A Comprehensive Watershed Program for Atlanta Streams

Metropolitan Atlanta's rapid growth in has been associated with widespread degradation of local terrestrial and aquatic habitats and water quality. Development of the sloping landscape and highly erodible soils of the Atlanta Piedmont geologic region has resulted in the discharge of significantly increased rates and volumes of surface rainfall-runoff and pollutant loads to local water bodies. Local impacts associated with this urban runoff include: increased erosion and sediment deposition; increased summer stream water temperatures; physical degradation of stream channels and riparian buffer zones; loss of in-stream biota, fisheries, and wildlife, violations of human health and ecological water quality standards; decreased aesthetics from litter, turbidity, and odor; flooding; impairments of downstream uses, including for drinking water, navigation, and recreation; and economic losses. An interdisciplinary scientific panel was convened to assess the conditions of Atlanta's streams and to identify those watershed management actions with the greatest potential to improve water quality, riparian and stream habitat in the Atlanta region. Broad recommendations included a description of elements to incorporate into a watershed management program for Atlanta, and specific suggestions for demonstration projects. The demonstration sub-watersheds collectively reflect the gradient of impervious cover and stream quality present in Atlanta, and represent conditions commonly observed throughout the area. The general recommendations for these areas should be applicable to other areas in the Country.