Georgia Department of Natural Resources Modifies Agricultural Permitting Suspension in Southwest Georgia
The Environmental Protection Division (EPD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources has announced a modification to the 2012 agricultural permitting suspension in Southwest Georgia. This modification will allow new and modified surface water withdrawal permits in the Suwannee and Ochlockonee portions of the suspension area.
Governor Brian Kemp expressed his support for this decision, emphasizing the importance of providing relief to the hardworking farmers in southwest Georgia. He highlighted the significance of this program in ensuring the sustainability of Georgia’s agriculture industry while preserving the state’s natural resources.
Agribusiness is Georgia’s number one industry, and water plays a crucial role in its success. Since 2012, no new or modified agricultural water withdrawal permits have been issued from surface water and the Floridan aquifer to prevent overconsumption of these resources.
Director Jeff Cown noted the progress made since 2012, including the strengthening of technical understanding through the metering program in the Lower Flint region. The Regional Water Plans and Habitat Conservation planning support existing water users, such as farmers, and pave the way for new users to benefit from these resources.
EPD conducts an annual evaluation of the suspension, and in 2023, recommended a limited modification to allow frost protection permitting in certain areas within the suspension zone. The agency also proposed further exploration of limited modifications to the suspension to support sustainable water usage.
Following an assessment, EPD identified an opportunity to permit new and modified surface water withdrawals in the Suwannee and Ochlockonee portions of the suspension area. This modification is based on the assurance that additional surface water withdrawal from these areas will not impact stream flows in the Flint basin.
It is important to note that this modification only pertains to surface water withdrawals, while agricultural water withdrawal permitting from the Floridan aquifer remains suspended in the Suwannee and Ochlockonee portions of the suspension area.
EPD will continue to assess the 2012 suspension to identify additional opportunities for modification. Stakeholder engagement is a key component of this evaluation process, with meetings scheduled throughout the affected area to gather feedback on potential modifications to the suspension.
Meeting Schedule:
– April 18th: Charles H. Kirbo Regional Center, Bainbridge, GA
– May 23rd: Candy Room, Albany, GA
– June 13th: Goolsby Farm Supply, Dawson, GA
Registration for meetings opens at 9:30 A.M., with sessions beginning at 10 A.M.
For more information on agricultural water withdrawal and the 2012 suspension, visit EPD’s website at https://epd.georgia.gov/water-withdrawal-permitting.
In conclusion, the modification of the agricultural permitting suspension in Southwest Georgia signifies a positive step towards balancing the needs of Georgia’s agriculture industry with the conservation of natural resources. Continued evaluation and stakeholder engagement will guide future modifications to ensure sustainable water usage practices in the region. Stay informed and engaged with EPD’s initiatives to support a thriving agricultural sector while preserving Georgia’s unique environment.
