Peach Tree Times

State Representative Lynn Smith of Newnan, who chairs the House Study Committee on Navigable Streams and Related Matters, announced the adoption of the committee's final report. The report was approved by signature after a series of public meetings held across Georgia.

"The study committee held three public meetings across the state, making stops in Atlanta, Unicoi State Park and Newnan," stated Rep. Smith. She noted that a planned meeting in Nahunta was canceled due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which highlighted the importance of protecting Georgia's waterways. "The final report, carefully reviewed and unanimously approved before the December 1st deadline, underscores our deep commitment to preserving Georgia’s waterways."

In preparation for this report, the committee focused on addressing concerns related to navigable streams in Georgia. They conducted an extensive review of relevant laws and historical water challenges in the state. Despite disruptions from Hurricane Helene, they completed their work with a final meeting in Newnan.

The adopted recommendations aim to guide legislative priorities for 2025 regarding water resource management. These include maintaining current definitions of navigability under O.C.G.A. §44-8-5(a) and passage rights under O.C.G.A. §52-1-31, avoiding statutory delineation between navigable and non-navigable streams, and promoting collaboration among landowners, nonprofits, and government entities to enhance public access and conservation efforts.

Additionally, the committee suggests preserving the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program and urges the Department of Natural Resources to invest in technologies for tracking disputes over waterways. They also emphasize protecting traditions like fishing and farming by considering potential legislation impacts on these activities.

For further details about the committee or to view their full report, additional resources are available online.