Ag News

Georgia EPD accepting nominations for regional water councils

 

Recent legislation signed by Gov. Kemp has revised the composition and term for the Regional Water Planning Councils. The updated designation of Water Planning Councils can be found in Section 14 (page 35) of the State Water Plan. 

Under the State Water Plan, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) will work in coordination with the Georgia Department of Agriculture, Department of Community Affairs, and Department of Economic Development to solicit qualified nominees. Submissions will be collected electronically through the Georgia Water Planning website. 

Nominations will be sought from a broad range of sectors, including business, agriculture, forestry, local government, education, environmental organizations, and the general public. The goal is to ensure councils reflect a balanced representation of interests such as agriculture, industry, commerce, water utilities, regional development, tourism, recreation, and environmental stewardship.

After the qualifying nominees are collected, agencies will present candidates to the appointing authorities. Final appointments will be made by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives. Additional ex-officio members may also be appointed by the Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives.

The nomination period ends Aug. 29. Nominations will be accepted on a rolling basis, with an initial target to present a list of qualified nominees for a mid-2026 appointment timeframe.

Service Requirements

All nominees must reside within the geographic boundaries of the applicable water planning region. Terms are six years, including attending up to four meetings per year, participating in discussions, reviewing materials, and contributing subject-matter expertise. Council members must complete required training.

Training Commitment: Completion of required training for council members.

Desired qualifications

Nominees should demonstrate experience in elected city or county leadership, water or wastewater operations and planning, water data collection and analysis, planning and economic development, environmental education, water-related decision making, and public service.

Nominations may be submitted either by the individual (self-nomination) or by an organization or interest group. Click here for the nomination form. [https://webportalapp.com/webform/2026_council_nominations]

---

• Categories:

• Tags:

---