As both the quality and quantity

of Georgia's water becomes a high priority statewide, the need to assist

local governments in dealing with the often complex and difficult issues

surrounding water resources has also become a high priority for DCA.

"We are very excited about

the WaterFirst Community Program," said DCA Commissioner, Laura Meadows

"and truly believe that it fulfills a need to assist communities

with their efforts to protect and manage our shared water resources."

The WaterFirst Community Program

is a voluntary partnership between local governments, state and federal

agencies and other organizations.

"I am pleased to see our

state agencies working together and in cooperation with local governments

to enhance the quality of life in Georgia," Governor Perdue added.

The program focuses on eight

water related components: Watershed Assessment and Planning; Stormwater

Management; Water Supply Planning; Water Conservation; Water Supply Protection;

Wastewater Treatment and Management; Water Reclamation and Reuse; and

Residual Biosolids Management.

Over the next year, DCA will

work with the WaterFirst class to help those communities go above and

beyond the minimum requirements of the law in the eight components.

Upon reaching the WaterFirst

designation, communities will become eligible for benefits from multiple

state agencies including DCA and the Georgia Environmental Facilities

Authority.