Rep. Johnson's Statement on Water Rights for Lake Lanier

Statement

Rep. Johnson's Statement on Water Rights for Lake Lanier

Last week federal Judge Paul Magnuson of St. Paul, Minn., ruled that the Corps of Engineers does not have the authority to draw water from Lake Lanier at its current levels to maintain Atlanta's supply. Negotiations among the three effected governors - Gov. Perdue of Georgia, Gov. Riley of Alabama and Gov. Crist of Florida - fell apart this winter. It was then sent to the courts for adjudication. Rep. Hank Johnson made this statement concerning water rights at Lake Lanier and a delegation meeting held July 21:

"Although the ruling was not in our favor, it provides a wake-up call for all of us - Georgia, Alabama and Florida - to put aside our bickering and negotiate a settlement," said Johnson. "I'm pleased the judge gave us three years to work it out. Ideally, I would like the states to work it out, but if not I'm prepared to work with my colleagues in the House to forge an agreement. We all - residents and elect officials alike - must reconsider our attitudes about water consumption. This is a precious resource. We need to start treating it like one. I trust today's meeting with the delegation and Governor's office will provide clear goals and a concrete timetable moving forward."

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