Water is being conserved in Georgia. From residents who have retrofitted their
homes to industries that have updated manufacturing processes, many people in Georgia are
acting upon the need to conserve water. There is still much room, however, for leadership
and growth regarding this vital natural resource. We must strengthen water use accounting
procedures at the state level and set goals regarding water use efficiency that have the buy-in
of state and local leadership.
The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) requires water conservation
plans. This process is key to showing efficiency results. Water conservation on the coast is
crucial to protect the Floridan Aquifer from saltwater intrusion, and in the southwest portion
of the State to protect the Flint River system.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has hired a water
conservation coordinator to initiate the Georgia DNR Water Conservation Program. One
goal of this program is to implement a statewide water conservation plan. This paper
discusses many topics, particularly planning, policy, and future direction. Includes reference, table, figures.