“I recommend that the Court deny Florida’s request for relief.”

With that recommendation to the U. S. Supreme Court, Special Master Ralph Lancaster has brought to a close the latest episode in the long-running water wars between Florida and Georgia.

Further, the Special Master’s report stated that, “Florida has not proven by clear and convincing evidence that any additional streamflow in the Flint River resulting from a decree imposing a consumptive cap on Georgia’s water use would be released from Jim Woodruff Dam into the River at a time that would provide a material benefit to Florida.”

It was an absolute win for Georgia and should now silence any critics who claimed poor water resource management by our state. Governor Deal’s commitment to aggressively fight this challenge has been fully vindicated, and the Chamber applauds his unwavering support.

“When you have a combination of strong conservation laws and practices, plus remarkable leadership from Governor Deal and his team, it’s an easy Georgia win,” said Chris Clark, President & CEO of the Georgia Chamber.

Across the state, we will now continue our stewardship and management of water resources in a sustainable manner to support the state’s economy, to protect public health and natural systems, and to enhance the quality of life for all citizens. The Chamber awaits the final decision of the U.S. Supreme Court to accept the Special Master’s report to close off this challenge completely.