Protect the Satilla for swimming, paddling and recreation!

2019 is a big year for water issues, and the Triennial Review is one of the most pressing for the Satilla River. Many of Georgia’s waterways are at risk of losing protection due to a recent rule change that now only affords rivers protections associated with their "Designated Use."  Previously, rivers and streams were protected against harm that would interfere with any legitimate uses of the water body.

Our rivers and streams are only guaranteed the protections granted by their current water use designation. A water use designation means the waterway can be categorized as: drinking water, recreational waters, or fishing waters. These are ranked from highest to lowest level of acceptable water quality. One of the most effective ways to grant a waterway greater legal protection is by successfully petitioning a change in its water use designation during the Triennial Review.

Currently, the Satilla River is designated as Fishing (less protective), and we are asking Georgia Environmental Protection Division to change the Satilla River Water Trail to Recreation (more protective.) Not only is Recreation a more protective designated use, it is also a more appropriate designation, as we know many people swim, paddle, and play in the Satilla River each year. 

The Clean Water Act requires that Waters of the US maintain (or are restored to) their chemical, physical, and biological integrity. This is achieved through water quality standards that define the use of the water body and the criteria necessary to protect that use. ​Georgia's "Designated Use" serves this purpose.

Water Quality Standards are established to:

• Protect public health and welfare
• Enhance the quality of the water
• Provide water quality for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and for recreation in and on the water ​

Do you have additional questions or interest in this initiative? Email us!