The Environmental Planning Program at the SGRC was initialed in 2002 with the development of 35 TMDL Implementation plans. From there, the Program grew from the interaction of engaging the communities in activities that not only brought awareness to our natural environment, but the impacts of our built environment. Through education outreach activities, we have been able to secure funds to promote activities that both protect and promote our natural resources.

Today Environmental Planning Program at the SGRC consists of two environmental planners who work to preserve the natural resources of South Georgia, with an emphasis on water resources.  Staff collaborates with agencies such as the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, University of Georgia, USDA - Natural Resources Conservation Service, GA Soil & Water Conservation Commission, Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, and several Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D) Councils to ensure the quality of our efforts and products.

Between 2002 - 2006, the environmental program has successfully partnered on projects totaling over $2.5 million dollars to the SGRC region for environmental projects.  Some of these projects include the development of TMDL Implementation Plans, watershed assessments / evaluations, installation of BMPs, workshops, education outreach, and much more.