The city of Savannah, Georgia, has taken significant steps to enhance the protection of its drinking water supply. As the primary source of drinking water for the city, Abercorn Creek faces threats from various pollutants. This situation has prompted the city to address the potential health risks associated with its water supply and to implement measures to ensure its safety for residents.
Shifting Water Sources
Savannah draws its water from both wells and Abercorn Creek, with the majority sourced from the creek. This shift is a response to the overuse of the Floridan aquifer, which has led to saltwater intrusion and reduced availability. The state has worked with local water users for nearly two decades to mitigate the effects of past over pumping.
The city holds a water withdrawal permit allowing it to extract up to 55 million gallons per day from its pump station. While Savannah is unique in its reliance on river water for drinking, other municipalities in Chatham and Effingham counties also purchase treated water from the city.
Current Water Quality Concerns
Recent reports indicate that certain pollutants are endangering Savannah’s drinking water, particularly Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR) to set maximum contaminant levels for these substances. Unfortunately, readings from the Abercorn Creek watershed have shown PFAS levels exceeding these limits, necessitating advanced filtration methods to make the water compliant with EPA standards.
In response to this public health crisis, Savannah plans to pursue legal action against those responsible for contaminating its waterways. The city has expressed that it is bearing a significant financial and societal burden due to this issue, which is expected to persist as they continue to incur costs related to environmental remediation.
Demand for Drinking Water
The city’s resolution highlights an increasing demand for drinking water, driven by anticipated economic growth. This projected growth further emphasizes the urgency of cleaning up the water supply and holding the original polluters accountable for their actions.
Assurance of Water Safety
Despite these concerns, Savannah officials assure residents that the drinking water meets all of the EPA’s health standards. Extensive testing has been conducted on over 80 potential contaminants, with only nine detected at safe levels. The water supply primarily comes from groundwater sourced from a well field in the Lower Tennessee-Beech watershed, which is actively monitored for contaminants.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has prepared a Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP) report that evaluates the susceptibility of untreated water sources to contamination. This report categorizes water sources based on geological factors and nearby human activities, with Savannah’s water sources rated as reasonably susceptible to potential contamination.
Understanding Contaminants in Water
It is important to note that drinking water, including bottled varieties, may contain small amounts of contaminants. However, the presence of these contaminants does not automatically indicate a health risk. Regulations set by the EPA and the TDEC limit the amount of certain contaminants in public water systems, while the FDA establishes similar limits for bottled water to protect public health.
– Special Precautions for Vulnerable Populations
Certain groups, such as immunocompromised individuals, the elderly, and infants, may be more susceptible to contaminants in drinking water. These individuals are advised to consult healthcare providers regarding precautions for drinking water, food preparation, and personal hygiene. The EPA and CDC provide guidelines to help reduce the risk of infection from microbiological contaminants.
Addressing Lead in Drinking Water
Lead, if present, can pose serious health risks, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead contamination typically originates from plumbing materials and service lines. While the City of Savannah Utility Department is committed to delivering high-quality drinking water, it cannot control the materials used in home plumbing. To minimize potential lead exposure, residents are encouraged to flush their taps for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking.
Water System Security
In light of security concerns following the events of September 11, 2001, the city has emphasized the importance of safeguarding drinking water supplies. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities at utility facilities, including treatment plants and water tanks.
Recent Studies on Water Contamination
A recent study published in March 2024 ranked Savannah as the fourth city in the U.S. for the most chemicals released into waterways. The study, based on the EPA’s toxic release inventory, revealed that over 12 million pounds of chemicals were discharged into Savannah’s waterways between 2013 and 2022, with nitrate compounds being the most prevalent.
Despite these alarming statistics, city officials maintain that the drinking water is safe. Shawn Rosenquist, a senior civil engineer with Savannah’s water department, reassured the public that multiple safeguards are in place to ensure water quality. He emphasized the city’s commitment to staying informed about emerging contaminants and adapting to new regulations from state and federal agencies.
Future Plans for Water Supply
As Savannah prepares to increase its use of surface water to meet growing demands, Governor Brian Kemp has proposed a $500 million initiative to expand the treatment and supply of drinking water from the Savannah River. This plan, part of Kemp’s mid-year budget proposal, is expected to receive legislative approval, allowing the city to eventually draw up to 100 million gallons per day from the river.
However, advocacy groups like the Ogeechee Riverkeeper have urged the city to prioritize aquifer water for drinking and agricultural purposes, reserving surface water for industrial uses. The ongoing PFAS contamination case underscores the potential health risks associated with surface water, which may contain trace contaminants not found in groundwater.
Conclusion
while Savannah’s drinking water is currently deemed safe according to EPA standards, ongoing concerns regarding contaminants and pollution necessitate continued vigilance and proactive measures. The city’s commitment to legal action against polluters, alongside its efforts to enhance water treatment and supply, reflects a dedication to ensuring the health and safety of its residents. As Savannah navigates the challenges posed by economic growth and environmental protection, the importance of clean and safe drinking water remains a top priority.
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Reference
1.City of Savannah Utility Department Water Quality Report for 2022
https://cityofsavannah.org/documents/2022-Water-Quality-Report.pdf
2.Savannah ranks high for most chemicals in water in new study; city assures water is safe
3.Savannah sues PFAS polluters, seeks water treatment funds
https://thecurrentga.org/2025/02/18/savannah-sues-pfas-polluters-seeks-water-treatment-funds/
