Developing a Coastal Management Program: Georgia's Experience

Abstract

Georgia's water resources are subject to many conflicting uses and pressure from coastal development Many industries important to Georgia's economy, as well as coastal residential communities, require continued access to clean and abundant water resources. Increasing demands on coastal resources, including water resources, has lead to the effort to develop a federally approved Georgia Coastal Management Program. This program is based upon Georgia's laws as well the participation of local governments, the public, and existing state and federal agencies. The public healing draft of the management plan scheduled for public review in Summer 1995 will reflect the goals and recommendations of the coastal community and enhance the state's ability to manage effectively it's coastal water resources. If Georgia can develop a management plan that meets the needs of the citizens of Georgia and can complete all requirements of the federal Coastal Zone Management Act and the National Environmental Protection Act, Georgia will have a federally approved coastal management program in Fall 1996_