South Ga. water project could have impact on Lake Lanier | GainesvilleTimes.com

On the surface, it seems like an obscure water project in a far corner of the state with no impact on the Hall County area.

But the state Board of Natural Resources’ approval of a $5.1 million aquifer project near Camilla in Baker County could have ramifications statewide, particularly on the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River basin, which includes Lake Lanier.

Proponents say the project, which initially involves just testing and research, could help relieve Georgia’s water woes, especially during times of drought.

Critics say they worry about costs to taxpayers — the project could soar to $1.3 billion — and potential impacts on the environment.

“I applaud the leadership of the state for considering this step as one of the ways to address the water challenges that we all are aware of,” said William Bagwell Jr., 9th District representative on the state Department of Natural Resources board and a Gainesville resident.

via South Ga. water project could have impact on Lake Lanier.