Filed in 2013, the FL v GA lawsuit remains in play. Florida is seeking a cap on Georgia’s water use in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin (ACF). Oral arguments were heard on Monday morning, February 22 at the United States Supreme Court. The case has twice been sent to a special master, court appointed judge to delve into specific issues instructed by the court. The Supreme Court remains closed due to the pandemic and the justices met via teleconference.
Separately in federal court, Apalachicola Riverkeeper and conservation partners’ legal challenge to the Army Corps of Engineers, related to the updated Water Control Manual, also remains in play. More information here.
The water of the ACF system can and must be shared equitably. A pro-active, basin wide management plan is needed, especially drought planning. The ACF Stakeholders provided a framework for water sharing for the three states dependent on the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint Rivers.
Fundamental changes in water management and flow regulation policies, along with strong water conservation programs throughout the ACF basin are urgently needed for this world-renowned ecosystem to avoid a collapse from which it cannot recover.
The Apalachicola River, Floodplain and Bay deserves long-term protection and restoration.
Recent related news
SCOTUS Blog (case timeline)
SCOTUS Blog (case summary)
SCOTUS Blog (hearing summary)
