Georgia pipeline plans spark water quality concerns
Key Questions
What pipeline projects are raising water quality concerns in Georgia?
Pipelines through Ogeechee, Chattahoochee, Ocmulgee, and SSE4 impact 50+ streams, with SELC challenging FERC over sedimentation risks to mussels and sturgeon. Macon compressor station adds concerns. Ties to low flows, development, and PFAS risks from Savannah River intake.
Why is Chattahoochee Riverkeeper suing developers?
Chattahoochee Riverkeeper is suing Columbus apartment developers for massive muddy runoff and sediment into Heiferhorn Creek, violating CWA and GA erosion rules. SB447 rollback exacerbates issues. This follows Sweep Hooch removing 32 tons of trash on 3/21.
What is the status of the southeast Georgia water infrastructure project?
A half-billion-dollar project is underway in Rincon, approved a year ago, transforming southeast water supply. It includes Savannah River intake but raises PFAS risks. Ogeechee River flow at Midville is monitored amid concerns.
How are environmental groups responding to pipeline reviews?
Groups argue FERC understated risks of major pipeline expansion in Middle Georgia, including to aquatic life. Challenges focus on sedimentation and stream impacts. Sav-Ogeechee Canal sees 303 units and warehouse development on 4/6.
What role does EPD play in Georgia's water concerns?
EPD oversees erosion, development, and pipeline permits amid low flows and GEFA projects for data centers. Updates to water management plans are backed by Rep. Smith. Fishermen raise herbicide concerns at Lake Seminole docks.
Pipelines thru Ogeechee/Chattahoochee/Ocmulgee SSE4 (SELC FERC: sedimentation/mussels/sturgeon/Macon compressor)/50+ streams; Chattahoochee Riverkeeper suing Columbus apartment devs for massive muddy runoff/sediment into Heiferhorn Creek (CWA/GA erosion violations SB447 rollback); Sav-Ogeechee Canal 303 units/warehouse 4/6; EPD; Sweep Hooch 32t 3/21; ties to low flows/dev/GEFA/data centers/Savannah River intake PFAS risks.