Statement from Governor Perdue on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Report Released Today

ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today following the announcement by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service that it concurs with the Corps of Engineers' recommendation to reduce flows and allow storage of rainfall in Georgia reservoirs.

"I am pleased that our federal partners agree that we must slow the releases from Georgia reservoirs to preserve precious water resources during this historic drought. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service decision today is important for Georgia because it immediately allows less water to leave our shrinking reservoirs, and it allows for further ramp downs of releases if drought conditions persist.

"Georgia has always been willing to share its water supply with our neighboring states. While we would rather have seen further restrictions in the minimum flow required in the ACF, we understand that there is a balance of interests needed here. What is most important to realize is that these emergency operations are designed as a first step. If we don't receive ample winter rains, further operational changes will be necessary to protect vital drinking water supplies."