Montgomery, AL – In a collaborative effort to resolve a longstanding water-flow dispute, Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama and Governor Brian P. Kemp of Georgia jointly announced today that an agreement has been reached with the United States Army Corps of Engineers. The agreement aims to bring an end to a lawsuit initiated by Alabama and ensure sufficient minimum water flows in the Mid- and Lower Chattahoochee River Basin during times of drought.
“This agreement is a win-win for our states, with neither side sacrificing what is important to them,” remarked Governor Kemp. He highlighted the significance of the Chattahoochee River to southwest Georgia and expressed optimism that the proposal would provide citizens and businesses with certainty regarding water flow for both recreational and business purposes. Governor Kemp also emphasized that resolving issues related to water supply for metro Atlanta at Lake Lanier was crucial for the state’s future.
Governor Ivey echoed these sentiments, stating, “I agree with Governor Kemp that this is a win-win solution for both Alabama and Georgia.” Acknowledging the commonalities shared by the two states, she emphasized the significance of the proposal for Alabama, providing long-term assurances that, during times of drought, citizens and stakeholders will be protected with clearly defined water flow expectations.
Under the terms of the agreement, the Corps of Engineers will formally consider a unique proposal for operating its dams and reservoirs to achieve minimum water-flow objectives at key locations along the Chattahoochee River, including Columbus, Georgia, and Columbia, Alabama, on the states’ border. The proposal also outlines the continued maintenance of the necessary minimum elevation at Lake Seminole, located in southwest Georgia.
The agreement seeks to resolve litigation initiated by Alabama challenging the Corps’ operations in the region, specifically their policy allowing Georgia to make water-supply withdrawals near Atlanta. Litigation on these issues has been ongoing since 1990, with the current case filed in 2017. The Corps’ consideration of the proposal will involve a public-comment period and environmental review lasting several months. If adopted, Alabama will dismiss its appeal after a one-year review period, effectively ending the litigation. If not adopted, the lawsuit will resume.
Both governors expressed gratitude for the essential contributions of state officials who played pivotal roles in reaching the agreement, including Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, officials from the Alabama Office of Water Resources, and the Georgia Department of Environmental Protection. The Corps of Engineers was also acknowledged for its willingness to initiate the formal process for considering the proposal.
The agreement reflects a spirit of cooperation that both Governors Ivey and Kemp aim to sustain as they continue working towards the best outcomes for their shared river basins.
