Sen. Drew Echols (R-Gainesville) Friday applauded the Budget Conference Committee’s inclusion of two million dollars in the FY ’27 state budget to focus on the immediate concerns caused by taste and odor issues in Lake Lanier and the Chattahoochee River.
Recent odor issues are predominately caused by two compounds known as Geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol (MIB). Both are organic compounds produced by microorganisms, such as algae and bacteria, that impart a musty, earthy smell and taste to water.
“We need to get a handle on reasons for the rate and severity of the taste and odor problems in Lake Lanier,” Echols said following the conclusion of this year’s state legislative session early Friday. “The two million in funding for a study will help us understand the underlying issues, plan for ways to mitigate future occurrences and ultimately lead to treatment options to get our water tasting great again.”
Sen. Echols also announced that he and Rep. Matt Dubnik (R-Gainesville) plan to hold the next meeting of the Lake Lanier Legislative Caucus at the Boat House in Gainesville at 8:00 a.m. on April 16.
The Lake Lanier Caucus is a formal group of state lawmakers representing areas around the lake. A primary purpose of the Caucus is to discuss and address issues impacting the lake, such as water quality, safety, levels, and economic impacts, working alongside county and municipal partners such as Gainesville and groups like the Lake Lanier Association (LLA) to influence legislation and protect this vital resource.
The Caucus focus will be on boating safety laws, nutrient pollution reduction, and ensuring water supply and recreational access, often holding public hearings and collaborating with local government and partners on advocacy.
The group held a hearing on the problem, which is affecting other water systems, not just Gainesville’s. EARLIER STORY. POSTED FEB. 24: Dubnik, Echols hold hearing to address water odor, taste concerns