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Implementation of Georgia’s Regional Water PlansChris Faulkner and Bennett Weinstein, GAEPDGeorgia Planning Association, Spring ConferenceMay 1, 2013

Nov. 2009

A Decade of Water Planning

Regional Plans Approved in 2011 – On Schedule

Vision Statement

2004 Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Planning

Act

“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.”

Regional Planning Process Overview

Council Recommendations

• Additional Water Supplies• Structural solutions• Water conservation• Ordinances• Education• Research• Additional data gathering and analytical work

Select Regional Plan Elements

• Water Supply :

Water Management Strategies :

• Water Quality:

Implementation Primarily by Three Groups:

Implementation Framework

• Regional Water Planning Councils:• Serve as regional leadership in promotion of implementation by

local governments.

• State Agencies• Use the plans to “guide decisions regarding permitting”• Additional recommendations for the “state” included funding for

RWP implementation, continue monitoring and improve resource assessments, implement public education programs.

• Local Governments• Implement specific projects consistent with the RWP including

water supply, wastewater, and stormwater management strategies.

Current Implementation

• Section 319(h) Grants

• Council Meetings

• SFY 14 State Funds to Support Baseline Council Activities

• Minimum of 2 meetings per Council per year• Promote local implementation• Allow for quick engagement in 2016 plan update• Regional assessment of implementation status • Competitive grants -- limited funds to support plan

implementation

Local Implementation

How Can Local Governments Implement:• Ordinances

• Outreach / Education

• Capital Improvement Programs

• Existing Planning & Implementation

• Implementation

• Assessment

• Engagement

• Planning

Next Steps

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