GEMA Distributes Repetitive Flood Claims Funds to DeKalb County

The Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), on behalf of Governor Sonny Perdue, recently reimbursed DeKalb County $1,025,250 for the costs associated with the acquisition of three properties in the Clairmont Road neighborhood which is impacted by the south fork of Peachtree Creek. The total approved cost for the grant is $1,159,150 with 100 percent federal cost assistance.

The Repetitive Flood Claims grant program was authorized by the Bunning-Bereuter-Blumenauer Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2004, which amended the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. Up to $10 million is available annually for FEMA to provide Repetitive Flood Claim funds to assist states and communities reduce flood damages to insured properties that have had one or more claims to the National Flood Insurance Program.

For additional information on the mitigation grant programs please visit the GEMA Web site at www.gema.ga.gov.
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Mayor Franklin's Statement Regarding Department of Watershed Management’s Hearing at the State Planning and Community Affairs Committee

As one of the largest water utilities in the southeast, the City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management is constantly striving to effectively and efficiently maintain, manage and operate a water and wastewater system that serves more than a million customers. Over the past eight years, the Department has turned the corner on upgrading an aging water and wastewater infrastructure, and we will continue those efforts.

Commissioner Rob Hunter and I appreciated the opportunity to hear from Chairman Tommy Smith and others today and to share information about the strides we have made in the management of our system. It was also a chance to thank the General Assembly for its support over the years as Atlanta moves to improve not just our infrastructure, but our customer service as well. The City generates more than two million bills every year, and, with that number, there are bound to be issues -- many of which are due to leaks, running toilets, meter mis-reads and mere high usage, but some of which are due to mistakes on our part.

Aside from infrastructure work, like tunnel construction, sewer separation, sewer rehabilitation and water main replacement projects, the Department has made major improvements that include a new customer service call center, installation of new meters capable of being read remotely and facility upgrades in an effort to continue our efforts to become a Best Practice model.

We welcome the chance to hear the concerns of our customers, and we believe it is our solemn obligation to give our ratepayers the service they deserve. It is an obligation we take seriously.

- Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin
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Georgia Water Coalition: Regional Water Councils Should Heed Georgians’ Call to Protect Clean Water

Members of 174 partner-strong Georgia Water Coalition say that the Regional Water Council appointments announced Wednesday are unbalanced. Only six of the over 300 appointments are representatives of the scores of conservation groups dedicated to protecting and restoring the state’s water resources.

One of the six is Satilla Riverkeeper, Gordon Rogers, of Waynesboro. “It is an honor to be appointed by statewide officials to our regional planning council, and I am looking forward to serving alongside my fellow Georgian’s of the Suwannee and Satilla River watersheds. I appreciate the support of our local legislators, particularly Mark Williams in this effort” said Rogers. “It is disappointing however, to see so few voices for the rivers among other councils, particularly for those rivers downstream of Metro North Georgia” he added.

“Even though only a few Georgia Water Coalition member groups are represented on these councils, the Georgia Water Coalition will continue to be an active voice on behalf of Georgia communities and their water resources in regional water planning and insisting on full public participation in the planning” said Sally Bethea, the Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper.

Last week the Georgia Water Coalition released poll results showing that ensuring enough clean water continues to top Georgians’ environmental concerns, according to a recent survey conducted by Georgia consulting firm The Schapiro Group, Inc. According to the poll, 87 percent of Georgia voters were concerned about water shortages and 75 percent were concerned about water quality. The Georgia Water Coalition is urging the new regional council appointees to heed the concerns of Georgians.

“This poll tells us that Georgians want to protect our rivers and streams and to do what’s needed to provide plentiful, clean water for current and future generations,” said April Ingle, Executive Director of the Georgia River Network “we will continue to be an insistent voice for Georgians, bringing their concerns to these councils.”

The poll showed support for specific water-related measures likely to be deliberated by the councils, including well water protection, water conservation measures, and restrictions on water transfers from one river basin to another.

Of those surveyed, 73 percent supported extending a ban on aquifer storage and recovery—a measure that is currently in place to protect well water in South Georgia. Aquifer storage and recovery is a practice of injecting chemically treated water in our underground water supply with the intent to later use it.

Georgia legislators have twice placed a moratorium on this practice until pressing concerns were alleviated regarding threats to water quality, cost-effectiveness and water recovery capacity, but the current moratorium is set to expire at the end of this year.

On the issue of water transfers, 59 percent of those polled overall -- including 55 percent within metro Atlanta – said they opposed moving water from one river basin to another, also referred to as interbasin transfers, which has been strongly opposed by communities downstream from Metro Atlanta. Interbasin transfers are a practice of transferring water from one river basin to another river basin, for use, and the treated waste water is discharged in the receiving basin instead of being returned to the basin it originated from, resulting in a net loss of water in the originating basin.

Language to statutorily require the Georgia Environmental Protection Division Director to consider extensive analysis before allowing new interbasin transfers was removed from a reservoir bill during the final hours of the 2008 legislative session.

“The results of this poll show that Georgia voters are ready for action on these issues,” said Jennette Gayer with Environment Georgia. “The appropriate response to this data on the part of state leaders would be to act now to extend the ban on injecting water into underground aquifers, develop simple outdoor water restrictions that actually save water and require further analysis before permitting any interbasin transfers.”

The poll also showed that these issues found wide support among Republicans, Democrats and Independents. For instance, more than 65 percent of voters, regardless of political affiliation, support extending the ban on aquifer storage and recovery. More than 80 percent support easier to understand outdoor watering restrictions.

“The poll shows that protecting our waterways is not a red or blue issue,” said Jill Johnson with Georgia Conservation Voters. “Voters want to see more solutions from state leaders when it comes to ensuring a clean water supply for their families.”

Among the additional findings, voters exhibited high levels of concern about various conservation issues:

· Water shortage: 87% concerned

· Water quality: 75% concerned

· Loss of natural areas due to development: 74% concerned

· Air quality: 72% concerned

· Climate change: 63% concerned

Georgians demonstrated a high level of support for specific water management solutions:

· Developing new, easy-to-understand statewide watering restrictions: 82% support

· Extending the ban on the practice of aquifer storage and recovery: 73% support

· Banning further interbasin transfers of water: 59% support

· Excluding water programs from budget cuts: 52% support

Concerns about the following water issues are not specific to any one political party:

· 88% of Republicans, 91% of Democrats, and 83% of Independents place a high priority on the legislature ensuring our state’s water supply is clean enough for drinking and recreation.

· 80% of Republicans, 87% of Democrats and 80% of Independents support developing new, easy-to-understand statewide watering restrictions.

· 76% of Republicans, 80% of Democrats and 66% of Independents place a high priority on the legislature promoting efficient water use among business and residential users.

· 74% of Republicans, 78% of Democrats and 68% of Independents support extending the ban on aquifer storage and recovery.

The poll of 600 Georgians was conducted via live telephone survey September 17-23, 2008. The margin of sampling error is ±4.0%.

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January Dry Month with Variable Temps for Georgia

Georgia’s temperatures were close to typical last month. Most weather stations reported mean temperatures of only 1 degree Fahrenheit above normal. Macon had the highest departure at 2 F above normal. The Alma station reported the lowest departure of 1 F below normal.

Temperatures during the month swung from cold to warm and back again as a series of fronts moved through the region, bringing Arctic and Gulf of Mexico air by turns into the state. These swings were consistent with the weather patterns expected during the neutral El Nino-Southern Oscillation phase, which was present at the beginning of the month.

There were two temperature records tied or set last month. Alma tied a low temperature of 23 F on the Jan. 16. Columbus set a new high temperature of 75 F on January 6.

The northwest corner received above normal precipitation. Rome reported a 24-hour total of 5.06 inches on Jan. 6 alone. It received 7.42 inches in total during the month, compared to a normal of 5.47 inches. However, rainfall for most of the state was below average.

Atlanta reported 2.88 inches (or 2.15 inches below normal); Athens reported 2.70 inches (1.99 below normal); Columbus 2.49 inches (2.29 below normal); Macon 1.34 inches (3.66 below normal); Savannah 1.02 inches (2.93 below normal); Alma 1.47 inches (3.36 below normal); Brunswick 1.83 inches (2.03 below normal); and Augusta 1.52 inches (2.98 below normal).

In some parts of southwest Georgia, rainfall was as much as 5 inches below normal.

Drought conditions expanded last month slightly in the east and along the coast.

The most active weather event in January was a strong frontal passage on January 5-6. It brought the first two tornadoes of the year. One was located near Chattoogaville in northwest Georgia, the other near Forsyth south of Atlanta. Both were small local tornadoes which did only minor damage to roofs and trees and destroyed one mobile home.

A number of high-wind reports were also received from this frontal passage in southwest Georgia.

The rainfall from the effects of the Gulf of Mexico low that rode up the front caused localized flooding in northern Georgia along some streams and caused water to almost overflow several small dams. However, stream flows fell quickly once the pulse of rainfall moved through the system, reflecting the continuing dry conditions.

Cold temperatures in the second half of January slowed field work across the state. Farmers were concerned with the slow growth of forage and small grains.

Blueberries in bloom in southern Georgia were damaged by low temperatures Jan. 21-23, as well as breakage due to the weight of water sprayed on the bushes, a practice farmers do to reduce the effects of freezing air.

For more Georgia weather information, go to the Web site http://climate.engr.uga.edu.

By Pam Knox
University of Georgia

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Governor, Lt. Governor, Speaker Announce Appointments to Regional Water Councils

Councils were created with passage of Statewide Water Management Plan

Governor Sonny Perdue, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and Speaker of the House Glenn Richardson announced today their selections for members of Georgia’s regional water planning councils, which will have a key role in the statewide water planning process.

“The individuals we have selected are solution-oriented and will provide visionary water resource planning,” said Governor Perdue. “These appointments reflect a diverse group of Georgians and each one has a unique skill set and knowledge base, which will allow the councils to focus on water resource issues while also addressing the state’s economic needs.”

The Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Plan, approved by the General Assembly in 2008, created ten water planning regions. Each of these regions will have a water planning council to represent the water interests unique to their respective regions.

“Water will remain a key issue for our state and I am very pleased with the group of individuals selected to move forward with a responsible, long-term plan,” said Lt. Governor Cagle. “This list includes well-rounded men and women who expand across industries and regions. It was an honor to work so closely with Governor Perdue and Speaker Richardson on these nominations and the Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Plan.”

Each council consists of 25 members, three alternates and an ex-officio member from both the House and Senate. The councils include representatives from agriculture, forestry, industry, commerce, local governments, water utilities, regional development centers, tourism, recreation and environmental groups.

“The appointments named today represent Georgians with the right experience and background to serve their region’s water needs,” said Speaker Richardson. “Their service will ensure our water resources are used prudently as we continue to implement water planning and conservation strategies.”

The councils will oversee preparation of regional water development and conservation plans for their planning regions. These plans will focus on both water quantity and water quality issues, and will include forecasts of future water supply and wastewater treatment needs.

Under requirements of the plan, the Governor selects 13 members of each council. In addition, the Governor selects one alternate member who will attend all meetings and vote if needed to establish a quorum. The Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives select the remaining council members including non-voting ex officio members from the Senate and the House.

A list of the appointments is below and a map of the water planning regions is at www.georgiawaterplanning.org.

Water Council appointments by Region:

Altamaha
Name City County
Mike Polski Cochran Bleckley
Brinson Lanier Metter Candler
Cleve Edenfield Swainsboro Emanuel
Gary Bell Claxton Evans
James Mark Burns Tarrytown Montgomery
James E. Strickland Glennville Tattnall
Sue Sammons Lumber City Telfair
Dent L. Temples Lyons Toombs
Lindsay Thomas Screven Wayne
Edward S. Jeffords Jesup Wayne
Larry Windham Glenwood Wheeler
Guy Rex Bullock Pitts Wilcox
William G. Tomberlin Abbeville Wilcox
Greg Wolff Metter Candler
Doug Sharp Jesup Wayne
Jim Free Swainsboro Emanuel
Russ Yeomans Swainsboro Emanuel
Michael Williams Cochran Bleckley
Buddy Pittman Eastman Dodge
Randy Giddens Eastman Dodge
Dan McCranie Eastman Dodge
Steve Meeks Kite Johnson
John Roller Mount Vernon Montgomery
Phillip Jennings Soperton Treutlen
Len Hauss Jesup Wayne
Alternate Paul Stavriotis Glennville Tattnall
Alternate Randy Branch Baxley Appling
Alternate Gerald DeWitt Jesup Wayne
Ex-Officio Rep. Greg Morris
Ex-Officio Sen. Tommie Williams

Coastal Georgia
Name City County
Michael J. Melton Richmond Hill Bryan
John F. Godbee Brooklet Bulloch
Roger A. Weaver St Marys Camden
Horace Waller Bloomingdale Chatham
Larry M. Stuber Savannah Chatham
Randal Morris Brunswick Glynn
Don Hogan Brunswick Glynn
Bryan Thompson Brunswick Glynn
James Thomas Hinesville Liberty
John McIver Riceboro Liberty
Thomas J. Ratcliffe Hinesville Liberty
Marky Waters Ludowici Long
Frank E. Field Darien McIntosh
Fred Blitch Statesboro Bulloch
Benjamin Thompson Statesboro Bulloch
Dennis Baxter Bloomingdale Chatham
Reginald Loper Springfield Effingham
Michelle Liotta Rincon Effingham
Tony Sammons St. Simons Glynn
Rick Gardner Pembroke Bryan
Billy Hatcher Savannah Chatham
Keith Post St. Marys Camden
Chris Blocker Port Wentworth Chatham
Mark Smith Savannah Chatham
Kay Cantrell St. Simons Glynn
Alternate Phil Odom Hinesville Liberty
Alternate Duane Harris St. Simons Glynn
Alternate William Guthrie Savannah Chatham
Ex-Officio Rep. Cecily Hill
Ex-Officio Sen. Eric Johnson

Coosa-North Georgia
Name City County
Sherry Loudermilk Epworth Fannin
Jerry Jennings Rome Floyd
David Westmoreland Ellijay Gilmer
Sam Payne Calhoun Gordon
Todd Pealock Clarkesville Habersham
Gerald R. Dunham Cornelia Habersham
Jimmy Petty Chatsworth Murray
Richard H Martin Cedartown Polk
Frank M. Riley Hiawassee Towns
Lamar Parris Blairsville Union
David Ashburn LaFayette Walker
Tom O'Bryant Cleveland White
David Pennington Dalton Whitfield
Stephen Gray Clarkesville Habersham
Mike Berg Dawsonville Dawson
Irwin Bagwell Rome Floyd
Kelly Cornwell Fairmount Gordon
James Cope Dalton Whitfield
Charlie Bethel Dalton Whitfield
Tim Bowden Dahlonega Lumpkin
William Mercier Blue Ridge Fannin
John Bennett Rome Floyd
Kenneth Beasely Dahlonega Lumpkin
Pat Gober Dawsonville Dawson
Doug Anderton Lookout Mountain Dade
Alternate Keith Coffee Ringgold Catoosa
Alternate Haynes Johnson Jasper Pickens
Alternate Susan Mayfield Rome Floyd
Ex-Officio Rep. Katie Dempsey
Ex-Officio Sen. Chip Pearson

Lower Flint
Name City County
T.E. Moye Newton Baker
Mike Newberry Arlington Calhoun
Rick Moss Doerun Colquitt
Dean Burke Bainbridge Decatur
James S. Singletary Blakely Early
Jerry Lee Cairo Grady
Gary Ledden Leesburg Lee
Howard Small Colquitt Miller
John Bailey Donalsonville Seminole
Josh Herring Boston Thomas
Steve Sykes Thomasville Thomas
Jimmy Champion Sylvester Worth
Bill Yearta Sylvester Worth
Terry Clark Moultrie Colquitt
John Bridges Brinson Decatur
Greg Murray Bainbridge Decatur
Richard Royal Camilla Mitchell
John Heath Dawson Terrell
Jim Quinn Leesburg Lee
Jerry Chapman Colquitt Miller
Will Vereen Moultrie Colquitt
Jimmy Webb Leary Calhoun
Hal Haddock Damascus Early
Chris Hobby Bainbridge Decatur
Chuck Lingle Albany Dougherty
Alternate Doyle Medders Sylvester Worth
Alternate Harold R. Hudgens, Jr. Albany Dougherty
Alternate George McIntosh Dawson Terrell
Ex-Officio Rep. Gerald Greene
Ex-Officio Sen. John Bulloch

Middle Chattahoochee
Name City County
James Knight Whitesburg Carroll
Matt Windom Bowdon Carroll
Larry F. Dillard Cusseta Chattahoochee
Walter Rosso Cusseta Chattahoochee
Kenneth Penuel Fort Gaines Clay
Paul Chappell Pine Mountain Harris
Denney Rogers Ephesus Heard
Steven R Davis Columbus Muscogee
Gordon Moss Columbus Muscogee
Larry Clark Georgetown Quitman
Jimmy Bradley Cuthbert Randolph
Brad Yates Franklin Heard
James Woods West Point Troup
Aaron McWhorter Whitesburg Carroll
Randy Simpkins Carrollton Carroll
Alan Bell Bremen Haralson
Joseph Griffith Buchanan Haralson
Gardiner Garrard Columbus Muscogee
Jeff Lukken LaGrange Troup
Robert York Bowden Carroll
Philip Eidson Tallapoosa Haralson
Thomas Ellis Tallapoosa Haralson
Harry Lange Cataula Harris
Robert Watkins Hamilton Harris
Jeffrey Brown LaGrange Troup
Alternate William C. Gregory LaGrange Troup
Alternate Jimmy Thompson Shellman Randolph
Alternate Don Watson LaGrange Troup
Ex-Officio Rep. Bob Hanner
Ex-Officio Sen. Bill Heath

Middle Ocmulgee
Name City County
Thomas Wicker Macon Bibb
Elmo A. Richardson Macon Bibb
Robert L. Dickey Musella Crawford
Russell R. Adams Warner Robins Houston
Jason Briley Gray Jones
William R. Lazenby Gray Jones
Eva Turpin Persons Forsyth Monroe
Bobby Hamby Porterdale Newton
Ben Copeland, Jr. Fort Valley Peach
Tony Bass Fort Valley Peach
Jerry D. Davis Hawkinsville Pulaski
John Bembry Hawkinsville Pulaski
Jay Matthews Barnesville Lamar
Harvey Norris Flovilla Butts
Tony Rojas Macon Bibb
Charles Harris Musella Crawford
Barry Peters Forsyth Monroe
Lawrence McSwain Covington Newton
Van Whaller Jackson Butts
Hal Newberry Macon Bibb
Keith Dalton Covington Newton
Paul Leath Macon Bibb
Blair Cleveland Macon Bibb
Terry Scarborough Warner Robins Houston
Jim Hamm Smarr Monroe
Alternate Robert Ray Fort Valley Peach
Alternate William Whitten Monticello Jasper
Alternate Richard Haddock Macon Bibb
Ex-Officio Rep. David Knight
Ex-Officio Sen. Ross Tolleson

Savannah-Upper Ogeechee
Name City County
R. Lee Webster Waynesboro Burke
Jerry Boling Homer Banks
Larry Guest Elberton Elbert
Barry W. Cronic Canon Franklin
Thomas C. Jordan Louisville Jefferson
Toye Hill Lincolnton Lincoln
Robert Jenkins Millen Jenkins
Charles G. Newton Thomson McDuffie
Larry S. Walker Lakemont Rabun
Phil Sanders Stephens Oglethorpe
Ron Cross Evans Columbia
Donald E. Dye Toccoa Stephens
Chris McCorkle Warrenton Warren
Charles Cawthon Lavonia Franklin
Tenia Workman Hartwell Hart
Bruce Azevedo Colbert Madison
Eddie Madden Elberton Elbert
Braye Boardman Augusta Richmond
Deke Copenhaver Augusta Richmond
Tim McGill Martinez Columbia
Scott MacGregor Augusta Richmond
Tom Wiedmeyer Augusta Richmond
Stan Shepphard Sylvania Screven
James Newsome Warren Warrenton
Mike Eskew Washington Wilkes
Alternate Pat Goodwin Evans Columbia
Alternate Patrick D. Goran Hartwell Hart
Alternate Dan Fowler Wrens Jefferson
Ex-Officio Rep. Tom McCall
Ex-Officio Sen. Ralph Hudgens

Suwannee-Satilla
Name City County
Linda Tanner Pearson Atkinson
Eugene Dyal Alma Bacon
Michael E. Edgy Waynesville Brantley
Doyle Weltzbarker Quitman Brooks
Alva Joseph Hopkins Folkston Charlton
Miles A. Stone Fargo Clinch
Carroll Coarsey Brookfield Tift
Donald H. McCallum Wray Irwin
Darvin Eason Lenox Cook
Scott Downing Fitzgerald Ben Hill
Joe Lewis Tifton Tift
Jim Hedges Ashburn Turner
James R. Willis Waycross Ware
Hanson Carter Nashville Berrien
Gordon Rogers Waynesville Brantley
Grady Thompson Tifton Tift
R.R. Rusty McCall Valdosta Lowndes
William L. Brim Tifton Tift
Dan Raines Ashburn Turner
Earl Brice Douglas Coffee
Greg Evans Douglas Coffee
Jackie Wilson Douglas Coffee
Wesley Langdale Valdosta Lowndes
Ben Copeland Lakeland Lanier
Scotty Raines Sycamore Turner
Alternate Frank Sisk Blackshear Pierce
Alternate Don Johnson Nicholls Coffee
Alternate Joseph Boyett Waycross Ware
Ex-Officio Rep. Jay Shaw
Ex-Officio Sen. Greg Goggins

Upper Flint
Name City County
Charles M. Leger Cordele Crisp
William Culpepper Cordele Crisp
Eddie Freeman Griffin Spalding
Donald G. Chase Oglethorpe Macon
Gary Powell Buena Vista Marion
Robert Purvis Woodbury Meriwether
Thomas R. Burnsed Meansville Pike
James G. Barineau Ellaville Schley
Mike Beres Zebulon Pike
Jim Reid Americus Sumter
Clifford J. Arnett Talbotton Talbot
Gene Brunson Reynolds Taylor
Hays Arnold Thomaston Upson
Beth English Vienna Dooly
Benjamin Wood Cordele Crisp
Terrell Hudson Unadilla Dooly
Randall Starling Oglethorpe Macon
Charles Rucks Brooks Spalding
Harold Fallin Thomaston Upson
Michael Bowens Vienna Dooly
William Sawyer Oglethorpe Macon
Frank Keller Greenville Meriwether
Dick Morrow Griffin Spalding
Mike Donnelly Americus Sumter
Raines Jordon Talbotton Talbot
Alternate Lamar Perlis Cordele Crisp
Alternate Jack Holbrook Preston Webster
Alternate Brant Keller Griffin Spalding
Ex-Officio Rep. Lynmore James
Ex-Officio Sen. George Hooks

Upper Oconee
Name City County
Patricia Graham Braselton Barrow
Drew Marczak Athens Clarke
W. Rabun Neal Greensboro Greene
Hunter Bicknell Jefferson Jackson
Danny Hogan Dexter Laurens
Jennifer Davis Dublin Laurens
Patrick H. Hardy, Sr. Madison Morgan
Richard McSpadden Bogart Oconee
Melvin Davis Watkinsville Oconee
Vincent Ciampa Eatonton Putnam
Richard Bentley Milledgeville Baldwin
Allen Hodges Sandersville Washington
Dennis W. Holder Irwinton Wilkinson
David Bennett Milledgeville Baldwin
Roger Folson Dublin Laurens
Benji Tarbutton Sandersville Washington
Charles Jordan Sandersville Washington
Jimmy Andrews Sandersville Washington
Kevin Little Monroe Walton
Bill Ross Statham Barrow
Charles Armentrout Athens Clarke
Dana Heil Athens Clarke
Linda Gantt Watkinsville Oconee
Alan Foster Eatonton Putnam
Greg Thompson Monroe Walton
Alternate Larry J. Eley White Plains Greene
Alternate David Allen Athens Clarke
Alternate Stuart Cofer Watkinsville Oconee
Ex-Officio Rep. Terry England
Ex-Officio Sen. Bill Cowsert
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Water Efficiency by Walter Reeves

by Walter Reeves, host of the Georgia Gardener on Georgia Public Television

Water efficiently– Over-watering is wasteful and harms plants; target thirsty plants that are wilting or turning colors by hand-watering at the root base and not the foliage.

GEFA Board of Directors Approves $9.4 Million in Loans to Finance Water and Sewer Infrastructure Improvements

As part of Governor Sonny Perdue’s vision for sustainable economic development, Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA) Executive Director Chris Clark announced today the approval of four Georgia Fund loan commitments of $7,932,800 and one Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) sewer loan of $1,500,000. The GEFA board of directors approved the commitments to help finance water and sewer infrastructure projects for Bartow County, Madison County, Rockdale County and the cities of Monroe and Remerton.

“Infrastructure improvements increase the quality of life for Georgia citizens, and they help cities and counties create jobs and promote economic development,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “I’m pleased these investments are being made in water and sewer infrastructure.”

“GEFA’s programs are a tangible commitment by Governor Perdue and the General Assembly to assist local governments across the state with their efforts to provide clean water, sewer and solid waste improvements,” said Chris Clark. “In addition to the public’s health and safety, these projects are critical to a community’s ability to prosper economically.”

Clark expressed appreciation to Governor Perdue and the Georgia General Assembly for their support. He credited Governor Perdue’s commitment to helping Georgia cities and counties finance infrastructure development as one of the main contributors to GEFA’s success.

“The projects that we agreed to finance today illustrate how GEFA helps communities of all sizes, in all areas of the state,” said Matt Beasley, chairman of the GEFA board of directors and mayor of the city of Hartwell. “From the smallest of communities to the largest, GEFA is investing in communities that are willing to invest in themselves.”

GEFA helps communities prepare for economic growth and development through the provision of low interest loans and grants. The Georgia Fund is a state funded loan program administered by GEFA for water, wastewater and solid waste infrastructure projects. The loan program has maximum flexibility and accessibility, providing fast loan approvals. The Georgia Fund finances loans to local government for projects such as water and sewer lines, treatment plants, pumping stations, wells, water storage tanks and water meters. Low interest loans from this program range from $20,000 to $50 million.

The CWSRF is a federal loan program administered by GEFA for wastewater infrastructure projects. Eligible projects include a wide variety of wastewater collection and treatment project and storm water projects.
Details of the loans approved today are below:

Bartow County

Bartow County was approved for a Georgia Fund loan of $2,500,000 to install and relocate water lines. Bartow County will pay a 4.27 percent interest rate on the 20-year loan.

Madison County Industrial Development and Building Authority

The Madison County Industrial Development and Building Authority (IDBA) was approved for a Georgia Fund loan of $1,611,000 to construct a wastewater treatment and disposal system serving commercial development along the US 29 corridor. The project includes collection lines, a lift station and a six-inch force main. The Madison County IDBA will pay a 4.27 percent interest rate on the 20-year loan.

City of Monroe

The city of Monroe was approved for a Georgia Fund loan of $3,429,800 to construct water mains that convey raw water from Briscoe Reservoir to the city’s water treatment plant. Monroe will pay a 4.27 percent interest rate on the 20-year loan.

City of Remerton

The city of Remerton was approved for a Georgia Fund loan of $392,000 to install meters and backflow assemblies to connect to the city of Valdosta’s water system. The city of Remerton is eligible for a discounted loan rate as a Georgia Signature Community, and will pay a 3.77 percent interest rate on the 15-year loan.

Rockdale County

Rockdale County was approved for a Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan of $1,500,000 to implement watershed restoration measures in the Lakefield urban watershed for the purposes of improving water quality, reducing flooding, reducing stream bank erosion and improving aquatic habitat downstream. Rockdale County will pay three percent interest on the 20-year loan.

Cities and counties interested in more information regarding GEFA loans should visit www.gefa.org or call (404) 584-1000.
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Interior Ignored Science When Limiting Water to Grand Canyon

Interior Department officials ignored key scientific findings when they limited water flows in the Grand Canyon to optimize generation of electric power there, risking damage to the ecology of the spectacular national landmark, according to documents obtained by The Washington Post.

Click here to read The Washington Post article.

New Facility Pours Needed Water Into Baghdad

A ceremony marked the official opening of a new water treatment facility that will deliver much-needed fresh water to the people of northeastern Baghdad.

About 200 people, including Baghdad Mayor Navet Al Essawi and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker, attended the Jan. 21 ceremony at the Sadr City Rusafa Water Treatment Facility, located in the Hay Ur neighborhood of Baghdad's Adhamiyah district.

The modern facility will help shape the future of Baghdad and Iraq, Crocker said.

"This is truly a strategic project," the ambassador said. "It provides 96,000 cubic meters of water to Baghdad per day, and the United States of America is proud and pleased to have financed this project and to see it through to completion with our close friends and our partners in the mayoralty and the government."

The $65 million facility, completed in October, took three years to build. It provides 4,000 cubic meters of fresh water per hour to northeastern Baghdad, to include 27 sectors of Sadr City.

"This project is the most important and probably the biggest project for Sadr City," Al Essawi said. "This project and others like it will clear the path of terrorism."

The ceremony served not only to demonstrate a return of essential services to the region, but was a symbol of closure for an area that had been marred by violence for so long, said Maj. Brian Horine, the civil military operations officer for the 4th Infantry Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team.

"This opening is about what the government of Iraq has done for the people. This facility was started more than two years ago when Sadr City was in the height of bad times," the Phoenix native said. "Today, security and stability has returned, allowing this to happen."

The mayor thanked coalition forces for their help and guidance in making the new facility a reality.

Horine said the water treatment facility is just a start to many equally important projects soon to be completed, including a nearby electric substation that will distribute reliable power to the people of Sadr City.

Baghdad and Afghan government officials are committed to the people, the mayor said.

"The people of Sadr City and their neighbors have suffered from a water deficiency for 10 years. Now they can rest and be secure that they have someone to look after them," Al Essawi said.

(Author Maj. Mike Humphreys serves in the 4th Infantry Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team.) ---
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City of Savannah Now Accepting Proposals for waterSmart Landscape Challenge

/PRNewswire/ -- The City of Savannah is seeking proposals for the waterSmart Landscape Challenge to develop a sustainable, water-efficient garden for Bryan Square on Hutchinson Island as part of an overall effort by the city and state of Georgia to show residents how to create and maintain landscapes that use less water.

All design proposals must be received by Feb. 27, and all participants must hold a valid Georgia business license in at least one county. The winning designer will be awarded a $35,000 contract with the City of Savannah to install the garden in Bryan Square.

Bryan Square is located on Hutchinson Island and sits between the ferry landing and the entrance to the new Savannah International Trade and Convention Center, where thousands of visitors arrive each year. The property is also part of the Savannah Harbor at Hutchinson Island development, which will rely significantly on reclaimed water for landscaping needs.

"There is a tremendous amount of creative talent within Georgia's landscape design industry," said Laura Walker, administrator of Savannah's Environmental Affairs Department. "The designs submitted for the Challenge will not only promote water-efficient landscaping, they will also provide a wonderful showcase for new ideas that can be translated into residential gardening."

"Maintaining beautiful lawns and gardens requires much less water than most people realize. Overwatering harms plants and wastes a valuable community resource," said Deron Davis, director of the waterSmart program for the state Environmental Protection Division. "By creating waterSmart landscapes, homeowners can significantly reduce their water consumption - and their water bills."

About half of the water used in a single-family home during the course of the year will be used on landscaping, and much of that water is lost due to evaporation or runoff caused by overwatering, according to research.

The waterSmart Landscape Challenge's main objectives are to promote water conservation and education, while highlighting the creative potential of waterSmart landscape principles, specifically selecting plants that suit the location and minimizing the use of fertilizers and pesticides. The selection of the right plants used in the right places will yield landscapes that, once established, can be maintained with little or no supplemental watering.

In order to maximize public awareness of water-efficient landscaping and irrigation techniques, proposals will be evaluated in a two-stage process. In the first round, a panel comprised of landscaping professionals and knowledgeable representatives selected by the city of Savannah will select between two and four top designs. In the second round of judging, residents of Savannah and across the state will select the final design through a period of online voting. Installation will occur according to the city of Savannah's needs, and will be paid for through a contract with the city.

The city of Savannah is working in partnership with the waterSmart program of the Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. A Request for Proposal, which includes rules and site information, can be obtained online at www.ci.savannah.ga.us .

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Governor Perdue Recommends Phil Foil for GEFA Executive Director

Governor Sonny Perdue announced today that Phil Foil, deputy commissioner of operations and federal affairs for the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), is his recommended choice to succeed Chris Clark as the executive director of the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA). The GEFA board of directors will meet January 27, to consider the Governor’s recommendation.

“It is my privilege to recommend Phil Foil as GEFA’s new executive director,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “Phil is a respected leader at DCA and throughout state government. The GEFA staff and the customers they serve will benefit greatly from his leadership.”

GEFA provides financial assistance and administers programs that encourage stewardship of the environment and promote economic development statewide. GEFA is the lead state agency for energy planning and alternative fuels; manages Conserve Georgia, the Governor’s Energy Challenge and the Georgia Land Conservation Program; maintains state-owned fuel storage tanks; and offers financing for reservoir and water supply, water quality, storm water, solid waste and recycling infrastructure.

“I deeply appreciate the Governor’s recommendation that I serve as the GEFA executive director,” said Phil Foil. “Through its many programs and initiatives, GEFA promotes sustainable economic development and the conservation of Georgia’s natural resources. I look forward to this mission that is so vital to the future of our state.”

Foil, 41, has served in a senior management position with DCA since July 2003. He currently manages the agency’s operations and serves as DCA’s federal affairs and congressional liaison. Foil successfully led DCA’s pursuit of the 2008 Georgia Oglethorpe Progress Award (the Georgia version of the Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award). Prior to joining DCA, Foil was a public relations consultant and a client services manager for Automatic Data Processing (ADP).

Foil earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Georgia. He is also a graduate of the Georgia Leadership Institute’s Executive Development Program and the National Council of State Housing Agencies’ Advanced Executive Development Program at Notre Dame University.

Foil resides in Winder with his wife, Paula, and their two daughters.
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Statement from Governor Sonny Perdue Concerning Denial of Supreme Court Review of Water Case

Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today concerning the denial by the U.S. Supreme Court of a Georgia request for the Court to review one issue of the ongoing tri-state water negotiations:

“While we are disappointed with the Supreme Court’s decision today to not correct a flawed ruling by the D.C. Circuit, it is important to remember that this decision simply maintains the status quo in terms of the operation of Lake Lanier by the Army Corps of Engineers.

We felt strongly that Supreme Court review of this case could have resolved a major piece of our ongoing water negotiations, and we will now move forward continuing to work with our neighbors and other stakeholders to reach consensus on a plan that fairly shares our limited resources and adequately protects the headwaters of the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin”
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Drinking Water Infrastructure Investment Could Create 400,000 Jobs

/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Water Works Association (AWWA), the authoritative resource on safe water, is urging Congress to include funding for drinking water infrastructure projects in the stimulus legislation now being considered.

Today, more than $10 billion in drinking water infrastructure projects around the nation are shovel-ready and can be underway as soon as funds are committed. These projects would put more than 400,000 Americans to work on aging water mains, leaking pipes, treatment plants, pump stations, storage reservoirs, elevated tanks, security safeguards and other needs.

"As Congress again considers legislation to stimulate the economy, the nation's drinking water utilities stand ready to create immediate jobs and lasting economic benefits through investment in water infrastructure," said Tom Curtis, AWWA's Washington D.C.-based deputy executive director.

While other forms of economic stimulus such as taxpayer refunds or stimulus checks may provide a quick infusion of money into the economy, their effects can be short-lived. By comparison, infrastructure projects benefit the economy over a more sustained period of time by creating quality jobs across all tax brackets, creating demand for the services and products that businesses and industry bring to market, and by providing long-lasting benefits to society as a whole, such as health protection and fire protection.

Local water systems across the country deliver water for all our society's needs - from first responders to all aspects of our businesses and personal lives. But much of our water infrastructure was constructed between 80 and 100 years ago, and is nearing the end of its functional lifespan.

"Our water systems are critical to our public health and safety today and in the future, and there's no better way to put Americans to work," Curtis said.

A 2001 study by AWWA estimated the cost of replacing existing pipes over the next two decades will top $250 billion.

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Keep Exposed Pipes and Hoses Protected

Pleasantly warm weather has returned to much of Georgia this week. But it’s still winter, and freezing temperatures will be back. Don’t forget to keep outdoor pipes and hoses protected.
Freezing temperatures can cause the water in an exposed pipe or hose to expand. If the water expands too much, the pipe or hose bursts. It’s that simple.

"With home irrigation systems, you probably wouldn't know you had any pipe damage until you turned it on for the first spring watering," said Kerry Harrison, a University of Georgia Cooperative Extension irrigation specialist.

Most in-ground sprinkler pipes will be OK. Only the top 2 inches of the ground will freeze in most of Georgia. Pipes should be well below this level. Other irrigation components, such as backflow-prevention valves, are at ground level, though, and could be in danger.

If there are any exposed valves or pipes around your home, tape them up or "use a good old sack to wrap them," Harrison said. Home-improvement stores have many tapes, foams and gadgets to keep these pipes warm on cold, winter nights.

The tips of sprinkler heads can hold water. When frozen, they can rupture. The whole sprinkler system holds water, too, even when it isn't being used. Don't forget to drain the system, Harrison said. If you don't drain it properly in the winter, your sprinkler could be a geyser when you turn it on next spring.

If you've bought a home with an installed irrigation system, find this drain valve. Some systems are equipped with automatic drain valves.

Don't forget about outside water hoses. You can do two things:

* Leave the hoses hanging outside. But disconnect them from faucets.

* Disconnect, drain and store hoses someplace with a constant temperature. This will prolong the life of hoses.

If you leave hoses undrained outside in the winter, don't move them or touch them in freezing weather. You could break them as frozen hoses are fragile.

Private water users and rural residents with wells should check out their main water pump. Usually a quarter-inch pipe connects to the pressure switch. If it's metal, it likely won’t freeze. But if it's plastic, it might freeze and burst. This could cause the water pump to fail or continue to run and cause some major winter repairs.

If all these precautions fail and a pipe bursts, there's still one thing to remember: "Know where your main water cutoff is," Harrison said.

By Brad Haire
University of Georgia

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Statement from Governor Sonny Perdue Concerning Brief Filed on Georgia Petition for Supreme Court Review of Water Case

Nov. 20th
Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today concerning a brief filed by federal government with the U.S. Supreme Court on a Georgia request for the Court to review one issue of the ongoing tri-state water negotiations:

“I am encouraged that the federal government strongly agreed with Georgia that the D.C. Circuit ruling was wrong when it set aside the settlement agreement that would have resolved a large part of the tri-state water wars. I find it extremely puzzling that the federal government would file a brief arguing the court ruling was wrong but yet does not want to fix the obvious mistakes. There is no question that this case is clearly important enough for the Supreme Court’s review.

All three states agree that this case is very important, and I believe review by the Supreme Court would result in Georgia’s position being upheld and a major piece of the water negotiations resolved.”