Data centers are spreading rapidly throughout Georgia. These facilities can place heavy demands on local water and energy resources. Large data centers often require significant water for cooling, which can reduce stream flows, stress wetlands, and threaten wildlife during droughts. They can also increase pollution risks from construction, wastewater, and runoff, potentially degrading water quality for downstream communities. Without strong oversight and transparent planning, rapid data center development could undermine the long term health of the Satilla River and the people who rely on it.
Update: Transparency is needed before allowing data centers into the watershed to determine if benefits are worthwhile and ensure our natural resources and communities are protected.
A developer purchased a plot of land directly on the Satilla River in Coffee County with the intention of subdividing the property into smaller farms containing a total of 60 commercial chicken houses. The property lies within the river floodplain and contains federally protected wetlands. This property is subject to flooding and not an appropriate site for such a facility.
Update: An injunction was granted, halting the construction of the 60 poultry house facility.
Brantley County Development Partners, LLC is attempting to build a landfill in Waynesville (Brantley County). The site they have chosen contains several wetlands, is prone to flooding, and it is nearby 2 elementary schools, private residences, and churches. It is not an appropriate location for a landfill.
Update: The Satilla Riverkeeper lost the appeal and the permit is considered valid. However, we will continue to oppose this landfill. Estuary Restoration - Noyes Cut
The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and Satilla Riverkeeper are working to restore estuarine marsh-creek ecosystem by closing two obsolete navigation cuts and an old creek channel. This project will restore over 4,500 acres of Satilla River Estuary!
People from across our watershed swim, paddle, and play in the Satilla each year. However, the state will only ensure protections for a water body's "Designated Use." Currently, the Satilla River is not designated as protected for swimming or recreation, which means the water quality standards are not as protective as they should be. The Satilla Riverkeeper is fighting to protect 150 miles of the River for swimming!
Update: After submitting our petition, EPD has Proposed protecting 100 miles of the Satilla for swimming!
