific information about Georgia's watersheds. In addition, several nature centers throughout Georgia offer River of Words field trips for students and teachers.
National winners are selected by the former U.S. Poet Laureate, Robert Hass, and the International Children's Art Museum. Annually, only eight students are selected as National Grand Prize Winners to be honored at the Library of Congress in Washington DC or in San Francisco, California.
Over 20,000 entries are submitted to the River of Words contest each year and every year since 1997 Georgia students have been selected as National Grand Prize Winners and/or Finalists. In addition to the students that are recognized Nationally, Georgia Project WET conducts a State judging each year in which approximately 50 students are honored as State winners.
The State and National winners' work is on display in the Georgia River of Words Exhibition. Each year, Georgia Project WET partners with the Chattahoochee Nature Center to conduct the Georgia River of Words Awards Ceremony recognizing State and National winners from across the State. The event is a huge success with over 250 guests from all regions of the State attending each year. All River of Words state and national winners poetry and art can be found on the project website, www.GaProjectWet.org.
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In partnership with the Georgia Center for the Book, Georgia Project WET coordinates an additional River of Words traveling exhibit through the library system, which visits 15-20 sites per year. In addition, over 70,000 students and teachers each year will view the River of Words exhibit when they visit the Georgia Aquarium. Project WET and Georgia Aquarium staff partnered to select 65 River of Words winning entries from Georgia to display on the Education floor of the Aquarium.
Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program is a citizen monitoring and stream protection program with two staff positions in the Georgia EPD and over 60 local community and watershed Adopt-AStream coordinators. The community and watershed coordinators are a network of college, watershed, or local based training centers located throughout Georgia. This network of local programs provide training workshops and educational presentations that allow the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program to be accessible to all areas of the State. In cooperation with the State Coordinators, the programs ensure that volunteers are trained consistently and that the monitoring data is professionally assessed for quality assurance and quality control.
The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program objectives supports 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 14,000 volunteers participate in 235 individual and over 60 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 270 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 operations 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.
The Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program provides volunteers with additional resources such as the Getting to Know Your Watershed and 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. Every two months a newsletter is published and distributed to over 4,800 volunteers statewide with program updates, workshop schedules, and information about available resources. Additional information about the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program, watershed investigation and water quality monitoring is available on the website, www.GeorgiaAdoptAStream.org. All Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program activities have been correlated to the Georgia Performance Standards (GPS) for grades K 12 and certified teachers in Georgia participating in Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program training workshops receive Professional Learning Unit (PLU) credits. Additional information about the GPS correlations and PLU credits can be found online. A recent update to the website includes
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links for viewing volunteer monitoring data and landuse and professional water quality data in a single format via the Internet. Data sharing developments like this website will improve volunteer monitor's capacity to learn about and protect local water bodies.
Once again, Georgia Adopt-A-Stream partnered with the Georgia River Network to present the Watershed Track at their 2007 annual conference. This event helped connect citizens with activities that help protect and improve Georgia waters. In March 2007, the Georgia Adopt-AStream Program partnered with the Environmental Education Alliance of Georgia to conduct an annual conference and awards ceremony. The 2007 conference, Georgia Environment - Keys for Successful Partnership, was held at Jekyll Island, Georgia with over 250 participants.
In addition, the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream Program organizes Georgia's annual volunteer waterway cleanup event, Rivers Alive, held throughout 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 waters. The mission of Rivers Alive is to create awareness of and involvement in the preservation of Georgia's water resources.
During the 2007 waterway cleanup, more than 25,000 volunteers cleaned over 2,300 miles of waterways and removed over 750,000 pounds of trash and garbage including refrigerators, couches, a shower stall, televisions, motorcycles, tires, shingles and general trash. Rivers Alive is an annual event that receives key support in the form of corporate sponsorship for the purchase of t-shirts, watershed posters, bookmarks and educational materials. The cleanup event also provides signs, press releases through public service announcements and advertises on local television stations. In addition to protecting and preserving the State's waterways, Rivers Alive cleanup events include diverse activities such as stormdrain stenciling, water quality monitoring and riparian restoration workshops, riverboat tours, wastewater treatment facility tours and environmental education workshops.
The goals for Rivers Alive are to have at least 25,000 volunteers with cleanup events in every watershed across Georgia. These goals represent increased efforts that will result in cleaner waters in the State. Additional information about Rivers Alive 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 post emergency situations. The majority of the team members are located in Atlanta in order to facilitate rapid access to the major interstates. 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
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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 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;
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).
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.
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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.
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CHAPTER 8
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 2005, groundwater made up approximately 20.5 percent of the public water supply, 100 percent of rural drinking water sources, 65 percent of the irrigation use and 46 percent of the industrial and mining use. Total estimated groundwater withdrawals in 2005 were approximately 1.2 billion gallons per day. For practical purposes, outside the larger cities of Georgia, 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:
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
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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.
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.
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 4). 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 presently consists of over 130 wells, which are sampled periodically (Figure 5). Reports of water quality are issued periodically. These wells are located in all of the main aquifers and throughout the State in key areas. 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 years 2006 and 2007 are provided in Tables 8-3, 8-4, and 8-5.
To evaluate nitrate/nitrite from non-point sources in the State's groundwater, between 1991 and 1995 the GAEPD sampled over 5000 shallow domestic drinking water wells for nitrate/nitrite. Results indicated that water from 97 percent of the wells had 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. From 1996 through 2007, 1,204 water samples from Groundwater Monitoring Network wells were analyzed for nitrate/nitrite, or during 2005 for nitrate. Water from 1.07 percent of the samples exceeded the MCL value. In 2003 and 2004, 546 domestic well samples were tested for nitrate as part of the Domestic Well Pesticide Sampling Project. Water from 95 percent of the wells had less than 5 ppm nitrate as N. Water from 1.5 percent of the samples 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.
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The GAEPD's extensive sampling program demonstrates that nitrates, from non-point sources, are not a significant contributor to groundwater pollution in Georgia.
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, 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
Active SARA Title III Program Ambient ground water monitoring system Aquifer vulnerability assessment Aquifer mapping Aquifer characterization Comprehensive data management system EPA-endorsed Core Comprehensive State Ground Water Protection Program (CSGWPP) Ground water discharge Ground water Best Management Practices Ground water legislation Ground water classification Ground water quality standards Interagency coordination for ground water protection initiatives Nonpoint source controls Pesticide State Management Plan Pollution Prevention Program Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Primacy State Superfund State RCRA Program incorporating more stringent requirements than RCRA Primacy State septic system regulations Underground storage tank installation requirements Underground Storage Tank Remediation Fund Underground Storage Tank Permit Program Underground Injection Control Program Vulnerability assessment for drinking water/wellhead protection Well abandonment regulations Wellhead Protection Program (EPA-approved) Well installation regulations
Check (X) X X X X X X X
X X
X X
X X X X
X X
X X X
X X
X X X
Implementation Status Fully Established Fully Established Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Fully Established
Prohibited Pending Fully Established Not applicable Ongoing Fully Established
Pending Fully Established Fully Established Fully Established
Fully Established Fully Established
Fully Established Fully Established Fully Established Not applicable Fully Established Ongoing
Fully Established Fully Established Fully Established
Responsible Agency GAEPD GAEPD GAEPD GAEPD GAEPD GAEPD GAEPD
State
GAEPD GAEPD
GAEPD GAEPD
GAEPD DOA DNR GAEPD
GAEPD GAEPD
DHR GAEPD GAEPD
GAEPD GAEPD
GAEPD GAEPD GAEPD
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FIGURE 4. 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
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FIGURE 5. AMBIENT GROUNDWATER MONITORING NETWORK, 2006-2007
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TABLE 8-3A SUMMARY OF GROUND-WATER MONITORING RESULTS FOR 120 PIEDMONT AND BLUE
RIDGE STATIONS FOR CY 2006
Nitrate/ Nitrite
VOCs (88 Stations Uranium Tested)
Copper or Fe, Mn, or
Lead
Al
Detections
89
8
Exceedances 1
0
35
34
86
1
0
48
TABLE 8-3B SUMMARY OF GROUND-WATER MONITORING RESULTS FOR 171 SMALL PUBLIC
WATER SYSTEM STATIONS FOR CY 2007
Nitrate/ Nitrite
VOCs
Uranium
Copper or Fe, Mn, or
Lead
Al
Detections
91
9
Exceedances 0
0
22
34
110
4
0
61
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TABLE 8-4 GROUND-WATER MONITORING DATA FOR CY 2006
Piedmont/Blue Ridge Unconfined Aquifer System Monitoring
County
Baldwin Banks Barrow Bartow Bibb Butts Carroll Cherokee Clayton Columbia Coweta Crawford Dawson Douglas Elbert Fannin Fayette Forsyth Franklin Fulton Gilmer Greene Gwinnett Habersham Hall Hancock Harris Hart Heard Henry Jackson Jasper Jones
No. of Stations
2 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 3 2 2 1 2 1 2 3 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 2 2 2
Number of Stations Showing:
Nitrate/ Nitrate Detection// Exceedance
VOCs Detection// Exceedance
1 // 0 2 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 3 // 0 2 // 0 3 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 NA 3 // 0 0 // 0 NA 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 NA 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 NA 0 // 0 NA NA 0 // 0 1 // 0; 1 NA 0 // 0 0 // 0
Uranium Detection// Exceedance
1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 0
Copper or Lead Fe, Mn, or Al
Detection//
Detection//
Exceedance
Exceedance
1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0
2 // 2 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 1 2 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1 2 // 1 2 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 1 1 // 0 2 // 2 2 // 2 2 // 2 1 // 0 2 // 2 1 // 1 2 // 1 1 // 1 2 // 2 1 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 1 2 // 1
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
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TABLE 8-4 GROUND-WATER MONITORING DATA FOR CY 2006, CONTINUED
Piedmont/Blue Ridge Unconfined Aquifer System Monitoring
Number of Stations Showing:
County
Lincoln Lumpkin McDuffie Madison Meriwether Monroe Morgan Murray Newton Oconee Oglethorpe Paulding Pickens Pike Putnam Rabun Rockdale Spalding Stephens Talbot Taliaferro Taylor Towns Troup Union Upson Walton Warren Washington White Wilkes
No. of Stations
2 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 2 1 1 2 2 3 2 2 1 1 2 2
Nitrate/ Nitrate Detection// Exceedance
VOCs Detection// Exceedance
1 // 0
NA
1 // 0
0 // 0
2 // 0
0 // 0
2 // 0
1 // 0; 1 NA
1 // 0
NA
2 // 0
NA
3 // 0
0 // 0
1 // 0
1 // 0
2 // 0
1 // 0
2 // 0
0 // 0
1 // 0
NA
1 // 0
1 // 0
0 // 0
0 // 0
1 // 0
0 // 0
2 // 0
NA
1 // 0
NA
2 // 0
0 // 0
0 // 0
0 // 0
1 // 1
NA
1 // 0
NA
1 // 0
1 NA
1 // 0
0 // 0
1 // 0
0 // 0
2 // 0
NA
2 // 0
0 // 0
1 // 0
0 // 0; 1 NA
2 // 0
1 // 0
0 // 0
1 NA
1 // 0
1 // 0
1 // 0
0 // 0
2 // 0
NA
Uranium Detection// Exceedance
0 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0
Copper or Lead Detection// Exceedance 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0
Fe, Mn, or Al Detection// Exceedance
1 // 1 2 // 1 1 // 1 2 // 1 1 // 0 2 // 1 1 // 1 2 // 0 2 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 1 2 // 2 2 // 2 2 // 1 2 // 2 2 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1 2 // 2 0 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 2 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 1
NA = parameter not analyzed; a dual entry such as 0 // 0; 1 NA in a parameter's column occurs if the parameter was analyzed for samples from some stations but not for those from others.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
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TABLE 8-5 GROUND-WATER MONITORING DATA FOR CY 2007
Small Public Water System Monitoring
County
No. of Stations
Appling
2
Atkinson
1
Bacon
1
Baker
1
Baldwin
1
Banks
1
Barrow
1
Bartow
1
Ben Hill
1
Berrien
1
Bibb
1
Bleckley
1
Brantley
1
Brooks
2
Bryan
1
Bulloch
2
Burke
2
Butts
1
Calhoun
1
Camden
2
Candler
1
Carroll
2
Charlton
2
Chatham
2
Chattahoochee 1
Chattooga
1
Cherokee
1
Clarke
1
Clay
1
Clayton
1
Clinch
2
Number of Stations Showing:
Nitrate/ Nitrate Detection// Exceedance
VOCs Detection// Exceedance
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
Uranium Detection// Exceedance
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0
Copper or Lead Fe, Mn, or Al
Detection//
Detection//
Exceedance
Exceedance
1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
1 // 1 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 1 2 // 1 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 1 1 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 1 2 // 1
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
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TABLE 8-5 GROUND-WATER MONITORING DATA FOR CY 2007, CONTINUED
Small Public Water System Monitoring
Number of Stations Showing:
County
No. of Stations
Nitrate/ Nitrate Detection// Exceedance
VOCs Detection// Exceedance
Uranium Detection// Exceedance
Coffee
2
Colquitt
2
Columbia
1
Cook
1
Coweta
1
Crawford
1
Crisp
1
Dawson
1
Decatur
2
Dodge
2
Dooly
1
Dougherty
1
Douglas
1
Early
2
Echols
1
Effingham
1
Elbert
1
Emanuel
2
Evans
1
Fannin
1
Floyd
1
Forsyth
1
Gilmer
1
Glascock
1
Glynn
2
Grady
1
Greene
1
Habersham 1
Hall
1
Hancock
1
Harris
1
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
Copper or Lead Fe, Mn, or Al
Detection//
Detection//
Exceedance
Exceedance
0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
2 // 1 2 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1 0 // 0 2 // 2 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
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TABLE 8-5 GROUND-WATER MONITORING DATA FOR CY 2007, CONTINUED
Small Public Water System Monitoring
County
No. of Stations
Hart
1
Houston
1
Irwin
1
Jasper
1
Jeff Davis
1
Jefferson
2
Jenkins
1
Johnson
1
Jones
1
Lamar
1
Lanier
1
Laurens
2
Lee
1
Liberty
2
Lincoln
1
Long
1
Lowndes
1
Lumpkin
1
McDuffie
1
McIntosh
2
Macon
1
Madison
1
Marion
1
Meriwether 2
Miller
1
Mitchell
2
Monroe
1
Montgomery 1
Morgan
1
Murray
1
Muscogee
1
Number of Stations Showing:
Nitrate/ Nitrate Detection// Exceedance
VOCs Detection// Exceedance
1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
Uranium Detection// Exceedance
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
Copper or Lead Fe, Mn, or Al
Detection//
Detection//
Exceedance
Exceedance
0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0
1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1 2 // 2 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 2 // 2 1 // 1 1 // 1 0 // 0 2 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
107
TABLE 8-5 GROUND-WATER MONITORING DATA FOR CY 2007, CONTINUED
County
No. of Stations
Newton
1
Oconee
1
Oglethorpe 1
Paulding
1
Peach
1
Pickens
1
Pierce
1
Pike
1
Polk
1
Pulaski
1
Putnam
1
Quitman
1
Rabun
1
Randolph
1
Richmond
1
Rockdale
1
Screven
2
Seminole
1
Stephens
1
Stewart
1
Sumter
2
Talbot
1
Tattnall
2
Taylor
1
Telfair
1
Terrell
1
Thomas
1
Tift
1
Toombs
1
Towns
1
Small Public Water System Monitoring
Number of Stations Showing:
Nitrate/ Nitrate Detection// Exceedance
VOCs Detection// Exceedance
0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0
0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
Uranium Detection// Exceedance
0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
Copper or Lead Fe, Mn, or Al
Detection//
Detection//
Exceedance
Exceedance
0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 2 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
1 // 1 1 // 1 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 2 // 1 1 // 1 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
108
TABLE 8-5 GROUND-WATER MONITORING DATA FOR CY 2007, CONTINUED
County
Treutlen Troup Turner Twiggs Union Upson Walker Walton Ware Warren Washington Wayne Webster Wheeler White Whitfield Wilcox Wilkes Wilkinson Worth
Small Public Water System Monitoring
No. of Stations
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2
Number of Stations Showing:
Nitrate/ Nitrate Detection// Exceedance
VOCs Detection// Exceedance
0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0
0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
Uranium Detection// Exceedance
0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
Copper or Lead Fe, Mn, or Al
Detection//
Detection//
Exceedance
Exceedance
0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0 0 // 0
1 // 1 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1 1 // 1 2 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 1 0 // 0 1 // 0 0 // 0 1 // 1 1 // 0
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA 2006-2007
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Agricultural chemicals are commonly used in the agricultural regions of the State (Figure 6). 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.
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 3,095 domestic wells in Georgia by the end of the project in 2004. Laboratory analysis confirmed that only eighteen wells (0.58%) contained detectable concentrations of pesticides. Four of these wells (0.13%) contained alachlor at concentrations of 3.5 to 6.2 ppb, which were greater than the public drinking water MCL of 2.0 ppb. All homeowners whose wells tested positive for pesticides were advised of the results and 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 7. 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 salt-water intrusion in the 24 coastal counties. The strategy, developed in consultation with South Carolina and Florida, continued until June 2006, when the final coastal Plan was adopted for implementation.
The new and final "Coastal Georgia Water & Wastewater Permitting Plan for Managing Salt Water Intrusion" describes the goals, policies, and actions the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) will undertake to manage the water resources of the 24-county area of coastal Georgia. The Plan is designed to support the continued growth and development of coastal Georgia while implementing sustainable water resource management. The final Plan replaces the "Interim Strategy for Managing Salt Water Intrusion in the Upper Floridan Aquifer of Southeast Georgia" and sets forth how EPD will conduct ground and surface water withdrawal permitting, and management and permitting of wastewater discharges. It advances requirements
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FIGURE 6. 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.
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FIGURE 7. 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
CARROLL HEARD
DOUGLAS FULTON
ROCKDALE
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 2006-2007
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for water conservation, water reclamation and reuse, and wastewater management. Based on the findings of the Coastal Sound Science Initiative (CSSI), the Plan will guide EPD water resource management decisions and actions until superceded by the adoption of the General Assembly of a Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Plan in 2008.
The primary focus of the final Plan is on stabilizing or halting the intrusion of salt water into the Upper Floridan aquifer, which is a dominant water supply source shared by coastal Georgia and neighboring areas of South Carolina and Florida. The Plan recognizes that actions taken to halt the intrusion of additional salt water into the aquifer will not result in the halting of the migration of the salt water that has already entered the aquifer.
Management strategies that abate the intrusion of salt water are primarily concerned with quantity and supply, but water supply strategies are incomplete without a corresponding array of actions that will address related wastewater issues. The additional water supply available through the water withdrawal permitting conducted under this Plan will increase the amount of wastewater to be discharged into the sensitive ecosystems of coastal Georgia. Therefore, the final Plan also incorporates policies and actions needed to begin solving the wastewater discharge limitations that have become evident as coastal Georgia continues to grow.
The Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Planning Act (the Water Planning Act), passed by the General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Perdue in 2004, defines general policy and guiding principles for water resource management that guide this Coastal Georgia Water & Wastewater Permitting Plan for Managing Salt Water Intrusion. The incorporation of these policies and guiding principles into this Plan will facilitate its alignment with the Comprehensive State-wide Water Management Plan to be adopted in 2008. This final Plan for managing coastal Georgia salt water intrusion, withdrawal permitting, and wastewater management reflects the State's goal of sustainable use of both groundwater and surface waters, it supports regional economic growth and development, and contributes to protecting the shortterm and long-term health of both the public and natural systems. It is based on the best available scientific data and information on the stresses on the water resources within the region.
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), 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. If the radioactive zones in a well cannot be sealed off, the public water may have to connect to a neighboring permitted public water system(s). Treatment to remove radionuclides and uranium from water is still a problem due to concerns for the disposal of the concentrated residue. 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).
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FIGURE 8. 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
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
HARRIS
UPSON TALBOT
CRAWFORD
BIBB
WILKINSON TWIGGS
JOHNSON
BURKE
JENKINS
SCREVEN
MUSCOGEE CHATTAHOOCHEEMARION
TAYLOR
PEACH
MACON
HOUSTON BLECKLEY
LAURENS
EMANUEL
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 2006-2007
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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.
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 public water supply wells for volatile organic chemicals (VOCs, e.g. solvents and hydrocarbons) is performed by the GAEPD. Only a very few water systems have had a VOC level high enough to exceed the MCL and become a violation. The sources of the VOCs most commonly are illdefined 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.
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.
During the period from July 1, 2002 to June 30, 2006, a total of 327 MPAs were performed on 214 drinking water sources. (154 wells and 60 springs) operated by 130 separate public water systems. Of all the analyzed 214 sources, only 30 wells and 21 springs were declared to be under the direct influence of surface waters. The Division worked with each affected water system and provided technical assistance in identifying and correcting the deficiencies that were contributing to the contamination of the sources. This action assured these systems to maintain technical capacity to stay in compliance with the drinking water standards. Most of the springs were impacted due to faulty containment area and the wells were impacted mainly because of bad casings. All of the affected springs were cleaned, repaired and tested before they were placed back into service. The wells were repaired, abandoned, or pumped to a surface water treatment plant for treatment.
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, 2007, confirmed releases have been identified at 11,766 sites and site investigation and corrective action procedures have been completed at 9,559 sites and initiated at the remaining 2,207 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 566 sites listed on the Georgia Hazardous Site Inventory (HSI). Since the initial
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publication of the HSI, cleanups and investigations have been completed on 249 sites. 421 Sites have cleanups in progress and 119 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 160 contracts to investigate and cleanup abandoned sites, of which approximately 125 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 show 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 2008 in Georgia, there were 110 permitted active (operational) waste disposal landfills, including 57 lined and unlined municipal solid waste landfills, 50 construction and demolition landfills, 1 waste-to-energy facility, 1 commercial industrial landfill, and 1 carpet baler facility. In addition, 21 landfills have ceased accepting waste (In-Closure) and are currently closing the facility. There are 140 landfills in post-closure care required to conduct groundwater monitoring for 30 years, including 111 closed landfills, 9 InClosure landfills, and 20 operating landfills. Of the 350 closed landfills, 307 are monitoring groundwater with approved systems. The remaining landfills are in the process of installing monitoring systems, and/or are awaiting GAEPD approval, or were deferred or not required to install monitoring systems because the facilities closed prior to implementation of EPD monitoring requirements.
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 identifies non-domestic septic systems in use in the State, collects information on their use, and has implemented the permitting of systems serving more than 20 persons. Relatively few of the systems are used for the disposal of non-sanitary waste, and the owners of those systems are required to obtain a site specific 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, 2007, the program has issued 330 UIC permits covering 8,006 Class V wells. Most of the permits are for remediation wells for UST sites, petroleum product spills, and 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, 2007, Georgia had 247 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 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
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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 9). 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. In addition, the GAEPD is geologically mapping the recharge zones of important Georgia aquifers at a large scale of 1:24,000.
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.
Wellhead Protection Plans have been completed for all 1,695 permitted municipal wells in Georgia. Due to the closure of some municipal wells there are currently 1,635 active municipal ground water wells with Wellhead Protection Plans. A ten-year review of plans completed in 1996 was completed in 2007. The review includes 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 other hand, 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.
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FIGURE 9. 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)
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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, 8-4, and 8-5 summarize ambient groundwater quality monitoring results for calendar years 2006 and 2007. 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. Contamination of groundwater by surface water occurred in 1994 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 a groundwater aquifer in Georgia being contaminated by surface water, and monitoring in 1995 demonstrated that the aquifer was clean. 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.
Ground and Surface Water Withdrawals (including water availability analysis and conservation planning) The Water Withdrawal Permitting Program of the Watershed Protection 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 2007, GAEPD had 285 active municipal and industrial surface water withdrawal permits (185 municipal, 100 industrial), 469 active groundwater withdrawal permits (276 municipal/public supply, 174 industrial, 19 golf course irrigation) and approximately 22,000 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
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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 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 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
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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 non-agricultural 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.
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 2006-2007, 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, approximately 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 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
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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 2006-2007, 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.
LT2 AND STAGE 2 ISSUES Amendments to the SDWA in 1996 require EPA to develop rules to balance the risks between microbial pathogens and disinfection byproducts (DBPs). The Stage 1 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule and Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule, promulgated in December 1998, were the first phase in a rulemaking strategy required by Congress as part of the 1996 Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act.
The Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule builds upon earlier rules to address higher risk public water systems for protection measures beyond those required for existing regulations.
The Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule and the Stage 2 Disinfection Byproduct Rule are the second phase of rules required by Congress. These rules strengthen protection against microbial contaminants, especially Cryptosporidium, and at the same time, reduce potential health risks of DBPs. These two new regulations went into effect in December 2005. EPD is prepared to fully implement these regulations in Georgia, including the "early Implementation" provisions of the regulations.
The purpose of Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2ESWTR) is to reduce illness linked with the contaminant Cryptosporidium and other pathogenic microorganisms in drinking water. The LT2ESWTR will supplement existing regulations by targeting additional Cryptosporidium treatment requirements to higher risk systems. This rule also contains provisions to reduce risks from uncovered finished water reservoirs and provisions to ensure that systems maintain microbial protection when they take steps to decrease the formation of disinfection byproducts that result from chemical water treatment.
Current regulations require filtered water systems to reduce source water Cryptosporidium levels by 2-log (99 percent). Recent data on Cryptosporidium infectivity and occurrence indicate that this treatment requirement is sufficient for most systems, but additional treatment is necessary for certain higher risk systems. These higher risk systems include filtered water systems with high levels of Cryptosporidium in their water sources and all unfiltered water systems, which do not treat for Cryptosporidium.
The LT2ESWTR is being promulgated simultaneously with the Stage 2 Disinfection Byproduct Rule to address concerns about risk tradeoffs between pathogens and DBPs.
The Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rule will reduce potential cancer and reproductive and developmental health risks from disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in drinking water, which form when disinfectants are used to control microbial pathogens. Over 260 million individuals are exposed to DBPs.
This Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rule strengthens public health protection for customers by tightening compliance monitoring requirements for two groups of DBPs, trihalomethanes (TTHM) and haloacetic acids (HAA5). The rule targets systems with the greatest risk and builds
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incrementally on existing rules. This regulation will reduce DBP exposure and related potential health risks and provide more equitable public health protection.
Public Water System Supervision Program This 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 June 30, 2007, the State of Georgia had approximately 2,462 active PWS serving a population over 8.7 million people. Of the 2,462 public water systems, approximately 70% (1,737) provide water to residential customers. These systems are referred to as CWSs and serve at least 15 service connections used by year-round residents or regularly serve at least 25 year-round residents daily at least 60 days out of the year. Of the 1,737 community water systems, 227 (13%) of them are served by surface water sources and the rest 1,510 (87%) are served by groundwater sources. All public water systems are issued a Permit to Operate a Public Water System, in accordance with the Georgia.
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 yearto-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. On January 12, 2000 EPA published minor revisions to the existing 1991 Lead and Copper Rule. It was called Lead and Copper Minor Rule Revision (LCRMR). The purpose of this revision was to eliminate unnecessary requirements, streamline and reduce burden and also to promote consistent implementation. All systems that are required to monitor for lead and copper are initially required to perform two, six-month consecutive rounds of lead and copper monitoring starting from JanuaryDecember of the required year, all 19 large systems are still required to maintain a corrosion control plan and has continued to do so.
In 2006, the total number of systems exceeding the action level for lead and copper was 64. Out of the 64 systems, 4 of those systems exceeded both lead and copper (Pb/Cu) including 1 system with a population between 3,301-10,000, 20 exceeded for copper only and 40 exceeded for lead only. Forty-seven of the systems that exceeded were community water systems (population less than 3,300) and 16 were non-transient-non-community water system (population less than 3,300). Ninety-six% of those systems that exceeded either parameter have completed
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the required water quality parameter and source water monitoring and all systems have performed the public education requirements.
During 2007, the total number of systems that exceeded the action level for Pb/Cu was 52. hirtyeight of those systems are community water systems with population less than 3,301 and 11 of those systems are non-transient-non-community system with a population less than 3,301). Three systems served a population between 3301-10,000. Out of the 52 systems that exceeded, 4 systems exceeded for both lead and copper, 19 systems exceeded for copper only and 29 systems exceeded for lead only. Ninety-five% of the systems that exceeded has conducted the required water quality parameters and source water monitoring and has also completed the public education requirements. These systems will remain in full monitoring until they have completed two consecutive rounds of monitoring without an exceedance. The number of systems exceeding has dropped tremendously from years past.
Monitoring for the 16 inorganic chemicals, 55 volatile organic chemicals and 43 synthetic organic chemicals, pesticides, herbicides and polychlorinated biphenyls is still required for systems that are considered a public water system. New systems are still 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). There were 3 systems that had results over the MCL for individual volatile organic contaminants in a particular quarter, however these system didn't received a violation due to compliance being based on four consecutive quarters results being higher than the established maximum contaminant level (MCL). The systems however are being monitored quarterly for VOCs.
A majority of Georgia's water systems, which are currently contracted with the State (participating in DWSF) have been issued monitoring waivers for SOCs and therefore are not required to monitor for those contaminants. New sources however, for existing systems are still required to establish base line monitoring for SOCs. After establishing the four quarters baseline monitoring they will be eligible for a waiver.
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 also prepared vulnerability studies for individual water sources. These studies included 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 included water wells, potential pollution sources around the wells, cultural information such as roads, and bodies of water. As of December 31, 2003, the GAEPD had prepared site specific maps for approximately 723 privately owned ground water public water systems. Additional maps have not been completed since the information is included in the SWAP documents.
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USEPA approved Georgia's Source Water Assessment and Protection Implementation Plan on May 1, 2000. Georgia's deadline for completion of surface water source water assessments (SWAPs) was November 1, 2003. Georgia's deadline for completion of ground water SWAPs was June 2005 for community systems, December 2005 for non-transient non-community systems, and December 2006 for transient non-community systems.
All scheduled SWAPs have been completed. Currently we are in the process of performing SWAPs on all privately owned groundwater systems. For the privately owned ground water systems, approximately 1,133 source water assessments have been prepared since July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2007. During the current reporting period from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007, approximately 19 SWAPs were completed for privately owned community ground water systems; 39 SWAPs for non-transient non-community ground water systems and 42 SWAPs for transient non-community ground water systems. This activity for the privately owned ground water systems will continue until completion.
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CHAPTER 9
Major Issues and Challenges
Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Planning Georgia is one of the fastest growing states in the nation. The burgeoning population places considerable demands on Georgia's ground and surface water resources in terms of water supply, water quality and assimilative capacity. 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 freshwater resources are approaching their sustainable limits.
Thus, several key issues and challenges to be addressed now and in the future years include (1) minimizing withdrawals of water by increasing conservation, efficiency and reuse, (2) maximizing returns to the basin by managing interbasin transfers and the use of septic tanks and land application of treated wastewater where water is limited, (3) meeting instream and offstream water demands through storage, aquifer management and reducing water demands, and (4) protecting water quality by reducing wastewater discharges and runoff from land to below the assimilative capacity of the streams.
The implementation of the Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Plan signed into law by Governor Perdue on February 6, 2008 provides Georgia a framework for addressing each of these key issues.
Nonpoint Source Pollution 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, detergents and a variety of other pollutants being washed into rivers and lakes by stormwater. Even stormwater runoff itself, if rate and volume is unmitigated, can be extremely detrimental to aquatic habitat and hydrological systems. Nonpoint source pollution, although somewhat less dramatic than raw sewage, must be reduced and controlled to fully protect Georgia's streams. In addition to structural pollution controls, nonstructural techniques such as green infrastructure, pollution prevention and best management practices must be significantly expanded to minimize nonpoint source pollution. These include both watershed protection through planning, zoning, buffer zones, and appropriate building densities as well as increased use of stormwater structural practices, low impact development, erosion and sedimentation controls, street cleaning and perhaps eventual limitations on pesticide and fertilizer usage.
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. 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. Some municipal and industrial treated wastewaters may contain concentrations of metals coming from plumbing (lead, copper, zinc) or industrial processes.
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The concern over toxic substances is twofold. First, aquatic life is very sensitive to metals and 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.
Public Involvement It is clear that local governments and industries, even with well funded efforts, cannot fully address the challenges of nonpoint source pollution control and toxic substances. 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 what we do on the land has a direct impact on water quality. Adding more pavement and other impervious surfaces, littering, driving cars which drip oils and antifreeze, applying fertilizers and pesticides and other activities and behaviors all contribute 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 through Georgia Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) and Adopt-A-Stream programs.
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APPENDIX A
WATERS ASSESSED FOR COMPLIANCE WITH DESIGNATED USES
The attached tables present Georgia's 2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List of Waters. EPD published a public notice on March 30, 2007 soliciting data from any outside sources to be included in the assessment of water quality data for the 2008 305(b)/303(d) List. All available data, including that which was collected by the Department of Natural Resources, were considered and determinations were made for compliance with designated uses. Information as to the specific data sources and an explanation for the various codes used with the 2008 listing assessment are included in the "Data Source Code/Key for Abbreviations" Table that follows this narrative.
Collected data and information were compared against applicable water quality standards to make listing assessment decisions. Substantial changes have been made to the format of Georgia's 2008 305(b)/303(d) List of Waters compared to the presentation provided during earlier listing years. The USEPA has required States to move to a five-part categorization of their waters. The GAEPD adopted the five-part categorization method with the 2008 305(b)/303(d) report. Assessed waters were placed into the five categories as described below:
Category 1 Data indicate that waters are meeting their designated use(s).
Category 2 A water body has more than one designated use and data indicate that at least one designated use is being met, but there is insufficient evidence to determine that all uses are being met.
Category 3 There were insufficient data or other information to make a determination as to whether or not the designated use(s) is being met.
Category 4a Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met, but TMDL(s) have been completed for the parameter(s) that are causing a water not to meet its use(s).
Category 4b - Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met, but there are actions in place (other than a TMDL) that are predicted to lead to compliance with water quality standards.
Category 4c - Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met, but a pollutant does not cause the impairment.
Category 5 - Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met and TMDL(s) need to be completed for one or more pollutants.
In accordance with Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act, the 303(d) list is a list of waters not meeting their uses and for which TMDL(s) have not been completed for the parameter(s) of concern. Once the TMDL is completed, the water may still not be supporting its use; however, it is no longer on the 303(d) list. In the new 5-part categorization method, waters that are assessed as "not supporting" their uses will either be placed in Category 4a, 4b, 4c or 5. Only those waters
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in Category 5 make up the federally mandated 303(d) list.
Georgia's 5-part categorized Integrated List of Waters is organized by river basin to aid the public in identifying waters in their local watershed. Water bodies within a river basin are alphabetized and information is provided on the location, data source, designated water use classification, criterion violated, potential cause, estimates of extent affected and the assessment category (15). For waters within category 5, an entry in the priority column indicates the proposed year by which a TMDL will be developed for the pollutant of concern. A "Notes" column was also added to the list to provide additional information for some water bodies such listing any TMDLs have been completed.
Another change that occurred with the 2008 List was the merging of the USEPA's assessed waters with GAEPD's assessed waters. The USEPA's list of assessed waters was formerly presented in a separate list in Appendix B in previous editions of the Water Quality in Georgia Reports. Beginning with the 2008 List, all waters assessed will be included within the list contained in Appendix A of this report.
In providing the information for the evaluated causes 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. The GAEPD is addressing impacts from point and nonpoint sources through a river basin management planning or watershed protection strategy that provides for a holistic approach to addressing identified problems in Georgia's waters.
EPD developed a listing assessment methodology to use in the assessment of State waters. This methodology describes the different types of data that EPD evaluates and explains how the evaluation of the data results in water being placed in one or more of the 5-part categories required by the USEPA for data assessment. A copy of Georgia's 2008 Listing Assessment Methodology is found below.
Georgia's 2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) Listing Assessment Methodology
The outline below provides the listing assessment methodology used for the solicitation, review, assessment and consideration in making listing decisions for Georgia's 2008 305(b)/303(d) List of Waters. Each Listing cycle brings new challenges in review and assessment of data. The information that follows is intended as a guide. Where insufficient information or data were available, a best professional judgment approach to making listing decisions was used. The methodology described below is applicable to the 2008 Listing process and will be updated with each biennial List of Waters developed to reflect the most current Listing Guidance provided by the USEPA.
I. Data Solicitation
On March 30, 2007, written notification was accomplished by postal mail or electronic mail to the USEPA, and individuals and/or organizations on the Georgia Environmental Protection Division's (GAEPD's) Watershed Protection Branch's Rules mailing list. The notice provided that the GA EPD was gathering water quality data and information to be used in the assessment for Georgia's draft 2008 305(b)/303(d) List of Waters. Any comments or information were requested by June 30, 2007. The notification included a link to GAEPD's website which includes information as to
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the requirements for the submission and acceptance of water quality data for GAEPD's use in 305(b)/303(d) listing assessments.
II. Data Acceptability Requirements
Data submitted from outside sources for 305(b)/303(d) listing assessment purposes were required to comply with Section 391-3-6-.03 of the Georgia Rules and Regulations for Water Quality Control Chapter 391-3-6. Data used in listing determinations were subject to the Quality Control/Quality Assurance requirements in the Georgia Environmental Protection Division's Quality Assurance Manual and Quality Assurance Project Plan.
III. Data Assessment Period
All available data and information gathered during the calendar years 2005-07 were considered in development of Georgia's 2008 305(b)/303(d) List. In the case of data from core network monitoring sites or where consecutive multiple years of data were available, the assessment considered data from 2002-07. There are instances where GA EPD may choose not to use all years of consecutive data in the assessment of a water body. If there is a case where a local government or group has conducted specific water quality improvement efforts in the watershed of a water body and the data collected before and after the improvement projects provide a clear indication that the project has succeeded in improving water quality, GA EPD may choose only to use data collected after implementation of the water quality improvements. It is the responsibility of the local government or group to submit specific documentation to GA EPD including a description of the improvement project, its location and the date of implementation along with the water quality data supporting the assertion that the project has succeeded.
IV. Data Rounding
Data for a given parameter will be rounded to the same number of significant digits as the criterion for that parameter before the two are compared for the purpose of making listing determinations. Should it be necessary to perform mathematical operations with the data before comparison with the appropriate criterion (such as the calculation of an average of a number of data points), GA EPD will keep extra decimal places throughout the calculations and then round to the appropriate number of decimal places at the end. This practice prevents the propagation of rounding errors throughout the calculation.
V. Placement of Waters into Categories
The U.S. EPA has strongly encouraged States to move to a five-part categorization of their waters. GA EPD committed to adopting the five-part categorization method with the 2008 305(b)/303(d) report. Assessed waters are placed into one or more of five categories as described below:
Category 1 Data indicate that waters are meeting their designated use(s). Category 2 A water has more than one designated use and data indicate that at least one designated use is being met, but there is insufficient evidence to determine that all uses are being met. Category 3 There is insufficient data/information to make a determination as to whether or not the designated use(s) is being met. Category 4a Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met, but a TMDL(s) has been completed for the parameter(s) that is causing a water not to meet its use(s).
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Category 4b - Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met, but there are actions in place (other than a TMDL) that are predicted to lead to compliance with water quality standards. Category 4c - Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met, but a pollutant does not cause the impairment. Category 5 - Data indicate that at least one designated use is not being met and TMDL(s) needs to be completed for one or more pollutants.
With the movement to the five-category approach, GA EPD will no longer use the "partially supporting" designation. A water body will be assessed as supporting its designated use (Category 1); not supporting its use (Category 4 or 5); or use assessment pending (Category 3). It is possible for a water to be in category 4 and 5 at the same time if it is impaired by more than one pollutant. For instance, if water is impaired due to fecal coliform bacteria and dissolved oxygen and a TMDL has been completed for dissolved oxygen, then the water will be placed in category 4a for dissolved oxygen and category 5 for fecal coliform bacteria.
VI. Listing/Delisting Strategies
The following provides an outline of the Listing/Delisting Strategies employed during the 2008 Listing Assessment. A "preferred minimum data set" is provided for a number of the parameters below. If the quantity of data available is less than the "preferred minimum set" the GA EPD will use best professional judgment to determine if there were sufficient data available to make an assessment of use support or if the water body should be placed in Category 3 until more data are collected. Best Professional Judgment will also be used in cases where data were determined to be suspect or where it did not meet listing review criteria.
A. Fecal Coliform Bacteria: Preferred minimum data set 4 geometric means (2 collected in winter months and 2 in summer months).
1. Listing a. One year of available data (Geometric Mean): 1. Water bodies were determined not to be supporting their use designation if one geometric mean out of the data set exceeded water quality criteria. b. Multiple consecutive years of available data (Geometric Mean): 1. Water bodies were determined not to be supporting use designation if (a) more than 10% of the geometric means out of the data set exceeded water quality criteria or (b) if 10% of the geometric means exceeded water quality criteria and one or more winter maximum violations occurred in the 30 day data set(s) where the geometric mean met water quality criteria. c. Single Sample Data: In the absence of sufficient data in a data set to calculate a geometric mean, the USEPA's Listing Guidance was used to assess bacterial data. 1. Water bodies were determined not to be supporting use designation if more than 10% of the single samples exceeded the USEPA's recommended review criteria for bacteria of 400/100ml during the months of May-October, and 4,000/100ml during the months of November-April with the exception of waters classified as "Recreation" where the review criteria was 400/100ml January-December.
2. Delisting d. One year of available data: 1. New fecal coliform bacteria data collected during the listing assessment period documenting compliance with water quality criteria in 4 consecutive geometric means and no exceedence of the winter maximum water quality criteria will make this water eligible for delisting for fecal coliform bacteria. Should fewer than 4 geometric means be available for assessment (such as if a monitoring plan calls for less than a full year
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of data), GA EPD may consider water eligible for delisting if there are at least two summer geometric means available for assessment. e. Multiple consecutive years of available data: 1. Fecal coliform bacteria geometric mean data with 10% or less exceedences of the water quality criteria will be eligible for delisting for fecal coliform bacteria.
B. Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Water Temperature: preferred minimum data set - 12 samples in a 12-month period with 1 or 2 samples collected per month.
1. Listing* a. One year of available data: 1.Water bodies were determined not to be supporting use designation if more than 10% of the samples of the data set exceeded water quality criteria b. Multiple consecutive years of available data: 1. Water bodies were determined not to be supporting use designation if greater than 10% of the samples of the data set exceeded water quality criteria * Chapter 391-3-6-.03(7) of the Rules and Regulations for water quality control recognizes that some waters of the State "naturally" will not meet the instream criteria in the Rules and that this situation does not constitute a violation of water quality standards. Many waters in Georgia, specifically areas in South Georgia and near the Coast, have "natural" dissolved oxygen concentrations below the State's standard dissolved oxygen criteria (daily average of 5.0 mg/l and an instantaneous minimum of 4.0 mg/l). If a water body is found to have greater than a 10% exceedence rate of the standard DO criteria and the water body is located in an area of the State where it is anticipated that the low dissolved oxygen condition is natural, then EPD will place the water in Category 3 until work is completed which establishes the "natural" dissolved oxygen concentration for the water body. The measured dissolved oxygen data will then be compared with the "natural" dissolved oxygen concentration and an assessment will be made as to whether the water body is meeting its use.
2. Delisting a. Dissolved Oxygen - One year or multiple consecutive years of available data: 1. New data with 10% or less exceedences of the water quality criteria will be eligible for delisting. 2. For those segments where a dissolved oxygen TMDL has been approved and a natural dissolved oxygen concentration was established, GA EPD will compare the dissolved oxygen data with the natural dissolved oxygen concentration established in the TMDL. If no violations of the natural dissolved oxygen concentration occurred, the segment would be eligible for delisting. b. Water Temperature, pH - One year or multiple consecutive years of available data: 1. New data with 10% or less exceedences of the water quality criteria will be eligible for delisting. 2. For those segments that have been identified as black water streams through mapping and data assessments and were identified as not having land use or point source issues, waters were not listed for the pH criterion.
C. Metals: preferred minimum data set 2 samples in a 12 month period (1 winter, 1 summer) 1. Listing a. Water bodies were determined not to be supporting use designation if one sample exceeded the acute criteria in a three-year period or if more than one sample in three years exceeded the chronic criteria. 2. Delisting a. New data where no exceedences of the acute criteria occurred and no more than one exceedence of the chronic criteria occurred in three years.
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D. Priority Pollutant/Organic Chemicals: preferred minimum data set 2 samples in a 12 month period (1 winter, 1 summer)
1. Listing a. Water bodies were determined not to be supporting use designation if more than one sample exceeded the criteria in a three-year period.
2. Delisting a. New data where no more than one exceedence of the criteria occurred in a three-year period.
E. Toxicity: 1. Listing a. Acute or Chronic toxicity tests conducted on municipal or industrial effluent samples and receiving waters Water bodies were determined not to be supporting use designation if: 1. Effluent and/or receiving waters toxicity test(s) predicted in-stream toxicity at critical 7Q10 low stream flow. If multiple effluent tests are available for review during the assessment period and only one test predicted in-stream toxicity at critical 7Q10 low stream flow, GA EPD will use Best Professional Judgment to assess whether the one test indicating toxicity was an anomaly or was representative of the facility's discharge; 2. Delisting a. New data with passing facility WET test(s) if listing originated based on effluent toxicity test results will be eligible for delisting. b.New data with passing receiving waters acute and/or chronic toxicity test(s) if listing originated based on stream toxicity test results will be eligible for delisting.
F. Fish/Shellfish Guidelines: 1. Listing a. All Fish Tissue Except Mercury: 1. Water bodies are determined not to be supporting use designation if the State's fish consumption guidelines document recommends that consumption needs to be limited or if no consumption is recommended. b. Fish Tissue Mercury: 1. Mercury in fish tissue was assessed and a segment or water body was determined not to be supporting its use designation if the Trophic-Weighted Residue Value (as described in the October 19, 2001 GA EPD "Protocol"), was in excess of the USEPA water quality criterion of 0.3 mg/kg (Water Quality Criterion for the Protection of Human Health: Methyl mercury, EPA-823-R-01-001, January 2001), which was adopted as a human health criteria in the Georgia Rules in December 2002. The USEPA criteria represents a national approach to address what mercury levels is protective of human health for fishing waters. 2. Delisting a. Waters where new fish tissue consumption data indicate there are no consumption restrictions and fish can be consumed in unlimited amounts will be eligible for delisting. b. Waters where new fish tissue data with calculated Trophic-Weighted Residue Values for mercury less than or equal to 0.3 mg/kg wet weight total will be eligible for delisting.
G. Biotic Data (Fish Bioassessments): 1. Listing Water bodies were assessed for Fish Bioassessments based on Fish Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) data. a. Water bodies were determined not to be supporting use designation if the IBI rankings were poor or very poor. 2. Delisting
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
A-6
a. Water bodies where new Fish IBI rankings of Excellent, Good, or Fair will be eligible for delisting.
H. Biotic Data (Macroinvertebrate Bioassessments): 1. Listing Water bodies were assessed for Benthic Macroinvertebrate Bioassessments based on a multi-metric index. a. Water bodies were determined not to be supporting use designation if the narrative rankings were "poor" or "very poor". b. If the narrative ranking was "fair", then the water was placed in Category 3. 2. Delisting a. Water bodies where new narrative rankings were determined to be "very good" or "good" will be eligible for delisting.
I. Lake-Specific Lake Criteria Data (6 major lakes, monitored annually): 1. Listing a.Chlorophyll a (lake stations): The last five calendar years of chlorophyll a data collected at each site-specific lake criteria station are assessed. 1. If during the five-year assessment period, the average exceeds the site-specific growing season criteria 2 (or more) out of the 5 years, the lake area representative for that station is assessed as not supporting designated uses. If the average exceeds the site-specific growing season criteria for 1 out of 5 years, the water will be placed in Category 3. b.Total Nitrogen (lake stations): The last five calendar years of total nitrogen concentrations collected at each site-specific lake criteria station are assessed. 1. If greater than 10% of the total nitrogen values exceed the site-specific criteria, the lake area representative for that station is assessed as not supporting designated uses. c. Fecal Coliform: as in A.1. Above. d. Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Water Temperature: as in B.1. Above. e.Major Lake Tributary Annual Total Phosphorous Loading Criteria: The last five calendar years of available total phosphorous annual loadings data collected at each sitespecific major lake tributary standard station are assessed. 1. If the average of the annual total phosphorous loadings exceeds the site-specific criteria, the site is assessed as not supporting designated uses. f. Major Lake Annual Total Phosphorous Loading Criteria: The last five calendar years of available total phosphorous annual loadings data are assessed. 1. If the average of the annual total phosphorous loadings exceeds the site-specific criteria, the site is assessed as not supporting designated uses. 2. Delisting a.Chlorophyll a (lake stations): The last five calendar years of chlorophyll a data collected at each site-specific lake standard station are assessed. 1. If during the five-year assessment period, there is no chlorophyll a growing season averages exceeding the site-specific growing season criteria, the lake area representative for that station will be eligible for delisting. b.Total Nitrogen (lake stations): The last five calendar years of total nitrogen concentrations collected at each site-specific lake standard station are assessed. 1. If 10% or less of the total nitrogen values exceed the site-specific criteria, the lake area representative for that station is eligible for delisting. c. Fecal Coliform: as in A.2. Above. d. Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Water Temperature: as in B.2. Above. e. Major Lake Tributary Annual Total Phosphorous Loading Criteria: The last five calendar years of available total phosphorous annual loadings data collected at each site-specific major lake tributary standard station are assessed.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
A-7
1. If the average of the annual total phosphorous loadings does not exceed the sitespecific criteria, the site is assessed as fully supporting designated uses and is eligible for delisting.
f. Major Lake Annual Total Phosphorous Loading Criteria: The last five calendar years of available total phosphorous annual loadings data are assessed. 1. If the average of the annual total phosphorous loadings does not exceed the sitespecific criteria, the site is assessed as fully supporting designated uses and is eligible for delisting.
J. Enterococci Data Collected under the BEACH Act: 1. Listing a. Monthly Samples: An annual geometric mean is calculated for each year using Enterococci data from the Recreational Season (May October). 1. If there are five consecutive years of annual geometric means available for assessment, a beach is assessed as not supporting its use designation if more than one annual geometric mean exceeds the criterion (35/100 ml). If there are fewer than five consecutive years of data available for assessment, a beach is assessed as not supporting its use designation if at least one annual geometric mean exceeds the criterion. Currently, the maximum number of annual geometric means for any beach is three. b. Weekly Samples: Rolling geometric means are calculated using data from all months (not just the Recreational Season). 1. Beaches are determined not to be supporting their designated use if more than 10% of the geometric means exceeded the criterion. c. Mixture of Monthly and Weekly Samples 1. If during the last five years, data were collected monthly some years and weekly other years, then GA EPD will assess each data type separately as described above. If both the monthly and weekly data types indicate that a beach is not in compliance with the Enterococci criterion as described above, then the beach is assessed as not supporting its use. If the monthly and weekly data types support different listing decisions, then GA EPD will use its best professional judgment in making the listing determination. Generally, more weight will be placed on the weekly data and on the most recent data set. 2. Delisting a. Monthly Samples: An annual geometric mean was calculated for each year using Enterococci data from the Recreational Season (May October). 1. If there were five consecutive years of annual geometric means available for assessment and one or fewer annual geometric means exceeded the criterion, the beach will be eligible for delisting. If there were fewer than five consecutive years of data available for assessment, a beach will be eligible for delisting if none of the annual geometric means exceeded the criterion. b. Weekly Samples: Rolling geometric means were calculated using data from all months (not just the Recreational Season). 1. If 10% or less of the geometric means exceeded the criterion, the beach is eligible for delisting. c. Mixture of Monthly and Weekly Samples 1. If during the last five years, data were collected monthly some years and weekly other years, then GA EPD will assess each data type separately as described above. If both the monthly and weekly data types indicate that a beach is in compliance with the Enterococci criterion as described above, then the beach will be eligible for delisting.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
A-8
VII. Priorities for Action:
Section 303(d)(1) of the Clean Water Act requires each state to "establish a priority ranking" for the segments it identifies on the 303(d) list (i.e. those waters in Category 5). This ranking is to take into account the severity of the pollution and the uses to be made of such segments. The State is to establish TMDLs in accordance with the priority ranking. States are given considerable flexibility in establishing its ranking system. Georgia has implemented a basin rotation approach when it comes to monitoring waters, establishing TMDLs and permitting. GA EPD has chosen to implement the priority ranking by indicating the year in which the TMDL for each segment on the 303(d) list will be drafted. The establishment date generally follows the basin rotation schedule. There are some cases where GA EPD may choose to draft a TMDL outside of the basin rotation schedule. Factors influencing this decision could include the severity of the pollution and whether development of the TMDL may require additional data collection and complex analysis. TMDLs are typically finalized sometime during the year after they are proposed.
Georgia is anticipating that a State-wide Water Plan will be adopted into law in the near future. Implementation of this Water Plan may require EPD to shift resources for a time; therefore, the development of TMDLs could temporarily slow down. The dates provided in the "priority" column reflect this possibility. EPD will strive to complete TMDLs before the dates in the "priority" column as resources allow. All dates provided are within the 13-year timeframe that is allowed for TMDL development as provided in the US EPA 1997 Interpretative Guidance for the TMDL Program. This guidance states that States should develop schedules for establishing TMDLs expeditiously, generally within 8-13 years of being listed.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
A-9
Data Source Code/ Key for Abbreviations
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 58 = DNR, Georgia Parks Recreation & Historic Sites
Division 59 = DNR-EPD, Ambient Monitoring Unit
(Macroinvertebrate Team) 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 RDC 23 = City of Conyers 34 = City of College Park 37 = Columbus Water Works 38 = Columbus Unified Government
40 = 41 = 42 = 43 = 44 = 50 = 51 = 53 = 60 =
Town of Trion Cherokee County Clayton County Water Authority City of Atlanta City of Cartersville Chatham County City of Savannah City of Augusta Forsyth County
Contracted Clean Lakes Studies 24 = Lake Allatoona (Kennesaw State University) 25 = Lake Blackshear (Lake Blackshear Watershed Assoc. 26 = Lake Lanier (University of Georgia) 27 = West Point (LaBrange College/Auburn University)
Other
28
= Georgia Power Company
29
= Oglethorpe Power Company
30
= South Carolina Electric & Gas Company
32
= Jones Ecological Research Center
39
= St. Johns River Water Mgmt. District
45
= Georgia Ports Authority
46
= Chattahoochee/Flint RDC
47
= Upper Etowah Adopt-A-Stream
48
= Middle Flint RDC
49
= Central Savannah RDC
52
= Heart of Georgia RDC
54
= Southwire Company
57
= Ellijay High School
61
= Tyson Foods, Inc.
Criterion Violated Codes
As
= Arsenic
Bio F = Biota Impacted (Fish Community)
Bio M = Biota Impacted (Macroinvertebrate Community)
Cd
= Cadmium
CN
= Cyanide
Cr
= Chromium
Cu
= Copper
1,1-DCE = 1,1- Dichloroethylene
DO
= Dissolved Oxygen
CFB
= Commercial Fishing Ban
FC
= Fecal Coliform Bacteria
FCG
= Fish Consumption Guidance
Hg
= Mercury
Ni
= Nickel
Pb
= Lead
PCE
= Tetrachloroethylene
SB
= Shellfishing Ban
Se
= Selenium
Temp = Temperature
TCA = 1,1,2 - Trichloroethane
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 Point source
I2
= Industrial Facility Non-point source
MA
= Marina
M
= Municipal Facility
NP
= Nonpoint Source/Unknown Source
UR
= Urban Runoff/Urban Effects
SB
Shellfish Ban
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
A-10
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
A-11
Reach Name/ Data Source
Altamaha River
10,55
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
ITT Rayonier to Penholoway Creek Wayne County
Altamaha Fishing
20 miles
1
Altamaha River
55
Confluence of Oconee and Ocmulgee Rivers to ITT Rayonier
Jeff Davis/ Appling/ Wayne County
Altamaha Fishing
72 miles
1
Altamaha River
55
Penholoway Creek to Butler River Wayne/ Glynn/ McIntosh County
Altamaha Fishing
23 miles
1
Beards Creek
55,10
Spring Branch to Altamaha River Tattnall County
Altamaha Fishing
11 miles
1
Little Ohoopee River
10
Sardis Creek to Ohoopee River Emanuel County
Altamaha Fishing
18 miles
1
Neels Creek
10
Bear Creek to Ohoopee River Johnson County
Altamaha Fishing
6
miles
1
Ohoopee River
10
Cypress Creek to Neels Creek Johnson County
Altamaha Fishing
5
miles
1
A -11
Reach Name/ Data Source
Pendleton Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Swift Creek to Ohoopee River Toombs County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Altamaha Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
1
Anneewakee Creek
1,16
Lake Monroe to Chattahoochee River
Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Bear Creek
10
Near Clermont Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Bear Creek
1,16
Dorsett Shoals Rd. to Little Bear Creek
Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Beech Creek
1,4
D/S Ross Keith Road Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
17 miles
1
Beech Creek
4
U/S Ross Keith Road Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
10 miles
1
Big Branch
4
Troup County Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -12
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Springs Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Troup County Troup County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Blue Creek
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Bluff Creek
16
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
Boggs Creek
4
Headwaters to Chestatee River Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
Box Springs Creek
4
Carroll County Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Brush Creek
4
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
10 miles
1
Bull Creek
37
Headwaters to Flat Rock Creek Harris/ Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
10 miles
1
A -13
Reach Name/ Data Source
Caney Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Heard/Coweta Counties Heard/ Coweta County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
10 miles
1
Caney Creek
4
Carroll County Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Carthbody Creek
4
Carroll County Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Cavenders Creek
4
Headwaters to Chestatee River Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
2
miles
1
Cedar Creek
4
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
9
miles
1
Cemochechobee Creek Headwaters to Hog Creek
4
Randolph/ Clay County
Chattahoochee Fishing
11 miles
1
Chattahoochee River
1
Lake Andrews Lock & Dam to U.S. Hwy. 84
Early/ Seminole County
Chattahoochee Fishing
11 miles
1
A -14
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Name/ Data Source
Chattahoochee River
10
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Hannahatchee Creek to Hatchechubbee Creek (Alabama)
Stewart County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Chattahoochee River
1,59
Jasus Creek to Ga. Hwy. 17, Helen Chattahoochee
White County
Recreation
8
miles
1
Chattahoochee River
4
Upstream Jasus Creek Union/White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
Chattahoochee River
1
D/S Fort Gaines to Lake Andrews Clay/ Early County
Chattahoochee Fishing
16 miles
1
Chattahoochee River
1
West Point Dam to Johnson Island Troup/ Harris County
Chattahoochee
Drinking Water/Fishing
Chattahoochee River
1
Buford Dam to Dicks Creek Gwinnett/ Forsyth County
Chattahoochee
Recreation/ Drinking Water
Chattahoochee River
1
U.S. Hwy. 84 to Lake Seminole Early/ Seminole County
Chattahoochee Recreation
13 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
8
miles
1
17 miles
1
A -15
Reach Name/ Data Source
Chestatee River
1
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Tesnatee Creek To Yahoola Creek Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
10 miles
1
Colochee/Frog Bottom Creek
4
Hightower Branch to Hannahatchee Chattahoochee Creek
Stewart County
Fishing
5
miles
1
Cooper Creek
38
Columbus Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Crawfish Creek
16
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Crawford Creek
4
Meriwether/Troup Counties Meriwether/ Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Crews Creek
4
Carroll County Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Cry Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
1
A -16
Reach Name/ Data Source Deep Creek
10
Deer Creek
4
Dick Creek
1
Dicks Creek
10
Dog River
16
Dog River
4,16
Double Branch
38
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Soquee River Habersham County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
8
miles
1
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
10 miles
1
Forsyth County Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
2
miles
1
Headwaters to Waters Creek Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Upstream Hwy 5 Douglas County
Chattahoochee Drinking Water
3
miles
1
Hwy 5 to Dog River Reservoir Douglas County
Chattahoochee Drinking Water
3
miles
1
Columbus Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
1
A -17
Reach Name/ Data Source Dram Creek
38
Dukes Creek
4,59
Dukes Creek
4
Etta Vista Creek
20
Flat Creek
4
Flat Creek
4
Flat Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Columbus Muscogee County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
1
Headwaters(Hwy. 348) to Chattahoochee River
White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
10 miles
1
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Gainesville Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Fendley Branch to Kolomoki Creek Clay County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
Headwaters to Tom Keith Rd. Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Tom Keith Road to Yellow Jacket Creek
Meriwether/ Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
9
miles
1
A -18
Reach Name/ Data Source
Flat Shoals Creek
46
Reach Location/ County
West Point Troup/ Harris County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
26 miles
1
Flatrock Creek
38
Columbus Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Flatshoals Creek
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
Flybow Creek
4
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Fromby Creek
4
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Gothard's Creek
4
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
11 miles
1
Gum Creek
4
Headwaters to Centralhatchee Creek Chattahoochee
Carroll/ Heard County
Fishing
6
miles
1
A -19
Reach Name/ Data Source
Halloca Creek
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Ochillee Creek Chattahoochee County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Hannahatchee Creek
59
Ben Owens Creek to Bussey Branch Chattahoochee
Stewart County
Fishing
7
miles
1
Harris Creek
1,4
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Haw Creek
1,4
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Forsyth County
Fishing
3
miles
1
Heiferhorn Creek
38
Columbus Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Hillabahatchee Creek
10
Tollieson Branch to Glovers Road Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Hillabahatchee Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Tollieson Branch, Franklin
Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
16 miles
1
A -20
Reach Name/ Data Source Holanna Creek
4
House Creek
16
Hurricane Creek
1,4
Ingram Creek
4
Jasus Creek
1
Keaton Creek
16
Kirkland Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Hog Creek to Pataula Creek Randolph/ Quitman County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
1
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
2
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Douglas/Carroll Counties Douglas/ Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
Troup County Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
Northwest of Helen White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Dry Creek to Chattahoochee River Early County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -21
Reach Name/ Data Source
Kitchen Creek
18
Reach Location/ County
Gwinnett County Gwinnett County
Kolomoki Creek
4
Little Kolomoki Creek to Chattahoochee River
Clay County
Kubota Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Lindsey Creek
38
Columbus Muscogee County
Little Bear Creek
16
Douglas County Douglas County
Little Bear Creek
1,2
Palmetto Fulton County
Little Snake Creek
4
Carroll County Carroll County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
1
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -22
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Taylor Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Heard County Heard County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
1
Long Cane Creek
4
Headwaters to Panther Creek Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
9
miles
1
Low Gap Creek
9
Northwest of Helen White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
Messiers Creek
4
Coweta County Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Mobley Creek
16
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Moore Creek
1
Coweta County Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
Mountain Creek
46
Maple Branch to Sandy Creek Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -23
Reach Name/ Data Source
Mud Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Troup County Troup County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
1
Nancy Long Creek
16
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
New River
4,46
Heard/Coweta Counties Heard/ Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
24 miles
1
Noses Creek
14
Ward Creek to Sweetwater Creek Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
Nutt Creek
1
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Ochillee Creek
4
Hollis Creek to Spring Creek Chattahoochee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Ossahatchie Creek
10
Hwy 1 to Hwy 85 near Cataula Harris County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
A -24
Reach Name/ Data Source
Pataula Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Pumpkin Creek to Hodchodkee Creek
Randolph/ Quitman County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
8
miles
1
Fishing
Pink Creek
1,4
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Polecat Creek
4
Troup County Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
9
miles
1
Powder Springs Creek
14
Cobb County Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
Pumpkin Creek
4
Little Pumpkin Creek to Pataula Creek
Randolph County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
Randall Creek
38
Columbus Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Redbud Creek
4
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
A -25
Reach Name/ Data Source Roaring Branch
1
Roaring Branch
1,38
Rock Creek
20
Rocky Branch
37
Sally Branch
59
Sandy Creek
4
Sandy Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
U/S Columbus Foundaries Muscogee County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
1
Downstream Columbus Foundaries Chattahoochee
Muscogee County
Fishing
2
miles
1
Gainesville Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
1
Columbus Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
2
miles
1
Headwaters to Pine Knot Creek Chattahoochee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Carroll County Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Coweta County Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
9
miles
1
A -26
Reach Name/ Data Source
Sautee Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
U/S Chattahoochee River Habersham/ White County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
1
Sawhatchee Creek
4
Headwaters to Weaver Creek Early County
Chattahoochee Fishing
9
miles
1
Sawhatchee Creek
4
Weaver Creek to Sheffield Mill Creek Chattahoochee
Early County
Fishing
2
miles
1
Shoal Creek
4
Troup County Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
11 miles
1
Slater Mill Creek
4
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
2
miles
1
Smith Creek
4
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee near Helen
White County
Fishing
6
miles
1
Smithee Jack Creek
4
Headwaters to Hodchodkee Creek Quitman County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
A -27
Reach Name/ Data Source
Snake Creek
1,4
Reach Location/ County
U/S Chattahoochee River Carroll County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
12 miles
1
South Fork Camp Creek College Park
34
Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
South Fork Mud Creek
1
Cornelia Habersham County
Chattahoochee Fishing
2
miles
1
Sparks Creek
59
Porter Creek to Mulberry Creek Harris County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Squirrel Creek
22
Hall County Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
2
miles
1
Sulfur Creek
4
D/S White Sulfur Creek Meriwether/ Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Sulfur Creek
4
U/S White Sulfur Creek Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
A -28
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tanyard Creek
4,16
Reach Location/ County
Douglas County Douglas County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Thomas Creek
1,4
Coweta County Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
Tobannee Creek
4
Headwaters to Walter F. George Lake
Quitman County
Chattahoochee Fishing
3
miles
1
Town Branch
1
Villa Rica Carroll/ Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
1
Town Creek
4
Headwaters to Tesnatee Creek White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
10 miles
1
Tributary to Limestone Creek
20
U/S Brenau Lake Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
1
Tributary to Sope Creek Cobb County
14
Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
1
A -29
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tuggle Creek
1
Reach Location/ County
Fulton County Fulton County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Turkey Creek
38
Columbus Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
1
Upatoi Creek
1
U/S Chattahoochee River, Columbus Chattahoochee Muscogee/ Chattahoochee County Fishing
14 miles
1
Wahoo Creek
46
Downstream Arnco Mills Lake Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Waters Creek
4
Headwaters to Dicks Creek Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
1
Wehadkee Creek
4
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
7
miles
1
White Sulfur Creek
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
9
miles
1
A -30
Reach Name/ Data Source
Whitewater Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Heard/Troup Counties Heard/ Troup County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
17 miles
1
Wildcat Creek
4
Troup County Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
Williams Creek
59
Headwaters to Mulberry Creek Harris County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
1
Yahoola Creek
4
Headwaters to U.S. Hwy 19/SR60 Business
Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
8
miles
1
Yellowdirt Creek
1,4
Headwaters to water storage reservoir
Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
5
miles
1
Yellowjacket Creek
4
Headwaters to Blue Creek Coweta/ Meriwether/ Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
12 miles
1
Allen Creek
4
Headwaters to Harrisburg Creek Walker County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
A -31
Reach Name/ Data Source
Allgood Branch
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to CR 252 Chattooga County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
1
Anderson Creek
4
Headwaters to Tickonetley Creek Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
13 miles
1
Bear Branch
12
Fannin County Fannin County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Beech Creek
12
Fannin County Fannin County
Coosa Fishing
1
miles
1
Blankets Creek
24
Lake Allatoona Tributary Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Blue Springs Creek
4
Headwaters to Camp Creek Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Board Tree Creek
4
Headwaters to Etowah River Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
A -32
Reach Name/ Data Source
Boston Creek
24
Reach Location/ County
Lake Allatoona Tributary Bartow/ Cherokee County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Brewton Creek
4
Etowah River Subwatershed No.1 Dam to Bannister Creek
Forsyth County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Burt Creek
4
Headwaters to Shoal Creek Dawson County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Caldwell Mills Creek (aka Mills Creek)
4
Tenn. State Line to Coahulla Creek Coosa
Whitfield County
Fishing
3
miles
1
Camp Creek
4
Headwaters to Etowah River Lumpkin County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Cane Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Dry Creek Walker County
Coosa Fishing
10 miles
1
Canton Creek
4
Mill Canton Creek Structure No. Seven Dam to Scott Mill Creek
Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
A -33
Reach Name/ Data Source
Cedar Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Johnson Lake Road Coosa
Polk County
Fishing
7
miles
1
Chappel Creek
4
Headwaters to unnamed trib. near Halls Valley Rd.
Chattooga/ Walker County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Chastain Branch
14
Tributary to Noonday Creek Cobb County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Clear Creek
4
Clear Lake to Mud Creek Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Clear Creek
24
Lake Allatoona Tributary Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Clear Creek
4
Headwaters to Cartecay River Pickens/ Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
13 miles
1
Coahulla Creek
4
Tenn. State Line to CR 183 Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
A -34
Reach Name/ Data Source
Conasauga River
1,12
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Stateline Murray/ Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Coosa
Wild and Scenic/ Fishing
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
15 miles
1
Concord Creek
4
Headwaters to East Armuchee Creek
Walker County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Cooper Creek
24
Lake Allatoona Tributary Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
1
miles
1
Coosawattee River
1
U.S. Hwy. 411 to Noblet Creek, d/s Carters Lake
Murray/ Gordon County
Coosa Drinking Water
10 miles
1
Crane Eater Creek
4
Headwaters to Coosawattee River Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Darnell Creek
4
Headwaters to East Branch Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Dill Creek
4
Headwaters to Holly Creek Murray County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
A -35
Reach Name/ Data Source
Downing Creek
24
Reach Location/ County
Lake Allatoona Tributary Cherokee County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Dry Creek
4
Headwaters to East Armuchee Creek
Walker County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Dry Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Dry Creek Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
East Armuchee Creek
4
Headwaters to Furnace Creek Walker County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
East Fork Little River
10
Headwaters to Alabama State Line Walker/ Dade County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Ellijay River
4
Headwaters to Ga. Hwy. 2, Ellijay Gilmer County
Coosa Drinking Water
10 miles
1
Emery Creek
4
Headwaters to Bear Branch near Chatsworth
Murray County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
A -36
Reach Name/ Data Source
Etowah River
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Castleberry Bridge Lumpkin County
Coosa Fishing
21 miles
1
Euharlee Creek
4
Parham Springs to Simpson Creek Polk County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Fawcett Creek (aka Fausett Creek)
4
Headwaters to Talona Creek Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Fisher Creek
4
Headwaters to Talona Creek Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Fourmile Creek
4
Headwaters to Long Swamp Creek Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Furnace Creek
4
Headwaters to East Armuchee Creek
Walker County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Harris Creek
1
Upstream Carters Lake Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
A -37
Reach Name/ Data Source
Harrisburg Creek
4,59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Spring Creek Walker County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
1
Heath Creek
1
Upstream Rocky Mtn. Project Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
1
miles
1
Hickory Creek
12
Headwaters to Conasauga River Murray/ Fannin County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Hinton Creek
4
Headwaters to Chattooga River Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Hobson Creek
4
Tributary to Talking Rock Creek Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Holly Creek
4
Headwaters to Bear Branch Murray County
Coosa Fishing
6
miles
1
Illinois Creek
24
Lake Allatoona Tributary Bartow/ Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
A -38
Reach Name/ Data Source
Jacks River
1,12
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
West/South Forks to Rough Creek Fannin County
Coosa Wild/Scenic
13 miles
1
Johns Creek
4
Headwaters to Everett Springs Walker/ Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
10 miles
1
Jones Creek
4
Headwaters at Fannin Co. Line to Etowah River
Lumpkin County
Coosa Fishing
8
miles
1
Kellogg Creek
41
Lake Allatoona Tributary Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Kenyon Creek/Station Branch
4
Headwaters (Varnell) to Coahulla Creek
Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Lavendar Creek
1,4
Headwaters to Armuchee Creek Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Little Allatoona Creek
14
Cobb County Cobb County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
A -39
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Little Armuchee Creek
1
Storey Mill Creek to Heath Creek Chattooga/ Floyd County
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Little Armuchee Creek
4
Headwaters to Storey Mill Creek Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
10 miles
1
Little Armuchee Creek Tributary #1
4
Headwaters to Little Armuchee Creek, crossing CR5
Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Little Armuchee Creek Tributary #2
4,59
Headwaters to Little Armuchee Creek, crossing Farmersville Road
Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Little Cedar Creek
6
U/S Cedar Rock Lake Polk County
Coosa Fishing
1
miles
1
Long Branch
4
Headwaters to Talking Rock Creek Pickens/ Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
McKaskey Creek
24
Lake Allatoona Tributary Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
A -40
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Middle Fork Little River
4
Headwaters to Alabama State Line Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Mill Creek
4
Headwaters to Hurricane Creek Walker/ Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Mill Creek
4
Mill Canton Creek Structure Number Coosa Four Dam to Avery Creek
Cherokee County
Fishing
8
miles
1
Mill Creek
4,59
Murray County Murray County
Coosa Fishing
9
miles
1
Montgomery Creek
4
Headwaters to Etowah River Lumpkin County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Mountaintown Creek
4
Headwaters to Hwy. 282 Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
15 miles
1
Mud Creek
4
Headwaters to Talking Rock Creek Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
A -41
Reach Name/ Data Source
Murray Creek
12
Reach Location/ County
Fannin County Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Nimblewill Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Etowah River Lumpkin County
Coosa Fishing
8
miles
1
North Prong Sumac Creek
4
Headwaters to Sumac Creek Murray County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Palmer Creek
4
Headwaters to Etowah River Dawson County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Panther Creek
12
Fannin County Fannin County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Penitentiary Branch
12
Fannin County Fannin County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Perennial Spring
4
Headwaters near CR 82 to Raccoon Coosa Creek
Chattooga County
Fishing
5
miles
1
A -42
Reach Name/ Data Source
Perry Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Conasauga River Murray County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
1
Perry Creek Tributary
4
Headwaters to Perry Creek, 0.6 miles north of Cisco
Murray County
Coosa Fishing
1
miles
1
Picketts Mill Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Pumpkinvine Creek
Paulding County
Coosa Fishing
6
miles
1
Pin Hook Creek
4
Pickens Co. Line to Salacoa Creek Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Pine Log Creek
4
Headwaters near Hwy 140 to Cedar Coosa Creek
Cherokee/ Bartow County
Fishing
19 miles
1
Pitner Branch
4
Headwaters to Little Creek Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Poplar Camp Creek
12
Headwaters to Conasauga River Fannin County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
A -43
Reach Name/ Data Source
Possum Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Paulding County Paulding County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Pumpkinpile Creek
4
Polk County Polk County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Pumpkinvine Creek
4
Headwaters to C.R. 231 Paulding County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Pyle Creek
4
Bartow County Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Raccoon Creek
4
Headwaters to Ga. Hwy 48 Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Raccoon Creek
10
Pegamore Lake to Etowah River Paulding/ Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
13 miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Raccoon Creek
4
Headwaters to Pegamore Lake Paulding County
Coosa Fishing
6
miles
1
A -44
Reach Name/ Data Source
Rice Camp Branch
12
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Jacks River Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Robbins Creek
4
Headwaters to Oostanaula River Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Rock Creek
4
Gilmer County Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
6
miles
1
Rock Creek
1,4
Headwaters to Holly Creek Murray County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Rock Creek
4
Headwaters to Cherokee Co. Line Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
6
miles
1
Rock Mountain Creek
29
Rocky Mountain Project Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Rocky Creek
4
Headwaters to Johns Creek Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
A -45
Reach Name/ Data Source
Rocky Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Pine Log Tributary #21 Dam to Little Coosa Pine Log Creek
Bartow County
Fishing
3
miles
1
Rose Creek
24
Lake Allatoona Tributary Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Rough Creek
12
Murray County Murray County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Rough Creek
12,59
Fannin County Fannin County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Ruff Creek
4
Headwaters to Armuchee Creek Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Salacoa Creek
4
Henderson Mountain Road to Hwy Coosa 61
Pickens/ Cherokee/ Bartow/ Gordon Fishing County
20 miles
1
Scarecorn Creek
4
Headwaters to Ga. Hwy. 53 Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
8
miles
1
A -46
Reach Name/ Data Source
Shoal Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Flat Creek Lumpkin/ Dawson County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
8
miles
1
Simpson Creek
59
Headwaters to Hutchings Creek Polk County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Smithwick Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Etowah River Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Spring Creek
4
Headwaters to Conasauga River Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Spring Creek
4
Floyd County (U/S Fishing Ban Area) Coosa
Floyd County
Fishing
6
miles
1
Spring Creek
4
Headwaters to Alabama State Line Floyd/ Polk County
Coosa Fishing
9
miles
1
Storey Mill Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Armuchee Creek
Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
A -47
Reach Name/ Data Source
Sugar Cove Branch
12
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Jacks River Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
1
Sugar Creek
10
Headwaters to Coosawattee River Murray County
Coosa Fishing
9
miles
1
Sugar Creek
4
Tenn. State Line to Conasauga River Coosa
Whitfield/ Murray County
Fishing
5
miles
1
Sumac Creek Tributary
4
Headwaters to Sumac Creek Murray County
Coosa Fishing
1
miles
1
Swamp Creek
4,59
Stover Creek to Little Swamp Creek Coosa
Whitfield County
Fishing
4
miles
1
Swamp Creek
4
Headwaters to Stover Creek Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Sweetwater Creek
4
Headwaters to Shoal Creek Dawson County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
A -48
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tails Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Hwy. 282 Gilmer County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Taliaferro Creek
4
Headwaters to Chattooga River Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Talking Rock Creek
4
Headwaters to Route S1011 Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Talking Rock Creek
1
Upstream Carters Lake Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Talona Creek
4
Gilmer County Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
6
miles
1
Teloga Creek
4
Chelsea Creek to Spring Creek Chatooga County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Thompson Creek
4,59
Forsyth Lake to Simpson Creek Polk County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
A -49
Reach Name/ Data Source
Town Branch
4,59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Conasauga River Murray County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
1
Town Creek
4
Headwaters to Pickens Co. Line Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Two Run Creek
4
Headwaters to Clear Creek, U/S Fishing Ban Area
Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
6
miles
1
Vanns Creek
10
Jackson Branch to Coosawattee River
Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Ward Creek
4
Headwaters to Etowah River Paulding/ Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
6
miles
1
Ward Creek
1
Shannon Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
1
miles
1
West Armuchee Creek
4
Headwaters to Dick Creek Walker County
Coosa Fishing
10 miles
1
A -50
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
West Armuchee Creek
4
Dick Creek to Ruff Creek Walker/ Chattooga County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
1
Westbrook Creek
4
Headwaters to Pumpkinvine Creek Paulding County
Coosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Wilson Creek
4
Headwaters to Coahulla Creek Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
1
Andrews Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Auchumpkee Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
23 miles
1
Bailey Creek
4
Crawford County Crawford County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Baroucho Creek
4
Headwaters (New Lake Dam) to Potato Creek
Upson County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
A -51
Reach Name/ Data Source
Bear Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Long Branch to Reedy Creek Terrell County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
1
Bear Creek
2
Hampton Henry County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Beaver Creek
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Big Cypress Creek
10
Upstream Ichawaynochaway Creek, Flint Near Newton
Baker County
Fishing
6
miles
1
Big Drain Creek
10
U/S Spring Creek, Boykin Early County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Big Slough
1
Bainbridge Decatur County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
Big Turkey Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Turkey Creek Upson County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
A -52
Reach Name/ Data Source Birch Creek
4
Brantley Creek
4
Brittens Creek
4
Camp Creek
1
Camp Creek
4
Cane Creek
4
Cater Creek
34
Reach Location/ County
Pike County Pike County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
11 miles
1
2 miles d/s Dawson WPCP to Chickasawhatchee Creek
Terrell County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
Triple Creek to Flint River, Oglethorpe
Macon County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Headwaters to Triple Creek Schley/ Macon County
Flint Fishing
12 miles
1
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
9
miles
1
College Park Fulton County
Flint Fishing
1
miles
1
A -53
Reach Name/ Data Source
Cedar Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Turkey Branch to Whitewater Creek Flint
Macon County
Fishing
10 miles
1
Cedar Creek
1
Crisp County Crisp County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
Chandlers Creek
4
Coweta County Coweta County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
Chickasawhatchee Creek
1
Dougherty County Dougherty County
Flint Fishing
12 miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Chickasawhatchee Creek
4,10
Dougherty Co. Line to Ichawaynotchaway Creek, Elmodel
Baker County
Flint Fishing
10 miles
1
Chickasawhatchee Creek
4
Brantley Creek to Herod Creek Terrell County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Chokee Creek
4
Mill Creek to Flint River Lee County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
A -54
Reach Name/ Data Source
Chokeelagee Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Kinchafoonee Creek Flint
Lee County
Fishing
10 miles
1
Cold Springs Branch
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Culpepper Creek
4
Headwaters to Lewis Creek Crawford County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Culpepper Creek (aka Spring Creek)
4
Lewis Creek to Beaver Creek Crawford County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
Cypress Creek
10
U/S Aycocks Creek near Colquitt Miller County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Dead Oak Creek
1
Upstream Line Creek Coweta County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Dominy Branch
10
U/S Lime Creek near Cobb Sumter County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
A -55
Reach Name/ Data Source Double Branch
4
Drake Branch
4
Dye Branch
1
Elkins Creek
4
Five Mile Creek
4
Five Mile Creek
4
Flat Creek
4
Reach Location/ County Coweta County Coweta County
Upson County Upson County
Thomaston Upson County
Headwaters to Bull Creek Spalding/ Pike County
Upson County Upson County
Pike County Pike County
Spalding County Spaulding County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Flint Fishing
26 miles
1
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Flint Fishing
11 miles
1
A -56
Reach Name/ Data Source Flint River
10
Flint River
1,10,42
Flint River
10
Flint River
10
Flint River
10
Flint River
1,42
Reach Location/ County
Big Slough to 1 mi. downstream State docks
Decatur County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
1
Fishing
Road S1058/Woolsey Rd. to Horton Flint Creek
Clayton/ Fayette/ Spalding County
Drinking Water/ Fishing
9
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Muckafoonee Creek to Raccoon Creek
Dougherty/ Mitchell County
Flint Fishing
23 miles
1
Taylor Co. Line to Horse Creek
Taylor/ Upson/ Crawford/ Macon County
Flint Fishing
49 miles
1
Raccoon Creek to Ichawaynochaway Creek
Mitchell County
Flint Fishing
28 miles
1
Upstream Hartsfield Airport Clayton County
Flint Fishing
1
miles
1
TMDLs completed FC, Cu, Zn.
A -57
Reach Name/ Data Source
Flint River
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Horton Creek to Flat Shoals Road Fayette/ Spalding/ Pike County
Flint Fishing
23 miles
1
Flint River
10
Flat Shoals Rd. to Taylor County line Flint
Pike/ Meriwether/ Upson/ Talbot County
Fishing
43 miles
1
Flint River
10
North Hampton Road to Road S1058/ Woolsey Rd.
Clayton County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
Flint River
10
Spring Creek to Hwy 27 Dooly County
Flint Fishing
20 miles
1
Fourmile Creek
59
Headwaters to Spring Creek Decatur County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Ginger Cake Creek
4
Fayette County Fayette County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Grace Branch
4
Crawford County Crawford County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
A -58
Reach Name/ Data Source
Grape Creek
2
Reach Location/ County
Griffin Spalding County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Grape Creek
4
Lamar County Lamar County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
Haddock Creek
4
Fayette County Fayette County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Hog Crawl Creek
10
U/S Flint River, NW Cordele Dooly County
Flint Fishing
8
miles
1
Horse Creek
4
Crawford County Crawford County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Horse Creek
10
Taylor Mill Lake to Flint River Macon County
Flint Fishing
10 miles
1
Horseley Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
A -59
Reach Name/ Data Source
Hurricane Branch
4
Reach Location/ County
Meriwether County Meriwether County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Hurricane Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
Ichawaynochaway Creek Calhoun Co. Line to Flint River
10
Baker County
Flint Fishing
35 miles
1
Ichawaynochaway Creek Walk Ikey Creek to Falling Creek
4
Terrell/ Randolph/ Calhoun County
Flint Fishing
7
miles
1
Ichawaynochaway Creek Wolf Creek to Little Ichawaynochaway Creek
4
Terrell/ Randolph County
Flint Fishing
1
miles
1
Ison Branch
2
Griffin Spalding County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
Jerry Reeves Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
A -60
Reach Name/ Data Source
Keg Creek
1
Reach Location/ County
Hutchins Lake to Line Creek Coweta County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Kendall Creek
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
Kinchafoonee Creek
1,9
Ga. Hwy. 45 (Webster Co. Line) to Lake Chehaw/Worth
Terrell/ Sumter/ Lee/ Dougherty County
Flint Fishing
40 miles
1
TMDLs completed FC, TWR.
Kinchafoonee Creek
4
Headwaters to Lanahasee Creek Marion County
Flint Fishing
10 miles
1
Kinchafoonee Creek
10
Marion Co. Line to Terrell Co. Line Webster County
Flint Fishing
23 miles
1
Kiokee Creek
10
Mud Creek to Hwy 62 Dougherty County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
Lazer Creek
4,10
Marshall Creek to Flint River near Talbotton
Talbot County
Flint Fishing
17 miles
1
A -61
Reach Name/ Data Source
Limestone Creek
1
Reach Location/ County
Lake Blackshear Crisp County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Line Creek
2
Line Creek WPCP to Flat Creek Fayette County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Line Creek
1,4
Wynns Pond to Line Creek WPCP Fayette/ Coweta County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Line Creek
4
Upstream Wynns Pond Fayette/ Coweta County
Flint Fishing
7
miles
1
Little Muckalee Creek
4
Headwaters to Galey Creek Schley County
Flint Fishing
9
miles
1
Little Pachitla Creek
4
Fellows Branch to Bear Creek Calhoun County
Flint Fishing
7
miles
1
Little Potato Creek
4
Downstream Barnesville Lamar County
Flint Fishing
8
miles
1
A -62
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Little Redoak Creek (aka Meriwether County Sandy Creek)
4
Meriwether County
Little Turkey Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Little White Oak Creek
4
Downstream Linch Creek Coweta/ Meriwether County
Little White Oak Creek
4
Upstream White Oak Creek Coweta County
Long Branch
4
Upson County Upson County
Marby Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Matthews Creek
4
Crawford County Crawford County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Fishing
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Flint Fishing
8
miles
1
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
A -63
Reach Name/ Data Source
Mill Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Meriwether County Meriwether County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Mock Woodall Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Mountain Creek
4
Pike County Pike County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Muckalee Creek
4,10
Sumter Co. Line to Pirates Cove Rd., Leesburg
Lee County
Flint Fishing
20 miles
1
Muckalee Creek
2
Americus to McLittle Bridge Rd. Sumter County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Muckalee Creek
10
Little Muckalee Creek to Americus Sumter County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Muckalee Creek
4
Unnamed tributary 1 mi. u/s Marion/Schley Co. Line to Owens Creek
Marion/ Schley County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
A -64
Reach Name/ Data Source
Mud Creek
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Flint River Talbot County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Murphy Creek
4
Headwaters to Flint River Fayette County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
North Mosquito Creek
4
Florida State Line to Mosquito Creek
Decatur County
Flint Fishing
7
miles
1
Pachitla Creek
10,4
Parkins Creek to Bay Branch near Edison
Calhoun County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
Pappys Creek
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Pecan Creek
25
Trib. to Lake Blackshear Sumter County
Flint Fishing
1
miles
1
Potato Creek
10
Drake Branch to Flint River near Thomaston
Upson County
Flint Fishing
11 miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
A -65
Reach Name/ Data Source
Red Oak Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Meriwether County Meriwether County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
10 miles
1
Rocky Ford Branch
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
1
Rose Creek
4
Willis Road to Potato Creek Upson County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Sandy Mount Creek
4
US 41 to Pennahatchee Creek Dooly County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
Shoal Creek
4
Fayette County Fayette County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
Slaughter Creek
4
Christmas Branch to Kinchafoonee Creek
Webster County
Flint Fishing
1
miles
1
Spring Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
A -66
Reach Name/ Data Source
Starling Branch
4
Reach Location/ County
Upson County Upson County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Sullivan Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
Swift Creek
4
Headwaters to Tobler Creek Upson County
Flint Fishing
14 miles
1
Ten Mile Creek
4
Smyrna Road to Potato Creek Upson County
Flint Fishing
8
miles
1
Tobler Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
23 miles
1
Town Creek
4
Headwaters to Carter Creek Randolph County
Flint Fishing
7
miles
1
Tributary to Flint River
59
Headwaters to Flint River Taylor/ Talbot/ Upson County
Flint Fishing
3
miles
1
A -67
Reach Name/ Data Source
Ty Ty Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Unnamed trib. 1.4 miles u/s Thomas Flint Mill Road to Kinchafoonee Cr.
Sumter County
Fishing
3
miles
1
Vallhalla Branch
1
Trib. to Lake Blackshear Crisp County
Flint Fishing
1
miles
1
Walnut Creek
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
White Oak Creek
10
Little White Oak Creek to Flint River Flint near Alvaton
Meriwether County
Fishing
9
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Whitewater Creek
10
Starr's Millpond to Line Creek Fayette County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
Whitewater Creek
4
Downstream Lake Bennett Fayette County
Flint Fishing
8
miles
1
Winky Branch
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
1
A -68
Reach Name/ Data Source
Wolf Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Upson County Upson County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
1
Wolf Creek
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
1
Womble Creek
4
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Woolsey Creek
4
Fayette County Fayette County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
1
Barnetts Creek
10
West Branch to Ochlockonee River, Ochlockonee W. of Thomasville
Thomas/ Grady County
Fishing
8
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Bridge Creek
10
Upstream Ga. Hwy. 111 near Moultrie to Ochlockonee River
Colquitt/ Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
10 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Callahan Branch
59
Headwaters to Attapulgus Creek Decatur County
Ochlockonee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -69
Reach Name/ Data Source
Hadley Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Ochlockonee River Grady County
Ochlockonee Fishing
4
miles
1
Little Ochlockonee River Big Cr. to Ochlockonee River near Ochlocknee
10
Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
9
miles
1
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Tired Creek
10
Wolf Cr. to Parkers Mill Cr. near Cairo
Grady County
Ochlockonee Fishing
4
miles
1
Aboothlacoosta Creek
4
Butts County Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
6
miles
1
Alcovy River
1
Wrights Creek to Bear Creek Newton County
Ocmulgee
Fishing/ Recreation
13 miles
1
Alligator Creek
1,4
1 mile d/s U.S. Hwy. 280 to Little Ocmulgee River
Wheeler County
Ocmulgee Fishing
16 miles
1
A -70
Reach Name/ Data Source
Alligator Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Horse Creek Telfair County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
14 miles
1
Bay Creek
1
Beaver Creek to Big Indian Creek Peach/ Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Bear Creek
4
Gaithers Branch to Lake Jackson Newton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Beaverdam Creek
1
Headwaters to Alcovy River Walton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
8
miles
1
Beaverdam Creek
4
Monroe/Bibb Counties Monroe/ Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
6
miles
1
Big Creek
4
Headwaters to Burnham Creek Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
12 miles
1
Big Creek
Hwy 230 to Ocmulgee River -
(Tucsawhatchee Creek) Pulaski County
1,10
Pulaski County
Ocmulgee Fishing
10 miles
1
A -71
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Haynes Creek
1,23
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Big Haynes Creek Reservoir to Little Ocmulgee Haynes Creek
Rockdale County
Drinking Water
1
miles
1
Big Indian Creek
4
Baptist Creek to Bay Creek Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
6
miles
1
Big Towaliga Creek
4
Lamar County Lamar County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
1
Briar Branch
4
Upstream Towaliga River Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
2
miles
1
Buck Creek
4
Tributary to High Falls Lake Lamar/ Spalding County
Ocmulgee Fishing
14 miles
1
Castleberry Creek
4
Tributary to Rocky Creek Monroe/ Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Cedar Creek
10
Headwaters to Alcovy River Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
A -72
Reach Name/ Data Source
Cedar Creek
18
Reach Location/ County
Hogan Lake to Alcovy River Gwinnett County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent 3
Category Priority Notes 1
Chambliss Creek
4
Tributary to Lake Juliette, Forsyth Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Champion Creek
4
Monroe County Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Coley Creek
4
Bleckley County Bleckley County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Coppas Branch
4
Bibb County Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
2
miles
1
Crow Branch
4
Jasper County Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Deer Creek
4
Tributary to Rum Creek Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
10 miles
1
A -73
Reach Name/ Data Source
Douglas Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Upstream Little Sandy Creek Butts County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
1
Dry Bone Creek
4
Jones/Bibb Counties Jones/ Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
7
miles
1
Echeconnee Creek
4
Rock Quarry Road to Knoxville Road Ocmulgee
Monroe/ Bibb County
Fishing
27 miles
1
Fambro Creek
4
Monroe County Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Feagin Creek
4
Jones County Jones County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Freeman Creek
4
Headwaters to South River Newton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Gilmore Branch
4
Tributary to Towaliga River Monroe/ Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
A -74
Reach Name/ Data Source
Gum Swamp Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Hwy 257 to Little Creek Dodge County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
19 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Hardy's Creek
4
Jasper County Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
6
miles
1
Herds Creek
4
Headwaters to Ga. Hwy. 212 Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Hopkins Creek
1
Headwaters to Alcovy River Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Indian Creek
4
Lester Mill Rd., Locust Grove to Towaliga River
Henry/ Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
8
miles
1
Jacks Creek
10
Headwaters to Yellow River Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Johnson Creek
2
Tributary to Cabin Creek, Griffin Spalding County
Ocmulgee Fishing
1
miles
1
A -75
Reach Name/ Data Source
Jordan Creek
1
Reach Location/ County
Cochran to Ocmulgee River Bleckley/ Pulaski County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
10 miles
1
Kinnard Creek
4
Tributary to Ocmulgee River Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
9
miles
1
Lamar Branch
4
Tributary to Echeconnee Creek Bibb/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Lee Creek
4
Tributary to Ocmulgee River Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
6
miles
1
Limestone Creek
1
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River Pulaski County
Ocmulgee Fishing
7
miles
1
Little Buck Creek
4
Lamar County Lamar County
Ocmulgee Fishing
6
miles
1
Little Falling Creek
4,59
Jasper/Jones Counties Jasper/ Jones County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
1
A -76
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Ocmulgee River
10
Reach Location/ County
Wilcox Creek to Alligator Creek Wheeler County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
12 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Little Sandy Creek
4
Butts County Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Little Shellstone Creek
4
Headwaters to Shellstone Creek Bleckley County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Little Sturgeon Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Sturgeon Creek Ben Hill County
Ocmulgee Fishing
7
miles
1
Little Tobesofkee Creek Lamar/Monroe Counties
4
Lamar/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
23 miles
1
Little Towaliga River
4
D/S Barnesville Reservoir Lamar/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
13 miles
1
Long Branch
4
Upstream Big Sandy Creek Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -77
Reach Name/ Data Source Mossy Creek
4
Ocmulgee River
1,10
Ocmulgee River
1
Ocmulgee River
1
Ocmulgee River
1,10
Ocmulgee River
28
Reach Location/ County
Taylors Mill Pond to Mule Creek Peach County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Big Indian Creek to Pulaski/Wilcox Co. Line
Pulaski County
Ocmulgee Fishing
25 miles
1
Downstream Lloyd Shoals Dam Butts/ Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
3 Miles Downstream Lloyd Shoals Dam to Towaliga River
Butts/ Jasper/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
14 miles
1
Beaverdam Creek to Walnut Creek Ocmulgee
Jones/ Bibb County
Drinking Water/ Fishing
10 miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Hwy 18 to Beaverdam Creek Monroe/ Jones/ Bibb County
Ocmulgee Drinking Water
9
miles
1
A -78
Reach Name/ Data Source
Ocmulgee River
1,9
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
House Creek to Altamaha River
Ocmulgee
Telfair/ Ben Hill/ Coffee/ Jeff Davis/ Fishing Wheeler County
67 miles
1
TMDL completed TWR.
Ocmulgee River
1
Cedar Creek to House Creek Wilcox/ Dodge/ Telfair County
Ocmulgee Fishing
36 miles
1
TMDL completed TWR.
Panther Creek
4
Tributary to Yellow Water Creek Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Pates Creek
42
Blalock Water Reservoir to Little Cotton Indian Creek
Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
1
Peeksville Creek
4
Headwaters to Tussahaw Creek Henry/ Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
6
miles
1
Plymale Creek
4
Butts County Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
7
miles
1
Pole Bridge Creek
1,15
DeKalb County Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
10 miles
1
A -79
Reach Name/ Data Source Pounds Creek
1,18
Pounds Creek
18
Prairie Creek
4
Reedy Creek
4
Richland Creek
4
Rock Creek
4
Rocky Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Upstream Lakeview Ct. Lake Gwinnett County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
1
Downstream Lakeview Court Lake Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
1
miles
1
Lamar County Lamar County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
1
Tributary to Tobesofkee Creek Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Schuffle Creek to Savage Creek Twiggs County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
1
Downstream Lite-N-Tie Rd. Jones County
Ocmulgee Fishing
6
miles
1
Downstream Lake Wildwood Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -80
Reach Name/ Data Source
Rum Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Downstream Lake Juliette Monroe County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Sabbath Creek
4
Tributary to Ocmulgee River Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Sand Creek
4
Jones County Jones County
Ocmulgee Fishing
7
miles
1
Savage Creek
4
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River Twiggs County
Ocmulgee Fishing
18 miles
1
Scott Creek
23
Headwaters to Deer Run Lake Rockdale County
Ocmulgee Fishing
1
miles
1
Shellstone Creek
4
U.S. Hwy. 23 to Ocmulgee River Twiggs/ Bleckley County
Ocmulgee Fishing
8
miles
1
South Prong Creek
4
Headwaters to Big (Tucsawhatchee) Ocmulgee Creek
Dooly/ Pulaski County
Fishing
12 miles
1
A -81
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
South Shellstone Creek Downstream Coley, NW Cochran
1
Bleckley County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Spring Branch
4
Tributary to Wise Creek Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
1
miles
1
Stalking Head Creek
4
Jones/Jasper Counties Jones/ Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
7
miles
1
Standard Creek
4
Monroe County Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
2
miles
1
Stone Mountain Creek
15
Downstream Stone Mountain Lake Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
1
Strouds Creek
2
Social Circle Walton/ Newton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3
miles
1
Sugar Creek
10
Headwaters to Turnpike Creek Dodge/ Telfair County
Ocmulgee Fishing
38 miles
1
A -82
Reach Name/ Data Source
Swan Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Little Towaliga River Ocmulgee
Lamar County
Fishing
4
miles
1
Todd Creek
4
Tributary to Tobesofkee River Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
1
Tom George Creek
2
DeKalb County Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
2
miles
1
Towaliga River
4
Thompson Creek to Indian Creek Spalding/ Butts/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
10 miles
1
Towaliga River
1
High Falls Lake to Ocmulgee River Butts/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
27 miles
1
Town Creek
4
Jones County Jones County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Troublesome Creek
4
Spalding County Spalding County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
1
A -83
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tussahaw Creek Tributary
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Tussahaw Creek
Henry County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Fishing
Walnut Creek
2
Downstream McDonough Walnut Creek WPCP
Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
2
miles
1
Whitewater Creek
4
Headwaters to Echeconnee Creek Crawford County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
1
Wolf Creek
4
Bibb County Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
2
miles
1
Wood Creek
4
D/S Ga. Hwy. 83 to Echeconnee Creek
Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
1
Yellow Creek
4
Tributary to Little Tobesofkee Creek Ocmulgee
Monroe County
Fishing
9
miles
1
A -84
Reach Name/ Data Source
Yellow Water Creek
1
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
1 mile d/s Stark Road(Rd. S763), Jackson to Ocmulgee River
Butts County
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ocmulgee
7
miles
1
Fishing
Anne Court Branch
10
Headwaters to Middle Oconee River, Athens
Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Apalachee River
18
Apalachee Road to Williamson Creek
Gwinnett/ Barrow/ Walton County
Oconee Fishing
10 miles
1
Bay Branch
4
Tributary to Oconee River Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Bear Creek/Big Bear Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Bear Creek Barrow/ Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
7
miles
1
Beaverdam Creek
59
Headwaters to Big Sandy Creek Morgan County
Oconee Fishing
9
miles
1
A -85
Reach Name/ Data Source
Beaverdam Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Putnam County Putnam County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Beaverdam Creek
4
Northwest of Smyrna Church Hancock County
Oconee Fishing
2
miles
1
Beaverdam Creek
4
Hancock County Hancock County
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
Big Indian Creek
1,36
Little Indian Creek to Little River Morgan/ Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
7
miles
1
Big Sandy Creek
4
Clear Creek to Porter Creek Wilkinson County
Oconee Fishing
6
miles
1
Black Spring Branch
4
Baldwin County Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
Buck Creek
4
Tributary to Oconee River Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -86
Reach Name/ Data Source
Buffalo Creek
1,4
Reach Location/ County
St. Road 787 to Swift Creek Hancock County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
1
Camp Creek
4
Tributary to Oconee River Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
7
miles
1
Carters Mill Creek
4
Headwaters to Keg Creek Washington County
Oconee Fishing
6
miles
1
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Cedar Creek
4
Headwaters to King Branch Jasper County
Oconee Fishing
5
miles
1
Cedar Creek
1
Winder Reservoir to Mulberry River, Oconee Winder
Barrow County
Fishing
4
miles
1
TMDL completed Pb.
Commissioner Creek
4
Jones County Jones County
Oconee Fishing
9
miles
1
Commissioner Creek
4
Beaver Creek to Little Commissioner Creek
Wilkinson County
Oconee Fishing
5
miles
1
A -87
Reach Name/ Data Source Copeland Creek
4,59
Crooked Creek
4
Deep Creek
4
Drowning Creek
4
Fishing Creek
4
Ford Creek
4
Gap Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Lundy Creek Hancock County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Bleckley County Bleckley County
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Washington County Washington County
Oconee Fishing
5
miles
1
Headwaters to the Apalachee River Oconee
Gwinnett County
Fishing
4
miles
1
Tributary to Oconee River Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
12 miles
1
Hancock County Hancock County
Oconee Fishing
2
miles
1
Jasper County Jasper County
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
A -88
Reach Name/ Data Source
Glady Creek
4,36
Reach Location/ County
Putnam County Putnam County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Glady Creek Tributary
4
Putnam County near Reids Crossroads
Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Greenbriar Creek
28
Salem Scull Shoals Road to Lake Oconee
Oconee/ Greene County
Oconee Fishing
8
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Hard Labor Creek
28
Big Sandy Creek to Apalachee River Oconee
Morgan County
Fishing
4
miles
1
Hitchcock Branch
4
Putnam County Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Hog Creek
4
Tributary to Big Cedar Creek Jones County
Oconee Fishing
7
miles
1
Hunger and Hardship Creek
4
Headwaters to Strawberry Creek Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
6
miles
1
A -89
Reach Name/ Data Source Jacks Creek
1
Reach Location/ County
Monroe to Grubby Creek/ D/S abandoned Monroe Jacks Creek Pond
Walton County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Fishing
Jenkins Branch
4
Tributary to Oconee River Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Kimbro Creek
4
Headwaters to Hightower Creek Greene County
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
Lake Sinclair Tributary
4
Near Putnam Beach Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Lake Sinclair Tributary
4
North of Key Cemetery Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Lick Creek
4
Upstream Lake Oconee Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
Little Buffalo Creek
4
Hancock County Hancock County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
A -90
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Camp Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Camp Creek Baldwin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
1
Little Cedar Creek
4
Headwaters to Lake Sinclair Jones/ Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
9
miles
1
Little Creek
4
Tributary to Town Creek Hancock County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Little Creek
4
Jones County Jones County
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Little Glady Creek
36
Rock Eagle Lake to Glady Creek Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Little Keg Creek
4
Washington County Washington County
Oconee Fishing
5
miles
1
Little Red Bluff Creek
4
Headwaters to Red Bluff Creek Treutlen County
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -91
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little River Tributary
4
Reach Location/ County
Near Martin's Mill Road Putnam County
Little Rocky Creek
4
Headwaters to Rocky Creek Laurens County
Little Rocky Creek
4
Twiggs County Twiggs County
Little Sandy Hill Creek
4
Washington County Washington County
Log Dam Creek
4
Tributary to Oconee River Hancock County
Long Creek
4
Hancock County Hancock County
Lowry Branch
4
Jasper County Jasper County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
9
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
5
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
A -92
Reach Name/ Data Source Lundy Creek
4
Maiden Creek
4,59
Mercer Creek
1
Miller Creek
4
Milsap Creek
4
Moore Creek
4
Mulberry Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Hancock County Hancock County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Wilkinson County Wilkinson County
Oconee Fishing
2
miles
1
D/S Graham Pond to Red Hill Creek Oconee
Laurens/ Treutlen County
Fishing
9
miles
1
Jones County Jones County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Jones County Jones County
Oconee Fishing
5
miles
1
Tributary to Fishing Creek Jones/ Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
6
miles
1
Headwaters to Mulberry River Hall County
Oconee Fishing
7
miles
1
A -93
Reach Name/ Data Source
North Oconee River
10
Reach Location/ County
Curry Creek to Clarke County Jackson County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Oconee
Fishing/ Drinking Water
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
1
North Walnut Creek
20
Gainesville (Upstream Hall County Camp)
Hall County
Oconee Fishing
2
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Oconee River
1
Fishing Creek to Gumm Creek Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
20 miles
1
Oconee River
1
Lake Sinclair to Fishing Creek Baldwin County
Oconee Drinking Water
5
miles
1
Oconee River
1
Red Bluff Creek to Altamaha River Montgomery/ Wheeler County
Oconee Fishing
38 miles
1
Oconee River
1
Turkey Creek to Red Bluff Creek
Oconee
Laurens/ Treutlen/ Wheeler County Fishing
26 miles
1
Oconee River
1
Gumm Creek to US Hwy 319/80
Washington/ Wilkinson/ Laurens County
Oconee
Fishing/ Drinking Water
52 miles
1
A -94
Reach Name/ Data Source Pinkston Creek
4
Pittman Creek
4
Plunkett Creek
4
Porter Creek
4,59
Pughes Creek
1,10
Robinson Creek
4
Rock Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Buffalo Creek Hancock County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
1
Jasper County Jasper County
Oconee Fishing
7
miles
1
Tributary to Whitten Creek Hancock County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Headwaters to Big Sandy Creek Wilkinson County
Oconee Fishing
12 miles
1
Indian Branch to Oconee River Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
8
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Jasper County Jasper County
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
Putnam County Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
A -95
Reach Name/ Data Source
Rocky Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Bleckley County Bleckley County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Rocky Creek
4
Headwaters to Mulberry River Barrow County
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
Rocky Creek
4
Tributary to Lake Sinclair Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
2
miles
1
Rocky Creek
10
Little Rocky Creek to Turkey Creek Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
6
miles
1
Rose Creek
4
Headwaters to the Oconee River Oconee County
Oconee Fishing
9
miles
1
Sand Creek
4
Tributary to Lake Sinclair Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Sandy Hill Creek
4
Headwaters to Oconee River Washington County
Oconee Fishing
9
miles
1
TMDL completed Bio.
A -96
Reach Name/ Data Source
Sandy Run Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Buffalo Creek Hancock County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Sheppard Creek
4
Jasper County Jasper County
Oconee Fishing
5
miles
1
Shoal Creek
4
Jasper County Jasper County
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Shoal Creek
1
Little Shoal Creek to Apalachee River
Walton County
Oconee Fishing
2
miles
1
Shoal Creek
4
Headwaters to the Oconee River Clarke/ Oconee County
Oconee Fishing
12 miles
1
Shoulderbone Creek
4
Tributary to Oconee River Hancock County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Smokey Hollow Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
A -97
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
South Fork Wolf Creek
4
Jasper County Jasper County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
South Sandy Creek
4
Chappells Pond to Big Sandy Creek Oconee
Laurens/ Wilkinson County
Fishing
5
miles
1
Swift Creek
4
Tributary to Buffalo Creek Hancock County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Taylor Creek
4
Jones County Jones County
Oconee Fishing
7
miles
1
Town Creek
1,4,10
Peavy Branch to Oconee River Hancock/ Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
16 miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Tributary 1 to Allen Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Tributary 2 to Allen Creek
20
Gainesville-Downstream Old Landfill Oconee
Hall County
Fishing
1
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
A -98
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tributary 4 to Allen Creek
20
Reach Location/ County
Gainesville
Hall County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
1
Fishing
Tributary 5 to Allen Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Tributary 7 to Allen Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Tributary 8 to Allen Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
TMDL completed FC.
Tributary 9 to Allen Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Tributary to Murder Creek
59
Headwaters to Murder Creek Jasper/ Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
5
miles
1
A -99
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tributary to North Oconee River
20
Reach Location/ County
Gainesville
Hall County
Tributary to Turkey Creek
4
Twiggs County Twiggs County
Tributary to Whitten Creek
4
Hancock County Hancock County
Ugly Creek
4
Twiggs County Twiggs County
Whitehouse Branch
4
Jasper County Jasper County
Whiteoak Creek
4
Jasper County Jasper County
Whitten Creek
4
Hancock County Hancock County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Fishing
Oconee Fishing
2
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
4
miles
1
Oconee Fishing
2
miles
1
A -100
Reach Name/ Data Source
Wildcat Branch
4
Reach Location/ County
Wilkinson County Wilkinson County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
1
Will Hunter Branch
2
Tributary to North Oconee River, Athens
Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
1
miles
1
Wolf Creek
4
Gray Jones County
Oconee Fishing
3
miles
1
Buckhead Creek
4
Hills Pond/Lambert Branch to Eightmile Creek
Burke County
Ogeechee Fishing
8
miles
1
Flemming Branch
4
Headwaters to Big Creek Jefferson County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
Hannah Branch
4
Headwaters to Big Creek Jefferson County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
Joe's Creek
4
~0.1 mi d/s GA Hwy 102 to Rocky Comfort Creek
Glascock County
Ogeechee Fishing
6
miles
1
A -101
Reach Name/ Data Source Kittrell Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
~1.2 mi u/s Kitrell Creek Road to
Ogeechee
Jordan Mill Pond/Williamson Swamp
Creek
Washington County
Fishing
4
miles
1
Little Lotts Creek
1
Downstream South Main Street, Statesboro
Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
1
miles
1
Mill Creek
1
Upstream Taylors Creek, Fort Stewart
Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
1
North Newport River
1
Lower Carrs Neck Creek to Timmons River
Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
Ogeechee River
1,4
Long Creek to Hwy. 102 near Jewell Ogeechee
Hancock/ Washington County
Fishing
12 miles
1
Taylors Creek
1
Upstream WPCP Drainage Canal, Fort Stewart
Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
3
miles
1
A -102
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tributary to Taylors Creek
1
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Drainage Canal to Taylors Creek, Fort Stewart
Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
1
TMDLs completed Cu, Pb, Hg.
Bishop Creek
1
Downstream Hazelhurst Jeff Davis County
Satilla Fishing
2
miles
1
Boggy Creek
55
Dry Creek to Little Satilla Cr. N. of Screven
Wayne County
Satilla Fishing
1
miles
1
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Hurricane Creek
1
Whitehead Creek to d/s Little Creek. Satilla
Jeff Davis/ Bacon County
Fishing
9
miles
1
Little Satilla River
1
Sixty Foot Branch to Satilla River Pierce/ Wayne/ Brantley County
Satilla Fishing
6
miles
1
Red Bluff Creek
10
Little Red Bluff Cr. to Satilla River E. Satilla of Pearson
Atkinson County
Fishing
7
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
A -103
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reedy Creek
55
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Big Satilla Cr. near Screven
Appling/ Wayne County
Satilla Fishing
13 miles
1
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Satilla River
1,55
Seventeen Mile River to US Hwy 84/Ga. Hwy. 38
Ware County
Satilla Fishing
27 miles
1
Seventeen Mile River
1
Otter Creek(Douglas) to Twentynine Satilla Mile Creek
Coffee County
Fishing
8
miles
1
Bear Creek
1
Lavonia Franklin County
Savannah Fishing
1
miles
1
Bear Creek
1
SCS Pond to Unawatti Creek, Lavonia
Franklin County
Savannah Fishing
1
miles
1
Beaverdam Creek
4
Looks Branch to Little Beaverdam Creek
Burke/ Jenkins/ Screven County
Savannah Fishing
9
miles
1
A -104
Reach Name/ Data Source
Beaverdam Creek
1
Reach Location/ County
Commerce Jackson/ Banks County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
1
Beaverdam Creek
1
McDonald Branch to Brier Creek, near Sylvania
Screven County
Savannah Fishing
5
miles
1
Boggy Gut Creek
4
McDuffie/Columbia/Richmond Co. Line to Brier Creek
Richmond County
Savannah Fishing
7
miles
1
Boyds Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Coldwater Creek
Hart County
Savannah Fishing
6
miles
1
Butler Creek
1,59
Boardmans Pond to Phinizy Ditch Richmond County
Savannah Fishing
9
miles
1
Cedar Creek
1
Downstream Hartwell WPCP to Little Cedar Creek
Hart County
Savannah Fishing
8
miles
1
A -105
Reach Name/ Data Source
Chattooga River
1
Reach Location/ County
Stateline to Lake Tugaloo Rabun County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Wild/Scenic
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
36 miles
1
Chill Creek/ Factory Creek
4
Headwaters to Hart Creek Warren/ McDuffie County
Savannah Fishing
7
miles
1
Coleman River
4,59
Stateline to Tallulah River Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
5
miles
1
Crawford Creek
1,2
Downstream Columbia Co. WPCP to Tudor Branch
Crawford County
Savannah Fishing
2
miles
1
TMDL completed Tox.
Davidson Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Panther Creek near Tallulah Falls
Habersham/ Stephens County
Savannah Fishing
6
miles
1
Fitz Branch
4
Headwaters to Brier Creek Burke County
Savannah Fishing
5
miles
1
A -106
Reach Name/ Data Source
Germany Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Little Germany Creek to Clarks Hill Reservoir
McDuffie County
Savannah Fishing
4
miles
1
Grindstone Branch
1
Rhodes Pond to Spirit Creek, Hephzibah
Richmond County
Savannah Fishing
1
miles
1
Grove Creek
4
Reservoir #59 to Hickory Level Creek
Banks County
Savannah Fishing
11 miles
1
Hannah Creek
1
Royston to Broad River Franklin/ Madison County
Savannah Fishing
8
miles
1
Hart Creek
4
Headwaters to Clarks Hill Lake Warren/ McDuffie County
Savannah Fishing
14 miles
1
Holcomb Creek
4
Headwaters to Billingsley Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
4
miles
1
Hoods Creek
4
Headwaters to Walnut Fork Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
3
miles
1
A -107
Reach Name/ Data Source
Kiokee Creek
1
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Greenbrier Creek to Savannah River Savannah near Evans
Columbia County
Fishing
6
miles
1
Lightwood Log Creek
4
Headwaters to Lake Hartwell Hart County
Savannah Fishing
6
miles
1
Little Bear Creek
1
Tributary to Unawatti Creek, Lavonia Savannah
Franklin County
Fishing
1
miles
1
Little Beaverdam Creek Headwaters to Reservoir 30
4
Hart/ Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
8
miles
1
Little Dove Creek
4
Headwaters to Dove Creek Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
8
miles
1
Little Panther Creek
4
Headwaters to Big Panther Creek Habersham County
Savannah Fishing
5
miles
1
Little Toccoa Creek
4
Headwaters to Toccoa Creek, Toccoa
Stephens County
Savannah Fishing
4
miles
1
A -108
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Middle Fork Broad River Dicks Creek to Reservoir No. 44 (u/s of Lake Russell)
4,59
Stephens County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
1
Fishing
Moccasin Creek
4
Headwaters to Lake Burton Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
5
miles
1
Nails Creek
4
Headwaters to Ragsdale Creek Banks/ Franklin County
Savannah Fishing
3
miles
1
North Fork Broad River
4
Habersham/Stephens Co. Line to Old Rock Quarry Rd. near Toccoa
Stephens County
Savannah Fishing
5
miles
1
Phinizy Ditch
1
Augusta Richmond County
Savannah Fishing
2
miles
1
TMDL completed Pb.
Pistol Creek
1
Headwaters to Clarks Hill Lake near Savannah Tignall
Wilkes/ Lincoln County
Fishing
8
miles
1
Rae's Creek
59
Headwaters to Cranes Creek Richmond County
Savannah Fishing
4
miles
1
A -109
Reach Name/ Data Source Ragsdale Creek
4
Sarahs Creek
4
Savannah River
1
Savannah River
1
Savannah River
1,9,10
Savannah River
10
Savannah River
1
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Nails Creek Banks/ Franklin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
1
Headwaters to Warwoman Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
5
miles
1
Cedar Creek to Coldwater Creek Hart/Elbert County
Savannah Recreation
9
miles
1
Lake Hartwell to Cedar Creek Hart County
Savannah Recreation
6
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Johnsons Landing to Brier Creek Screven County
Savannah
Fishing/ Drinking Water
26 miles
1
Ebenezer Creek to Tide Gate Effingham/ Chatham County
Savannah
Drinking Water/ Coastal Fishing
25 miles
1
Stevens Creek Dam to US Hwy 78/278
Columbia/ Richmond County
Savannah Drinking Water
9
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
A -110
Reach Name/ Data Source
Savannah River
1,9
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
US Hwy. 78/278 to Johnsons Landing
Richmond/ Burke/ Screven County
Savannah Fishing
78 miles
1
TMDLs completed Pb and FC from Butler Creek to McBean Creek.
South Fork Little River
4
Sherrills Creek to North Fork Little River
Taliaferro County
Savannah Fishing
4
miles
1
Spirit Creek
1
Marcum Branch to McDade Pond Richmond County
Savannah Fishing
14 miles
1
St. Augustine Creek
1
Walthour Swamp to Front River near Port Wentworth
Effingham/ Chatham County
Savannah Fishing
7
miles
1
Tiger Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Pole Bridge Creek near Clayton
Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
8
miles
1
Toccoa Creek
4
Stephens County Stephens County
Savannah Fishing
5
miles
1
A -111
Reach Name/ Data Source
Unawatti Creek
1
Reach Location/ County
Downstream Lavonia Franklin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Walnut Fork
4
Headwaters to Hoods Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
4
miles
1
West Fork Chattooga River
1,4
Rabun County Rabun County
Savannah Wild/Scenic
6
miles
1
Wildcat Creek
4
Headwaters to Lake Burton Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
6
miles
1
St. Marys Trib. 5 (aka Cooner Branch)
55
Upstream St. Marys River Charlton County
St Marys Fishing
3
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Bear Creek
1,3
U/S Giddons Mill Cr. to d/s Ga. Hwy. Suwannee 37/76, Adel
Cook County
Fishing
3
miles
1
A -112
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
SR107 to Alapaha River near Irwinville
Irwin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Suwannee
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Fishing
Clyatt Mill Creek
59
Headwaters to Withlacoochee River Suwannee
Lowndes County
Fishing
6
miles
1
Cow Creek
10
Headwaters to Alapaha River Clinch/ Lanier/ Echols County
Suwannee Fishing
14 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Deep Creek
10
W. Fork Deep Cr. to Lake Cr., E. of Suwannee Ashburn
Turner County
Fishing
9
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Double Run Creek
10
Upstream SR 90 to Alapaha River near Rebecca
Turner County
Suwannee Fishing
5
miles
1
TMDLs completed DO, Hg.
Fivemile Creek
10
Downstream Gaskins Pond to Big Cr. near Nashville
Berrien/ Lanier County
Suwannee Fishing
10 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
A -113
Reach Name/ Data Source
Grand Bay Creek
1
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Grand Bay to Alapahoochee River Lanier/ Lowndes County
Suwannee Fishing
18 miles
1
Gum Creek
2
Headwaters to New River, Tifton Tift County
Suwannee Fishing
5
miles
1
Hardy Mill Creek
1,10
U.S. Hwy. 319, S. of Tifton to Withlacoochee River
Tift/ Berrien County
Suwannee Fishing
17 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Hat Creek
1,59
SR S1989 S.E. of Sycamore to Middle Creek
Turner/ Tift/ Irwin County
Suwannee Fishing
13 miles
1
Heard Creek
10
Headwaters to Little River, near Tifton
Tift County
Suwannee Fishing
5
miles
1
Horse Creek
10
Headwaters near Sylvester to Warrior Cr.
Worth County
Suwannee Fishing
13 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
A -114
Reach Name/ Data Source Little River
1
Little River
10
New River
10
New River
10
Redland Creek
59
Rough Creek
1
Sugar Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
Wells Mill Cr. to Slaughter Creek Brooks County
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Suwannee Fishing
16 miles
1
Big Branch to Warrior Creek Tift/Colquitt/Cook County
Suwannee Fishing
24 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Brushy Cr. to Withlacoochee River, E. of Sparks
Berrien/ Cook County
Suwannee Fishing
4
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Reedy Cr. to Gum Branch near Lenox
Cook County
Suwannee Fishing
7
miles
1
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Headwaters to Withlacoochee River Suwannee
Lowndes County
Fishing
4
miles
1
U/S Alapaha River near Tifton Tift County
Suwannee Fishing
4
miles
1
Headwaters to One Mile Branch Lowndes County
Suwannee Fishing
2
miles
1
A -115
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Suwannoochee Creek
10
Bear Branch to Lees Bay Clinch County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Suwannee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
30 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Tatum Creek
10
Tower Rd. to Jones Cr. Clinch County
Suwannee Fishing
11 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Tenmile Creek
1,10
Averys Millpond to Big Cr. near Nashville
Berrien/ Lanier County
Suwannee Fishing
9
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Toms Creek
10
Headwaters to Stateline Echols County
Suwannee Fishing
23 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Warrior Creek
10
Briar Creek to Horse Creek Worth County
Suwannee Fishing
3
miles
1
Warrior Creek
10
Rock Cr. to Ty Ty Cr. near Norman Park
Colquitt County
Suwannee Fishing
8
miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Willacoochee River
10
SR 158 to Alapaha River Berrien County
Suwannee Fishing
11 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
A -116
Reach Name/ Data Source Willacoochee River
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Turkey Branch, upstream SR90/U.S. Hwy. 319 N. of Ocilla to SR 90, S.E. of Ocilla
Irwin County
Suwannee Fishing
13 miles
1
TMDL completed DO.
Baxter Creek
2
Bremen to Little River Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Beach Creek
4
Headwaters to Tallapoosa River Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
8
miles
1
Big Creek
4
Little Creek to Lassetter Creek Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Big Creek
59
Lassiter Creek to Tallapoosa River Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
1
miles
1
Brooks Creek
4
Headwaters to Tallapoosa River Carroll/ Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
10 miles
1
Buck Creek
4
Little Buck Creek to Bear Creek Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
3
miles
1
A -117
Reach Name/ Data Source
Buck Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Cantrell Lake to Little Buck Creek Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Cochran Creek
4,6
Headwaters to the Tallapoosa River Tallapoosa
Haralson County
Fishing
6
miles
1
Harris Creek
4
Headwaters to Beach Creek Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Lassetter Creek
4
Headwaters to Tallapoosa River Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
3
miles
1
Little Tallapoosa River
4
Little Tallapoosa Lake to Sharpe Creek
Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
7
miles
1
Little Tallapoosa River
1,6
Buck Creek to Buffalo Creek Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
11 miles
1
Mann Creek
4,59
Haralson County Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
6
miles
1
A -118
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tallapoosa River
4,10
Reach Location/ County
Water Mill Creek to Little River Haralson County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tallapoosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
1
Tallapoosa River
4
McClendon Creek to Water Mill Creek
Paulding/ Haralson County
Tallapoosa Drinking Water
7
miles
1
Thomasson Creek
4
Confluence of Rabbit Branch and Caney Branch to Water Mill Creek
Haralson/ Paulding County
Tallapoosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Trestle Creek
6
Temple Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Tributary to Buck Creek 1 mile d/s of Headwaters to Buck Creek
4
Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
4
miles
1
Tributary to Tallapoosa River
4
Haralson County (near Rainey and Watts Lakes)
Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
4
miles
1
A -119
Reach Name/ Data Source
Walton Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Walker Creek Haralson County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tallapoosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
1
Water Mill Creek
4
White Creek to Tallapoosa River Haralson/ Paulding County
Tallapoosa Fishing
5
miles
1
White Creek
4
Headwaters to Water Mill Creek Paulding County
Tallapoosa Fishing
2
miles
1
Allison Creek
4
Headwaters to Lookout Creek Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
Arkaqua Creek
1,13
Pine Ridge Road to Nottely River Union County
Tennessee Fishing
4
miles
1
Back Valley Creek
4
Harris Lake Dam to Mill Creek Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
1
miles
1
Bear Creek
59
Price Branch to Daniels Creek Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
A -120
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Creek
13
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Toccoa River Gilmer/ Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
1
Bitter Creek
1
Headwaters to Brasstown Creek Union County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Bryan Creek
59
Headwaters to Hemptown Creek Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Bryant Creek
4
Headwaters to Cooper Creek Union County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Butler Creek
13
Tributary to Nottely River Union County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Canada Creek
13
Union County Union County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
Cedar Grove Creek
4
Headwaters to Mud Creek Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
A -121
Reach Name/ Data Source Charlie Creek
13
Conley Creek
13
Coosa Creek
13
Corbin Creek
4
Crawfish Creek
4,13
Crawfish Creek
13
Daniel Creek
59
Reach Location/ County
Fannin County Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Tributary to Lake Nottely Union County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Union County Union County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
Headwaters to Hiawassee River Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
5
miles
1
Tributary to Lookout Creek Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Headwaters to W. Chickamauga Creek
Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
7
miles
1
Gray Creek to Bear Creek Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
A -122
Reach Name/ Data Source
Dooley Creek
13
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Nottely River Union County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
1
Dry Creek
4,13
Tributary to Lookout Creek Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
East Chickamauga Creek
4,13,59
Headwaters to Tanyard Creek Whitfield/ Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
14 miles
1
Fodder Creek
13
Towns County Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Gumlog Creek
59
West Gumlog Creek to Stateline Union/ Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
Helton Creek
13
Union County Union County
Tennessee Fishing
1
miles
1
Hightower Creek
13
Towns County Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
1
miles
1
A -123
Reach Name/ Data Source
Hog Creek
13
Reach Location/ County
Towns County Towns County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Hogjowl Creek
4
Headwaters to Mud Creek Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
10 miles
1
Hopkins Creek
4
Headwaters to E. Chickamauga Creek
Whitfield County
Tennessee Fishing
5
miles
1
Hothouse Creek
13,59
Tributary to Toccoa River Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
8
miles
1
Hurricane Creek
4,13
Tributary to S. Chickamauga Creek Tennessee
Catoosa County
Fishing
2
miles
1
Kiutuestia Creek
13
Union County Union County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Left Fork Coulter Branch Headwaters to Coulter Creek
4
Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
5
miles
1
A -124
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Little Fightingtown Creek Headwaters to Fightingtown Creek
4
Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
6
miles
1
Little Hightower Creek
1
Downstream Berrong Lake Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
1
miles
1
Lookout Creek
1,4,13
Upstream Trenton Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
21 miles
1
Mill Creek #1
4
Headwaters to Mud Creek, trib. to W. Chickamauga Creek
Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Mill Creek #2
4
Coulter Creek to W. Chickamauga Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
Moccasin Creek
13
Union County Union County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
Mud Creek
4
Hogjowl Creek to W. Chickamauga Creek
Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
1
miles
1
A -125
Reach Name/ Data Source
Noontootlah Creek
13
Reach Location/ County
Fannin County Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
Peavine Creek
4
Rock Spring Creek to Jackson Lake Tennessee Dam
Walker/ Catoosa County
Fishing
5
miles
1
Pope Creek
4
Tributary to Lookout Creek Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Rock Creek
1,13,59
Headwaters to Chattanooga Creek Dade/ Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
14 miles
1
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Rock Creek
13
Fannin County Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
5
miles
1
Skeenah Creek
13
Fannin County Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
1
miles
1
South Fork Rapier Mill Creek
59
Stateline to Stateline Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
A -126
Reach Name/ Data Source
Spring Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to State Line Catoosa County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
1
Squirrel Town Creek
13
Dade County Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
5
miles
1
Stanley Creek
4
Headwaters to Toccoa River Gilmer/ Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
4
miles
1
Star Creek
13
Tributary to Blue Ridge Lake Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
1
miles
1
Stink Creek
13
Union County Union County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
Suches Creek
13
Union County Union County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
Toccoa River
13
Headwaters to Big Creek Union/ Fannin County
Tennessee Recreation
22 miles
1
A -127
Reach Name/ Data Source
Toccoa River
13
Reach Location/ County
Hothouse Creek to Stateline Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Recreation
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
1
Town Creek
13
Union County Union County
Tennessee Fishing
3
miles
1
Upper Bell Creek
13
Towns County Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
Wauhatchie Branch
4
State line to Lookout Creek Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
1
West Chickamauga Creek
4
Mud Creek to Mill Creek Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
West Chickamauga Creek Tributary
4
Headwaters to W. Chickamauga Creek, near intersection of SR 136 & 341
Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
Wilscot Creek
13
Fannin County Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
7
miles
1
4
miles
1
3
miles
1
A -128
Reach Name/ Data Source
Wolf Creek
13
Reach Location/ County
Union County Union County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
1
A -129
Reach Name/ Data Source
Alex Creek
55,10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Mason Cowpen Branch to Altamaha Altamaha River
Wayne County
Fishing
DO
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Big Cedar Creek
10
Little Cedar Creek to Ohoopee River Altamaha
Johnson County
Fishing
DO, FC
M, NP
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Bullard Creek
4
~0.25 mi u/s Altamaha Road to Altamaha River
Jeff Davis County
Altamaha Fishing
Bio F
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Cobb Creek
10, 55
Oconee Creek to Altamaha River Toombs County
Altamaha Fishing
DO
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Cypress Creek
10
Rolands Pond to Ohoopee River Johnson County
Altamaha Fishing
DO
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Doctors Creek
10, 55
U/S Jones Creek Long County
Altamaha Fishing
DO, FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Five Mile Creek
4
Headwaters to Altamaha River Appling/ Wayne County
Altamaha Fishing
Bio F
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -130
Reach Name/ Data Source
Flat Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Little Ohoopee River Altamaha
Johnson/ Emanuel County
Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Goose Creek
10
U/S Rd. S1922(Walton Griffis Rd.) to Little Goose Creek
Wayne County
Altamaha Fishing
FC
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Jacks Creek
4,10
U.S. Hwy. 1 to Ohoopee River Emanuel County
Altamaha Fishing
DO, FC, Bio F
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC, Bio(F).
Jones Creek
10, 55
Still Creek to Doctors Creek Long County
Altamaha Fishing
DO
UR
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Little Ohoopee River
10
Neeley Creek to Sardis Creek Johnson County
Altamaha Fishing
DO, FC
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO & FC.
Little Ohoopee River
10
Gully Branch to Neeley Creek Washington County
Altamaha Fishing
DO
NP
14 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Magruda Creek
10
Headwaters to Little Ohoopee River Altamaha
Johnson/ Emanuel County
Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -131
Reach Name/ Data Source Milligan Creek
10
Nealy Creek
10
Oconee Creek
10
Ohoopee River
1,10
Ohoopee River
10
Ohoopee River
1,10
Ohoopee River
1,9,10,5 5
Reach Location/ County
Uvalda to Altamaha River Montgomery/ Toombs County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Altamaha Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
11 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Headwaters to Little Ohoopee River Altamaha
Washington/ Johnson County
Fishing
DO
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Headwaters to Cobb Creek Montgomery/ Toombs County
Altamaha Fishing
FC, DO
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC
Dyers Creek to Big Cedar Creek Washington/ Johnson County
Altamaha Fishing
FC, DO
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & DO.
Neels Creek to Little Ohoopee River Altamaha
Johnson/ Emanuel County
Fishing
DO, FC, TWR
NP
18 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC, TWR.
Little Ohoopee River to U.S. Highway 292
Emanuel/ Candler/ Tattnall County
Altamaha Fishing
TWR
NP
23 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Hwy 292 to Hwy 147 Tattnall County
Altamaha Fishing
TWR
NP
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR
A -132
Reach Name/ Data Source
Ohoopee River
1,9,55
Reach Location/ County
Ga. Hwy 147 to Confluence with Altamaha River
Tattnall County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Altamaha
Criterion Violated
TWR
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR
Fishing
Ohoopee River
10
Big Cedar Creek to Cypress Creek Johnson County
Altamaha Fishing
DO
NP,M
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Pendleton Creek
1,10
Sand Hill Lake to Reedy Creek Treutlen County
Altamaha Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Pendleton Creek
1,10
Wildwood Lake to Tiger Creek Treutlen/ Toombs County
Altamaha Fishing
DO, FC
NP
12 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Penholoway Creek
10, 55
Little Creek to Altamaha River Wayne County
Altamaha Fishing
DO
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Rocky Creek
10
Ga. Hwy. 130 to Little Rocky Creek Altamaha
Toombs County
Fishing
FC, DO
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Rocky Creek
10, 55
Little Rocky Creek to Ohoopee River Altamaha
Toombs/ Tattnall County
Fishing
DO
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
A -133
Reach Name/ Data Source
Sardis Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Little Ohoopee River Altamaha
Emanuel County
Fishing
DO, FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Swift Creek
10
Ten Mile Creek
10, 55
Thomas Creek
10,55
Old Normantown Rd. To Pendleton Creek
Toombs County
Altamaha Fishing
Little Ten Mile Creek to Altamaha River
Appling County
Altamaha Fishing
D/S CR203 to Ohoopee River Tattnall County
Altamaha Fishing
FC, DO
M, UR
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
DO
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
DO
UR
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Tiger Creek
10
Little Creek to Pendleton Creek
Treutlen/ Montgomery/ Toombs County
Altamaha Fishing
FC
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Yam Grandy Creek
10
d/s Crooked Creek Emanuel County
Altamaha Fishing
DO, FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Acorn Creek
1
Carroll County Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -134
Reach Name/ Data Source
Anneewakee Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
House Creek to Lake Monroe Douglas County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Bio(F)
Arrow Creek
1,15
Baldwin Creek
16
Headwaters to North Fork Peachtree Creek Dekalb County
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC. TMDL completed FC.
Ball Mill Creek
1,15
Fulton/DeKalb Counties Fulton/ Dekalb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Balus Creek
1,20
Gainesville Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Bear Creek
4,10
Big Creek
1
Little Bear Creek to Chattahoochee River
Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Hwy 400 to Chattahoochee River Fulton County
Chattahoochee
Fishing/ Drinking Water
Bio F FC
NP
4
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -135
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Creek
26
Reach Location/ County
Hall County Hall County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Creek
1,60,61
Headwaters to Cheatham Creek Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Cu.
Bishop Creek
2
Cobb County Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Black Creek
4
Headwaters to Hannahatchee Creek Chattahoochee
Stewart County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Blue John Creek
1,21
LaGrange Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Browns Creek
4
Headwaters to Cedar Creek Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Bubbling Creek
2
DeKalb County Dekalb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -136
Reach Name/ Data Source
Bull Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Flat Rock Creek to Cooper Creek, Columbus
Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
UR
3
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Burnt Fork Creek
2,15
DeKalb County Dekalb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Bustahatchee Creek
4
Confluence with North Fork to Lake Chattahoochee Walter F. George
Quitman County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Buttermilk Creek
14
Cobb County Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Camp Creek
10
Fulton County Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Cane Creek
4
Lumpkin County Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
8
miles
5
2017
Cavender Creek
4
Carroll County Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -137
Reach Name/ Data Source
Cedar Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Coweta County Coweta County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
DO
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Centralhatchee Creek
10
Heard County Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
19 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Chattahoochee River
1
Oliver Dam to N. Highland Dam Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FCG(PCBs)
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FCG.
Chattahoochee River
1,10
Mossy Creek to Lake Lanier Hall County
Chattahoochee Recreation
FC
NP
8
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Chattahoochee River
1,10
Soquee River to Mossy Creek Habersham/ White/ Hall County
Chattahoochee Recreation
FC
NP
5
miles
5
2007 TMDL completed TWR. TMDL drafted
for FC in 2007.
Chattahoochee River
1,10
Ga. Hwy. 17, Helen to SR255 White/ Habersham County
Chattahoochee Recreation
FC, pH, Bio F
UR
8
miles
4a,5 2017 TMDL completed FC.
Chattahoochee River
1,10
Pea Creek to Wahoo Creek
Fulton/ Douglas/ Coweta/ Carroll County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR
21 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, FCG.
A -138
Reach Name/ Data Source
Chattahoochee River
1,2,9,10, 28
Reach Location/ County
Peachtree Creek to Utoy Creek Fulton/ Cobb County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Chattahoochee Fishing
Temp, FC,
I1, UR,
9
miles
4a
FCG(PCBs)
CSO
TMDLs completed Temp, FC, FCG
Chattahoochee River
1
Johns Creek to Morgan Falls Dam Gwinnett/Fulton/Cobb County
Chattahoochee
Recreation/ Drinking Water
FC,pH
UR
17 miles
5
2007/ TMDL drafted for FC in 2007. TMDL
See
development for pH has been deferred
Note to EPA.
Chattahoochee River
1,10
Wahoo Creek to Franklin Coweta/ Carroll/ Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FCG(PCBs)
UR
21 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & FCG
Chattahoochee River
10,37
Chattahoochee/Stewart Co. line to Hannahatchee Creek
Stewart County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Chattahoochee River
1
Dicks Creek to Johns Creek Forsyth/Fulton/Gwinnett County
Chattahoochee
Recreation/ Drinking Water
pH
NP, UR
12 miles
5
2012
Chattahoochee River
1,9
Utoy Creek to Pea Creek Fulton/ Douglas County
Chattahoochee
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR,
14 miles
4a
CSO
Fishing
TMDLs completed FC, FCG
A -139
Reach Name/ Data Source
Chattahoochee River
1,10
Reach Location/ County
SR255 to Soquee River White/ Habersham County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Chattahoochee Recreation
FC, pH
NP
11 miles
4a,5 See
TMDL completed FC. TMDL
Note development for pH has been deferred
to EPA.
Chattahoochee River
1
Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Creek
Fulton/ Cobb County
Chattahoochee
Recreation/ Drinking Water
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR
12 miles
4a
Chattahoochee River
1,37
Upatoi Creek to Chattahoochee/Stewart Co. Line
Chattahoochee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
18 miles
4a
Chattahoochee River
1,11
Downstream W.F. George Dam Clay County
Chattahoochee Fishing
DO, FC
Dam
2
miles
4a
Release
, NP
TMDLs completed FC, FCG TMDL completed FC. TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Chattahoochee River
37
North Highland Dam to Upatoi Creek Chattahoochee
Muscogee County
Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR
12 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & FCG
Chestatee River
1
Tate Creek to Tesnatee Creek Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, pH
NP
7
miles
4a,5 See Note
TMDL completed FC. TMDL development for pH has been deferred to EPA.
A -140
Reach Name/ Data Source Chestatee River
1,10
Clear Creek
1
Coheelee Creek
4,59
Cracker Creek
1
Crooked Creek
1, 18
Day Creek
4
Dean Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Yahoola Creek to Lake Lanier Lumpkin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
4a
FC TMDL completed.
Atlanta Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, DO
CSO, UR
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Chancy Mill Creek to Chattahoochee River
Early County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Douglas County Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tributary to Chattahoochee River Gwinnett County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Bluff Springs Branch to Hodchodkee Chattahoochee Creek
Stewart County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Headwaters to Mossy Creek White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
A -141
Reach Name/ Data Source
Deep Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Line Creek to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Fulton County
Fishing
Bio F
NP, UR
3
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Dixie Creek
46
LaGrange Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Drag Nasty Creek
1,4,59
Tributary to W. F. George Quitman/ Clay County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
East Fork Little River
1
Downstream Hwy 52 to Lake Lanier Chattahoochee
Hall County
Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Flat Creek
1,10,4
Headwaters, Gainesville to Lake Lanier
Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
6
miles
4a,5 2007 TMDL completed FC. TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Flat Creek
4
Headwaters near Clermont to Lake Lanier
White/ Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
UR, NP
9
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Flowery Branch
26
Hall County Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -142
Reach Name/ Data Source
Foe Killer Creek
17
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Big Creek Fulton County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fourmile Creek
7
Lake Lanier Tributary Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Foxwood Branch
2
Tributary to Rottenwood Creek Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Hannahatchee Creek
10
U.S. Hwy 27 to Lake W.F. George Stewart County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
14 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Hazel Creek
9
Law Creek to the Soque River Habersham County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio M
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
Hazel Creek
4
Reservoir No. 12 to Law Creek Habersham County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Hichitee Creek
4
Caney Creek to Sand Branch Chattahoochee/ Stewart County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -143
Reach Name/ Data Source
Hilly Mill Creek
1,4
Reach Location/ County
Heard/Coweta Counties Heard/ Coweta County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Bio(F).
Hodchodkee Creek
4
Day Creek to Foreman Mill Branch Stewart County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Hodchodkee Creek
4
SR 27 to Wimberly Mill Branch Stewart County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F)
Hog Creek
4
Headwaters to Cemochechobee Creek
Randolph/ Clay County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Hog Waller Creek
17
Roswell Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Ivy Creek
4
Headwaters to Suwannee Creek Gwinnett County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
UR
10 miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
James Creek
1
Forsyth County Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP, UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -144
Reach Name/ Data Source
Johns Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Fulton County
Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Kelly Mill Branch
1
Headwaters to Orr Creek Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Lee Branch
46
LaGrange Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Level Creek
18
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Gwinnett County
Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little Hichitee Creek
4
Headwaters to Hichitee Creek Chattahoochee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F)
Little Juniper Creek
4
Headwaters to Kings Mill Pond Marion/ Chattahoochee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Little Mud Creek
1
Headwaters to Mud Creek Habersham/ Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
A -145
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Little Pine Knot Creek
4
Headwaters to Pine Knot Creek Chattahoochee County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Little Tesnatee Creek
4
Freeman Creek to u/s Hwy. 129 White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2017
Long Branch
4
Coweta County Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Long Cane Creek
4,10
Panther, Blue John & Long Cane Creeks(d/s LaGrange) to Chattahoochee River
Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F, FC
UR
14 miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), FC
Long Island Creek
10,4
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Fulton County
Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
5
miles
4a,5 2007 TMDL completed FC. TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Longwood Park Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Lullwater Creek
15
DeKalb County Dekalb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -146
Reach Name/ Data Source
Maple Branch
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Mountain Creek Coweta County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Marsh Creek (aka March Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee Creek)
1,17
Fulton County
Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Mineral Springs Branch Newnan Upstream from Bonnell
1,4
Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Mineral Springs Branch
1,2,4
Newnan Downstream from Bonnell Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
I1, UR
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F) & Tox.
Mossy Creek
1,10
Totherow Rd. near Clermont to Chattahoochee River
White/ Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Mountain Creek
4
Trib. to Mountain Creek (d/s SR 34) Chattahoochee to Maple Branch
Coweta County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Mountain Oak Creek
10
Hamilton Harris County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -147
Reach Name/ Data Source
Mt. Hope Branch
4
Reach Location/ County
Meriwether County Meriwether County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Mud Creek
1,4
Headwaters to Little Mud Creek Habersham/ Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio F
NP
13 miles
5
2007 TMDLs drafted for FC & Bio(F) in 2007.
Mud Creek
14
Ga. Hwy. 120 to Noses Creek Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Mud Creek
1
South Hall County Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Mulberry Creek
10
Ossahatchie Creek to Five Points Branch West near Mulberry Grove
Harris County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Nancy Creek
1,10,4
Headwaters to Peachtree Creek, Atlanta
Dekalb/ Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
16 miles
4a,5 2007 TMDL completed FC. TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
New River
1,10
Corinth Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -148
Reach Name/ Data Source
Nickajack Creek
1,10,4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Cobb County
Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
11 miles
4a,5 2007 TMDL completed FC. TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
North Fork Balus Creek Gainesville
20
Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
North Fork Peachtree Creek
4,15,18, 59
Headwaters to Peachtree Creek Gwinnett/ Dekalb/ Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio F, Bio M UR
14 miles
4a,5 2007/ TMDL completed FC. TMDL drafted for 2017 Bio(F) in 2007.
North Utoy Creek
1
Atlanta Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Noses Creek
4
Headwaters to Ward Creek Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Olley Creek
14,59
Cobb County Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio M
UR
11 miles
4a,5 2017 TMDL completed FC.
Ollie Creek
4
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F, DO
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), DO.
A -149
Reach Name/ Data Source
Orr Creek
1,61
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
U/S Castleberry Rd.(Tyson Foods) to Big Creek
Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Cu.
Panther Creek
1
Coweta County Coweta County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Park Branch
1,46
LaGrange Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Cu
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Cu.
Pataula Creek
10
Hodchodkee Creek to W. F. George Chattahoochee Lake
Quitman/ Clay County
Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Pataula Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Clear Creek Stewart County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F, Bio M
NP
9
miles
4a,5 2017 TMDL completed Bio(F).
Pea Creek
1,4
Cedar Grove Lake to Chattahoochee River
Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
6
miles
4a,5 2007 TMDL completed FC. TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Peachtree Creek
1,43
I-85 to Chattahoochee River, Atlanta Chattahoochee
Fulton County
Fishing
FC
UR,
7
miles
4a
CSO
TMDL completed FC.
A -150
Reach Name/ Data Source
Peavine Creek
15
Reach Location/ County
DeKalb County Dekalb County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Pepperell Creek
2
LaGrange Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Pine Knot Creek
4,59
Parkers Mill Creek to Little Pine Knot Creek
Marion/ Chattahoochee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Piney Woods Branch
4
Headwaters to Tom Keith Rd. Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Proctor Creek
1,59
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River, Atlanta
Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR,
9
miles
4a
CSO
TMDL completed FC.
Richland Creek
18
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Gwinnett County
Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Roaring Branch
4,59
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Clay County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -151
Reach Name/ Data Source
Rottenwood Creek
10,59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Cobb County
Fishing
FC, Bio M
UR
9
miles
4a,5 2017 TMDL completed FC.
Sandy Creek (also
I-285 to Chattahoochee River
known as Cooper Sandy
Creek)
10
Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Sawnee Creek
7
Lake Lanier Tributary Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
FC
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC. TMDL completed FC.
Sewell Mill Creek
10,14
Cobb County Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Shoal Creek
4
Six Mile Creek
1, 4
Headwaters (Mountville) to I-85/Ga. Chattahoochee Hwy. 403
Troup County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Headwaters to Lake Lanier Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR, NP
2
miles
4a,5 2007 TMDL completed FC. TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Slaughterhouse Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -152
Reach Name/ Data Source
Snake Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Coweta County Coweta County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Sope Creek
10,59
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Cobb County
Fishing
FC
UR
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Soquee River
1,10
SR17, Clarkesville to Chattahoochee River
Habersham County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
6
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Soquee River
1,4,10
Goshen Creek to SR 17, Clarkesville Chattahoochee
Habersham County
Fishing
FC, Bio F
NP
29 miles
4a,5 2017 TMDL completed FC.
South Fork Balus Creek Gainesville
20
Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
South Fork Limestone Headwaters to Limestone Creek Creek/Limestone Creek Arm of Lake Lanier
20,4
Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR, NP
2
miles
4a,5 2007 TMDL completed FC. TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
A -153
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
South Fork Peachtree Creek
4,10,15, 59
Headwaters to Peachtree Creek, Atlanta
DeKalb/ Fulton County
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Chattahoochee
FC, Bio F, Bio M UR
15 miles
4a,5 2017 TMDL completed FC.
Fishing
South Utoy Creek
8
Headwaters to Fairburn Rd., Atlanta Chattahoochee
Fulton County
Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Suwanee Creek
4
Suwanee Creek Lake (near Buford) Chattahoochee to Ivy Creek
Gwinnett County
Fishing
Tox, Bio F
M, UR
6
miles
4b,5 2007 Tox listing due to failed whole effluent toxicity (WET) tests by a municipal WPCP who is under a compliance schedule to meet its WET limit by March 2008. TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Suwanee Creek
10,18
Mill Creek to Chattahoochee River Gwinnett County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Sweetwater Creek
1,10
Noses Creek to Chattahoochee River
Cobb/ Douglas County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Sweetwater Creek
10
U/S Pine Valley Rd. To Noses Creek Chattahoochee
Paulding/ Cobb County
Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
FC
UR
14 miles
4a
FC
UR
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC. TMDL completed FC. TMDL completed FC.
A -154
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Talipahoga Rum Creek
59
Headwaters to Bradley Lake Tributary
Stewart County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee
Criterion Violated
Bio M
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
5
2017
Fishing
Tanyard Branch
1
Atlanta Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR,
2
miles
4a
CSO
TMDL completed FC.
Tanyard Creek
1,21
LaGrange Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Taylor Creek
26
Dawson/Forsyth Counties Dawson/ Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tesnatee Creek
1
U/S Hwy 129 to Town Creek, Cleveland
White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tesnatee Creek
1,10
Town Creek to Chestatee River White/ Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, pH
NP
5
miles
4a,5 See Note
TMDL completed FC. TMDL development for pH has been deferred to EPA.
A -155
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tiger Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Upatoi Creek, Columbus
Muscogee County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Fishing
Toto Creek
26
Dawson County Dawson County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Town Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Little Creek Heard County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Tributary to Flat Shoal Creek
4
Headwaters to Flat Shoal Creek Meriwether County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Tributary to Limestone Creek
4
Breneau Lake to Limestone Creek Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
UR, NP
1
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Tributary to Mud Creek
14
Cobb County Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -156
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to West Fork Little River
7
Headwaters to West Fork Little River in Clermont
Hall County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
5
2017
Fishing
Tributary to West Fork Little River
1
Hall County Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Troup Branch
46
LaGrange Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Turner Creek
4
Headwaters to Tesnatee Creek White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Two Mile Creek
26
Forsyth County Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Utoy Creek
10
Atlanta Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Cu, Zn
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Cu, Zn.
Wahoo Creek
1
SR 52 to Lake Lanier Lumpkin/ Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -157
Reach Name/ Data Source
Wahoo Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Upstream Arnco Mills Lake Coweta County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Ward Creek
14,4
Headwaters to Noses Creek Cobb County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
6
miles
4a,5 2007 TMDL completed FC. TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
Weaver Creek
4
Headwaters to Sawhatchee Creek Early County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Weracoba Creek
38,59
Columbus Muscogee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, Bio M
UR
6
miles
4a,5 2017 TMDL completed FC.
West Fork Little River
1,10
Headwaters to above Lake Lanier White/ Hall County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
White Creek
4,9
Headwaters to Webster Lake, Cleveland
White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Bio M, Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a,5 2007 TMDL completed Bio(M). TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
White Oak Creek
1
Fulton County Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -158
Reach Name/ Data Source
Whooping Creek
1,4,59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Carroll County
Fishing
FC
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Willeo Creek
10
Gilhams Lake to Chattahoochee River
Cobb/ Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Wolf Creek
1
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Douglas/ Carroll County
Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Woodall Creek
1
Atlanta Fulton County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, PCE, 1,1DCE
UR, I2
3
miles
4a,4b
TMDL completed FC. Tetrachloroethylene and 1,1dichloroethylene contamination is being handled by EPD's Hazardous Waste Branch. Corrective action plans underway.
Yahoola Creek
1,10
U.S. 19/ Business SR 60 to Chestatee River
Lumpkin County
Chattahoochee Fishing
Yellowjacket Creek
10,46
Hogansville to West Point Lake Troup County
Chattahoochee Fishing
FC, pH
NP
9
miles
5
2007/ TMDL drafted for FC in 2007. TMDL
See
development for pH has been deferred
Note to EPA.
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -159
Reach Name/ Data Source
Acworth Creek
14,35
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Lake Acworth Cobb County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Allatoona Creek
4,10
Headwaters to Little Allatoona Creek Coosa
Cobb County
Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
9
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed FC.
Alpine Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Stateline Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F, Bio M
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Amicalola Creek
10,47
Headwaters near Hwy 52 to Etowah Coosa River
Dawson County
Fishing
FC
NP
24 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Armuchee Creek
3,10
Oostanaula River Tributary Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB
I2, NP
20 miles
4a
TMDLs completed CFB, FC.
Armuchee Creek Tributary
4,59
Headwaters to Armuchee Creek Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Avery Creek
4
Bradshaw Lake to Mill Creek Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
5
2013
A -160
Reach Name/ Data Source
Bannister Creek
9
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
Reservoir #4 to the Etowah River Forsyth County
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Coosa Fishing
Bio M
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M)
Beech Creek
3,4,10
Downstream Hicks Lake, near Rome to Coosa River
Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB, FC, Bio F, I2, NP DO
10 miles
4a,5 2013 TMDLs completed CFB & FC.
Big Cedar Creek/Cedar Creek
3,10
Johnson Lake Rd., Cedartown to Coosa River, Lake Weiss
Polk/ Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
FC, CFB, pH UR, I2
25 miles
4a,5 2013 TMDLs completed FC, CFB.
Big Dry Creek
2,3
Rome Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
FC, CFB
UR, I2
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, CFB
Bow Creek
4
Headwaters to Oostanula River Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Burwell Creek
3
Rome Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB
I2
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed CFB.
Butler Creek
4,14
Headwaters to Lake Acworth Cobb County
Coosa Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
6
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed FC.
A -161
Reach Name/ Data Source
Camp Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Dry Creek to Oostanaula River Gordon County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
5
2013
Cane Creek
10
Dry Creek to Chattooga River Walker/ Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Cartecay River
1,10
Owltown Creek to Coosawattee River
Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Cedar Creek
4
Ballard Creek to Pine Log Creek Bartow/ Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Cedar Creek Tributary
4
Headwaters to Cedar Creek Polk County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Chappel Creek
2
U/S Chattooga River, Trion Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Chattooga River
4,10
Towns Creek to Duck Creek Walker County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
10 miles
5
2013
A -162
Reach Name/ Data Source Chattooga River
1,10
Chattooga River
1,40
Chattooga River
1,10
Chelsea Creek
4
Coahulla Creek
1,10
Coahulla Creek
10
Cochran Creek
47
Reach Location/ County
Lyerly to Stateline Chattooga County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
5
2013
Cane Creek, Trion to Henry Branch Coosa
Chattooga County
Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Henry Branch to Lyerly Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Headwaters to Teloga Creek Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Below 728 Road to Mill Creek Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Mill Creek to Conasauga River Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Gab Creek to Amicalola Creek Dawson County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
5
2013
A -163
Reach Name/ Data Source
Conasauga River
1,10
Reach Location/ County
Hwy. 286 to Holly Creek Whitfield/ Murray County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Coosa
FC, FCG(PCBs) NP
Fishing/ Drinking Water
18 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, FCG.
Conasauga River
1,10
Holly Creek to Oostanaula River Murray/ Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR
24 miles
4a
TMDLs completed for FCG, FC.
Conasauga River
1,10
Stateline to Hwy 286 Murray/ Whitfield County
Coosa
FC, FCG(PCBs) NP
Fishing/ Drinking Water
20 miles
5
2013
Connesena Creek
9,10
Sipsey Creek to Etowah River Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
Bio M
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M)
Connesenna Creek
3,4
Etowah River Tributary Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
CFB, Bio F
I2, NP
6
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed CFB.
Coosa River
1,3,10
Rome to Beach Creek Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB,
I2, UR
14 miles
4a
FCG(PCBs), FC
TMDLs completed CFB, FCG (PCBs), FC
Coosa River
1,3,10
Beach Creek to Stateline Floyd County
Coosa
Fishing/ Recreation
CFB,
I1,I2
FCG(PCBs),
DO, Temp
17 miles
4a,5 2013 TMDLs completed CFB, FCG & DO.
A -164
Reach Name/ Data Source
Coosawattee River
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Salacoa Creek to Oostanaula River Coosa
Gordon County
Fishing
FCG(PCBs) NP,UR
10 miles
5
2013
Coosawattee River
1,10
Confluence with Ellijay River to Mountaintown Creek
Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Cox Creek
57
Ellijay Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Dozier Creek
3,10,59
Oostanaula River Tributary Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB, FC
I2,NP
3
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed CFB.
Drowning Bear Creek
4
Tar Creek to Little Creek Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F, FC
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Dry Creek
10
Little Dry Creek to Coosawattee River
Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
DO
NP,UR
3
miles
5
2013
Duck Creek
10
Headwaters to Chattooga River Walker County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
13 miles
5
2013
A -165
Reach Name/ Data Source
Dykes Creek
4,9,10,5 9
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Etowah River Floyd County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Bio M, CFB, FC NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed Bio(M)
East Fork Little River
4,10,59
Headwaters to Alabama State Line Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
Bio M
NP
10 miles
5
2013
Ellijay River
10
Upstream Coosawattee River Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Etowah River
10
Settingdown Creek to Long Swamp Coosa Creek
Cherokee County
Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Etowah River
10
Sharp Mountain Creek to Lake Allatoona
Coosa
FC
NP
20 miles
5
2013
Cherokee County
Fishing/ Drinking Water
Etowah River
10
Proctor Creek To Black Creek Dawson County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -166
Reach Name/ Data Source
Etowah River
1,10
Reach Location/ County
Euharlee Creek to US Hwy 411 Bartow County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Coosa Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR
10 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, FCG(PCBs).
Etowah River
1,10,24, 44
Lake Allatoona to Richland Creek Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs), NP DO
12 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, FCG (PCBs), DO
Etowah River
1
Richland Creek to Euharlee Creek Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
FCG(PCBs)
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FCG(PCBs).
Etowah River
1,3,10
Hwy. 411 to Coosa River Bartow/ Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB, FC,
I2, NP
21 miles
4a
FCG(PCBs)
TMDLs completed CFB, FC, FCG(PCBs).
Etowah River Tributary
4
Headwaters to Etowah River Lumpkin County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Euharlee Creek
9
D/S Plant Bowen to the Etowah River
Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
Bio M
UR, NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
Euharlee Creek
1,9,10
Hills Creek to upstream Plant Bowen Coosa
Bartow County
Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Bio(M).
A -167
Reach Name/ Data Source Fish Creek
4
Flat Creek
1
Haig Mill Creek
4
Hamilton Creek
3
Heath Creek
1,10
Hills Creek
4
Holly Creek
4,47
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Euharlee Creek Polk County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
13 miles
5
2013
Upstream Coosawattee River Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Haig Mill Lake to Mill Creek Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
5
2013
Coosa River Tributary Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB
I2
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed CFB.
Downstream Rocky Mountain Project Coosa
Floyd County
Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Coots Lake to Euharlee Creek Polk/ Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
13 miles
5
2013
Headwaters to Amicalola Creek Dawson County
Coosa Fishing
FC, Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
A -168
Reach Name/ Data Source Holly Creek
10
Holly Creek
10
Horseleg Creek
3,10
Hurricane Creek
4
Jacks Creek
4
Jacks River
10,59
Johns Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Rock Creek to Conasauga River Murray County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC
Downstream Chatsworth Murray County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
5
2013
Rome Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB, FC
I2,NP
4
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed CFB.
Mill Creek to Etowah River Lumpkin County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Headwaters to Pine Log Creek Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Rough Creek to Stateline Fannin/ Murray County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
5
2013
Oostanaula River Tributary Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
5
2013
A -169
Reach Name/ Data Source
Jones Branch
4,59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Euharlee Creek Bartow County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Bio F, Bio M
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
5
2013
Kings Creek
3,4,10,5 9
Coosa River Tributary Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB, Bio F, FC I2, NP
4
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed CFB.
Lawrence Creek
4
Headwaters to Pumpkinvine Creek Paulding County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP,UR
4
miles
5
2013
Lick Creek
4
Headwaters to Redbud Creek Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
5
2013
Lick Creek
4,59
Redbud Creek to Salacoa Creek Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Little Amicalola Creek
47
Headwaters to Amicalola Creek Dawson County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Little Cedar Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Cedar Creek Polk/ Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
10 miles
5
2013
A -170
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Dry Creek
3
Reach Location/ County
Rome Floyd County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
CFB
Potential Causes
I2
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed CFB.
Little Noonday Creek
14
Cobb County Cobb County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little River
1,10,41
Hwy 140 to Lake Allatoona Fulton/ Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
12 miles
5
2013
Little Scarecorn Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Talking Rock Creek Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
Bio M
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Long Swamp Creek
10
Hwy 53 to Etowah River, near Ball Ground
Pickens/ Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Lovejoy Creek
4
Headwaters to Muck Creek Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Lynn Creek
4
Headwaters to Oothkalooga Creek Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
A -171
Reach Name/ Data Source
Macedonia Slough
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Etowah River Bartow County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
5
2013
Mill Creek
4
Haig Mill Creek to Coahulla Creek Whitfield County
Coosa
Drinking Water/ Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
5
2013
Mill Creek
10
Crandall Ellijay Rd (C.R. 27) to Conasauga River
Murray County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
10 miles
5
2013
Mill Creek Tributary
4
Headwaters to Mill Creek Murray County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Mountaintown Creek
1,10
Hwy. 282 to Coosawattee River Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Mt. Hope Creek
3,4
Coosa River Tributary Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB, Bio F
I2, NP
5
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed CFB.
Mud Creek
4
Headwaters to Clear Creek Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
A -172
Reach Name/ Data Source
Nancy Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Pettit Creek Bartow County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
5
2013
Noblet Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Coosawattee River Murray/ Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Noonday Creek
4,10,41, 59
Little Noonday Creek to Lake Allatoona
Cobb/ Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
FC, Bio F, Bio M NP
8
miles
5
2013
Noonday Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Noonday Creek Coosa
Cobb County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
10 miles
5
2013
Oostanaula River
1,10
Conasauga/Coosawattee to Oothkalooga Creek
Gordon County
Coosa Drinking Water
FCG(PCBs), FC NP, UR
11 miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed FCG.
Oostanaula River
1,10
Oothkalooga Creek to Hwy 156 Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, FCG(PCBs)
Oostanaula River
1,10
Hwy 156 to Hwy. 140 Gordon/ Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR
18 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, FCG.
A -173
Reach Name/ Data Source
Oostanaula River
1,3,10
Reach Location/ County
Hwy 140 to Coosa River Floyd County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Coosa
CFB,
I2, NP
14 miles
4a
FCG(PCBs), FC
Fishing/ Drinking
Water
TMDLs completed CFB, FCG(PCBs), FC.
Oostanula River Tributary
4
Headwaters to Kings Lake Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Oothkalooga Creek
9,10
U/S Bartow Co. Line to Oostanaula River
Bartow/ Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
14 miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed Bio(M).
Owl Creek
41
Lake Allatoona Tributary Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Perennial Springs Tributary
4
Headwaters to Perennial Springs
Coosa
Chattooga County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Pettit Creek
10
Satterfield Branch to Nancy Creek Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
5
2013
A -174
Reach Name/ Data Source
Pine Log Creek
9,10
Reach Location/ County
Cedar Creek to Salacoa Creek Gordon County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC, Bio M
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
Polecat Branch (aka Polecat Creek)
4,59
Headwaters to Sharp Mountain Creek
Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
Bio M
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Polecat Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Conasauga River Murrary/ Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F, FC, Bio M NP
10 miles
5
2013
Proctor Creek
4,14
Headwaters to Lake Acworth Cobb County
Coosa Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
4
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed FC.
Pumpkinvine Creek
4
Weaver Creek to Little Pumpkinvine Coosa Creek (north of Dallas)
Paulding County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
14 miles
5
2013
Pumpkinvine Creek
10
Little Pumpkinvine Creek to Etowah Coosa River
Paulding/ Bartow County
Fishing
FC
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Raccoon Creek
10
u/s Chattooga River, Berryton Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -175
Reach Name/ Data Source
Rocky Creek
17
Reach Location/ County
D/S Garrett Lake Fulton County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Rowland Springs Branch Lake Allatoona Tributary
24
Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Rubes Creek
4,41
Headwaters to Little River Cobb/ Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
7
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed FC.
Salacoa Creek
1,10
Pine Log Creek to Coosawattee River
Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Salacoa Creek
9
Pinhook Creek to Pine Log Creek Gordon County
Coosa Fishing
Bio M
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
Settingdown Creek
4
Squattingdown Creek to Thalley Creek
Forsyth County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Settingdown Creek
9
Thalley Creek to Hurricane Creek Forsyth County
Coosa Fishing
Bio M
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
A -176
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Sharp Mountain Creek
10,47
Rock Creek to Etowah River Cherokee County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
14 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Sharp Mountain Creek
59
Town Creek to Polecat Branch Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
Bio M
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Shoal Creek
10,41
Hwy 140 to Lake Allatoona Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
17 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Silver Creek
3,4,10
Headwaters to Etowah River, Rome Coosa
Floyd County
Fishing
CFB, FC, Bio F I2, UR
15 miles
4a,5 2013 TMDLs completed CFB, FC.
Smith Creek/Cabin Creek
3,10
Smith Creek Headwaters to Coosa River, Lake Weiss
Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB
I2, UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed CFB.
Snake Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Oostanaula River Gordon/ Walker County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F, FC
NP
11 miles
5
2013
Spring Creek
10
Walker/Chattooga County Walker/ Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -177
Reach Name/ Data Source
Spring Creek
3,10
Reach Location/ County
Etowah River Tributary Floyd County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
CFB, Hg
Potential Causes
I2, NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDLs completed CFB, Hg, FC.
Stamp Creek
10
Lake Allatoona Tributary Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Stover Creek
4
Headwaters to Swamp Creek Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Swamp Creek
4
Little Swamp Creek to Conasauga River
Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Tails Creek
1,10
Hwy. 282 to Carters Lake Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Talking Rock Creek
10,59
Town Creek to Scarecorn Creek Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, TWR.
Tanyard Creek
14
White Lake to Lake Allatoona Cobb County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -178
Reach Name/ Data Source
Toms Creek
3,4,10
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Etowah River Bartow County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
CFB, FC
Potential Causes
I2, NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed CFB.
Toonigh Creek
4
Headwaters to Lake Allatoona Cherokee County
Coosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Town Creek
4
Queen City Lake to Chattooga River Coosa
Walker County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Tributary to Allatoona Creek
14
Cobb County Cobb County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tributary to Jobs Creek Headwaters to Jobs Creek
56
Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
PCE
I2
1
miles
4b
Data from EPD's Harzardous Waste Branch. Facility under a corrective action plan.
Tributary to Oothkalooga Peters Street to Oothkalooga Creek, Coosa
Creek
Calhoun
2
Gordon County
Fishing
Tributary to Pettit Creek Cartersville
2
Bartow County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -179
Reach Name/ Data Source
Two Run Creek
3,10
Reach Location/ County
Clear Creek to Etowah River Bartow County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
CFB, FC
Potential Causes
I2, NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
10 miles
4a
TMDLs completed CFB, FC.
Unnamed Tributary to Conasauga River
56
DOW Chemical Co. to Conasauga River near Nance Springs
Whitfield County
Coosa Fishing
carbon
I2
tetrachloride
1
miles
4b
Data from EPD's Hazardous Waste Branch. Facility under a corrective action plan.
Webb Creek
3,10
Coosa River Tributary Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB
I2, NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed CFB, FC.
Woodward Creek
3,10
Oostanaula River Tributary Floyd County
Coosa Fishing
CFB, FC
I2, NP
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed CFB & FC.
Angelica Creek
4,59
Unnamed Tributary 1.9 miles U/S US Hwy 19 to Lake Collins
Sumter County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Avera Creek (aka Spring Headwaters to Beaver Creek Creek)
4
Crawford County
Flint Fishing
Bio F, pH
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F) & pH.
Aycocks Creek
1,10
Kaney Head Creek to Spring Creek Flint
Miller County
Fishing
FC
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -180
Reach Name/ Data Source Bailey Branch
4
Baptist Branch
4
Basin Creek
4
Beaver Creek
1
Beaver Creek
10
Beaver Creek
48
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Browns Millpond Sumter County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Downstream Blakely Early County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Upson County Upson County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Headwaters to Patsiliga Creek, Butler
Taylor County
Flint Fishing
TWR
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Spring Hill Creek to Flint River Macon County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Headwaters to Spring Hill Creek, SW Marshallville
Macon County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC. DO was listed as an impairment in 2006. EPD is removing DO as a cause of impairment and is considering it to be in category 3 for DO until more data is collected to make a listing decision. This should be done by 2010.
A -181
Reach Name/ Data Source
Beaver Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Spring Creek Crawford County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F, DO
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
11 miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), DO.
Beaver Dam Creek
42
Lake Joy to Flint River Clayton County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Bell Creek
10
Headwaters, d/s Thomaston, to Potato Creek
Upson County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Slough
1,10
Near Pelham Mitchell County
Flint Fishing
DO, FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & DO.
Buck Creek
10,4
Fox Branch to Flint River near Oglethorpe
Schley/ Macon County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Camp Creek
42
Headwaters to Flint River Clayton County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP,UR
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Clear Creek
59
Headwaters to Kinchafoonee Creek Flint
Stewart/ Webster County
Fishing
Bio M
NP
7
miles
5
2017
A -182
Reach Name/ Data Source
Coleoatchee Creek
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Copeland Lake Tributary
Meriwether/ Talbot County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint
Criterion Violated
Bio M
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
5
2017
Fishing
Cooleewahee Creek
4,10
Piney Woods Branch to Flint River near Newton
Dougherty/ Baker County
Flint Fishing
FC, Bio F
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(F).
Dry Creek
1,10
Headwaters, d/s Blakely, to Spring Creek
Early County
Flint Fishing
DO
UR
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
East Jesters Creek
42
Headwaters to Jesters Creek Clayton County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Elkins Creek
10
Bull Creek to Flint River near Molena
Pike/ Upson County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fish Pond Drain
10,59
U.S. Hwy. 84, Donalsonville to Wash Pond
Seminole County
Flint Fishing
FC, DO
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & DO.
A -183
Reach Name/ Data Source Flat Creek
1
Flint River
1,10,42
Flint River
1,10,42, 59
Flint River
10
Fowltown Creek
10
Gulley Creek
10,59
Reach Location/ County
Lake Peachtree to Line Creek, Peachtree City
Fayette County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint
Criterion Violated
DO
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Fishing
Hwy 138 to N. Hampton Road Clayton County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Hartsfield Airport to Hwy 138 Clayton County
Flint Fishing
FC, Bio M
UR
8
miles
4a,5 2017 TMDL completed FC.
Horse Creek to Spring Creek Macon County
Flint Fishing
D/S Armena Rd. To Kinchafoonee Creek
Lee County
Flint Fishing
Upstream Lake Blackshear Crisp County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
16 miles
5
2017
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
DO
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
A -184
Reach Name/ Data Source
Gum Creek
4,10
Reach Location/ County
Downstream Cordele to Lake Blackshear
Crisp County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint
Criterion Violated
FC, Bio F
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Bio(F).
Fishing
Heads Creek
4
D/S Griffin Reservoir to Wildcat Creek
Spalding County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Horsehead Creek
59
Headwaters to Hogcrawl Creek Macon County
Flint Fishing
Bio M
NP
6
miles
5
2017
Hurricane Creek
42
Headwaters to Flint River Clayton County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Jesters Creek
42
East Jesters Creek to Flint River Clayton County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
5
2017
Lanahassee Creek
4,10
W. Fork Lanahassee Creek to Kinchafoonee Creek
Webster County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Lee Creek
4
D/S Lake Henry to Beaver Creek Crawford County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -185
Reach Name/ Data Source
Lewis Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Pike County Pike County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Lime Creek
10,4
Little Lime Creek to Lake Blackshear
Sumter County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Line Creek
1,10
Flat Creek to Flint River Fayette/ Spalding/ Coweta County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
15 miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Little Vine Creek
59
Headwaters to Beaver Creek Taylor County
Flint Fishing
Bio M
NP
7
miles
5
2017
Little Whitewater Creek (aka Big Whitewater Creek)
4,59
Black Creek to Whitewater Creek Taylor County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Mercer Mill Creek (Mill Creek)
4
Boy Scout Road to Flint River Worth County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -186
Reach Name/ Data Source
Middle Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Kinchafoonee Creek Flint
Terrell County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Morning Creek
42
Headwaters to Flint River Fayette County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR,NP
12 miles
5
2017
Muckaloochee Creek
10
Smithville Pond [aka Wells Mill Pond] to Muckalee Creek
Lee County
Flint Fishing
FC
M, NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Muckaloochee Creek
4
Little Muckaloochee Creek to Smithville Pond
Sumter County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Mud Creek
42
Downstream Hapeville Fulton/ Clayton County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Cu, Zn.
North Branch
4
Crawford County Crawford County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Parkers Mill Creek
59
Headwaters to Angelica Creek Schley/ Sumter County
Flint Fishing
Bio M
NP
5
miles
5
2017
A -187
Reach Name/ Data Source
Patsiliga Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to McCants Mill Pond Talbot/ Taylor County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Patsiliga Creek
4,9,10
Beaver Cr. to Flint River, Butler Taylor County
Flint Fishing
TWR, FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed TWR, FC.
Pennahatchee Creek
48
Sandy Mount Creek to Turkey Creek Flint
Dooly County
Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Pessell Creek
4
Headwaters to Kinchafoonee Creek Flint
Sumter County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Pigeon Creek
4,59
Meriwether County Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
Bio M
NP
8
miles
5
2017
Potato Creek
4
Headwaters to U.S. Hwy. 333 Spalding/ Lamar County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP, UR
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Potato Creek
4,10
U.S. Hwy. 333 to Upson Co. Line Lamar County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -188
Reach Name/ Data Source
Powder Creek
4,59
Reach Location/ County
Pike County Pike County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio M
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
5
2017
Rambulette Creek
4
Headwaters to Whitewater Creek Taylor County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Red Oak Creek
10
Little Red Oak Creek to Flint River near Imlac
Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
Shoal Creek
4,59
Little Shoal Creek to Little Creek Marion County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Spring Creek
4,10
SR62 near Arlington to Aycocks Creek
Early/ Miller County
Flint Fishing
DO, Bio F
UR
22 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, Bio(F).
Spring Creek
10,4
Aycocks Creek to Lake Seminole Decatur County
Flint Fishing
TWR
NP
15 miles
5
Spring Creek
4,9
Headwaters to Flint River near Montezuma
Macon County
Flint Fishing
Bio M
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
A -189
Reach Name/ Data Source
Spring Creek
10,25
Reach Location/ County
Lake Blackshear Sumter County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Zn, Pb
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Pb, Zn.
Sullivan Creek
42
Clayton County Clayton County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Cu.
Sweetwater Creek
1,4,10,2 5
Headwaters to Flint River, Andersonville
Sumter/ Macon County
Flint Fishing
pH, Bio F
NP, UR
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed pH, Bio(F).
Swift Creek
10
Tobler Creek to Flint River Upson County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Swift Creek
10
U/S Lake Blackshear Turner/ Crisp County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Town Branch
4
Thomaston Upson County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Town Creek
4,59
Rigas Road to Muckalee Creek Sumter County
Flint Fishing
Bio M
NP
2
miles
5
2017
A -190
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Bear Creek Headwaters to Bear Creek
59
Terrell/ Webster County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio M
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
5
2017
Tributary to Nash Creek Fayetteville
2
Fayette County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Turkey Creek
10,48
Pennahatchee Creek, NW Cordele to Flint River
Dooly County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Turkey Creek
4,48
Rogers Branch to Pennahatchee Creek
Dooly County
Flint Fishing
FC
M, NP
9
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for FC in 2007.
Turkey Creek
1
Newnan to Reese Lake Coweta County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Ulcohatchee Creek
10
Headwaters to Auchumpkee Creek Flint
Crawford County
Fishing
FC
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Wasp Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Wasp Creek Spalding/ Pike County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2007 TMDL drafted for Bio(F) in 2007.
A -191
Reach Name/ Data Source
White Oak Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Newnan - I-85 to Chandlers Creek Coweta County
Flint Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
White Oak Creek
10
Chandlers Creek to Bear Creek Coweta/ Meriwether County
Flint Fishing
DO
UR
14 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Whitewater Creek
4
Headwaters to Lees Lake Fulton/Fayette County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Whitewater Creek
10
Big Whitewater Creek to Cedar Creek
Taylor/ Macon County
Flint Fishing
FC, pH
NP
17 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, pH.
Whitewater Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Whitewater Creek
Taylor County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Whitewater Creek
10
Cedar Creek to Flint River Macon County
Flint Fishing
FC, pH
UR
13 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, pH
Wildcat Creek
10
Heads Creek to Flint River Spalding County
Flint Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -192
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Willingham Spring Creek Upson County
4
Upson County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Flint Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Wolf Creek
4
Headwaters to Ichawaynochaway Creek
Terrell County
Flint Fishing
Bio F
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Attapulgus Creek
1
Callahan Br. to Little Attapulgus Cr. Ochlockonee
Decatur County
Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Aucilla River
10
Masse Branch to Brooks County line Ochlockonee near Boston
Thomas County
Fishing
DO, FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Big Creek
10
Woodhaven Rd. E. of Coolidge to Ochlockonee River
Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
DO, FC
NP
12 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Big Creek
10
Headwaters to Little Cr. near Meigs Ochlockonee
Mitchell/ Thomas County
Fishing
FC
NP
12 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
A -193
Reach Name/ Data Source
Bridge Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Mill Cr. to upstream Ga. Hwy. 111 near Moultrie
Colquitt County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Connell Creek
59
Headwaters to Aucilla River Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
Bio M
NP
10 miles
5
2015
E. Br. Barnetts Creek
10
Horse Cr. to Barnetts Cr. near Ochlocknee
Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
5
2015 TMDL completed DO.
Little Attapulgus Creek
10
Downstream Crescent Lake to Attapulgus Creek
Decatur County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little Creek
10
Ga. Hwy. 37 to Ochlockonee River near Moultrie
Colquitt County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
5
2015 TMDL completed DO.
Little Ochlockonee River Slocumb Branch to downstream SR Ochlockonee 111 near Moultrie
10
Colquitt County
Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
A -194
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Tired Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
SR188 downstream Cairo to Tired Cr.
Grady County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Lost Creek
10
Upstream Ga. Hwy. 93 N.E. of Cotton to Little Ochlockonee River
Mitchell/ Colquitt County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Ochlockonee River
10
Headwaters, upstream Ga. Hwy. 112 near Sylvester to Bay Branch, E. of Bridgeboro
Worth County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Ochlockonee River
1
SR 37 downstream Moultrie to Bridge Creek
Colquitt/ Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
TWR
NP, M
14 miles
4a
TMDLs completed TWR, FC, DO.
Ochlockonee River
1
Oquina Creek to Stateline Thomas/ Grady County
Ochlockonee Fishing
TWR
NP
33 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Ochlockonee River
10
Bridge Cr. to Oquina Creek Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
TWR
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDLs completed TWR, DO
A -195
Reach Name/ Data Source
Ochlockonee River
10
Reach Location/ County
D/S Ga. Hwy. 270 to Wolf Pit Branch(d/s Giles Millpond)
Colquitt County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ochlockonee
Criterion Violated
DO, FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
4a,5 2015 TMDL completed DO.
Fishing
Olive Creek
2
Headwaters to upstream U.S. Hwy. 19, Thomasville
Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
DO, FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Oquina Creek
10
Bruces Branch to Cassidy Rd., Thomasville
Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Parkers Mill Creek
10
Headwaters to Tired Cr., Cairo Grady County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
M
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Swamp Creek
10
SR 262 to Stateline Decatur County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Tired Creek
9,10
Turkey Cr. to Ochlockonee River Grady County
Ochlockonee Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
A -196
Reach Name/ Data Source Wards Creek
10
Alcovy River
1
Alcovy River
1
Alcovy River
18
Alligator Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Pine Cr. to McKeever Slough E. of Metcalf
Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
DO
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Mountain Creek to Big Flat Creek Walton/ Newton County
Ocmulgee Drinking Water
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Cedar Creek to Bay Creek Walton County
Ocmulgee
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
Fishing/ Drinking Water
TMDL completed FC.
Headwaters to Walton Co. Line Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Batson Creek to Lime Sink Creek Dodge/ Laurens County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, pH
NP
12 miles
4a,5 See
TMDLs completed DO, FC. TMDL
Note development for pH has been deferred
to EPA.
Almand Branch
1
Tanyard Branch to Snapping Shoals Ocmulgee
Rockdale County
Fishing
FC, pH
UR
5
miles
4a,5 See
TMDL completed FC. TMDL
Note development for pH has been deferred
to EPA.
A -197
Reach Name/ Data Source
Barbershela Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Snapfinger Creek DeKalb County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Bay Creek
4,10
Headwaters to Beaver Creek Peach/ Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F, FC, DO UR, M
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), FC & DO.
Bay Creek
1
Headwaters to Alcovy River Gwinnett/ Walton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Beaver Ruin Creek
18
Gwinnett County Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Cotton Indian Creek Tar Creek to Panther Creek
42
Clayton/ Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
1
miles
5
2016
Big Cotton Indian Creek Panther Creek to Brush Creek
1
Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC
Big Flat Creek
1,10
Headwaters to Flat Creek Walton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
M, UR
13 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Tox.
A -198
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Grocery Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River Houston County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Big Haynes Creek
Headwaters to Brushy Fork Creek Ocmulgee
FC
UR
9
miles
4a
18
Gwinnett County
Fishing/ Drinking
Water
TMDL completed FC.
Big Haynes Creek
23
Little Haynes Creek to Yellow River Ocmulgee
Rockdale County
Drinking Water
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Haynes Creek
1,23
Brushy Fork Creek to Little Panther Ocmulgee Creek
Rockdale County
Drinking Water
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Horse Creek
4,10
Alligator Creek to Ocmulgee River Telfair County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F) & DO.
Big Indian Creek
1
Mossy Creek to Ocmulgee River Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Indian Creek
4
Flat Creek to Mossy Creek Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -199
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Sandy Creek
4,10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Aboothlacoosta Creek to Ocmulgee Ocmulgee River
Butts/ Monroe County
Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Sandy Creek
4
Upstream Indian Springs Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Bluff Creek
4
Ten Mile Creek to Ocmulgee River Pulaski County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Boar Tusk Creek
10
Headwaters to Yellow River Rockdale County
Ocmulgee Fishing
pH
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed pH, FC.
Bromolow Creek
1,18
Headwaters to Beaver Ruin Creek Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Brown Branch
4
Headwaters (Locust Grove) to Wolf Ocmulgee Creek
Henry County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Brushy Fork Creek
10,18
Lake Carlton to Big Haynes Creek Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -200
Reach Name/ Data Source
Butlers Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Ocmulgee River Jones County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Cabin Creek
1,3,4,10
Headwaters, Griffin to Towaliga River
Spalding County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F, Tox, FC I1, UR
16 miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), Tox, FC.
Calaparchee Creek
4
Upstream Lake Wildwood Monroe/ Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Camp Creek
10
Headwaters to Jackson Creek Dekalb/ Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Carr Branch
4
Headwaters to Yellow River Rockdale County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Cedar Creek
4
Headwaters to Brushy Creek Wilcox County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Cobbs Creek
1,4
Headwaters to Shoal Creek Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(F).
A -201
Reach Name/ Data Source
Cole Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Tobesofkee Creek Lamar/ Monroe County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Conley Creek
1,42
Headwaters to South River Clayton/ Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Crooked Creek
4
Cypress Lake to Ocmulgee River Dodge County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Deep Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Echeconnee Creek Crawford County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Doless Creek
1
Headwaters to Dolittle Creek Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
DO, FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO, FC
Doolittle Creek
1,4
Headwaters to South River Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC & Bio(F).
Dried Indian Creek
4
Headwaters to Yellow River Newton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
UR, NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -202
Reach Name/ Data Source
Eightmile Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Towaliga River Monroe County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Falling Creek
1
Little Falling Creek to Ocmulgee River
Jones County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Flat Creek
4
~0.4 mi u/s of US Hwy 41 to Big Indian Creek
Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Folsom Creek
4
~0.2 mi d/s CR 33 to Ocmulgee River
Wilcox County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Garner Creek
4
Headwaters to Yellow River Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
UR, NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Gladesville Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Falling Creek Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Gully Creek
10
Rocky Branch to Ocmulgee River Jeff Davis County
Ocmulgee Fishing
DO, FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO & FC.
A -203
Reach Name/ Data Source
Gum Swamp Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Reedy Creek to Ga. Hwy. 257 Bleckley/ Dodge County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Hansford Branch
4
Monroe County Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Harmon Pye Branch
4
Tributary to Wise Creek Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Hartley Branch
4
Tributary to Deep Creek Crawford County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Herds Creek
4
D/S Ga. Hwy. 212 to Ocmulgee River
Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Honey Creek
1
Headwaters to South River Dekalb/ Rockdale County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Horse Creek
4
Headwaters to Alligator Creek Dodge/ Telfair County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
17 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -204
Reach Name/ Data Source
Horse Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River, Warner Robins
Houston County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ocmulgee Fishing
pH
UR
4
miles
5
See
TMDL development for pH has been
Note deferred to EPA.
House Creek
4
Headwaters to Haw Pond Creek Wilcox County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
House Creek
10
Ball Creek to Little House Creek Wilcox/ Ben Hill County
Ocmulgee Fishing
DO, pH, FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, pH, FC.
Intrenchment Creek
1,4,59
Headwaters to South River, Atlanta Ocmulgee
Fulton/ Dekalb County
Fishing
FC, Bio F, Bio M UR, CSO
6
miles
4a,5 2016 TMDLs completed FC & Bio(F).
Island Shoal Creek
4
Headwaters to Mackey Creek Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Jackson Creek
1,18
Gwinnett County Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Limestone Creek
4
Okeetuck Creek to Big Indian Creek Ocmulgee
Houston County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -205
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Chehaw Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Chehaw Creek Jones County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Little Cotton Indian Creek Confluence of Reeves and Rum Creeks to Clayton Co. Hooper Reservoir
42
Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP,UR
2
miles
5
2016
Little Deer Creek
4
Headwaters to Deer Creek Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Little Deer Creek Tributary
4
Headwaters to Little Deer Creek Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Little Echeconnee Creek Headwaters to Echeconniee Creek
10
Crawford County
Ocmulgee Fishing
DO
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Little Haynes Creek
1
Hwy 20 to Big Haynes Creek Walton/ Rockdale County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -206
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Stone Mountain Creek
1
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Stone Mountain Lake Ocmulgee
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Dekalb County
Fishing
Little Suwanee Creek
4,10
Lake Perrin to Yellow River Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC & Bio(F).
Long Branch
4
Tributary to Ocmulgee River Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Malholms Creek
4
Headwaters(Jenkinsburg) to Tussahaw Creek
Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
McClain Branch
1
Headwaters to Honey Creek Rockdale County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Mill Dam Creek
4
Monroe County Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Mosquito Creek
10
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River Dodge/ Pulaski County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, DO
NP
18 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & DO.
A -207
Reach Name/ Data Source
Mossy Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Mule Creek to Lake Joy Peach/ Houston County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Mountain Creek
4
Headwaters to Sewage Treatment Pond #2 (South of Monroe)
Walton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
UR, NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
No Business Creek
18
Headwaters to Norris Lake Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
North Branch South River
2
Atlanta Fulton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR,
3
miles
4a
CSO
TMDL completed FC.
Ocmulgee River
1
Walnut Creek to Tobesofkee Creek Ocmulgee
Bibb County
Fishing
FCG(PCBs)
UR
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FCG.
Ocmulgee River
1
Sandy Run Creek to Big Indian Creek
Houston/ Twiggs/ Bleckley County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
23 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -208
Reach Name/ Data Source Ocmulgee River
1
Ocmulgee River
1
Otter Creek
4
Panther Creek
42
Pew Creek
1,18
Phinazee Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Echeconnee Creek to Sandy Run Creek
Twiggs/ Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FCG(PCBs)
UR
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FCG.
Tobesofkee Creek to Echeconnee Creek
Bibb/ Twiggs County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FCG(PCBs), FC UR
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FCG & FC.
~1.7 mi u/s GA 182 (Old River Rd) to Ocmulgee River
Ben Hill County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Headwaters to Big Cotton Indian Creek
Clayton/ Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP,UR
6
miles
5
2016
Gwinnett County Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Lamar/Monroe Counties Lamar/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -209
Reach Name/ Data Source Pughs Creek
18,59
Red Creek
4
Reeves Creek
42
Rock Creek
4
Rocky Creek
4
Rocky Creek
4
Rocky Creek
1
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Yellow River Gwinnett County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio M
Potential Causes
NP,UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
5
2016
Tributary to Rocky Creek Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Minska Pinska Dam to Little Cotton Indian Creek
Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP,UR
5
miles
5
2016
Upstream Lite-N-Tie Rd. Jones County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Upstream Lake Wildwood Monroe/ Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Upstream Big Sandy Creek Monroe/ Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
1 mi. u/s Rocky Creek Rd to Tobesofkee Creek, Macon
Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -210
Reach Name/ Data Source
Rocky Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Jasper County Jasper County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Rocky Creek
4,59
D/S English Rd (CR152) to Towaliga Ocmulgee River
Monroe County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Rum Creek
4,10
Headwaters to Lake Juliette Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F, FC
NP, M
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F) & FC.
Rum Creek
42
Lake Spivey to Little Cotton Indian Creek
Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP,UR
4
miles
5
2016
Sand Branch
4
Tributary to Towaliga River Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Sandy Run Creek
10
Headwaters to Bay Gall Creek Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
DO, pH
UR
7
miles
4a,5 See Note
TMDL completed DO. TMDL development for pH has been deferred to EPA.
Sandy Run Creek
1,2,4,10
Bay Gall Creek to Ocmulgee River Houston County
Ocmulgee Fishing
DO, Cu
UR, M
5
miles
4a
A -211
TMDLs completed DO & Cu.
Reach Name/ Data Source
Scoggins Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Ocmulgee River Jones County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Shetley Creek
1,10
Headwaters to Bromolow Creek Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Shoal Creek
1,4
Headwaters to South River Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(F).
Shoal Creek
1
Headwaters to Alcovy River, Lawrenceville
Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Snapfinger Creek
1,59
DeKalb County Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, Bio M
UR
18 miles
4a,5 2016 TMDL completed FC.
Snapping Shoals Creek Almand Branch to South River
1,4
Rockdale/ Newton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC & Bio (F).
South River
1,10,43, 4,59
Atlanta to Flakes Mill Road Fulton/ Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, Bio F, Bio M UR, CSO
16 miles
4a,5 2016 TMDLs completed FC, Bio(F) & FCG
A -212
Reach Name/ Data Source
South River
1,10
Reach Location/ County
Flakes Mill Road to Pole Bridge Creek
Dekalb County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR, CSO
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, FCG
South River
1
Hwy 20 to Snapping Shoals Creek Henry/ Newton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs) NP
11 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, FCG(PCBs).
South River
1,10
Snapping Shoals to Jackson Lake Newton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
South River
1,10
Pole Bridge Creek to Hwy 20 Rockdale/ Henry County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, FCG(PCBs) UR,
15 miles
4a
CSO
TMDLs Completed FC, FCG
Stone Mountain Creek
1
Headwaters to Stone Mountain Lake Ocmulgee
Dekalb County
Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Sturgeon Creek
4
Dickson Mill Creek to Ocmulgee River
Ben Hill County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Sugar Creek
1
U/S Memorial Drive to South River Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -213
Reach Name/ Data Source
Sugar Creek
4,10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Turnpike Creek to Little Ocmulgee River
Telfair County
Ocmulgee Fishing
pH, FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed pH, FC & DO.
Sweetwater Creek
10,18
Lee Daniel Creek to Yellow River Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Swift Creek
1
Headwaters to Yellow River Dekalb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Ten Mile Creek
4
~0.7 mi u/s GA Hwy 257 to Bluff Creek
Pulaski County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Third Branch
4
Tributary to Ocmulgee River Jones County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Tobesofkee Creek
9
Todd Creek to Little Tobesofkee Creek
Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio M
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
Tobesofkee Creek
1,10
Lake Tobesofkee to Rocky Creek Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, DO
UR
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC & DO.
A -214
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tobesofkee Creek
4,9,10
Reach Location/ County
Barnesville to Cole Creek Lamar/ Monroe County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F, Bio M, FC NP
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), Bio(M) & FC.
Tobesofkee Creek
9,10
Cole Creek to Todd Creek Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Bio(M).
Tobler Creek
4
Tributary to Ocmulgee River Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Towaliga River
1,4
Indian Creek to High Falls Lake Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC
Town Branch
1,4,10
Headwaters (Jackson) to Aboothlacoosta Creek
Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F, FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), FC.
Town Creek
4
Headwaters to Rum Creek Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP, M
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Tributary to Gum Branch Headwaters to Gum Branch
59
Bibb County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio M
NP
4
miles
5
2016
A -215
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tributary to Little Haynes Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Little Haynes Creek Ocmulgee
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Walton County
Fishing
Tributary to Tobesofkee Barnesville Creek
4
Lamar County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
I1, NP
2
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), Tox.
Turkey Creek
1,10,18
Headwaters to Yellow River Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Turnpike Creek
10
Hwy 280 to Sugar Creek Telfair County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, pH
NP
24 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, pH, DO.
Tussahaw Creek
4,10
Wolf Creek to Lake Jackson Butts County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Upton Creek
42
Headwaters to Big Cotton Indian Creek
Clayton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
NP,UR
3
miles
5
2016
Walnut Creek
4
Downstream Hwy 42 Crawford County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -216
Reach Name/ Data Source Walnut Creek
4,10
Watson Creek
1,10,18
White Creek
4
Wise Creek
4,10
Wood Creek
4
Yellow River
1
Yellow River
1
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River Jones/ Bibb County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F, FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
20 miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), FC.
Headwaters to Yellow River Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Lamar/Monroe Counties Lamar/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River Jasper County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F, FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), FC.
Headwaters to d/s Ga. Hwy. 83 Lamar/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Hammock Creek to Big Haynes Creek
Rockdale County
Ocmulgee Drinking Water
FC
UR
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Headwaters to Harris Lake Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC, pH
UR
3
miles
4a,5 See
TMDL completed FC. TMDL
Note development for pH has been deferred
to EPA.
A -217
Reach Name/ Data Source Yellow River
1,10
Yellow River
1,18
Yellow River
1
Yellow River
18
Allen Creek
10
Allen Creek
1,20
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Big Haynes Creek to Jackson Lake Ocmulgee
FC
UR
25 miles
4a
Newton County
Fishing/ Drinking Water
TMDL completed FC.
Sweetwater Creek to Centerville Creek
Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Harris Lake to Pew Creek Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
FC
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Centerville Creek to Hammock Creek
Ocmulgee
Gwinnett/ Dekalb/ Rockdale County Fishing
FC
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
1 mile d/s Georgia Hwy 11 to Middle Oconee Oconee River
Jackson County
Fishing
FC
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Monroe Drive to 1 mi. d/s Ga. Hwy. 11, Gainesville
Hall/ Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -218
Reach Name/ Data Source
Alligator Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Ugly Creek Twiggs County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Apalachee River
1,10
Williamson Creek to Marburg Creek Oconee
Barrow/ Walton County
Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Apalachee River
18
Headwaters to unnamed tributary 1500 ft u/s Apalachee Road
Gwinnett County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Apalachee River
1
Marburg Creek to Lake Oconee Oconee/ Morgan/ Greene County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
35 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, TWR.
Barber Creek
4,10
Small pond about 0.5 miles u/s Bethlehem Rd to McNutt Creek
Barrow/ Oconee County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP,UR
17 miles
5
2016
Beaverdam Creek
10
Oliver Creek to Lake Oconee, S. of Greensboro
Greene County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Cedar Creek
10,36
Hog Creek to Lake Sinclair Jones/ Putnam/ Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -219
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Indian Creek
1
Reach Location/ County
I-20 to Little Indian Creek Morgan County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Sandy Creek
10
Little Sandy Creek (near Madison) to Hard Labor Creek
Morgan County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Sandy Creek
10,59
Headwaters to Little Sandy Creek (near Good Hope)
Morgan/ Walton County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Big Sandy Creek
1,10
Porter Creek to Oconee River Wilkinson/ Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
14 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Bluff Creek
10
D/S Wiggins Road to Oconee River Oconee
Washington County
Fishing
DO, pH, FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, pH & FC.
Bottoms Branch
20
Tributary 5 to North Walnut Creek, Gainesville
Hall County
Oconee Fishing
DO
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Briar Creek
4
Headwaters to Hard Labor Creek Morgan County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -220
Reach Name/ Data Source Brooklyn Creek
10
Buffalo Creek
1,4,10
Calls Creek
4,10
Carr Creek
1,10
Carver Branch
2
Cedar Creek
10
Cedar Creek
4,59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Middle Oconee River, Athens
Clarke County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fishing
Keg Creek to Oconee River Washington County
Oconee Fishing
pH, Zn, FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDLs completed pH, Zn. & FC.
Lumpkin Branch to Middle Oconee River
Oconee County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Headwaters to North Oconee River, Oconee Athens
Clarke County
Fishing
Bio F, FC
I1, UR
2
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), FC, pH.
Tributary to Trail Creek, Athens Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Headwaters to Oconee River, Athens Oconee
Clarke County
Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Headwaters to Maiden Creek Wilkinson County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -221
Reach Name/ Data Source
Cedar Creek
1,10
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Winder Reservoir Barrow County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Oconee Fishing
FC, pH
NP
4
miles
4a,5 See Note
TMDL completed FC. TMDL development for pH has been deferred to EPA.
Cedar Creek
36
King Branch to Big Cedar Creek Jasper/ Jones County
Oconee Fishing
Chandler Creek (aka Candler Creek)
10,59
Headwaters to North Oconee River Oconee
Hall/ Jackson County
Fishing
Cloverhurst Branch
2
Athens Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
Commissioner Creek
10
Little Commissioner Creek to Upstream Oconee River
Wilkinson County
Oconee Fishing
Crooked Creek
4
Headwaters to Turkey Creek Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
Crooked Creek
4
Putnam County Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
14 miles
4a
FC
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC. TMDL completed FC.
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
pH
NP, I2
16 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC. TMDL completed pH.
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
Bio F
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F). TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -222
Reach Name/ Data Source
Crooked Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Commissioner Creek Oconee
Jones County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Cypress Creek
4
Little Cypress Creek to Oconee River Oconee
Montgomery County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
E. T. Creek
1,20
Headwaters to North Walnut Creek, Oconee Gainesville
Hall County
Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
East Fork Trail Creek
1
Headwaters to West Fork Trail Creek, Athens
Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fishing Creek
10
McWhorter Creek to Lake Oconee Greene County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Freeman Creek
4
Headwaters to Apalachee River Oconee County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Hardeman Creek
4
Headwaters to Sandy Creek Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -223
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Hunnicutt Creek (aka Mitchell Bridge Branch)
1
Headwaters to Middle Oconee River, Athens
Clarke County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fishing
Jacks Creek
10
Grubby Creek to Indian Creek Walton County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP,UR
9
miles
5
2016
Keg Creek
4
Little Keg Creek to Buffalo Creek Washington County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Kingswood Branch
1,2,10
Tributary to McNutt Creek, Athens Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
FC, pH
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, pH.
Lamars Creek
4
Headwaters to Buffalo Creek Washington County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Limestone Creek
4
Mount Vernon to Oconee River Montgomery County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Limestone Creek
4
Kings Pond/Political Pond at Kaolin Oconee Road to Keg Creek
Washington County
Fishing
Bio F
I1, I2, NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -224
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Commissioner Creek
4,10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ga. Hwy. 18 to Commissioner Creek Oconee
Wilkinson County
Fishing
Bio F, FC
I1, I2, NP
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), FC.
Little Creek
4
Headwaters to Richland Creek Greene County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Little Fishing Creek
4
Baldwin County Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Little Mulberry River
10
Headwaters to Mulberry River Gwinnett/ Barrow County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little River
9,36
Big Indian Creek to Glady Creek Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
Bio M
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
Little River
1,9,10
Glady Creek to Lake Sinclair Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
FC, Bio M
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
Little River
36
Gap Creek to Big Indian Creek Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -225
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little River
1,10
Reach Location/ County
Shoal Creek to Gap Creek Morgan/ Putnam County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
14 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little River
1
Social Circle to Nelson Creek Walton/ Newton County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little Sugar Creek
10
Headwaters to Lake Oconee Morgan County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Lotts Creek
4
Headwaters to Oconee River Wheeler County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Marburg Creek
4
Marbury Lake to Masseys Lake Barrow County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Marburg Creek
1,10
Masseys Lake to Apalachee River Barrow County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Tox.
McNutt Creek
10
Headwaters at GA 316 & Dials Mill Road to Middle Oconee River
Clarke/ Oconee County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP,UR
12 miles
5
2016
A -226
Reach Name/ Data Source
Middle Oconee River
10
Reach Location/ County
Big Bear Creek to McNutt Creek Clarke County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Middle Oconee River
10
Dosters Creek to Mulberry River Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Middle Oconee River
10
McNutt Creek to North Oconee River Oconee
Clarke/ Oconee County
Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Middle Oconee River
9,10
Mulberry River to Big Bear Creek Jackson/ Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Bio(M).
Mulberry River
1,9,10
Little Mulberry River to Middle Oconee River
Barrow/ Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
18 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
Mulberry River
9,10
Mulberry Creek to Little Mulberry River
Hall/ Jackson/ Barrow County
Oconee Fishing
FC, Bio M
UR
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
Murder Creek
1
Wolf Creek to Lake Sinclair Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -227
Reach Name/ Data Source
N. Bypass Branch
2
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Tributary to Middle Oconee River, Athens
Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Noketchee Creek
4
Headwaters to Sandy Creek Madison/ Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
UR, NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
North Oconee River
9
Headwaters to Buffington Mill Creek Oconee
Hall County
Fishing
Bio M
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M)
North Oconee River
9,10
Buffington Mill Creek to Chandler Creek
Hall/ Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Bio(M).
North Oconee River
1
Sandy Creek to Trail Creek, Athens Oconee
Clarke County
Drinking Water/ Fishing
FC
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
North Oconee River
1
Trail Creek to Oconee River Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR, M
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -228
Reach Name/ Data Source
North Oconee River
1
Reach Location/ County
Jackson County to Sandy Creek Clarke County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Oconee
FC
Fishing/ Drinking Water
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Cu.
North Oconee River
1,10
Chandler Creek to Bordens Creek Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
North Oconee River
1,10
Bordens Creek to Curry Creek Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
North Walnut Creek
20
Gainesville (Downstream Hall County Camp)
Hall County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Ochwalkee Creek (aka Okeewalkee Creek)
4,10
Unnamed tributary 550 ft U/S Little New York Rd. to Oconee River
Laurens/ Wheeler County
Oconee Fishing
pH, Bio F
NP
18 miles
4a
TMDLs completed pH, Bio(F) & DO.
Ochwalkee Creek (aka Okeewalkee Creek)
4
Headwaters to unnamed tributary 550 ft u/s of Little New York Road
Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -229
Reach Name/ Data Source Oconee River
1,10
Oconee River
1,10
Oconee River
1
Peterson Creek
4
Pond Fork
10
Pond Fork
10,59
Reach Location/ County
Long Branch to Turkey Creek Laurens County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Confluence of North & Middle Oconee Rivers, Athens to Barnett Shoals Dam
Clarke/ Oconee County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed for FC, TWR.
Barnett Shoals to Lake Oconee Oconee/ Greene County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
16 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, TWR.
Headwaters to Oconee River Wheeler County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Headwaters to East Pond Fork Hall/ Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
East Pond Fork to Middle Oconee River
Jackson County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -230
Reach Name/ Data Source Red Bluff Creek
4
Reedy Creek
4
Richland Creek
1,10
Richland Creek
10
Rocky Creek
4
Rooty Creek
1,4,10
Sandy Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Little Red Bluff Creek to Oconee River
Treutlen County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Fishing
Headwaters to Turkey Creek Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Upstream Greensboro to Interstate 20
Greene County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP, UR
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Interstate 20 to Beaverdam Creek Greene County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Bay Branch to Buckhorn Branch Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Rd. S926, Eatonton to Little Creek Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
FC, Bio F
NP, UR
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Bio(F).
Headwaters to Harrison's Lake/Little Oconee Sandy Creek
Jones/ Twiggs County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -231
Reach Name/ Data Source
Sandy Run Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Hancock County Hancock County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Sugar Creek
10
South Sugar Creek to Lake Oconee Oconee
Morgan County
Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tanyard Creek
1,10
U/S North Oconee River, Athens Clarke County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tiger Creek
4
Headwaters to Buffalo Creek Hancock/ Washington County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Tobler Creek
4
Baldwin County Baldwin County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Town Creek
10
Hwy. 15 to Richland Creek, Greensboro
Greene County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Town Creek
10
Penfield to Lake Oconee Greene County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -232
Reach Name/ Data Source
Trail Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
East Fork Trail Creek to North Oconee River, Athens
Clarke County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fishing
Tributary to Little River
1,9,10
Eatonton to Little River Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
Tox, FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Tox & FC.
Tributary to North Walnut Creek
20
Gainesville Hall County
Oconee Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Turkey Creek
1
Rocky Creek to Oconee River Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Turkey Creek
1,10
Horse Branch to Rocky Creek Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
FC
M, NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Walnut Creek
9
Headwaters to Caney Fork Creek Hall County
Oconee Fishing
Bio M
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
Walnut Creek
1,9
Caney Fork to Middle Oconee River Oconee
Hall/ Jackson County
Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
14 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
A -233
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
West Fork Trail Creek
10
Athens Clarke County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Oconee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Wheeler Creek
18
Headwaters to Duncan Creek Gwinnett/ Barrow County
Oconee Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Zoie Brown Creek
4
Tributary to Buffalo Creek Hancock County
Oconee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Ash Branch
55
Futch Branch to Lower Black Creek Ogeechee
Bulloch County
Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
5
2014
Big Creek
10
Kelley's Pond to Ogeechee River, Louisville
Jefferson County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Black Creek
10,55
Ash Branch to Mill Creek near Blitchton
Bulloch/ Bryan County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Buckhead Creek
10
Downstream Spring Mill Branch to Ogeechee River, Millen
Jenkins County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -234
Reach Name/ Data Source
Bull Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Strickland Pond to Canoochee River Ogeechee near Daisy
Evans County
Fishing
DO
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Canoochee Creek
10
Upstream SR 119, Ft. Stewart Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Canoochee Creek
1
Taylors Creek to Canoochee River, Fort Stewart
Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO
M
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Canoochee River
1,55
Savage Creek to Ogeechee River Bryan/ Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
TWR, DO
NP
18 miles
4a
TMDLs completed TWR, DO.
Canoochee River
1
Lotts Creek to Savage Creek Bryan/ Evans/ Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
TWR
NP
38 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Canoochee River
1,55
Fifteen Mile Creek to Cedar Cr. Candler/ Evans County
Ogeechee Fishing
TWR
NP
14 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Canoochee River
1,55
Cedar Creek to Lotts Creek Evans County
Ogeechee Fishing
TWR, DO
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDLs completed TWR & DO.
A -235
Reach Name/ Data Source
Canoochee River
1,10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ga. Hwy. 192 to Fifteen Mile Creek near Metter
Emanuel/ Candler County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO, FC, TWR
UR
21 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC & TWR.
Casey Canal
10,50,51
Head of Canal to DeRenne Ave., Savannah
Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO, FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Casey Canal
10,50,51 ,59
DeRenne Ave. to Montgomery Crossroad, Savannah
Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO, FC,
UR
FCG(Dieldrin)
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC, FCG(Dieldrin)
Cedar Creek
10
Water Hole Creek to Canoochee River, Claxton
Evans County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO, FC
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Dry Branch
4
GA Hwy 24 to Rocky Creek Burke County
Ogeechee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Eightmile Creek
4
Headwaters to Buckhead Creek Burke County
Ogeechee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
A -236
Reach Name/ Data Source
Fifteenmile Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Stocking Head Branch to Canoochee River near Metter
Candler County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ogeechee
Criterion Violated
DO, FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Fishing
Horse Creek
1,10
Little Horse Creek to Ogeechee River near Rocky Ford
Screven County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO, FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Iric Branch
55
Pond 0.5 miles d/s US 80 to Upper Black Creek
Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
5
2014
Jackson Branch
1
Upstream King Finishing Company from SR17 to Co. Rd. 39, Dover
Screven County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Jackson Branch
1
Downstream King Finishing Company from SR17 to Ogeechee River, Dover
Screven County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little Ogeechee River
10
Two Mile Creek to Hamburg Mill Pond near Culverton
Hancock/ Washington County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -237
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Little Ogeechee River
10,50
Little Ogeechee Pond to below US Hwy. 17 near Burroughs
Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC, DO
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Little Ogeechee River
55
Ogeechee Run to Little Ogeechee Pond
Effingham/ Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO
UR
14 miles
5
2014
Lotts Creek
10
U.S. Hwy. 301 to Little Lotts Creek near Register
Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Mill Creek
55
George Branch to Black Creek Bryan County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
5
2014
Mill Creek
10
Newsome Branch to Ogeechee River near Statesboro
Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Nevills Creek
10
Bay Gull Creek to Ogeechee River near Rocky Ford
Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO, FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
A -238
Reach Name/ Data Source
North Fork Ogeechee River
10
Reach Location/ County
Hwy. 77 to Ogeechee River near Crawfordville
Greene/ Taliaferro County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ogeechee
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fishing
Ogeechee Creek
10
Rd. S2178 to Ogeechee River near Oliver
Screven County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Ogeechee River
1,55
Black Creek to Richmond Hill
Ogeechee
Bryan/ Effingham/ Chatham County Fishing
TWR
NP
21 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Ogeechee River
9,55
U.S. Hwy. 301 to Black Creek Bulloch/ Bryan County
Ogeechee Fishing
TWR
NP
59 miles
4a
TMDLs completed TWR & DO.
Ogeechee River
9
Hwy. 102 to U.S.Hwy 301
Washington/ Glascock/ Jefferson/ Jenkins/ Emanuel/ Burke County
Ogeechee Fishing
TWR
NP
98 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Ogeechee River
10
Powell Creek to Beaverdam Creek near Powelton
Hancock County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -239
Reach Name/ Data Source
Peacock Creek
10,59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
Hwy. 144 to North Newport River near McIntosh
Liberty County
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ogeechee
DO, FC
UR
17 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC& DO.
Fishing
Rocky Comfort Creek
10
Joes Creek to Ivey Branch near Edgehill
Glascock/ Jefferson County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Rocky Comfort Creek
10
Duhart Creek to Ogeechee River, Louisville
Jefferson County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
S. Newport River
1,10
Upstream US Hwy. 17, South Newport
Liberty/ McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Sculls Creek
10
Richardson Creek to Ogeechee River near Scarboro
Jenkins County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO, FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Taylors Creek
1
Downstream WPCP Discharge to Drainage Canal, Fort Stewart
Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
DO
M
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
A -240
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tenmile Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Upstream Canoochee River, Excelsior
Candler County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ogeechee
Criterion Violated
DO, FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Fishing
Thick Creek
55
Headwaters to Lotts Creek Evans County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
5
2014
Williamson Swamp Creek
1,10,55
Hwy. 24 to Limestone Creek, Davisboro
Washington/ Jefferson County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC
NP
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Williamson Swamp Creek
10
Mill Creek to Ogeechee River, Wadley
Jefferson County
Ogeechee Fishing
FC, DO
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & DO.
Alabaha River
1
Tan Trough Cr. to Satilla River Pierce County
Satilla Fishing
FC
NP
12 miles
5
2015
Big Creek
55
South Prong Big Cr. to Satilla River Satilla
Brantley County
Fishing
DO
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
A -241
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Satilla Creek
10,52,55
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters near Hazlehurst to Sweetwater Cr. near Baxley
Jeff Davis/ Appling County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Satilla
Criterion Violated
DO, FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
34 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO, FC.
Fishing
Big Satilla Creek
55
Sweetwater Creek to Colemans Creek
Appling/ Pierce/ Brantley County
Satilla Fishing
FC
NP
12 miles
5
2015
Boggy Creek
55
Headwaters to Lake Lindsay Grace Satilla
Wayne County
Fishing
DO
NP
10 miles
5
2015
Broxton Creek
10
Seven Cr. to Seventeen Mile River near Broxton
Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
DO
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO, FC.
Buffalo Creek
55
Little Buffalo Cr. to Satilla River Brantley County
Satilla Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
5
2015 TMDL completed DO.
City Drainage Canal
2,55
Trib. to Satilla River, Waycross Ware County
Satilla Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -242
Reach Name/ Data Source
Colemans Creek
55
Reach Location/ County
Dry Branch S. of Surrency to Big Satilla Cr. near Screven
Appling/ Wayne County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Satilla
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
17 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Fishing
Dry Creek
55
Headwaters to Boggy Creek Wayne County
Satilla Fishing
DO, FC
NP
11 miles
5
2015
Dry Creek
55
Headwaters to Hurricane Creek Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
5
2015
Hog Creek
1,10
Downstream CR185 to Hurricane Cr. near Nicholls
Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
FC
UR
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Hog Creek
10
Hurricane Cr. to Satilla River S. of Nicholls near Bickley
Coffee/ Ware County
Satilla Fishing
DO
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Hurricane Creek
55
Bear Creek to Dry Creek Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
FC
NP,UR
4
miles
5
2015
A -243
Reach Name/ Data Source
Hurricane Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Downstream Little Cr. to Ten Mile Cr. near Alma
Bacon County
Satilla Fishing
FC
NP
20 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Little Hurricane Creek
10
Ga. Hwy. 32 to Hurricane Cr. Bacon/ Ware/ Pierce County
Satilla Fishing
DO, FC
NP
22 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Little Red Bluff Creek
55
Headwaters to Red Bluff Creek Atkinson County
Satilla Fishing
DO
NP, M
8
miles
5
2015
Little Satilla Creek
10
Keene Bay Branch to Dry Branch near Odum
Wayne County
Satilla Fishing
FC
UR
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO, FC.
Little Satilla Creek
55
Dry Branch to Boggy Creek (Dry Creek)
Wayne County
Satilla Fishing
DO, FC
NP
9
miles
5
2015
Little Satilla Creek
55
Boggy Cr. to Little Satilla River near Satilla Screven
Wayne County
Fishing
DO, FC
NP
3
miles
4a,5 2015 TMDL completed DO.
A -244
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Satilla River
55
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Big Satilla Cr. to Sixty Foot Branch Pierce/ Wayne/ Brantley County
Satilla Fishing
DO, FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Pudding Creek
10
Park Bay to Satilla River N. of Pearson
Atkinson County
Satilla Fishing
DO, FC
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Roses Creek
10
Upstream Ga. Hwy. 206 to Seventeen Mile River near Broxton
Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
FC
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Satilla Creek
10
Hunters Cr. E. of Ocilla to Satilla River
Irwin/Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
DO
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Satilla River
10
Pudding Cr. to Smut Br. near Pearson
Atkinson County
Satilla Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Satilla River
1
U.S. Highway 84/Ga. Hwy. 38 to 6 miles downstream Hwy 15/121
Ware/ Pierce/ Brantley County
Satilla Fishing
TWR
UR
23 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
A -245
Reach Name/ Data Source
Satilla River
1,55
Reach Location/ County
Rose Cr. to White Oak Cr. Camden County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Satilla Fishing
Criterion Violated
DO
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
19 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Satilla River
1,9
Six miles d/s of Ga. Hwy. 15 to Bullhead Bluff
Pierce/ Brantley/ Camden County
Satilla Fishing
TWR
NP
76 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Satilla River
10
Satilla Cr. to Reedy Cr. near Douglas
Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
DO
NP
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Seventeen Mile River
55
Twenty Mile Cr. N. of Douglas to Otter Cr. downstream Gen. Coffee St. Park
Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
DO, FC
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Seventeen Mile River
55
Twentynine Mile Cr. to Satilla River Satilla
Coffee/ Atkinson/ Ware County
Fishing
DO
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Sweetwater Creek
10
Black Water Creek to Big Satilla Cr. Satilla near Baxley
Appling County
Fishing
DO, FC
UR
12 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
A -246
Reach Name/ Data Source
Yellow Bluff Creek
55,59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to approximately 1 mile Satilla d/s US Hwy 25
Glynn County
Fishing
DO, FC
NP
2
miles
5
2015
Bear Creek
1,2
Downstream Lavonia WPCP Franklin County
Savannah Fishing
DO
M
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Beaverdam Creek
10
Confluence of North & South Beaverdam Creeks to Savannah River near Elberton
Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
22 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Beaverdam Creek
1
Downstream Commerce Jackson County
Savannah Fishing
DO
M
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Big Toms Creek/Toms Creek
4
Ayers Pond/Reservoir 14 to North Fork Broad River
Stephens/ Franklin County
Savannah Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
5
2014
Brier Creek
1,9,10
Hwy 305 to MacIntosh Creek Burke County
Savannah Fishing
TWR, FC
NP
19 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & TWR.
A -247
Reach Name/ Data Source Brier Creek
1,9,10,5 5
Brier Creek
10
Broad River
10
Broad River
10
Broad River
10
Brushy Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
MacIntosh Creek to Savannah River Savannah
Burke/ Screven County
Fishing
TWR
NP
26 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Big Brier Creek to Sweetwater Creek near Thomson
McDuffie County
Savannah Fishing
Hwy. 77 to Clarks Hill Lake Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
SR 281 to Scull Shoal Creek near Danielsville
Madison County
Savannah Fishing
Deep Creek to South Fork Broad River
Madison/ Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
SR 80 (Rd. S1571) west Wrens to Brier Creek
Jefferson/ Burke County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
FC
NP
15 miles
4a
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC. TMDL completed FC.
FC
NP
7
miles
5
2014
FC
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -248
Reach Name/ Data Source
Buck Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Downstream Sylvania WPCP to Savannah River
Screven County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Savannah Fishing
DO, FC
M
12 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC, cyanide, Zn & Toxicity.
Butler Creek
1,10,53
Phinizy Ditch to Savannah River, Augusta
Richmond County
Savannah Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO & Pb.
Cedar Creek
10
Little Cedar Creek to Savannah River near Montevideo
Hart County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Chechero Creek
9
Headwaters to Stekoa Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M, FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(M), FC
Clark Creek
10
Greensboro Branch to Long Creek near Tignall
Wilkes County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Cold Water Creek
10
SR 77 to Little Cold Water Creek near Ruckersville
Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -249
Reach Name/ Data Source
Cowpen Branch
55
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Runs Branch Effingham County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Fishing
Criterion Violated
DO, FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
5
2014
Crawford Creek
9,10
Upstream Lake Hartwell near Lavonia
Franklin County
Savannah Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
Dove Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Dove Creek Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
5
2014
Eastanollee Creek
2,3,4,10
Toccoa to Lake Hartwell Stephens County
Savannah Fishing
FC, Bio F, Tox M, UR
14 miles
4a,5 2014 TMDLs completed FC, Tox, Zn & Cu.
Ebenezer Creek
55
Long Bridge to Savannah River near Savannah Springfield
Effingham County
Fishing
DO, pH
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, pH.
Falling Creek
10
Dry Fork Creek to Broad River near Savannah Fortsonia
Elbert County
Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fortson's Creek
2
Elberton to Beaverdam Creek Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -250
Reach Name/ Data Source
Grove Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to South Fork Broad River
Oglethorpe County
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Savannah
Bio F
UR, NP
12 miles
5
2014
Fishing
Headstall Creek
4
U/S Tudor Road to Brier Creek McDuffie County
Savannah Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F)
Hudson River
10
Mountain Creek to Webb Creek near Homer
Banks County
Savannah Fishing
FC
UR, M
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Hudson River
10
Black Creek to Nails Creek near Fort Lamar
Franklin/ Madison County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Jones Creek
2
Tributary to Savannah River near Evans
Columbia County
Savannah Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Law Ground Creek
9
Headwaters to West Fork Chattooga Savannah River
Rabun County
Fishing
Bio M
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
A -251
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Cedar Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Cedar Creek Hart County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
5
2014
Little Coldwater Creek
4,59
Headwaters to Boyds Creek Hart County
Savannah Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2014
Little Crawford Creek
9
Headwaters to Lake Hartwell Franklin County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M)
Little River
10,49
Rocky Creek to Clarks Hill Lake Wilkes County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little River
10
Confluence of N. & S. Forks to Kettle Creek near Washington
Taliaffero/ Wilkes County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little Shoal Creek
4,9
Headwaters to Lake Hartwell Hart County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M, Bio F
NP
6
miles
4a,5 2014 TMDL completed Bio(M).
Long Creek
10
Macks Creek to Clark Creek Wilkes County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -252
Reach Name/ Data Source
Mattox Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Big Creek McDuffie County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP, UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
5
2014
McBean Creek
10
Poorly Branch (aka Rebecca Walker Savannah Creek) to Savannah River
Richmond/ Burke County
Fishing
FC
NP
14 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Middle Creek
10
Childers Creek to Big Creek (trib to Clarks Hill Lake), near Wrightsboro
McDuffie County
Savannah Fishing
DO
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Middle Fork Broad River Nancy Town Creek to Hunters Creek
10
Banks/ Franklin County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
13 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Nancytown Creek
4
Headwaters to Nancytown Lake Habersham County
Savannah Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2014
No. Fork Broad River
10
Unawatti Creek to Broad River near Savannah Carnesville
Franklin County
Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -253
Reach Name/ Data Source
Panther Creek (Big Panther Creek)
4,10
Reach Location/ County
Upstream Lake Yonah
Habersham/ Stephens County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah
Criterion Violated
FC, Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
4a,5 2014 TMDL completed FC.
Fishing
Pool Creek
9
Headwaters to Stekoa Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M)
Reed Creek
10
Upstream Lake Hartwell Hart County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Reed Creek
10
Rd. S1727 to Bowen Pond near Martinez
Columbia County
Savannah Fishing
FC
UR
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Reed Creek
2
Bowen Pond to Savannah River Columbia County
Savannah Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Reedy Creek
10
Warren Co. line to Brier Creek near Savannah Wrens
Jefferson County
Fishing
FC
NP
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Roach Mill Creek
9
Headwaters to Warwoman Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
A -254
Reach Name/ Data Source
Rocky Creek
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Phinizy Ditch Richmond County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio M
Potential Causes
NP, UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
5
2014
Rocky Creek
10
Rocky Creek
9
SR 56 to below New Savannah Road, Augusta
Richmond County
Savannah Fishing
Washington to Little River Wilkes County
Savannah Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Bio F
UR
12 miles
4a
TMDLs completed Cu, Tox, Bio(F).
Runs Branch
1,55
Sand Pond to Cowpen Branch Effingham County
Savannah Fishing
DO
NP
7
miles
5
2014
Runs Branch (Ebenezer Cowpen Creek to Little Ebenezer
Creek)
Creek near Clyo
10
Effingham County
Savannah Fishing
Saddle Gap Creek
9
Headwaters to Stekoa Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
DO, FC
NP
11 miles
4a
Bio M, FC
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC. TMDLs completed Bio(M) & FC.
Savannah River
1,9
Brier Creek to Ebenezer Creek Screven/ Effingham County
Savannah
Fishing/ Drinking Water
TWR
NP
59 miles
5
2014 TMDLs completed Pb, Zn,
A -255
Reach Name/ Data Source
Savannah River
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Clarks Hill Lake to Stevens Creek Dam
Columbia County
Savannah Drinking Water
DO
Dam
9
miles
4a
Release
TMDL completed DO.
Scott Creek
9
Headwaters to Stekoa Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M, FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(M) & FC.
She Creek
9
Lake Toccoa to Stekoa Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M, FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(M) & FC.
Shoal Creek
9
Headwaters to Lake Hartwell Hart County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
Shoal Creek
10,59
Pooles Creek to Lake Hartwell, Parkertown
Hart County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
So. Fork Broad River
10
Clouds Creek to Fork Creek near Carlton
Madison/ Oglethorpe County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -256
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Name/ Data Source
So. Fork Broad River
10
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Brush Creek to Beaverdam Creek near Comer
Madison County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
South Creek/Bigger Creek
9
Headwaters to Brush Creek Madison County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M).
Spirit Creek
10
McDade Pond to Savannah River Richmond County
Savannah Fishing
FC
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Stekoa Creek
9,10,59
Clayton to Chattooga River Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
FC, Bio M
UR
14 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio M.
Stekoa Creek
9
Cox Lake to Scott Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(M) & FC.
Tallulah River
10,59
Upstream Lake Burton Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Toccoa Creek
10
Little Toccoa Creek to Lake Hartwell
Stephens County
Savannah Fishing
FC
M, UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -257
Reach Name/ Data Source
Turkey Branch
55
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Runs Branch Effingham County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Fishing
Criterion Violated
DO, FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
13 miles
5
2014
Uchee Creek
10
Tudor Branch to upstream Little River near Evans
Columbia County
Savannah Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Warwoman Creek
4,9
Finney Creek to Sarah's Creek Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
Bio M
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(M)
Warwoman Creek
9,10
Sarah's Creek to Chattooga River Rabun County
Savannah Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
Boone Creek
55
Upstream St. Marys River Charlton County
St Marys Fishing
DO
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Corn House Creek
55
Upstream St. Marys River Charlton County
St Marys Fishing
DO, FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Horsepen Creek
55
Headwaters to St. Marys River Camden County
St Marys Fishing
DO, FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
A -258
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
N. Prong St. Marys River Cedar Cr. to S. Prong St. Marys River
10,55
Charlton County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
St Marys
Criterion Violated
TWR
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Fishing
N. Prong St. Marys River Headwaters to Cedar Cr.
1,55
Charlton County
St Marys Fishing
DO, TWR
NP
19 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, TWR.
Spanish Creek
55
Long Branch to St. Marys River Charlton County
St Marys Fishing
DO, FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
St. Marys River
1,9,55
Cornhouse Creek to St. Marys Cut Charlton/ Camden County
St Marys Fishing
TWR
NP
21 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
St. Marys River
10
Upstream Cabbage Bend to Catfish St Marys Cr.
Camden County
Fishing
DO
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
St. Marys River
1,9,55
Confluence of North & South Prong of St. Marys River to Cornhouse Creek
St Marys
Charlton County
Fishing
TWR
NP
34 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
A -259
Reach Name/ Data Source
Alapaha River
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Sand Creek to U.S. Hwy. 129/Ga. Hwy. 11
Irwin/ Tift/ Berrien County
Suwannee Fishing
DO, TWR
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, TWR.
Alapaha River
1,9,55
U.S. Hwy. 129/Ga. Hwy. 11 to Stateline
Suwannee
Berrien/ Atkinson/ Lanier/ Lowndes/ Fishing Echols County
TWR
NP
102 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Alapaha River
10
U.S. Hwy. 280 to Sand Creek
Wilcox/ Ben Hill/ Turner/ Irwin County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
NP
29 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Alapahoochee River
1,55
Confluence of Mud and Grand Bay Cr. to Stateline
Echols County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
5
2015 TMDL completed TWR.
Bear Creek
10
City of Adel Lake to Withlacoochee River
Cook County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
M
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Bear Creek
10
Reedy Cr. to Indian Cr. near Berlin Colquitt County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
A -260
Reach Name/ Data Source
Cane Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Rooty Branch to Okeefenokee Swamp near Homerville
Clinch County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Suwannee
Criterion Violated
DO
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Fishing
Cat Creek
10
Beaverdam Cr. downstream SR 37 to Withlacoochee River near Ray City
Berrien/ Lowndes County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Daniels Creek
59
Headwaters to Big Branch Turner/ Worth County
Suwannee Fishing
Bio M
NP
8
miles
5
2015
Franks Creek
10
St. Rt. S1780 to Little River near Hahira
Lowndes County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
UR
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & DO.
Giddens Mills Creek
1,3
U/S U.S. Hwy. 41/SR 7 to Bear Cr., Suwannee Adel
Cook County
Fishing
DO
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Greasy Branch
10
U.S. Hwy. 84/SR38 to Okeefenokee Suwannee Swamp
Ware County
Fishing
DO
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
A -261
Reach Name/ Data Source
Indian Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Upstream Little River near Berlin Colquitt County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Suwannee Fishing
Criterion Violated
DO
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Lime Sink Creek
59
Headwaters to Daniels Creek Turner County
Suwannee Fishing
Bio M
NP
4
miles
5
2015
Little Brushy Creek
10
Stump Cr. to Reedy Cr. S. of Ocilla Suwannee
Irwin County
Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Little River
17
Ashburn Branch W. of Sycamore to Suwannee Big Branch
Turner/Tift County
Fishing
DO
NP
17 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Little River
10
Newell Branch, d/s Hwy. 32 to Ashburn Branch, W. of Sycamore
Turner County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Mill Creek
10
Reynolds Cr. to Alapaha River Wilcox County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Morrison Creek
10
Adel Cook County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
NP
2
miles
5
2015 TMDL completed DO.
A -262
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Mud Creek (also known D/S Valdosta Mud Cr. WPCP to as Mud Swamp Creek) Alapahoochee River
2,10
Lowndes County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Suwannee
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fishing
Mule Creek
10
Headwaters to Reedy Cr. near Pavo
Thomas/ Brooks County
Suwannee Fishing
DO, FC
NP
8
miles
4a,5 2015 TMDL completed DO.
New River
10,55
Westside Branch to Gum Cr. downstream Tifton
Tift County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
M, UR
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Okapilco Creek
10
SR 37 to Hog Cr., S. of Moultrie Colquitt County
Suwannee Fishing
DO, FC
UR
10 miles
4a,5 2015 TMDL completed DO.
Okapilco Creek
10
Upstream SR S1540 to U.S. Hwy. 319, Moultrie
Colquitt County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
5
2015 TMDL completed DO.
Okapilco Creek
10
SR 76, Quitman to Withlacoochee River
Brooks County
Suwannee Fishing
DO, FC
NP
5
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO & FC.
A -263
Reach Name/ Data Source Piscola Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Downstream Whitlock Branch @ Ozell Road to Okapilco Creek near Boston
Thomas/ Brooks County
Suwannee Fishing
DO, FC
NP
25 miles
4a,5 2015 TMDL completed DO.
Pride Branch (Formerly Negro Branch)
1,10
Headwaters to Piscola Cr., Quitman Suwannee
Brooks County
Fishing
FC, pH
NP
9
miles
4a,5 2015 TMDL completed DO, FC.
Red Oak Creek
59
Headwaters to Deep Creek Crisp County
Suwannee Fishing
Bio M
NP
12 miles
5
2015
Reedy Creek
10
Little Creek (upstream U.S. Hwy. 319/SR 35) to Little Brushy Cr., S. of Ocilla
Irwin County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Sand Creek
10,59
Headwaters E. of Sycamore to Alapaha River
Turner/ Irwin County
Suwannee Fishing
DO, FC
NP
14 miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC.
Snapfinger Creek
59
Headwaters to Deep Creek Turner County
Suwannee Fishing
Bio M
NP
6
miles
5
2015
A -264
Reach Name/ Data Source
Southside Branch
2
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to New River, Tifton Tift County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Suwannee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Suwannee Canal
1
Okefenokee Swamp Charlton/ Ware County
Suwannee Fishing
TWR
NP
27 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Suwannee Creek
10
Headwaters to Little Suwannee Cr. near Manor
Clinch/ Ware County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Suwannee River
1,9
Mainstem-Suwannee Canal to Stateline
Charlton/ Ware/ Clinch/ Echols County
Suwannee Fishing
TWR, DO
NP
40 miles
4a,5 2015 TMDL completed TWR.
Suwannoochee Creek
10,55
Lees Bay to Suwannee River Clinch County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed DO, Cd.
Tatum Creek
55
Dickerson Millpond to Tower Road Clinch County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
NP
6
miles
5
2015
A -265
Reach Name/ Data Source
Town Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Warrior Cr. near Sylvester
Worth County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Suwannee
Criterion Violated
DO
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Fishing
Tributary to Withlacoochee River
1
Upstream Morris Pond, Nashville Suwannee
Berrien County
Fishing
DO
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Turkey Branch
2,10
Headwaters to Willacoochee River downstream Fitzgerald
Ben Hill County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
M
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO, TWR, Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn.
Two Mile Branch
2
Headwaters to Sugar Cr., Valdosta Lowndes County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Ty Ty Creek
10
Tucker Cr. to Warrior Cr. near Omega
Colquitt County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Ty Ty Creek
10
Little Cr. near Ty Ty to Tucker Cr. near Omega
Worth/ Tift County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
A -266
Reach Name/ Data Source
Warrior Creek
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Horse Cr. to Rock Cr. near Norman Suwannee Park
Worth/ Colquitt County
Fishing
DO, FC
NP
10 miles
4a,5 2015 TMDL completed DO.
West Fork Deep Creek
10
Downstream SR S1798 to downstream SR 159 N. of Ashburn
Turner County
Suwannee Fishing
DO
NP
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
Westside Branch
2
Tributary to Little River, Tifton Tift County
Suwannee Fishing
FC
UR
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Withlacoochee River
1,9
New River to Bay Branch Cook/ Berrien/ Lowndes County
Suwannee Fishing
TWR
NP
23 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Withlacoochee River
1,9
Little River to Stateline Lowndes/ Brooks County
Suwannee Fishing
TWR
NP
33 miles
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Withlacoochee River
10
Headwaters (Hardy Mill Creek) to New River
Berrien County
Suwannee Fishing
TWR, FC
NP
17 miles
4a,5 2015 TMDL completed DO, TWR
Withlacoochee River
1,9,10
Bay Branch to Little River Lowndes County
Suwannee Fishing
FC, TWR
NP
9
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, TWR.
A -267
Reach Name/ Data Source Buck Creek
10
Buffalo Creek
10
Buffalo Creek
1,4,10,5 4
Greene Creek
4,59
Indian Creek
10
Indian Creek
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Bear Creek to Little Tallapoosa River Tallapoosa
Carroll County
Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Upstream Little Tallapoosa River Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
FC, Cu
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Cu.
Downstream Southwire Corp. Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
Cu, FC, Bio F I2, UR
3
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed Cu.
American Legion Lake to Tallapoosa River
Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
D/S Brickyard Rd. to Little Tallapoosa River near Bowdon
Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
Headwaters to Turkey Creek Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
Bio M
NP
4
miles
5
2013
FC
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Bio F
NP
7
miles
5
2013
A -268
Reach Name/ Data Source
Indian Creek
4
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Little Tallapoosa River near Roopville
Carroll County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tallapoosa
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
miles
5
2013
Fishing
Little River
10
Baxter Creek to Tallapoosa River Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
5
2013
Little Tallapoosa River
1,9,10
Buffalo Creek to Stateline Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
FC, Bio M
UR
14 miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC & Bio(M).
Little Tallapoosa River
9,10
Sharpe Creek to Buck Creek Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
Bio M, FC
NP
11 miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed Bio(M).
Little Turkey Creek
4
Headwaters to Turkey Creek Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
Bio F
NP,UR
5
miles
5
2013
Mud Creek
4
Headwaters to Tallapoosa River Carroll/ Paulding County
Tallapoosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Swinney Branch
4,59
Headwaters to Tallapoosa River Haralson/ Polk County
Tallapoosa Fishing
Bio F, Bio M
NP
5
miles
5
2013
A -269
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tallapoosa River
10
Reach Location/ County
Little River to Beach Creek Haralson County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tallapoosa Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
12 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tallapoosa River
10
Hwy. 100 to Stateline Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
FC
NP
10 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tributary to Baxter Creek Bremen
2
Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tributary to Buck Creek Headwaters to 1 mile d/s of Headwaters in Bremen
2
Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
FC
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Tributary to Buffalo Creek
1,54
Carrollton Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
Cu
I2
1
miles
4a
TMDL completed Cu.
Turkey Creek
4
Little Turkey Creek to Jumpin In Creek
Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Walker Creek
10
Blalock Creek to Tallapoosa River Haralson County
Tallapoosa Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
5
2013
A -270
Reach Name/ Data Source
Bearmeat Creek
13
Reach Location/ County
Tributary to Hiawassee River Towns County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F).
Big Spring Branch
59
Higdon Creek to Stateline Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio M
NP
1
miles
5
2013
Black Branch
4,59
Van Cleve St., Ft. Ogelthorpe to Spring Creek
Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F, Bio M
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Brasstown Creek
10
Little Bald Cove to Stateline Union/ Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Butternut Creek
13
Blairsville Union County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F, FC
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), FC.
Cat Creek
4
Stateline to Little Creek Catoosa/ Whitfield County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Chattanooga Creek
10
Flintstone to Stateline Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
UR
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -271
Reach Name/ Data Source
Chattanooga Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
High Point to Flintstone Walker County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, Bio(F).
Cherokee Creek
4
Headwaters to Tiger Creek Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Cooper Creek
10
Tributary to Toccoa River Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Corn Creek
1
Tributary to Brasstown Creek, Young Harris
Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Coulter Creek
4
Headwaters to Little Chickamauga Creek
Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Cove Branch
4
Headwaters to E. Chickamauga Creek
Whitfield County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Dry Branch
4
Stateline to Tiger Creek Whitfield County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2013
A -272
Reach Name/ Data Source
Dry Creek
4,10,13
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to East Chickamauga Creek
Whitfield/ Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F, FC
NP
10 miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed Bio(F).
Dry Creek
4,10
Headwaters to Chattanooga Creek at State Line
Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
FC, Bio F
UR
5
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed FC.
East Chickamauga Creek
10
Tanyard Creek to Dry Creek Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Fightingtown Creek
10
CR 159 to Stateline Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Gulf Creek
4
Headwaters to Lookout Creek Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
6
miles
5
2013
Hemptown Creek
10,59
Mitchell Branch to Young Stone Creek
Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
FC, Bio M
NP
10 miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed FC.
A -273
Reach Name/ Data Source
Hiawassee River
10
Reach Location/ County
Upstream Lake Chatuge Towns County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
FC
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
10 miles
5
2013
Ivylog Creek
13,59
Tributary to Lake Nottely Union County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio M
NP
7
miles
5
2013
Kettle Branch
4
Headwaters to S. Chickamauga Creek
Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
5
2013
Little Chickamauga Creek
4
Headwaters to Coulter Creek Walker/ Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
9
miles
5
2013
Little Chickamauga Creek
10
Coulter Creek to S. Chickamauga Creek
Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
11 miles
5
2013
Little Chickamauga Creek Tributary #1
4
Headwaters to Little Chickamauga Creek near SR 95 & McIntire Rd.
Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2013
A -274
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Chickamauga Creek Tributary #2
4
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Little Chickamauga Creek near Temperance Hall Rd., Wood Station
Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Little Chickamauga Creek Tributary #3
4
Headwaters to Little Chickamauga Creek near Alton Rd. & SR 151
Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Little Tennessee River
10
Dillard to Stateline Rabun County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
UR
3
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Little Tiger Creek
4
Headwaters to Ward Branch Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
1
miles
5
2013
Lookout Creek
10
Trenton to Stateline Dade County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
14 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Lower Youngcane Creek Headwaters to Youngcane Creek
13
Union County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F)
McFarland Branch
10
Rossville to Stateline Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
FC, DO
UR
1
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
A -275
Reach Name/ Data Source
Mill Creek
10
Reach Location/ County
Pheasant Branch to Hiawassee River
Towns County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee
Criterion Violated
FC, pH
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a,5 2013 TMDL completed FC.
Fishing
Nottely River
10
Right/Left Forks to US Hwy 19 Union County
Tennessee Recreation
FC
NP
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Nottely River
13
Downstream Lake Nottely Union County
Tennessee Recreation
Bio F
Dam Release
2
miles
5
2013 TMDL completed DO.
Nottely River
10
US Hwy 19 to Lake Nottely Union County
Tennessee Recreation
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Peavine Creek
4
Headwaters to Rock Spring Creek Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F
NP
4
miles
5
2013
Peavine Creek
10,13
Upstream South Chickamauga Creek
Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio F, FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Bio(F), FC.
South Chickamauga Creek
10,13
Ringgold to Stateline Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
15 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -276
Reach Name/ Data Source
Sugar Creek
4,59
Reach Location/ County
State Line to Tiger Creek Catoosa County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio M
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
5
miles
5
2013
Sugar Creek
13,59
Upstream Toccoa River Fannin County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio M
NP
2
miles
5
2013
Tanyard Creek
4
Ga. Hwy. 201 to Chickamauga Creek Tennessee
Whitfield/ Catoosa County
Fishing
Bio F
NP
3
miles
5
2013
Tiger Creek
4,10
Dry Branch to E. Chickamauga Creek
Catoosa/ Whitfield County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
8
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Toccoa River
10,13
Downstream Lake Blue Ridge Fannin County
Tennessee Recreation
FC
NP
7
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
Toccoa River
10
Big Creek to Lake Blue Ridge Fannin County
Tennessee Recreation
FC
NP
10 miles
5
2013
Tributary to Tiger Creek Headwaters to Tiger Creek
59
Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio M
NP
3
miles
5
2013
A -277
Reach Name/ Data Source
Weaver Creek
13
Reach Location/ County
Fannin County Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tennessee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Bio F
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed Bio(F)
West Chickamauga Creek
10
Hwy 2 to Stateline Catoosa County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
UR
7
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
West Chickamauga Creek
4,10
Mill Creek to Crawfish Creek Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
16 miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
West Fork Wolf Creek
59
Headwaters to Nottely River Union County
Tennessee Fishing
Bio M
NP
5
miles
5
2013
Yewell Branch
1
Darr Cove to Brasstown Creek Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
2
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Youngcane Creek
10
Little Youngcane Creek to Nottely Lake
Union County
Tennessee Fishing
FC
NP
4
miles
4a
TMDL completed FC.
A -278
Reach Name/ Data Source
Big Branch
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Blocker Creek Tattnall County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Altamaha Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data needs to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Big Cedar Creek
59
Griffith Branch to Little Cedar Creek Altamaha
Washington County
Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Little Creek
59
Gum Creek to Honey Camp Branch Altamaha
Wayne County
Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to McClendon Creek
59
Headwaters to McClendon Creek McIntosh County
Altamaha Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Barnes Creek
59
Headwaters to Little Branch Harris County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -279
Reach Name/ Data Source
Camp Creek
56
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
North Tributary to Wells Pond Tributary
Habersham County
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Chattahoochee Fishing
1
miles
3
Limited data from Hazardous Waste indicates that TCA may be present in the stream. More data is needed before assessment is made.
Clear Creek
59
Headwaters to Lime Springs Branch Chattahoochee
Stewart County
Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Day Creek
59
Headwaters to Bluff Springs Branch Chattahoochee
Stewart County
Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Grass Creek
59
Headwaters to Walter F. George Reservoir
Stewart County
Chattahoochee Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Hichitee Creek
59
Stevens Branch to Little Hitchitee Creek
Chattahoochee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -280
Reach Name/ Data Source
Hollis Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Ochillee Creek Chattahoochee County
Chattahoochee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Odum Creek
59
Headwaters to Chattahoochee River Chattahoochee
Early County
Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Waukeefriskee Creek
59
Headwaters to Cemochechobee Creek
Randolph/ Clay County
Chattahoochee Fishing
8
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
East Armuchee Creek
59
Furnace Creek to West Armuchee Creek
Walker/ Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
15 miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Flat Creek
59
Headwaters to Carters Lake Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -281
Reach Name/ Data Source
Panther Creek
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Stateline Chattooga County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Sumac Creek
1
Coffey Lake to Conasauga River Murray County
Coosa Fishing
8
miles
3
Limited fish tissue data indicates that mercury in fish tissue may be elevated. Only one species of fish was tested. More data is needed before making a listing assessment determination.
Talking Rock Creek
59
Jones Lake to Town Creek Pickens County
Coosa Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Tributary to Ruff Creek
59
Headwaters to Ruff Creek Chattooga County
Coosa Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Talking Rock Creek
59
Sevenmile Creek to Talking Rock Creek
Gilmer County
Coosa Fishing
1
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -282
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
West Fork Little River
4,59
Headwaters to Alabama State Line Walker/ Dade County
Coosa Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Yellow Creek
59
Headwaters to Etowah River Pickens/ Dawson County
Coosa Fishing
10 miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Brantley Creek
1
Downstream Dawson WPCP Terrell County
Flint Fishing
2
miles
3
Stream segment had been listed in the past due to municipality failing WET tests. The facility attained compliance with WET limits, but there is not instream data to assess to confirm stream is supporting its use.
Keel Creek
59
Headwaters to Chickasawhatchee Creek
Calhoun/ Baker County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Kiokee Creek
59
Headwaters to Tallahassee Creek Terrell/ Dougherty County
Flint Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -283
Reach Name/ Data Source
Lanahassee Creek
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to West Fork Lanahassee Creek
Marion/ Webster County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Flint Fishing
8
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Lazar Creek
59
Mossy Branch to Rush Creek Talbot County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Lilly Branch
59
Headwaters to Little Pennahatchee Creek
Dooly County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Little Creek
59
Headwaters to Turkey Creek Dooly County
Flint Fishing
8
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Little Creek
59
Headwaters to Turkey Creek Dooly County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -284
Reach Name/ Data Source
Long Branch
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Bear Creek Webster County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Flint Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Pennahatchee Creek
59
Headwaters to Sandy Mount Creek Dooly County
Flint Fishing
12 miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Springhill Creek
59
Headwaters to Beaver Creek Macon County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Tributary to Chickasawhatchee Creek
59
Headwaters to Chickasawhatchee Flint Creek
Calhoun County
Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Dry Creek
59
Headwaters to Dry Creek Miller County
Flint Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -285
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Tributary to Fish Pond Drain
59
Headwaters to Fish Pond Drain Early/ Seminole County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Flint River
59
Headwaters to Flint River Dougherty County
Flint Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Gum Creek #1
59
Headwaters to Gum Creek Dooly/ Crisp County
Flint Fishing
8
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Gum Creek #2
59
Headwaters to Gum Creek Crisp County
Flint Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Kinchafoonee Creek
59
Headwaters to Kinchafoonee Creek Flint
Webster County
Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -286
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tributary to Pachitla Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Pachitla Creek
Calhoun County
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Flint Fishing
1
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Sandy Mount Creek
59
Headwaters to Sandy Mount Creek Flint
Dooly County
Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Sullivan Creek
56
Headwaters to Sullivan Creek Fulton County
Flint Fishing
1
miles
3
Limited data from EPD's Hazardous Waste Branch indicates that dieldrin may be present. More data needed for assessment.
Olive Creek
59
Headwaters to Aucilla River Thomas County
Ochlockonee Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Tributary to Willacoochee Creek
59
Headwaters to Willacoochee Creek Ochlockonee
Decatur County
Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -287
Reach Name/ Data Source
Camp Creek
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Big Creek Dooly County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ocmulgee Fishing
10 miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Crooked Creek
59
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River Twiggs County
Ocmulgee Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Fishing Creek
59
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River Telfair County
Ocmulgee Fishing
9
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Oppossum Creek
59
Headwaters to Ocmulgee River Telfair County
Ocmulgee Fishing
8
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Big Indian Creek
59
Headwaters to Big Indian Creek Macon/ Houston/ Peach County
Ocmulgee Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -288
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tributary to Doolittle Creek
56
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Doolittle Creek Fulton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
1
miles
3
Limited Data from EPD's Hazardous Waste Branch indicates that PCE may be present. More data needed for assessment.
Tributary to Jackson Creek
56
Headwaters to Jackson Creek Gwinnett County
Ocmulgee Fishing
1
miles
3
Limited data from EPD's Hazardous Waste Branch indicates that 1,1-DCE may be present. More data needed for assessment.
Tributary to Red Bluff Creek
59
Headwaters to Red Bluff Creek Ben Hill County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Wildcat Creek
59
Headwaters to Cedar Creek Dooly County
Ocmulgee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Bay Branch
59
Headwaters to Rocky Creek Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -289
Reach Name/ Data Source
Indian Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Mulberry Creek Jackson/ Barrow County
Oconee Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Little Sandy Creek
59
Ivy Branch to Turkey Creek Walton/ Morgan County
Oconee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Stitchihatchee Creek
59
Headwaters to Rocky Creek Laurens County
Oconee Fishing
12 miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to North Oconee River
59
Headwaters to North Oconee River Oconee
Jackson County
Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Unnamed Tributary to Middle Oconee River
56
Downstream closed UGA Botanical Gardens Landfill (Milledgeville Ave. Site), Athens
Oconee
Clarke County
Fishing
1
miles
3
Water had previously been impaired for Benzene and chloroform. Data allowed removal of these parameters in 2006, but there is not sufficient data for EPD to make the determination that the water should be placed in Category 1.
A -290
Reach Name/ Data Source
Billy Fork Creek (aka Bull Creek)
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Bull Creek
Tattnall/ Evans County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ogeechee Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Boggy Branch
59
Headwaters to Lower Black Creek Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Iric Branch
59
Headwaters to Pond 0.5 miles d/s US 80
Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Little Lotts Creek
55
Unnamed tributary @ Burkhalter Road to Lotts Creek
Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
8
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Lotts Creek
55
Big Branch to Cypress Lake Bulloch/ Candler County
Ogeechee Fishing
6
miles
3
Not enough data to make an assessment of use support. Data from Jan - June 2007 only. Assessment should be possible in 2010.
A -291
Reach Name/ Data Source
Lower Black Creek
55
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Luke Swamp Branch to Ash Branch Ogeechee
Bulloch County
Fishing
6
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Magtail Branch
59
Headwaters to Deep Creek Glascock County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
McQuaddy Branch
59
Headwaters to Duhart Creek Jefferson County
Ogeechee Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Mill Creek
55
Akins Pond to Newsome Branch Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
9
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Mill Creek
59
Jenkins Lake to Carswell Lake Burke County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -292
Reach Name/ Data Source
Ogeechee River
5,55
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
Richmond Hill (US Hwy 17) to Florida Passage
Bryan/ Chatham County
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ogeechee Recreation
24 miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Pole Branch
55
Headwaters to Upper Black Creek Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
7
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Raccoon Creek
59
Headwaters to Mt. Hope Creek Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Canoochee River
59
Paradise Lake to Canoochee River Candler County
Ogeechee Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Taylors Creek
59
Headwaters to Taylors Creek Long County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -293
Reach Name/ Data Source
Upper Black Creek
55
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Crombly Pond to Lower Black Creek Ogeechee
Bulloch County
Fishing
12 miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Wateringhole Branch
55
Granna Branch to Dry Branch Bulloch County
Ogeechee Fishing
5
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Big Branch
55
Mill Branch to Little Hurricane Creek Satilla
Bacon County
Fishing
4
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Briar Creek
59
Headwaters to Tenmile Creek Bacon County
Satilla Fishing
9
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Burket Creek
59
Headwaters to Hurricane Creek Jeff Davis County
Satilla Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -294
Reach Name/ Data Source
Cat Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Seventeen Mile River Satilla
Coffee County
Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Dry Creek
59
Headwaters to Hurricane Creek Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
9
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Fullwood Creek
59
Headwaters to Satilla River Ware County
Satilla Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Hackleberry Creek
59
Headwaters to Satilla River Pierce County
Satilla Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Indian Creek
59
Headwaters to Satilla River Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
8
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -295
Reach Name/ Data Source
Keene Bay Branch
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Little Satilla Creek Wayne County
Satilla Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Little Hurricane Creek
55
Headwaters to Ga Hwy 32 Jeff Davis/ Coffee/ Bacon County
Satilla Fishing
17 miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Little Satilla River
55
Headwaters to Fancy Bluff Creek Glynn/ Camden County
Satilla Fishing
10 miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Mill Creek
59
Headwaters to Big Creek Ware/ Brantley County
Satilla Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Otter Creek
59
Long Branch to Griffin Branch Pierce County
Satilla Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -296
Reach Name/ Data Source
Pudding Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ruffin Creek to Park Bay Creek Atkinson County
Satilla Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Hurricane Creek
59
Headwaters to Hurricane Creek Coffee County
Satilla Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Little Waverly Creek
59
Headwaters to Little Waverly Creek Satilla
Camden County
Fishing
1
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Satilla River Headwaters to Satilla River
59
Pierce County
Satilla Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Waverly Creek
59
Waverly Swamp to Cross Swamp Satilla
Camden County
Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -297
Reach Name/ Data Source Beaverdam Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Pruitt Creek to unnamed tributary approximately 0.3 miles from Hart County Line
Hart/ Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Beaverdam Creek
10
Big Branch to McDonald Branch Screven County
Savannah Fishing
7
miles
3
Not enough data to make an assessment of use support. Data from Jan - June 2007 only. Assessment should be possible in 2010.
Bull Creek
59
Headwaters to Little River Warren County
Savannah Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Centerville Branch
59
Headwaters to Dry Fork Creek Wilkes County
Savannah Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Chickasaw Creek
59
Headwaters to Broad River Wilkes/ Elbert County
Savannah Fishing
9
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -298
Reach Name/ Data Source
Dry Fork Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Cowmire Branch to Centerville Branch
Wilkes/ Oglethorpe County
Savannah Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Dry Fork Creek
59
Headwaters to Clarks Hill Reservoir Savannah
Lincoln County
Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Florence Creek
59
Headwaters to Soap Creek Lincoln County
Savannah Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Hudson River
10
Nails Creek to the Broad River Franklin/ Madison County
Savannah Fishing
3
miles
3
Not enough data to make an assessment of use support. Data from Jan - June 2007 only. Assessment should be possible in 2010.
Kemp Creek
59
Headwaters to Clarks Hill Reservoir Savannah
Lincoln County
Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -299
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little River
10
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Williams Creek to Rocky Creek McDuffie/ Wilkes County
Savannah Fishing
10 miles
3
Not enough data to make an assessment of use support. Data from Jan - June 2006 only. Assessment should be possible in 2010.
Sweetwater Creek
59
Headwaters to Brier Creek McDuffie County
Savannah Fishing
8
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Tributary to Cherokee Creek
59
Headwaters to Cherokee Creek Lincoln County
Savannah Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Upton Creek
59
Rehoboth Branch to Clarks Hill Reservoir
Wilkes County
Savannah Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Whites Creek
1
Downstream Thomson WPCP McDuffie County
Savannah Fishing
2
miles
3
Stream had previously been listed for Tox and was removed from lists in 2006 based on municipality passing WET tests. Not enough instream data to place water in Category 1.
A -300
Reach Name/ Data Source
Clay Branch
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Spanish Creek Charlton County
St Marys Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Hatcher's Branch
59
Headwaters to Spanish Creek Charlton County
St Marys Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Spanish Creek
55
Little Spanish Creek to Long Branch St Marys
Charlton County
Fishing
6
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Tributary to St. Marys River
59
Headwaters to St. Marys River Charlton County
St Marys Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Bill Branch
59
Headwaters to Big Branch Echols County
Suwannee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -301
Reach Name/ Data Source
Brushy Creek
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Willacoochee Creek Suwannee
Ben Hill/ Irwin County
Fishing
8
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Camp Creek
59
Headwaters to Walker Creek Clinch County
Suwannee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Deep Creek
59
Headwaters to Red Oak Creek Crisp County
Suwannee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Little Creek
59
Headwaters to Reedy Creek Irwin County
Suwannee Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Meetinghouse Branch
59
Headwaters to Grand Bay Creek Lowndes County
Suwannee Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -302
Reach Name/ Data Source
Moore Branch
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Alapaha River Lanier County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Suwannee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Otter Creek
59
Headwaters to Grand Bay Creek Lowndes County
Suwannee Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Reedy Creek
59
Headwaters to Alapaha River Lanier County
Suwannee Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Alapaha River
59
Headwaters to Alapaha River Berrien County
Suwannee Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Alapaha River
59
Headwaters to Alapaha River Echols County
Suwannee Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -303
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Tributary to Batterbee Branch
59
Headwaters to Batterbee Branch Berrien County
Suwannee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Reedy Creek Headwaters to Reedy Creek
59
Irwin County
Suwannee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to the Alapaha Headwaters to the Alapaha River River
59
Wilcox County
Suwannee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Tributary to the Alapaha Headwaters to the Alapaha River River
59
Berrien County
Suwannee Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to the Alapaha Headwaters to the Alapaha River River
59
Berrien County
Suwannee Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -304
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Tributary to West Fork Deep Creek
59
Headwaters to West Fork Deep Creek
Crisp/ Turner County
Suwannee Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Tributary to
Headwaters to Withlacoochee River Suwannee
Withlacoochee River #1
59
Brooks/ Lowndes County
Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Tributary to
Headwaters to Withlacoochee River Suwannee
Withlacoochee River #2
59
Lowndes County
Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Warrior Creek
59
Headwaters to Town Creek Worth County
Suwannee Fishing
12 miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Wolf Creek
59
Headwaters to Deep Creek Turner County
Suwannee Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -305
Reach Name/ Data Source
Ty Ty Branch
59
Reach Location/ County
Headwaters to Ray Branch Lowndes County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Swuannee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Mountain Creek
59
Headwaters to Little Tallapoosa River
Heard/ Carroll County
Tallapoosa Fishing
7
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Coke Oven Branch
59
Headwaters to West Chickamauga Creek
Walker County
Tennessee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Hightower Creek
59
Shoal Branch to Swallow Creek Towns County
Tennessee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Town Creek
59
Powell Valley Creek to Townsend Branch
Union County
Tennessee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -306
Reach Name/ Data Source
Wolf Creek
59
Reach Location/ County
Stateline to Toccoa River Fannin County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Tennessee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
Youngcane Creek
59
Payne Creek to Little Youngcane Creek
Union County
Tennessee Fishing
1
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because macroinvertebrate data are currently under evaluation for listing assessment purposes. A listing decision should be made by 2010.
A -307
Reach Name/ Data Source
Dog River Reservoir
1,16
Reach Location/ County
Douglas County Douglas County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Chattahoochee Drinking Water
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
225 acres
1
Franklin Lake
58
F.D. Roosevelt State Park Harris County
Chattahoochee Fishing
29 acres
1
Lanier Lake
1
Bolling Bridge Hall/ Forsyth/ Dawson County
Chattahoochee Recreation
5119 acres
1
Unicoi Lake
58
Unicoi State Park White County
Chattahoochee Fishing
53 acres
1
Allatoona Lake
1
Dam Pool Bartow County
Coosa
Drinking Water/ Recreation
2806 acres
1
Conasauga Lake
12
Murray County Murray County
Coosa Fishing
14 acres
1
Fort Mountain Lake
58
Murray County Murray County
Coosa Fishing
17 acres
1
A -308
Reach Name/ Data Source
Blackshear Lake
1,58
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Crisp, Sumter, Lee, Dooly Counties Flint Crisp/ Sumter/ Dooly/ Lee County Recreation
8518 acres
1
J.W. Smith Reservoir
42
Clayton County Clayton County
Flint Fishing
250 acres
1
Seminole Lake
1,58
Seminole and Decatur Counties Seminole/ Decatur County
Flint Recreation
37515 acres
1
Talmadge Lake
42
Henry County near Lovejoy Henry County
Flint Fishing
31 acres
1
Twelve Oaks Reservoir
42
Henry and Clayton Counties Henry/ Clayton County
Flint Fishing
28 acres
1
Worth Lake
1
Flint River Reservoir, Dougherty County
Dougherty County
Flint Recreation
1401 acres
1
Blalock Lake
1,42
Clayton County Clayton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
260 acres
1
A -309
Reach Name/ Data Source
Chief McIntosh Lake
58
Reach Location/ County
Butts County Butts County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ocmulgee Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
105 acres
1
High Falls Lake
1
Butts, Lamar, Monroe Counties Butts/ Lamar/ Monroe County
Ocmulgee Recreation
699 acres
1
Juliette Lake
1
Monroe County Monroe County
Ocmulgee Fishing
3600 acres
1
Shamrock Lake
1,42
Clayton County Clayton County
Ocmulgee Fishing
68 acres
1
Tobesofkee Lake
1
Bibb County Bibb County
Ocmulgee Recreation
1750 acres
1
Brantley Lake
1
Hard Labor Creek State Park Morgan County
Oconee Fishing
45 acres
1
Massey's Lake (Marburg Fort Yargo State Park Creek Watershed Project)
58
Barrow County
Oconee Fishing
260 acres
1
A -310
Reach Name/ Data Source
Oconee Lake
1
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
Morgan, Greene and Putnam Counties
Morgan/ Greene/ Putnam County
Lakes - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Oconee
21000 acres
1
Fishing
Rock Eagle Lake
1, 36
Putnam County Putnam County
Oconee Fishing
110 acres
1
Rutledge Lake
58
Hard Labor State Park Morgan County
Oconee Fishing
285 acres
1
Sinclair Lake
1
Putnam, Baldwin and Hancock Counties
Putnam/ Baldwin/ Hancock County
Oconee Recreation
11859 acres
1
Burton Lake
1
Rabun County Rabun County
Savannah Recreation
2775 acres
1
Clarks Hill Lake
1,58
Lincoln & Columbia Counties Lincoln/ Columbia County
Savannah Recreation
69999 acres
1
Liberty Lake
58
A.H. Stephens State Park Taliaferro County
Savannah Fishing
1
acres
1
A -311
Reach Name/ Data Source
Nancy Town Lake
1
Reach Location/ County
Habersham County Habersham County
Rabun Lake
1
Rabun County Rabun County
Richard B. Russell Lake Elbert County
1,58
Elbert County
Russell Lake
12
Habersham County Habersham County
Seed (Nacoohe) Lake
28
Rabun County Rabun County
Talulah Falls
28
Rabun County Rabun County
Carroll Lake
6
Carrollton Carroll County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
8
acres
1
Savannah Recreation
835 acres
1
Savannah Recreation
26650 acres
1
Savannah Fishing
93 acres
1
Savannah Recreation
240 acres
1
Savannah Recreation
63 acres
1
Tallapoosa Fishing
166 acres
1
A -312
Reach Name/ Data Source
John Tanner Lake (upper lake)
58
Reach Location/ County
John Tanner State Park, Carroll County
Carroll County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Tallapoosa
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
16 acres
1
Fishing
Blue Ridge Lake
1
Fannin County Fannin County
Tennessee Recreation
3219 acres
1
Chatuge Lake
1
Towns County Towns County
Tennessee Recreation
7050 acres
1
Nottely Lake
1
Union County Union County
Tennessee Recreation
4180 acres
1
Trahlyta Lake
58
Vogle State Park Union County
Tennessee Fishing
20 acres
1
Winfield Scott Lake
12
Union County Union County
Tennessee Fishing
18 acres
1
A -313
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Sand Hill Lake (previously known as Treutlen County PFA)
1
Treutlen County Treutlen County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Altamaha
Criterion Violated
TWR
Potential Causes
NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
166 acres
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Fishing
Goat Rock Lake
1
Harris County Harris County
Chattahoochee
Drinking Water/ Recreation
FCG(PCBs)
NP
941 acres
4a
TMDL completed FCG(PCBs)
Harding Lake
1,37
Bartletts Ferry, Harris County Harris County
Chattahoochee
Recreation/ Drinking Water
FCG(PCBs)
NP
5851 acres
4a
TMDL completed FCG(PCBs).
Lanier Lake
1
Browns Bridge Road (SR 369) Forsyth/ Hall County
Chattahoochee Recreation
Chlorophyll a NP, UR
5952 acres
5
2014
Lanier Lake
1
Lanier Bridge Road (SR53) Hall/ Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Recreation
Chlorophyll a NP, UR
4928 acres
5
2014
Lanier Lake
1
Flowery Branch Forsyth/ Hall County
Chattahoochee Recreation
Chlorophyll a NP, UR 11584 acres
5
2014
A -314
Reach Name/ Data Source
Oliver Lake
1,37
Reach Location/ County
Near Columbus Muscogee County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Chattahoochee
Recreation/ Drinking Water
FCG(PCBs)
NP
2150 acres
4a
TMDL completed FCG(PCBs).
West Point Lake
1
Troup and Heard Counties Troup/ Heard County
Chattahoochee Recreation
FCG(PCBs) UR, NP 22911 acres
4a
TMDL completed FCG(PCBs).
Acworth Lake
1,14,35
Upper/Mid-Lake Cobb County Cobb County
Coosa Fishing
FC
UR
194 acres
4a
TMDL completed FC.
Allatoona Lake
1
Etowah Riv. Arm Cherokee County
Coosa
Drinking Water, Recreation
Chlorophyll a NP, UR
2785 acres
5
2013
Allatoona Lake
1
Little River Embayment Cherokee County
Coosa
Chlorophyll a NP, UR
1395 acres
4a
Drinking Water, Recreation
TMDLs completed Chlorophyll a, FC, FCG(PCBs)
Allatoona Lake
1
Allatoona Crk. Arm Cobb, Bartow County
Coosa
Drinking Water, Recreation
Chlorophyll a NP, UR
3515 acres
5
2013
A -315
Reach Name/ Data Source
Carters Lake
1
Reach Location/ County
Coosawattee River Embayment Gilmer County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Coosa Recreation
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Chlorophyll a NP, UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
1280 acres
5
2015
Carters Lake
1
US Woodring Branch/Midlake Gilmer County
Coosa Recreation
Chlorophyll a NP, UR
1472 acres
5
2015
Albany By-Pass Pond
1
Dougherty County Dougherty County
Flint Fishing
FCG(DDE/DDD) UR, NP
20 acres
4a
TMDL completed FCG(DDE/DDD).
Jackson Lake
1
Newton, Butts, and Jasper Counties Ocmulgee
Newton/ Butts/ Jasper County
Recreation
FCG(PCBs) UR, NP
4102 acres
4a
TMDLs completed FCG(PCBs).
Jackson Lake
1
Newton, Butts, and Jasper Counties Ocmulgee
Newton/ Butts/ Jasper County
Recreation
FCG(PCBs) UR, NP
650 acres
4a
TMDLs completed FCG(PCBs) & FC.
Little Ocmulgee State Park Lake (Gum Creek Swamp)
1
Telfair and Wheeler Counties Telfair/ Wheeler County
Ocmulgee Fishing
TWR
NP
224 acres
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Sinclair Lake
1,3
Putnam, Baldwin, and Hancock Counties
Putnam/ Baldwin/ Hancock County
Oconee Recreation
Temp
I1
650 acres
4a
TMDL completed Temp.
A -316
Reach Name/ Data Source
Hartwell Lake
1
Reach Location/ County
Tugaloo Arm/ Main Body Hart/ Franklin County
Tugalo Lake
1
Rabun County Rabun County
Banks Lake
1
Lanier County Lanier County
Reed Bingham Lake
1
Reed Bingham State Park Colquitt/ Cook County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Savannah Recreation
FCG(PCBs)
I2
55950 acres
4a
TMDLs completed FCG(PCBs) & Cu.
Savannah Recreation
TWR
NP
598 acres
5
2014
Suwannee Fishing
TWR
NP
2900 acres
4a
TMDL completed TWR.
Suwannee Fishing
TWR
NP
179 acres
5
2015
A -317
Reach Name/ Data Source
Kolomoki Lake
1
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Kolomoki Mounds State Park, Early Chattahoochee County
Early County
Fishing
57 acres
3
Fish tissue data indicates that the lake is supporting its use, but no other types of data are available to confirm this assessment, so the water is being placed in category 3.
Lanier Lake
1
Dam Pool Gwinnett/ Hall/ Forsyth County
Chattahoochee Recreation
7232 acres
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because the growing season average for chlorophyll a exceeded the criteria once in the last 5 years.
Walter F. George Lake
1,58
Dam Pool Clay County
Chattahoochee Recreation
16863 acres
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because the growing season average for chlorophyll a exceeded the criteria once in the last 5 years.
Walter F. George Lake
1
Mid-Lake (U.S. Hwy 82) to Dam Forebay
Quitman/Clay County
Chattahoochee Recreation
29890 acres
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because the growing season average for chlorophyll a exceeded the criteria once in the last 5 years.
Yohola Lake
1
Kolomoki Mounds State Park, Early Chattahoochee County
Early County
Fishing
57 acres
3
Fish tissue data indicates that the lake is supporting its use, but no other types of data are available to confirm this assessment, so the water is being placed in category 3.
A -318
Reach Name/ Data Source
Allatoona Lake
1
Reach Location/ County
Mid Lake Cherokee/ Bartow County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Coosa
Drinking Water, Recreation
2825 acres
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because the growing season average for chlorophyll a exceeded the criteria once in the last 5 years.
Antioch Lake
1
Rocky Mountain PFA, Floyd County Coosa
Floyd County
Fishing
357 acres
3
Fish tissue data indicates that the lake is supporting its use, but no other types of data are available to confirm this assessment, so the water is being placed in category 3.
Heath Lake
1
Rocky Mountain PFA, Floyd County Coosa
Floyd County
Fishing
202 acres
3
Fish tissue data indicates that the lake is supporting its use, but no other types of data are available to confirm this assessment, so the water is being placed in category 3.
Ken Gardens Lake
1
Dougherty County Dougherty County
Flint Fishing
4
acres
3
Fish tissue data indicates that the lake is supporting its use, but no other types of data are available to confirm this assessment, so the water is being placed in category 3.
Randy Poynter Reservoir aka (Big Haynes Reservoir, Black Shoals Lake)
Rockdale County
1,9
Rockdale County
Ocmulgee Drinking Water
650 acres
3
Lake no longer impaired for TWR, but not enough data to make an assessment on use support. TMDL completed TWR.
A -319
Reach Name/ Data Source
Bear Creek Reservoir
1
Reach Location/ County
Jackson County Jackson County
Hugh M Gillis PFA
1
Laurens County Laurens County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Lakes - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Oconee Fishing
505 acres
3
Fish tissue data indicates that the resevoir is supporting its use, but no other types of data are available to confirm this assessment, so the water is being placed in category 3.
Oconee Fishing
109 acres
3
Fish tissue data indicates that the lake is supporting its use, but no other types of data are available to confirm this assessment, so the water is being placed in category 3.
A -320
Reach Name/ Data Source
Butler River
5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Altamaha River to Altamaha River (upstream and downstream of I-95)
McIntosh County
Altamaha Fishing
5
miles
1
Darien River
5
Cathead Creek to May Creek McIntosh County
Altamaha Fishing
5
miles
1
Hampton River
5
Mosquito Creek to Village Creek Glynn County
Altamaha Fishing
3
miles
1
Pine Creek
5
Hampton River to the Hampton River Altamaha
Glynn County
Fishing
2
miles
1
South Altamaha River
5
Altamaha River to Buttermilk Sound Altamaha
McIntosh/ Glynn County
Fishing
15 miles
1
Village Creek
5
Bend in Creek at Village Drive to Hampton River
Glynn County
Altamaha Fishing
3
miles
1
Barbour Island River
5
Wahoo River to Sapelo Sound McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
7
miles
1
A -321
Reach Name/ Data Source Bear River
5
Dickinson Creek
5
Eagle Creek
5
Front River
5
House Creek
5
Jolly Creek
5
Jones Creek
5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Reach Location/ County
Killkenny Creek to St. Catherines Sound
Bryan County
Coastal Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ogeechee
4
miles
1
Fishing
Jones Creek to Medway River Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
6
miles
1
Headwaters to the Mud River McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
Crescent River to Sapelo River McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
Headwaters to Wassaw Sound Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
3
miles
1
Headwaters to Sapelo River McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
1
miles
1
Dickinson Creek to Medway River Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -322
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Jones Hammock Creek Headwaters to St. Catherines Sound Ogeechee
5
Bryan County
Fishing
3
miles
1
Julienton River
5
Broad River to cut through NE end of Fourmile Island
McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
Lazaretto Creek
5
Oysters Creek to the Bull River Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
1
Medway River
5
Sunbury Creek to Cedar Creek Liberty/ Bryan County
Ogeechee Fishing
5
miles
1
Mud River
5
New Teakettle Creek to Sapelo River Ogeechee
McIntosh County
Fishing
4
miles
1
Old Teakettle Creek (aka Old Creek)
5
Mud River to New Teakettle Creek (aka Little Teakettle Creek)
McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
Oysters Creek
5
Headwaters to Lazaretto Creek Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
A -323
Reach Name/ Data Source
Sapelo River
5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Broad River to the Julienton River McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
3
miles
1
Todd River
5
Headwaters to Sapelo Sound McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
1
Vandyke Creek
5
Headwaters to the Timmons River Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
6
miles
1
Walburg Creek
5
North Newport River to the Timmons River (along the southern and eastern end of Walburg Island)
Ogeechee
Liberty County
Fishing
Cumberland River
5
South Brickhill River to Satilla River Satilla (St. Andrews Sound)
Camden County
Fishing
Mud Creek
5
Headwaters to Brickhill River Camden County
Satilla Fishing
4
miles
1
11 miles
1
4
miles
1
Black Point Creek
5
Grover Creek to Crooked River Camden County
St Marys Fishing
3
miles
1
A -324
Reach Name/ Data Source
Crooked River/South Crooked River
5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Grover Creek to Cumberland Sound St Marys
7
miles
1
Camden County
Fishing
A -325
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Hayners Creek (known upstream as Casey Canal)
10,50,51
Casey Canal (Montgomery Crossroad) to Vernon River
Chatham County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Ogeechee
Criterion Violated
DO, FC
Potential Causes
UR
Extent
Category Priority Notes
2
miles
4a
TMDLs completed DO, FC, FCG(Dieldrin).
Fishing
Back River
1,9
One mile above confluence with Terry Creek to Torras Causeway, Brunswick
Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
SB, FCG (toxaphene like
chlorinated camphenes)
I1, I2
1
miles
5
2015
Brunswick River
1,5,55
Brunswick Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
FC
NP, UR
5
miles
5
2015
Gibson Creek
1,5
Brunswick Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
PCBs, Hg, SB,
I2
FCG (PCBs)
2
miles
4a
TMDLs completed PCBs, FCG(PCBs), SB, TWR & Hg.
Purvis Creek
1,5
Brunswick Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
Hg, Cd, PCBs, CFB, SB, FCG
(PCBs)
I1, I2
2
miles
4a
TMDLs completed Hg, Cd, FCG(PCBs), SB, PCBs, CFB, TWR
Terry and Dupree Creeks Terry and Dupree Creeks North of Satilla Torras Causeway to confluence with Back River, Brunswick
1,3,5,9,5 5
Glynn County
Fishing
SB, FCG (toxaphene like
chlorinated camphenes, DO
I1, I2, NP
3
miles
4a,5 2015 TMDLs completed FCG(toxaphene), SB, TWR.
A -326
Reach Name/ Data Source
Terry Creek
1,5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
South of Torras Causeway to Lanier Satilla Basin, Brunswick
Glynn County
Fishing
SB, FCG (PCBs) I1, I2
1
miles
4a
TMDLs completed FCG(PCBs), SB & FCG(Toxaphene)
Turtle River System
1,55
Brunswick: Turtle River, Buffalo River, and South Brunswick River
Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
SB, FCG
I1, M
21 miles
4a
(PCBs), DO
TMDL completed FCG(PCBs), SB & DO.
St. Marys River
55
Catfish Creek to Millers Branch Camden County
St Marys Fishing
DO
UR
6
miles
4a
TMDL completed DO.
A -327
Reach Name/ Data Source
Village Creek
5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Blackbank River to bend in creek at Altamaha Village Drive
Glynn County
Fishing
3
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Atwood Creek
59
Headwaters to Dark Creek McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Crescent River
5
Headwaters to Front River McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Duplin River
5
Headwaters to DoBoy Sound McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
7
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Florida Passage
5
Cane Patch Creek to Ogeechee River
Bryan/ Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
3
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
A -328
Reach Name/ Data Source
Half Moon River
5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Beard Creek to Wassaw Sound Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Julienton River
5
Cut at NE end of Fourmile Island to Ogeechee Sapelo River
McIntosh County
Fishing
1
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Little Mud River
5
Barbour Island River to Sapelo Sound
McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
3
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Mud River
5
Old Teakettle Creek (aka Old
Ogeechee
Creek) to New Teakettle Creek (aka
Little Teakettle Creek)
McIntosh County
Fishing
1
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
New Teakettle Creek (aka Little Teakettle Creek)
5
Mud River to Old Teakettle Creek (aka Old Creek)
Ogeechee
McIntosh County
Fishing
3
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
A -329
Reach Name/ Data Source
Pa Cooper Creek
5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to the Bull River Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
3
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Placentia Canal
59
Headwaters to Wilmington River Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
5
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Shellbluff Creek
5
Headwaters to Old Teakettle Creek (aka Old Creek)
McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Tributary to Black Island Headwaters to Black Island Creek Creek #1
59
McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Black Island Headwaters to Black Island Creek Creek #2
59
McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -330
Reach Name/ Data Source
Tributary to Hoover Creek #1
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters (Skyline Rd) to Hoover Creek
Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Hoover Creek #2
59
Headwaters (Coffee Bluff Rd) to Hoover Creek
Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
3
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Hudson Creek
59
Headwaters to Hudson Creek McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
1
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Jones Creek Headwaters to Jones Creek
59
Liberty County
Ogeechee Fishing
1
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Little Ogeechee River
59
Clyo Circle to Little Ogeechee River Ogeechee
Chatham County
Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -331
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Tributary to Sapelo River Headwaters to Sapelo River
59
McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to South Newport River
59
Headwaters to South Newport River Ogeechee
McIntosh County
Fishing
1
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Vernon River
5
Headwaters to Little Ogeechee River Ogeechee
Chatham County
Fishing
9
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Wahoo River
5
Barbour Island River to the South Newport River
McIntosh County
Ogeechee Fishing
5
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Wilmington River
5
Turner Creek to Wassaw Sound Chatham County
Ogeechee Fishing
6
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
A -332
Reach Name/ Data Source
Back River
5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Little River to St. Simons Sound Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
1
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Brickhill River (South Brickhill River)
5
Cumberland River to Cumberland River
Camden County
Satilla Fishing
9
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Cedar Creek
5
Jointer Creek to Brunswick River Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
2
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Cobb Creek
5
Headwaters to Jointer Creek Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
4
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Delaroche Creek
5
Cumberland River to Cumberland River
Camden County
Satilla Fishing
3
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
A -333
Reach Name/ Data Source
Dunbar Creek
55
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Maple Street to Frederica River Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
3
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Frederica River
5
Dunbar Creek to Mackay River Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
5
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Honey Creek
5
Headwaters to the Little Satilla River Satilla
Camden County
Fishing
5
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Jointer Creek
5
Headwaters to Satilla River (aka Jekyll Sound)
Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
13 miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Little Satilla River
5
Maiden Creek to Jekyll Sound Camden/ Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
5
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
A -334
Reach Name/ Data Source
Little Satilla River
55
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Fancy Bluff Creek to Maiden Creek Satilla
Glynn County
Fishing
6
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Maiden Creek
5
Headwaters to Little Satilla River Camden County
Satilla Fishing
6
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Mumford Creek
5
Brickhill River to Brickhill River Camden County
Satilla Fishing
2
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Sweeney Creek
59
Headwaters to White Oak Creek Camden County
Satilla Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Todd Creek
59
Headwaters to Camp Creek Camden County
Satilla Fishing
6
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -335
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Tributary to Brickhill
Headwaters to Brickhill (S. Brickhill) Satilla
River (S. Brickhill River) River
59
Camden County
Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Little Satilla Headwaters to Little Satilla River River
59
Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to MacIkintooth Headwaters to MacIkintooth Creek Creek
59
Camden County
Satilla Fishing
1
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to South Brunswick River
59
Headwaters to South Brunswick River
Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
Tributary to Troup Creek Headwaters to Troup Creek
59
Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
2
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
A -336
Reach Name/ Data Source
Springfield Canal
59
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Streams - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Headwaters to Savannah River Chatham County
Savannah Fishing
4
miles
3
The water is being placed in Category 3 because more macroinvertebrate data need to be collected in this area of the State to develop metrics for assessment purposes.
St. Marys River
5
Millers Branch to Burrells Creek Camden County
St Marys Fishing
6
miles
3
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
A -337
Reach Name/ Data Source
Altamaha Sound
5
Reach Location/ County
McIntosh County
McIntosh County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Sounds/Harbors - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Altamaha
Fishing
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
3
sq.
1
miles
Buttermilk Sound
5
McIntosh and Glynn Counties McIntosh/ Glynn County
Altamaha Fishing
3
sq.
1
miles
Doboy Sound
5
McIntosh County McIntosh County
Altamaha Fishing
6
sq.
1
miles
Sapelo Sound
5
McIntosh and Liberty Counties McIntosh/ Liberty County
Ogeechee
Fishing/ Recreation
13 sq.
1
miles
Wassaw Sound
5
Chatham County Chatham County
Savannah
Fishing/ Recreation
8
sq.
1
miles
A -338
Reach Name/ Data Source
St. Simons Sound
1,5
Reach Location/ County
Brunswick
Glynn County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Sounds/Harbors - Not Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Satilla
Fishing
Criterion Violated
DO
Potential Causes
I1, M, UR, NP
Extent
Category Priority Notes
10 sq.
4a
miles
TMDL completed DO.
Savannah Harbor
10,45
SR 25 (old US Hwy 17) to Elba Island Cut
Chatham County
Savannah Coastal Fishing
DO
UR, M,
4
sq.
4a
I1
miles
TMDLs completed FC, DO.
A -339
Reach Name/ Data Source
Ossabaw Sound
5
Reach Location/ County
Chatham County
Chatham County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Sounds/Harbors - Assessment Pending For Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Ogeechee
Fishing/ Recreation
16 sq.
3
miles
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
Cumberland Sound
5
Camden County Camden County
St Marys Fishing
9
sq.
3
miles
EPD needs to determine the "natural DO" for the area before a use assessment is made. It is EPD's goal to determine the "natural DO" by the end of 2011.
A -340
Reach Name/ Data Source
Contentment Bluff Sandbar Beach
5
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Beaches - Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Julienton River confluence of Broad Ogeechee and Julienton Rivers to 1 mile upriver.
McIntosh County
Fishing
0.5 miles
1
Dallas Bluff Sandar Beach
5
Julienton River from 1/2 mile upriver Ogeechee and downriver of Dallas Bluff Marina
McIntosh County
Fishing
0.4 miles
1
Ossabaw Island Bradley Bradley Point in Ossabaw Sound Beach
5
Chatham County
Ogeechee Recreation
4.2 miles
1
Ossabaw Island South Beach
5
South Tip of Ossabaw in St. Catherines Sound
Chatham County
Ogeechee Recreation
2.2 miles
1
Skidaway Narrows
Entire beach
County Park Beach (aka
Butterbean Beach)
5
Chatham County
Ogeechee Recreation
0.06 miles
1
Jekyll Island - Captain Wylly Road Crossover Beach
5
Brice Lane to Beach Pavillion Glynn County
Satilla Recreation
1 miles
1
341
Reach Name/ Data Source
Jekyll Island - Middle Beach at Convention Center
5
Reach Location/ County Beach Pavillion to Beach Deck
Glynn County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Beaches - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Satilla
0.95 miles
1
Recreation
Jekyll Island - North Beach at Dexter Lane
5
Old North Picnic Area to Brice Lane Satilla
Glynn County
Recreation
2.1 miles
1
Jekyll Island - South Beach at 4-H Camp
5
South Water Tower to Macy Lane Satilla
Glynn County
Recreation
1.6 miles
1
Jekyll Island - South Dunes Picnic Area Beach
5
Beach Deck to South Water Tower Satilla
Glynn County
Recreation
1.4 miles
1
Saint Simons Island 5th Street Crossover Beach
5
Cedar Street to 9th Street (Village Area)
Satilla
Glynn County
Fishing
0.6 miles
1
Saint Simons Island - Driftwood Drive to Cedar Street Massengale Park Beach
5
Glynn County
Satilla Recreation
0.5 miles
1
342
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Saint Simons Island Middle Beach (aka East Beach Old Coast Guard Station)
Tenth Street to Driftwood Drive
5
Glynn County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Beaches - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Satilla
0.9 miles
1
Recreation
Saint Simons Island South Beach at Lighthouse
5
9th Street to Pier (Village Area) Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
3 miles
1
Sea Island - North Beach Plantation Golf Course to Canzo Lane
5
Glynn County
Satilla Recreation
2.6 miles
1
Sea Island - South Beach
5
Goulds Inlet to Canzo Lane Glynn County
Satilla Recreation
2.9 miles
1
Tybee Island - Middle Lovell Street to 11th Street Beach at Center Terrace
5
Chatham County
Savannah Recreation
1 miles
1
Tybee Island - Polk Street Beach
5
End of Beach to Jetty Chatham County
Savannah Recreation
1.8 miles
1
343
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
Tybee Island - South
18th Street to Inlet Avenue
Beach at Chatham Street
5
Chatham County
Tybee Island - Strand Beach at Pier
5
11th Street to 18th Street Chatham County
Tybee Island North Beach at Gulick Street
5
Jetty to Lovell Street Chatham County
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List Coastal Beaches - Supporting Designated Uses
River Basin/ Use
Savannah
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
0.8 miles
1
Recreation
Savannah Recreation
0.7 miles
1
Savannah Recreation
0.7 miles
1
344
2008 Integrated 305(b)/303(d) List
Coastal Beaches - Not Supporting Designated Uses
Reach Name/ Data Source
Reach Location/ County
River Basin/ Use
Criterion Violated
Potential Causes
Extent
Category Priority Notes
Reimolds Pasture Beach Eastern Shore of Buttermilk Sound
5
Glynn County
Altamaha Fishing
Enterococci
NP
0.3 miles
5
2016
Kings Ferry County Park US Hwy 17 Kingsferry Bridge on
Beach
Ogeechee River - Entire Beach
5
Chatham County
Ogeechee Recreation
Enterococci
NP
0.04 miles
5
2014
Blythe Island Sandbar Beach
5
South Brunswick River from Hwy
Satilla
303 Bridge to Blythe Island Regional
Park
Glynn County
Fishing
Enterococci
NP
0.9 miles
5
2015
Jekyll Island - Clam Creek Beach
5
Clam Creek to Old North Picnic Area Satilla
Glynn County
Fishing
Enterococci
NP
1.9 miles
5
2015
Jekyll Island - St. Andrews Beach
5
Macy Lane to St. Andrews Picnic Area
Glynn County
Satilla Fishing
Enterococci
NP
0.8 miles
5
2015
Saint Simons Island North Beach at Goulds Inlet
5
St. Simons Island Fifteenth Street to Satilla Tenth Street (East Beach Area)
Glynn County
Recreation
Enterococci
NP
0.4 miles
5
2015
345
APPENDIX B
FISH CONSUMPTION GUIDELINES (Reproduction of Guidelines For Eating Fish
From Georgia Waters 2007 update)
Georgia Department of Natural Resources 2 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, S.E., Suite 1252
Atlanta, Georgia 30334-9000
Image Credits: Covers: Duane Raver Art Collection, courtesy of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Brown Bullhead on Front Cover and Flathead Catfish on Back Cover. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Line Drawings by Robert Savannah (courtesy of the USFWS): Snowy Egret (p. v); Fisherman (p. 1); Sunfish (p. 2); Raccoon (pp. 3 & 6); Yellow Bullhead (p. 5). Diagram of Fish Fat Areas (p. 7): Redrawn by Georgia EPD from other sources. USEPA Watershed Clip Art (p. 4). WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA B-1
APPENDIX B
Guidelines for Eating Fish from Georgia Waters 2007 Update
(This Appendix is a partial reproduction of Guidelines For Eating Fish From Georgia Waters 2007 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. Georgia's 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, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and mercury, were frequently detected in
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA B-2
significant amounts in a few species from some bodies of water in Georgia. Four additional 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. 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, page 18), 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 and DDD are persistent and break down slowly in the environment.
Striped mullet at only one site (Casey Canal, page 27), 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, page 52), 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.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA B-3
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 water, suspended sediments, or their food. These organic 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 often not measured in panfish such as crappie and bluegill because their food sources are lower on the food chain and bioaccumulate less.
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 risk-based 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 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.
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
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA B-4
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 that 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. 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.
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 that 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.
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.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA B-5
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.
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. 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. 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, other seafood size measures, and color pictures for identification.
Measure fish from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail fin.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA B-6
In the tables 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.
GEORGIA PUBLIC LAKES 500 ACRES OR LARGER
Lake Allatoona
Coosa River Basin
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
12" - 16"
No Restrictions
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
Over 16" No Restrictions
1 meal/week 1 meal/week
1 meal/week
Chemical
Mercury Mercury Mercury
Lake Andrews
Species Largemouth Bass
Less than 12"
12" - 16" 1 meal/week
Chattahoochee River Basin
Over 16" 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA B-7
Channel Catfish Spotted Sucker
No Restrictions No Restrictions
Banks Lake
Species Largemouth Bass Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/month
Suwannee River Basin Over 16"
Chemical Mercury
Bear Creek Reservoir
Oconee River Basin
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Over 16"
Chemical
Largemouth Bass*
1 meal/week
Mercury
Channel Catfish
1 meal/week
1 meal/week
Mercury
Sunfish *
No Restrictions
* Largemouth Bass 16-22 inches are illegal to keep. ** Bluegill, Redear and Redbreast Sunfish were tested
Lake Blackshear
Flint River Basin
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
1 meal/week
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
1 meal/week
*Only Largemouth Bass 14 inches and longer may be legally retained.
Over 16"
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Black Shoals Lake (Renamed Randy Poynter Lake in 2003: originally named Big Ocmulgee River Basin Haynes Reservoir)
Species Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Black Crappie Redear Sunfish
Less than 12"
No Restrictions 1 meal/week
No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Over 16" 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Mercury
Lake Blue Ridge
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
No Restrictions
1 meal/week
White Bass
1 meal/week
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
* Lake Blue Ridge has no minimum size on Largemouth Bass
Tennessee River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury
Lake Burton
Species Largemouth Bass*
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin
Over 16" 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA B-8
White Catfish
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish
Bluegill Sunfish
No Restrictions
Spotted Bass
1 meal/week
* Lake Burton has no minimum size on Largemouth Bass
No Restrictions
Mercury
Carters Lake
Species Largemouth Bass
Spotted Bass Channel Catfish
Walleye Hybrid Bass
Less than 12" No Restrictions
Lake Chatuge
Species Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Spotted Bass
Less than 12"
Clarks Hill Lake (J. Strom Thurmond)
Species Largemouth Bass
Black Crappie White Perch Redear Sunfish Hybrid Bass Striped Bass Channel Catfish Spotted Sucker
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
No Restrictions No Restrictions
Goat Rock Lake
Species Largemouth Bass
White Bass Hybrid Bass Spotted Sucker Black Crappie Channel Catfish Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" 1 meal/month 1 meal/week No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
Coosa River Basin Over 16"
No Restrictions
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chemical
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
1 meal/week
Tennessee River Basin
Over 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin
Over 16" 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions 1 meal/month 1 meal/month
No Restrictions 1 meal/week
Chattahoochee River Basin
Over 16" 1 meal/month
1 meal/month No Restrictions
Chemical PCBs, Mercury
PCBs PCBs
1 meal/month
PCBs
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA B-9
Lake Harding (Bartletts Ferry)
Species Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Black Crappie Hybrid Bass Striped Bass Spotted Bass
Less than 12" 1 meal/week No Restrictions
No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
1 meal/week 1 meal/week
1 meal/week
Chattahoochee River Basin
Over 16" 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Chemical PCBs, Mercury
PCBs PCBs PCBs PCBs, Mercury Mercury
Lake Hartwell: Tugaloo Arm
Species Largemouth Bass
Black Crappie Hybrid/Striped Bass
Channel Catfish Carp
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/week No Restrictions 1 meal/month No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/month
Do Not Eat 1 meal/month 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
PCBs PCBs Mercury
Lake Hartwell: Main Body, Georgia/South Carolina Listing
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 (Downlake of Andersonville Island) provided courtesy of the South Carolina DHEC (Ph.: 1-888-849-7241) 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
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Ocmulgee River Basin Over 16"
No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chemical
No Restrictions No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Jackson Lake Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish Black Crappie Redear Sunfish
White Catfish
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/week No Restrictions
Ocmulgee River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
PCBs
No Restrictions No Restrictions
Lake Juliette Species
Largemouth Bass *
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
Ocmulgee River Basin Over 16"
No Restrictions
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-10
Redear Sunfish
No Restrictions
Bullhead species
No Restrictions
* Lake Juliette has no minimum size on Largemouth Bass
Lake Sydney Lanier Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Chattahoochee River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical
Striped Bass
No Restrictions
1 meal/week
Mercury
Spotted Bass *
1 meal/week *
1 meal/week
Mercury
Largemouth Bass *
1 meal/week *
1 meal/week
Mercury
White Catfish
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
1 meal/week
Mercury
Common Carp
1 meal/week
Mercury
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
12" - 16" 1 meal/week
No Restrictions
Tennessee River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/week 1 meal/week No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury Mercury
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.
Chemical
Lake Oliver Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Hybrid Bass Bluegill Sunfish Redear Sunfish
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/week No Restrictions
Chattahoochee River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical
1 meal/week
PCBs, Mercury
1 meal/month
PCBs
Lake Rabun Species
Largemouth Bass White Catfish Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-11
Lake Richard B. Russell
Species
Less than 12"
Largemouth Bass
Black Crappie
No Restrictions
Bluegill Sunfish
No Restrictions
White Perch
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
Bullhead
No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/week No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Lake Seminole
Species Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish Spotted Sucker
Black Crappie Redear Sunfish
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/week No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
Lake Sinclair Species
Largemouth Bass Hybrid Bass Catfish Black Crappie
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
Lake Tobesofkee Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Lake Tugalo Species
Largemouth Bass White Catfish Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/month No Restrictions
Lake Varner (Cornish Creek Reservoir, Newton County)
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish
Lake Walter F. George (Eufaula)
Species
Less than 12"
Largemouth Bass *
Hybrid Bass
Channel Catfish
Black Crappie
No Restrictions
12" - 16"
No Restrictions No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
Chattahoochee/Flint River Basin (Apalachicola)
Over 16"
Chemical
1 meal/week
Mercury
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Oconee River Basin Over 16"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chemical
Ocmulgee River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/week No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/month
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Ocmulgee River Basin Over 16"
Chemical
No Restrictions
Chattahoochee River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-12
Spotted Sucker
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
* Only Largemouth Bass 14 inches and longer may be legally retained.
West Point Lake Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Chattahoochee River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical
Largemouth Bass *
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Spotted Bass
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Hybrid Bass
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
1 meal/week
PCBs
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
1 meal/week
PCBs
Common Carp
No Restrictions
Black Crappie
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
* Legal Largemouth 14". ** Striped Bass move between Lake & Morgan Falls Dam
Lake Worth (Lake Chehaw; Flint River Reservoir)
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass
1 meal/week
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
Lake Worth (Lake Chehaw, Old Lake Worth Reservoir)
Largemouth Bass
1 meal/week
Channel Catfish
Redear Sunfish
No Restrictions
Spotted Sucker
Flint River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/week No Restrictions
1 meal/week
No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Mercury 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
Coosa River Basin
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
Over 16" 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
City of Adairsville Pond
Species Carp
Coosa River Basin
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
No Restrictions
Over 16"
Chemical
Albany By-Pass Pond
Species Largemouth Bass
Catfish Common Carp Redear Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Flint River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/week
1 meal/month
Chemical DDE/DDD DDE/DDD DDE/DDD
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-13
Allen Creek Wildlife Management Area, Ponds A and B
Oconee River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
Over 16"
Antioch Lake (East & West), Rocky Mountain PFA
Coosa River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Black Crappie Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
Over 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Lake Bennett (Marben PFA, Charlie Elliot Wildlife Center)
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
1 meal/week*
*Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.
Oconee River Basin
Over 16" 1 meal/week
Chemical Chemical
Chemical Mercury
Big Lazer PFA (Gum Creek Impoundment)
Flint River Basin
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish *Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.
Over 16" 1 meal/week No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Bowles C. Ford Lake, City of Savannah
Savannah River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass
White Catfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Over 16" No Restrictions
Chemical
Brasstown Valley Kids Fishing Pond
Species Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16"
Tennessee River Basin Over 16"
Chemical
Bush Field Airport, Augusta: Unnamed Pond
Species Largemouth Bass Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/week
Savannah River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical Mercury
Clayton County Water Authority: Blalock Reservoir
Ocmulgee River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
No Restrictions
Over 16"
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-14
Black Crappie
No Restrictions
Clayton County Water Authority: J.W. Smith Reservoir
Flint River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass Redear Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
Over 16"
Chemical
Clayton County Water Authority: Shamrock Reservoir
Ocmulgee River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
Over 16"
Chemical
Dodge County PFA (Steve Bell Lake)
Ocmulgee River Basin
Species
Less than 12"
12 - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
*
Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.
Over 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chemical
Evans County PFA
Ogeechee Basin
Species
Less than 12"
12 - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish
*
Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.
Over 16" 1 meal/week No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Fort Yargo State Park Lake (Marburg Cr. Watershed Proj.)
Oconee River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass
Carp
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
Over 16" No Restrictions
Heath Lake, Rocky Mountain PFA
Coosa River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass
Black Crappie Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Over 16" No Restrictions
Chemical Chemical
Hugh M. Gillis PFA Species
Channel Catfish Bluegill Sunfish Largemouth Bass
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
1 meal/week
Oconee River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical
No Restrictions
Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-15
Ken Gardens Lake (Albany, Georgia)
Flint River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish Brown Bullhead Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12"
No Restrictions No Restrictions No Restrictions
12" - 16" 1 meal/week No Restrictions
Over 16" 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
Kolomoki Lake, Kolomoki Mounds State Park
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass Redear Sunfish
1 meal/week No Restrictions
Chattahoochee River Basin
Over 16" 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
Little Ocmulgee State Park Lake (Gum Creek Swamp)
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass
Brown Bullhead
1 meal/week
Ocmulgee River Basin
Over 16" 1 meal/month
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Lake Mayer (City of Savannah)
Ogeechee River Basin
Species Largemouth Bass Redear Sunfish Speckled Bullhead
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Over 16" No Restrictions
Chemical
McDuffie PFA (East Watershed Ponds)
Savannah River Basin
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
* Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.
Over 16"
Chemical
McDuffie PFA (West Watershed Ponds)
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
1 meal/week *
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
* Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.
Savannah River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/week No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Nancy Town Lake (Habersham County)
Species
Less than 12"
Bluegill Sunfish
No Restrictions
Largemouth Bass
12" - 16" No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-16
Lake Olmstead (Richmond County)
Species
Less than 12"
Largemouth Bass
Spotted Sucker
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical
Paradise PFA (Horseshoe 4) Species
Channel Catfish
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Suwannee River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical
No Restrictions
Paradise PFA (Lake Patrick)
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
No Restrictions
Brown Bullhead
No Restrictions
* Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.
Suwannee River Basin
Over 16"
Chemical
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Payton Park Pond, Valdosta Species
Largemouth Bass Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions
Suwannee River Basin Over 16"
Chemical
Reed Bingham State Park Lake
Species
Less than 12"
Largemouth Bass
White Catfish
12" - 16" 1 meal/month
Suwannee River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/month 1 meal/month
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Lake Rutledge (Hard Labor Creek State Park)
Species
Less than 12"
Largemouth Bass
Channel Catfish
No Restrictions
12" - 16" No Restrictions No Restrictions
Oconee River Basin Over 16"
Chemical
Lake Seed Species
Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16"
Savannah River Basin Over 16"
Chemical
Shepherd Lake (Marben PFA, Charlie Elliot Wildlife Center) Oconee River Basin
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass *
No Restrictions
* Minimum size is 14 inches unless posted otherwise.
Over 16"
Chemical
South Slappy Blvd. Offramp Pond (Albany, Georgia)
Species
Less than 12"
12" - 16"
Largemouth Bass
1 meal/week
Flint River Basin Over 16"
1 meal/month
Chemical Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-17
Bluegill Sunfish
No Restrictions
Stone Mountain Lake Species
Largemouth Bass Catfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16 " No Restrictions
Ocmulgee River Basin Over 16 "
1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
Tribble Mill Lake, Gwinnett County
Species
Less than 12"
Largemouth Bass
No Restrictions
Black Crappie
No Restrictions
Bluegill Sunfish
No Restrictions
12" - 16 " 1 meal/week
Ocmulgee River Basin Over 16 "
Chemical Mercury
Yohola Lake, Kolomoki Mounds State Park
Species
Less than 12"
Largemouth Bass
Bluegill Sunfish
No Restrictions
12" - 16 " 1 meal/week
Chattahoochee River Basin
Over 16 "
Chemical
1 meal/week
Mercury
Yonah Lake Species
Largemouth Bass Catfish (mixed sp.)
Bluegill Sunfish
Less than 12" No Restrictions
12" - 16 " 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Savannah River Basin Over 16 "
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 tables. 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)
Suwannee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
U.S.Hwys. 82 to 84
1 meal/month
Spotted Sucker
See Above
1 meal/week
Redbreast Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Alapaha River (Near State Line)
Suwannee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Near Statenville
1 meal/month
Bullhead
See Above
1 meal/month
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
Chemical Mercury Mercury
B-18
Alapahoochee River (Near State Line)
Suwannee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Bullhead
Echols County
1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
Alcovy River Species
Spotted Sucker Chain Pickerel
Ocmulgee River Basin
Site Tested
Recommendation
Arrowhatchee Farms
No Restrictions
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical
Allatoona Creek, Cobb County
Species
Site Tested
Spotted Bass
Ga. Hwy. 176
Alabama Hog Sucker
See Above
Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Altamaha River,
NEAR BAXLEY (U.S. HWY 1), AND NEAR JESUP, GA. (U.S. HWY.S 25/84)
ALTAMAHA RIVER BASIN
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Chemical
Largemouth Bass
U.S. Hwy 1
1 meal/week
Mercury
Channel Catfish
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Flathead Catfish
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Bluegill Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Largemouth Bass
U.S. Hwys 25/84
1 meal/week
Mercury
Channel Catfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Flathead Catfish
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Striped Mullet
Altamaha Park
No Restrictions
Apalachee River Species
Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish
Oconee River Basin
Site Tested
Recommendation
Apalachee Beach
1 meal/week
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Beaver Creek (Tributary to Patsiliga Creek)
Species
Site Tested
Yellow Bullhead
Taylor County
Flint River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month
Chemical Mercury
Boen Creek Species
Bluehead Chub
Savannah River Basin
Site Tested
Recommendation
Rabun County
No Restrictions
Chemical
Brasstown Creek Species
Northern Hog Sucker
Tennessee River Basin
Site Tested
Recommendation
Towns County
No Restrictions
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-19
Brier Creek (Burke County) Species
Largemouth Bass Spotted Sucker
Savannah River Basin Site Tested
Ga. Hwy. 56 See Above
Recommendation 1 meal/month 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Broad River Species
Channel Catfish Flathead Catfish
Buffalo Creek Species
Bluegill Sunfish
Savannah River Basin
Site Tested
Recommendation
Ga. Hwy 17
No Restrictions
See Above
No Restrictions
Tallapoosa River Basin
Site Tested
Recommendation
Carroll County
No Restrictions
Chemical Chemical
Butternut Creek Species
Hog Sucker
Tennessee River Basin
Site Tested
Recommendation
Union County
No Restrictions
Chemical
Cane Creek (Wimpy's Air Field)
Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Lumpkin County
No Restrictions
Chemical
Canoochee River (Hwy 192 to Lotts Cr.)
Ogeechee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
U.S. Hwy. 280
1 meal/month
Channel Catfish
See Above
1 meal/week
Redbreast Sunfish
See Above
1 meal/month
Snail Bullhead
See Above
1 meal/month
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury
Canoochee River (Lotts Cr. To Ogeechee River) Ogeechee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Below Canoochee Creek (Taylor 1 meal/month Creek)
Channel Catfish
See Above
1 meal/month
Chemical Mercury
Mercury
Casey Canal (Tributary to Hayners Cr. / Vernon River)Ogeechee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Eisenhower Dr.
No Restrictions
Bluegill Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Striped Mullet
See Above
1 meal/week
Chemical Dieldrin
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-20
Cedar Creek Tributary (Hart County WMA)
Savannah River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Creek Chubsucker
Hart County WMA
No Restrictions
Redbreast Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chattahoochee River (Near Helen, and Above Lake Lanier)
Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Redeye Bass
Ga. Hwy 75, Helen
1 meal/week
Snail Bullhead
See Above
1 meal/week
Golden Redhorse
See Above
1 meal/week
Largemouth Bass
Belton Bridge Road
1 meal/month
Channel Catfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chattahoochee River (Buford Dam to Morgan Falls Dam)
Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Multiple, Dam to Dam
1 meal/week
Common Carp
See Above
No Restrictions
Brown Trout
See Above
No Restrictions
Rainbow Trout
See Above
No Restrictions
Yellow Perch
Above Morgan Falls
No Restrictions
Chattahoochee River (Morgan Falls Dam to Peachtree Creek)
Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Below Morgan Falls Dam
No Restrictions
Common Carp
See Above
1 meal/month
Brown Trout
See Above
No Restrictions
Rainbow Trout
See Above
No Restrictions
Jumprock Sucker
See Above
1 meal/week
Bluegill Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chattahoochee River (Peachtree Creek to Pea Creek)
Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Common Carp
SR 166 (DNR boat ramp)
1 meal/month
Channel Catfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Bluegill Sunfish
See Above
1 meal/week
White Sucker
Peachtree Cr. To I-20
No Restrictions
Black Bass Spp.
I-285
1 meal/week
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical PCBs Mercury
Chemical PCBs PCBs Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-21
Chattahoochee River
Chattahoochee River Basin
(Pea Creek to West Point Lake, below Franklin)
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
U.S. 27/SR16 Whitesburg
1 meal/week
Spotted Bass
See Above
1 meal/week
Channel Catfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chattahoochee River: Special for Striped Bass (Morgan Falls Dam to West Point Lake, below Franklin)
Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Chemical
Striped Bass
Morgan Falls to I-285
1 meal/month
PCBs, Mercury
Note: One population of striped bass migrates annually between West Point Lake and Morgan Falls Dam. Sampled population represents this stretch of river and Lake.
Chattahoochee River (West Point Dam to Interstate 85)
Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Below Dam
No Restrictions
Spotted Bass
See Above
1 meal/week
Flat Bullhead Catfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Chattahoochee River
Chattahoochee River Basin
(Oliver Dam to Upatoi Creek, Muscogee County)
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Oliver Dam to Eagle Phoenix Dam
1 meal/month
Bullhead Catfish
See Above
1 meal/week
Chemical PCBs
PCBs
Chattahoochee River
Chattahoochee River Basin
(Chattahoochee County to Stewart County; Upatoi 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
Chemical Chemical
Chattanooga Creek Species
Bluegill Sunfish Northern Hog Sucker
Tennessee River Basin
Site Tested
Recommendation
Ga. Hwy 193
No Restrictions
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-22
Chattooga River (Northeast Georgia, Rabun County) Savannah River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Northern Hog Sucker
Hwy. 24
1 meal/week
Silver Redhorse
Above Lake Tugalo
1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chattooga River (Northwest Georgia)
Species
Site Tested
Bluegill Sunfish
Chattoogaville
Black Crappie
See Above
Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chemical
Chestatee River, Headwaters, Turners Corner Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Redeye Bass
Hwy. 19
No Restrictions
Alabama Hog Sucker
See Above
No Restrictions
Bluehead Chub
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical
Chestatee River, (Tesnatee River to Lake Lanier)Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Spotted Bass
Downstream Ga. 400
1 meal/week
Channel Catfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Redbreast Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Chickamauga Creek (East and South)
Tennessee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Rock Bass
Ga. Hwy 2
No Restrictions
Redbreast Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical
Chickamauga Creek (West) Species Spotted Bass Redbreast Sunfish
Site Tested Ga. Hwy 2 See Above
Tennessee River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Chickasawhatchee Creek, WMA near Elmodel, Ga.
Species
Site Tested
Spotted Sucker
Wildlife Mgm't Area
Flint River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions
Chemical
Cohulla Creek (Praters Mill)
Species
Site Tested
Blacktail Redhorse
Ga. Hwy. 2
Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-23
Coleman River, Near Mouth, Rabun County
Savannah River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Rainbow Trout
Near Tate City Rd.
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:
Coosa River Basin
State Line to Hwy 286 (Hwy 2); and, Hwy 286 to Calhoun (Old Tilton Bridge)
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Spotted Bass
Ga. Hwy. 2
1 meal/week
Smallmouth Buffalo
See Above
1 meal/month
White Bass Smallmouth Buffalo
Old Tilton Bridge See Above
1 meal/month 1 meal/month
Coosa River (River Mile Zero to Hwy 100)
Species
Site Tested
Largemouth Bass
River Mile 2, Rome
Spotted Bass
See Above
Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month 1 meal/week
Blue Catfish < 18" Blue Catfish 18-32" Blue Catfish > 32" Smallmouth Buffalo
River Mile 2 & Hwy. 100 River Mile 2 & Hwy. 100 River Mile 2 & Hwy. 100
River Mile 2, Rome
1 meal/week 1 meal/month Do Not Eat Do Not Eat
Coosa River (Hwy 100 to Stateline)
Coosa River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Smallmouth Buffalo
Below Hwy 100 and at Brushy Branch
1 meal/month
Largemouth Bass
See Above
1 meal/week
Spotted Bass
See Above
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish
See Above
1 meal/month
Black Crappie
Foster Bend
1 meal/week
Blue Catfish < 18" Blue Catfish 18-32" Blue Catfish > 32"
River Mile 2 & Hwy. 100 River Mile 2 & Hwy. 100 River Mile 2 & Hwy. 100
1 meal/week 1 meal/month Do Not Eat
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury PCBs, Mercury
PCBs PCBs, Mercury
Chemical PCBs PCBs, Mercury PCBs PCBs PCBs PCBs
Chemical PCBs PCBs
PCBs PCBs PCBs PCBs PCBs
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-24
Coosa River: Special Striped Bass (River mile zero in Rome to Stateline/Lake Weiss)
Coosa River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Chemical
Striped Bass less than 20 inches in length
Multiple sites on Coosa
1 meal/month
PCBs
Striped Bass 20 inches in See Above length
Do Not Eat
PCBs
Note: One population of striped bass migrates annually between Lake Weiss and locations on the Coosa, Etowah (below Thompson-Weinman Dam) and Oostanaula Rivers. Sampled population represents these stretches of river.
Coosawattee River (Below Carters Lake Dam)
Species
Site Tested
Smallmouth Buffalo
Owens Gin Road
Bluegill Sunfish
As Above
Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/month No Restrictions
Chemical PCBs, Mercury
Daniels Creek (Dade County)
Tennessee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Bluegill Sunfish
Cloudland Canyon State Park
No Restrictions
Dukes Creek (Near Helen)
Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Rainbow Trout
Near Ga.Hwy. 75
No Restrictions
Brown Trout
See Above
No Restrictions
Note: Trout may not be harvested in Smithgall Woods
Chemical Chemical
Etowah River (Dawson County)
Species
Site Tested
Blacktail Redhorse
Kelly Bridge Road
Coosa River Basin Recommendation 1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
Etowah River (Above Lake Allatoona, Cherokee County) Coosa River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Spotted Bass
York Street
1 meal/week
Golden Redhorse
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Etowah River (Below Lake Allatoona, Bartow/Floyd Co) Coosa River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Channel Catfish
U.S. Hwy. 411
No Restrictions
Largemouth Bass
See Above
1 meal/week
Striped Bass *
Below Allatoona Dam *
No Restrictions
Spotted Bass
See Above
1 meal/week
Bluegill Sunfish Smallmouth Buffalo
See Above See Above
No Restrictions 1 meal/month
Chemical
Mercury
PCBs, Mercury
PCBs, Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-25
* For Striped Bass below Allatoona Dam and above Thompson-Weinman Dam in Cartersville only. See "Coosa River: Special Striped Bass", for lower Etowah River.
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
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)
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.)
Savannah River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Brook Trout
Rabun County
No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-26
Gum Creek Species
Largemouth Bass Carp
Site Tested Crisp County See Above
Flint River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week No Restriction
Holly Creek (Murray County)
Species
Site Tested
Blacktail Redhorse
Fox Bridge Road
Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week
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
Coosa River Basin Recommendation
No Restrictions
Kinchafoonee Creek (Sumter/Lee Counties)
Species
Site Tested
Largemouth Bass
Ga. Hwys 49 to 118
Spotted Sucker
See Above
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) Suwannee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Above Ga. Hwy 133
1 meal/week
Spotted Sucker
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical
Chemical Mercury
Chemical Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-27
Little Tallapoosa River Species
Largemouth Bass Black Crappie Brown Bullhead
Tallapoosa River Basin
Site Tested
Recommendation
U.S. Hwy. 27
No Restrictions
See Above
No Restrictions
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical
Little Tennessee River (Rabun County)
Tennessee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
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 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
Mill Creek (Murray County) Species
Golden Redhorse
Site Tested Hwy. 411, Eton
Coosa River Basin Recommendation
1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
Moccasin Creek (Lake Burton Hatchery)
Savannah River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Rainbow Trout
DNR Hatchery
No Restrictions
Chemical
Muckalee Creek (Sumter/Lee Counties)
Flint River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
McLittle Bridge Rd. To Ga. Hwy 118
1 meal/week
Spotted Sucker
See Above
1 meal/week
Chemical Mercury
Mercury
Mud Creek, Near Powder Springs, Cobb CountyChattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Alabama Hog Sucker
Ga. Hwy 360
No Restrictions
Bluegill Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-28
Nickajack Creek, Cobb County Chattahoochee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Alabama Hog Sucker
Cooper Lake Road
No Restrictions
Bluegill Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
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) Ochlockonee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Above Thomasville, Hwy. 19
1 meal/month
White Catfish Redbreast Sunfish Warmouth
See Above See Above See Above
1 meal/week 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
Ochlockonee River (Thomasville to State Line) Ochlockonee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Ga. Hwy. 93
1 meal/month
Spotted Sucker
See Above
1 meal/week
Redbreast Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Ocmulgee River (Butts/Monroe Counties)
Ocmulgee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
Below Lloyd Shoals Dam, Lake Jackson
No Restrictions
Brown Bullhead
See Above
No Restrictions
Ocmulgee River (Bibb County)
Ocmulgee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass
6 Miles Downstream of Tobesofkee Creek
1 meal/week
Flathead Catfish
See Above
1 meal/month
Channel Catfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical
Chemical Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury
Chemical Mercury Mercury
Chemical
Chemical Mercury PCBs, Mercury
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-29
Ocmulgee River (Houston/Twiggs Counties)
Ocmulgee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Channel Catfish
Ga. Hwy. 96
No Restrictions
Flathead Catfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical
Ocmulgee River (Pulaski County)
Species
Site Tested
Largemouth Bass Hawkinsville
Channel Catfish See Above
Ocmulgee River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chemical
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
Mercury
1 meal/week
Mercury
No Restrictions
Chemical
Ocmulgee River (Telfair/Wheeler Counties)
Ocmulgee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass U.S. Hwy 341
1 meal/week
Mercury
Flathead Catfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
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
Mercury
Silver Redhorse See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical Chemical
Oconee River (Oconee and Greene Counties) Barnett Shoals Dam to Lake Oconee
Oconee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Silver Redhorse Ga. Hwy. 15
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish See Above
No Restrictions
Common Carp
See Above
No Restrictions
Oconee River (Baldwin/Wilkinson Counties)
Oconee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Flathead Catfish Milledgeville to Dublin No Restrictions
Largemouth Bass See Above
No Restrictions
Channel Catfish See Above
No Restrictions
Chemical Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-30
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
Ogeechee River (Washington County; near Davisboro)Ogeechee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass Ga. Hwy 88
1 meal/month
Mercury
Spotted Sucker
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Ogeechee River (Jefferson County; Louisville)
Ogeechee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass U.S. Hwy 1
1 meal/month
Mercury
Spotted Sucker
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Ogeechee River (Burke County; Midville)
Species
Site Tested
Largemouth Bass Ga. Hwy. 56
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
Ogeechee River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/month
Mercury
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Ogeechee River (Jenkins County; Millen)
Species
Site Tested
Largemouth Bass U.S. Hwy 25
Snail Bullhead
See Above
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
Ogeechee River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/month
Mercury
1 meal/week
Mercury
1 meal/week
Mercury
Ogeechee River (Bulloch County; near Statesboro) Ogeechee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass U.S. Hwy 301
1 meal/month
Mercury
Channel Catfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Snail Bullhead
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Spotted Sucker
Ga. Hwy. 24 (so. bridge)
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical Chemical
Ogeechee River (Bryan County; near Ellabelle)
Ogeechee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass Ga. Hwy 204
1 meal/month
Mercury
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Channel Catfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-31
Ogeechee River (Near Ft. McAllister)
Species
Site Tested
Mullet
Fort McAllister
Ogeechee River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions
Chemical
Ohoopee River (Near Oak Park, Ga.)
Species
Site Tested
Largemouth Bass I-16
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
Altamaha River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/month
Mercury
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Ohoopee River (Near Reidsville, Ga., Tattnall Co.) Altamaha River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass Ga. Hwys 280 to 56 1 meal/month
Mercury
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Spotted Sucker
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Okefenokee Swamp (Stephen Foster State Park) Suwannee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Bowfin
Billy's "Lake"
1 meal/month
Mercury
Flier (sunfish)
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
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
Chemical Chemical Chemical
Oostanaula River (Floyd/Gordon Counties)
Coosa River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Smallmouth Buffalo Ga. Hwy 156, Calhoun 1 meal/week
PCBs, Mercury
Bluegill Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Spotted Bass
Ga. Hwy 140
1 meal/week
Mercury
Bluegill Sunfish
See Above
No Restrictions
Largemouth Bass See Above
1 meal/week
PCBs
Smallmouth Buffalo See Above
1 meal/week
PCBs, Mercury
Channel Catfish See Above
1 meal/week
PCBs
See "Coosa River: Special Striped Bass"
Chemical
Patsiliga Creek (Upstream of Beaver Creek, Taylor Co.) Flint River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass Spotted Sucker
From McCants Millpond to Ga. Hwy 208
No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chain Pickerel
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-32
Patsiliga Creek (Downstream of Beaver Creek)
Flint River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Chemical
Bass Spp. *
Taylor County
1 meal/month
Mercury
Sucker Spp. *
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
*Bass: Largemouth & Shoal; Suckers: Grayfin Redhorse, Spotted & Greater Jumprock
Pipe Makers Canal (Near Savannah, Georgia)
Savannah River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass Chatham County
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Ponder Branch (Walker County, Villanow)
Species
Site Tested
Redeye Bass
Ga. Hwy 136
Coosa River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions
Chemical
Proctor Creek, Near Acworth, Cobb County
Coosa River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Green Sunfish
Ga. Hwy 293, Old US No Restrictions 41
Chemical
Satilla River (Near Waycross, Ware/Brantley Co.s)
Satilla River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass U.S. Hwy 84
1 meal/month
Mercury
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Channel Catfish U.S. Hwy 301
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Satilla River (Folkston, Burnt Fort, Charlton/Camden Co.)Satilla River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Chemical
Largemouth Bass Ga. Hwy. 252
1 meal/month
Mercury
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
1 meal/month
Mercury
Flathead Catfish 30 See Above inches and smaller
1 meal/month*
Mercury
Flathead Catfish greater than 30 inches
See Above
Do Not Eat
Mercury
* Because there is considerable variation in how much mercury these large predatory fish contain, people who are considered to be especially sensitive to the effects of mercury (pregnant women, nursing mothers and young children), may wish to limit their consumption further than listed above.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-33
Savannah River (Below Clarks Hill Dam, Columbia County)Savannah River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Chemical
Largemouth Bass Above New Savannah 1 meal/week Bluff Lock & Dam
Mercury
Spotted Sucker
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Redear Sunfish
Above Stevens Cr. Dam
No Restrictions
Redbreast Sunfish Below Stevens Cr. Dam
No Restrictions
Savannah River (Richmond/Burke Counties)
Savannah River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Chemical
Largemouth Bass Below New Savannah 1 meal/week Bluff Lock & Dam
Mercury
Sucker
See Above
No Restrictions
Striped Mullet
See Above
No Restrictions
Specific consumption guidelines have not been issued for the radionuclides cesium-137 & strontium-90, in the Savannah River (Burke/Screven Co.s), adjacent to the Savannah River Site (SRS). Guidance 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
Bluegill Sunfish
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Specific consumption guidelines have not been issued for the radionuclides cesium-137 & strontium-90, in the Savannah River (Burke/Screven Co.s), adjacent to the Savannah River Site (SRS). Guidance 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
Redbreast Sunfish 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
Mercury
No Restrictions
1 meal/week
Mercury
Savannah River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/month
Mercury
1 meal/week
Mercury
No Restrictions
1 meal/month
Mercury
Chemical Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-34
Savannah River (Chatham County)
Species
Site Tested
Largemouth Bass U.S. Hwy. 17
Channel Catfish See Above
Striped Mullet
Hwy. 17, Front River
Savannah River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/week
Mercury
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
Chemical
Savannah River (Tidal Gate)
Species
Site Tested
Red Drum
Tidal Gate
White Catfish
See Above
Savannah River Basin
Recommendation
No Restrictions
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Savannah River: Special Striped Bass
Savannah River Basin
(New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam to Estuary, Chatham Co.)
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Chemical
Striped Bass 27" and greater in length
Multiple locations, over 1 meal/month * section noted above
Mercury
* Because there is considerable variation in how much mercury these large predatory fish contain, people who are considered to be especially sensitive to the effects of mercury (pregnant women, nursing mothers and young children), may wish to limit their consumption further than listed above.
Note: one population of striped bass migrates annually between the Savannah estuary and New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam. Current minimum legal size is 27 inches.
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
Chemical
Short Creek (Warren County)
Species
Site Tested
Sunfish
Warren County
Ogeechee River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Slab Camp Creek (Oconee County)
Species
Site Tested
Greater Jumprock Watson Spring Road
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
Oconee River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions No Restrictions
Chemical
South River (DeKalb/Rockdale County)
Species
Site Tested
Bluegill Sunfish
Hwy. 155, Panola Shoals
Snail Bullhead
See Above
Ocmulgee River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/week
PCBs
1 meal/week
PCBs
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-35
South River (Henry County)
Species
Site Tested
Largemouth Bass Snapping Shoals
Silver Redhorse See Above
Channel Catfish
Below Snapping Shoals
Ocmulgee River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/week
PCBs
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
South River (Butts County)
Species
Site Tested
Black Crappie
Ga. Hwy. 36
Largemouth Bass See Above
Channel Catfish See Above
Redbreast Sunfish 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)
Flint River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass Ga. Hwy. 84
1 meal/week
Mercury
Spotted Sucker
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Redear Sunfish
See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
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
Mercury
No Restrictions
Chemical Chemical Chemical Chemical Chemical Chemical Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-36
St. Marys River (Camden County)
Species
Site Tested
Largemouth Bass U.S. Hwy. 17
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
Striped Mullet
See Above
Recommendation
1 meal/month
Mercury
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
St. Marys River Basin Chemical
Sugar Creek (Murray County)
Species
Site Tested
Golden Redhorse Sugar Creek Road
Coosa River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Sumac Creek (Murray County)
Species
Site Tested
Golden Redhorse Hwy. 225
Coosa River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Suwannee River (Clinch/Ware/Echols Co.s) Suwannee River Sill to State Line
Suwannee River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Largemouth Bass Short Camp Road
1 meal/month
Mercury
Bullhead Catfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chain Pickerel
See Above & U.S. 411
1 meal/week
Mercury
Flier
U.S. Hwy 411
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Swamp Creek (Whitfield County)
Species
Site Tested
Redeye Bass
Redwine Cove Road
Coosa River Basin
Recommendation
1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
Talking Rock Creek (Downtown Talking Rock, Pickens Co.)Coosa River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Redeye Bass
Near Fire Department 1 meal/week
Mercury
Chemical
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
Mercury
Chemical
Tallulah River, Towns County
Species
Site Tested
Rainbow Trout
Charlies Creek Road
Savannah River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions
Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-37
Tributary to Hudson River (Alto, Ga., Banks County) Savannah River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Redeye Bass
Below Alto Prison
1 meal/week
Mercury
Brown Bullhead See Above
No Restrictions
Upatoi Creek Species
Grayfin Redhorse
Site Tested Above Mouth
Chattahoochee River Basin Recommendation No Restrictions
Withlacoochee River
Suwannee River Basin
(Hahira to State Line, Berrien/Lowndes Counties)
Species
Site Tested
Recommendation
Redbreast Sunfish Ga. Hwy 122
1 meal/week
Mercury
Largemouth Bass Near Clyattville
1 meal/month
Mercury
Redbreast Sunfish See Above
1 meal/week
Mercury
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 Chemical No Restrictions
Chemical Chemical Chemical Chemical
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.
Academy Creek Species Blue Crab
Site Tested
Academy Creek
Recommendations No Restrictions
Satilla River Basin Chemical
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-38
Altamaha River Estuary Altamaha River Basin
Species
Site Tested
Recommendations
Striped Mullet
Below Hwy. 17 No Restrictions
Chemical
Floyd Creek (to St. Andrews Sound)
Species
Site Tested
Recommendations
Blue Crab
Southern Kingfish
Floyd Creek, So. of Floyd Basin
No Restrictions No Restrictions
Satilla River Basin Chemical
Hayners Creek Species Blue Crab
Site Tested Above SR 204
Ogeechee River Basin Recommendations Chemical No Restrictions
Turtle River System: Purvis and Gibson Creeks , (St. Simons Estuary)
Satilla River Basin
Species
Site Tested Recommendation
Chemical
Red Drum, Flounder
Shrimp, Black Drum, Spot
Blue Crab, Spotted Seatrout, Southern Kingfish (whiting), Sheepshead
Purvis & Gibson Creeks
1 meal/week 1 meal/month 1 meal/month
PCBs, Mercury PCBs
PCBs, Mercury
Striped Mullet, Atlantic Croaker
Do Not Eat
PCBs
Clams, Mussels, Oysters
Not applicable
Do Not Eat
Shellfish Ban *
* Shellfish Ban: National Shellfish Sanitation Program. For information see Coastal Resources Division website: http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us
Upper Turtle & Buffalo Rivers (St. Simons Estuary)
Satilla River Basin
Species
Site Tested Recommendation
White Shrimp
Blue Crab, Red Drum, Spotted Seatrout
Flounder
Southern Kingfish, Sheepshead
Turtle and Buffalo Rivers,
Upriver of Georgia Hwy
303
No Restrictions 1 meal/week
1 meal/week 1 meal/month
Black Drum, Croaker, Spot
1 meal/month
Striped Mullet
Do Not Eat
Clams, Mussels, Oysters
Not applicable
Do Not Eat
* Shellfish Ban: National Shellfish Sanitation Program
Chemical
PCBs, Mercury
PCBs PCBs, Mercury
PCBs PCBs Shellfish Ban *
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
B-39
Middle Turtle River (St. Simons Estuary)
Satilla River Basin
Species
Site Tested Recommendation
White Shrimp
Red Drum, Flounder
Blue Crab, Atlantic Croaker, Black Drum, Spotted Seatrout, Southern Kingfish, Sheepshead
State Hwy 303 to Channel
Marker 9
No Restrictions 1 meal/week 1 meal/month
Striped Mullet, Spot
Do Not Eat
Clams, Mussels, Oysters
Not applicable
Do Not Eat
* Shellfish Ban: National Shellfish Sanitation Program
Chemical PCBs, Mercury PCBs, Mercury
PCBs Shellfish Ban *
Lower Turtle & South Brunswick Rivers (St. Simons Estuary)Satilla River Basin
Species
Site Tested Recommendation
Chemical
White Shrimp, Flounder
Blue Crab
Black Drum, Red Drum, Sheepshead
Spotted Seatrout
Atlantic Croaker, Striped Mullet, Spot
Southern Kingfish (whiting)
Turtle River (From
Channel Marker 9) and South Brunswick
River (Downstream to Dubignon and Parsons
Creeks)
No Restrictions 1 meal/week 1 meal/week
1 meal/week 1 meal/month
1 meal/month
Mercury PCBs
PCBs, Mercury PCBs
PCBs, Mercury
Clams, Mussels, Oysters
Not applicable
Do Not Eat
Shellfish Ban *
* Shellfish Ban: National Shellfish Sanitation Program
Savannah River Estuary
Species
Site Tested
Striped Mullet
U.S. Hwy 17/SR 25
Recommendations No Restrictions
Savannah River Basin Chemical
Savannah River Estuary
Savannah River Basin
(New Savannah Bluff Lock & Dam to Estuary, Chatham Co.)
Species
Site Tested
Recommendations
Chemical
Striped Bass 27" and greater in length
Multiple locations, over section noted above
1 meal/month *
Mercury
* Because there is considerable variation in how much mercury these large predatory fish contain, people who are considered to be especially sensitive to the effects of mercury (pregnant women, nursing mothers and young children), may wish to limit their consumption further than listed above.
Note: one population of striped bass migrates annually between the Savannah estuary and New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam. Current minimum legal size is 27 inches.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
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SPECIAL LISTINGS
Terry & Dupree Creeks & Back River to St. Simons Sound
(St. Simons Estuary)
Satilla River Basin
Location
Species
Recommendation
Chemical
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
1 meal/week No Restrictions
PCBs, Mercury
Terry & Dupree Creeks North of Torras Causeway to Confluence with Back River
Blue Crab, Shrimp
Red Drum
Striped Mullet, Atlantic Croaker, Southern Kingfish, Spotted Seatrout
No Restrictions 1 meal/week 1 meal/month
Toxaphene and related compounds
Spot
Do Not Eat
Back River 1 mi. above Terry Cr. to Confluence w/ Torras Causeway
Blue Crab, Shrimp, Striped Mullet, Atlantic Croaker, Southern Kingfish, Spotted Seatrout, Red Drum
Spot
No Restrictions 1 meal/month
Toxaphene and related compounds
Back River From Causeway to St. Simons Sound
Blue Crab, Shrimp, Spot, Striped Mullet, Southern Kingfish, Spotted Seatrout, Red Drum
Atlantic Croaker
No Restrictions 1 meal/week
Toxaphene and related compounds
Do Not Eat Clams, Mussels or Oysters; Shellfish Ban, Nat'l Shellfish Sanitation Program. For information see Coastal Resources Division website: http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us
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.
WATER QUALITY IN GEORGIA
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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 Do Not Eat 15 to 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.
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