On the Issues
Water
Georgia's water supply is limited and the droughts of recent years have highlighted the need for novel approaches to managing this vital resource. As Georgia's population booms and development expands, the demand for water will soon outpace our reliable supply. Along with education and transportation, the water issue is central to the future economic prosperity of Georgia.
Much of the discussion from Georgia's leaders has focused on the supply side of the equation. Issues of water supply and storage are certainly important and I support a measured, careful approach that won't lead to a continuation of endless lawsuits with our neighboring states. We also need to find creative ways to reduce demand through conservation or we will always be on the verge of a crisis.
Temporary fixes on the supply side must be coupled with a serious commitment to reduce water usage by consumers, industry and agriculture. Conservation measures must be a central focus as we work together to solve our water problems. Effective methods to increase conservation include:
- Public education programs promoting water conservation.
- Incentivizing the purchasing of water-saving appliances by consumers.
- Incentivizing the use of water-saving technologies by businesses and the installation of such technologies by builders.
Georgians proved during the last drought that conservation is possible, sustainable, and effective. We must now, collectively, aim to make water conservation a permanent priority.