Implementation of Georgia’s Regional Water Plans Chris Faulkner and Bennett Weinstein, GAEPD Georgia Planning Association, Spring Conference May 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