WC Georgia News

Governors Brian Kemp of Georgia and Kay Ivey of Alabama have finalized an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to resolve the longstanding Chattahoochee River water lawsuit, ensuring minimum water flow during droughts for both states. The pact seeks to address the persistent dispute between Alabama and Georgia over water rights, with officials expressing optimism that it will provide a lasting solution to the legal conflict.

In a press release issued by his office, Governor Kemp stated: "This agreement is a win-win for our states, with neither side sacrificing what is important to them. The Chattahoochee River is the lifeblood of southwest Georgia, and this proposal would give citizens and businesses certainty about the flow of water they need for business and leisure alike. Just as significant, adoption of this proposal would end the current issues related to water supply for metro Atlanta at Lake Lanier, which is crucial to the future of our state. As we put this chapter behind us, I'm thankful for the diligent efforts of Attorney General Chris Carr; my Executive Counsel David Dove; John Allen, Shelly Ellerhorst, and the entire team at KMCL Law; and so many others whose work has made our state proud."

According to Kemp's office, the agreement entails that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will formally consider a proposal to manage dams and reservoirs along the Chattahoochee River in order to achieve minimum water-flow objectives at specific sites near Columbus and Columbia. The proposal also guarantees that the Corps maintains minimum water levels at Lake Seminole in southwest Georgia. Litigation over these matters between both states has been ongoing since 1990, with the current case filed in 2017.

The press release from Kemp's office further noted that there will be a public-comment period and environmental review conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that could last several months in order to evaluate this proposal. If the proposal is adopted, Alabama will withdraw its appeal after a one-year review, thereby concluding the litigation. However, if the proposal is not adopted, Alabama's lawsuit will resume. Both governors expressed their gratitude to key officials who played pivotal roles in reaching this agreement, including Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, and state environmental officials. They also acknowledged the Corps of Engineers for its willingness to formally consider the proposal.