In May, 2001 the Georgia Board of Natural Resources adopted a new interim in-stream flow policy. The new policy, while not the most protective alternative, improves the current minimum flow standard.

Healthy surface waters need seasonal changes in flow, flood "events" of specific duration and a set frequency of wet and dry periods throughout the year. While it may appear picture perfect, a river with a consistent flow of water could be unhealthy.

For the past eight years, the State of Georgia has managed surface waters using minimum flow standards that establish the lowest level that all rivers and streams must exceed. This minimum is based on the low flow expected during a week-long drought occurring only once every 10 years. Thus, the standard is known as the 7Q10 method.

The state Environmental Protection Division (EPD) originally used the 7Q10 standard to maintain the chemical water quality of Georgia's rivers and streams, using it to grant permits for water withdrawals, wastewater discharge and impoundments. Over time, what was initially designed as wastewater discharge flow level became, by default, the minimum flow standard for all surface water systems and uses in the state.

In mid-1990s the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) documented that although the 7Q10 standard can successfully dilute pollution, it may harm aquatic life. WRD proposed that the state conduct research on Georgia's surface water systems and adopt flow policies based on a biologically justifiable method to protect aquatic resources. Although a study group on in-stream flows created by EPD recommended a new policy, no action was taken at the time.

During 2001, EPD joined WRD in recommending the adoption of an interim minimum flow policy for use until further research is completed. The new policy is a major step toward recognizing the importance of protecting aquatic life. In 2006, the WRD and EPD will make its final recommendations regarding in-stream flows.

The Georgia Conservancy supports this interim policy and applauds the State's efforts to develop a policy that will protect stream habitat, is simple to understand and is based on sound science. The Georgia Conservancy advocates a flow policy that will allow Georgia to manage its growth and consumption in a way that protects the unique and diverse life cycles that rely on the natural flows of Georgia's rivers.

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