Peach Tree Times

State Representative Lynn Smith (R-Newnan), chair of the House Study Committee on Navigable Streams and Related Matters, recently convened a meeting in House District 70 to discuss strategies for expanding public waterway access and conservation initiatives. The event was held at The Donald W. Nixon Centre for Performing and Visual Arts, serving Coweta County schools.

The committee's discussions emphasized the need to protect Georgia’s waterways while addressing rural community challenges. Rep. Smith expressed gratitude for the contributions from experts and stakeholders, stating, “The discussions at this meeting highlighted the critical need to protect Georgia’s waterways and tackle the unique challenges facing our rural communities.”

Attendees included representatives from state agencies, nonprofits, and local organizations who shared insights on enhancing public access and conservation projects across Georgia. Notably, Chattahoochee Bend State Park offers seven miles of river access, while McIntosh Reserve provides three miles of public use trails. Both sites were developed through a mix of public and private funding.

Speakers such as Erin Kenner from Chattahoochee Bend State Park and Phil Larue from Friends of Chattahoochee Bend State Park discussed voluntary conservation efforts involving collaboration among private landowners, non-profits, and government partners.

Additionally, the impact of Hurricane Helene on rural water systems was addressed by officials from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) and other organizations providing recovery support.

Since August, the committee has been examining concerns related to navigable streams in Georgia. Their work includes reviewing laws and historical challenges related to water management in preparation for recommendations ahead of the 2025 legislative session.

Photos from the meeting are available upon request.