AGP Executive Report

Heat & Health: A heat advisory is in effect across parts of northwest and west-central Georgia through Saturday, with heat index values up to 105 and guidance to hydrate, stay in air-conditioning, and watch for heat illness. Fourth of July Safety: Georgia wildlife officials are urging boaters to prioritize safety during the busy holiday weekend, with increased enforcement and reminders like wearing life jackets. Water & Rivers: Georgia Rivers is launching guided paddle and kayak-fishing trips on the Flint River, including a September “Fall Float” between Albany and Bainbridge. Wildlife at Home: A black bear cub was spotted in East Cobb, prompting renewed calls to follow DNR BearWise tips like securing trash and removing bird feeders. Local Development: Scannell Properties is moving forward with a 335-acre Ridgeway Logistics Park in Ellabell, clearing woods and building nearly 4 million square feet for warehouses and distribution. Environment-Friendly Holiday: A Georgia-focused guide urges residents to cut fireworks smoke, skip single-use items, and choose reusable options for celebrations.

Heat & Public Safety: Metro Atlanta is bracing for a scorching Independence Day weekend, with heat advisories and heat index readings around 100°F-plus as humidity pushes conditions toward dangerous levels. Power Costs: Georgia Power says summer bills can still jump 30% to 50% even after a fuel rate cut, because peak afternoon demand is costly to meet. Water & Wildlife: Georgia EPD says a chemical release at the South River Water Reclamation Center did not cause a fish kill, after sampling and investigation. Local Infrastructure: DeKalb County extended a temporary moratorium on new data center applications through September to study impacts on utilities, water use, and noise. Conservation & Community Science: Foothills Land Conservancy will host its second Southeast Atlas Bumble Bee Survey July 11, building on last month’s community-collected bumble bee observations. Biodiversity Watch: Georgia DNR reports bald eagles are rebounding, with ongoing nest monitoring across multiple regions. Outdoor Safety: Georgia wildlife officials are urging boaters to prioritize safety during the busy Fourth of July weekend, with increased enforcement on lakes.

Heat Safety: Georgia is baking through the Fourth of July weekend, with heat advisories and triple-digit heat index values pushing residents to hydrate early, wear loose clothing, and watch for heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke. Local Governance: Marietta’s planning commission advanced a rezoning request for a new 12-megawatt data center, while residents urged a moratorium and more study. Water & Public Safety: Search and recovery resumed at Arrowhead Mountain Lake after two people went into the water and didn’t resurface; strong currents and rising water followed thunderstorms. Environmental Policy: Georgia postponed a plastic-bottle serving ban for catering venues until 2031. Energy Transition: A Georgia/North Carolina program is helping homeowners cut utility bills and climate impact by planning efficiency upgrades and switching from gas to electric appliances. Urban Nature: A Brookhaven screening of “The Tree Economy” spotlights metro Atlanta’s tree loss and the local rules meant to slow it. Tech & Safety: Georgia Tech researchers unveiled a wearable audio system that turns nearby robot movements into warning sounds to reduce workplace hazards.

Air Quality Oversight: Georgia’s Rustavi environmental progress drew scrutiny at a state committee hearing, with officials reviewing ambient air monitoring, inspections of major polluters, and plans for a forecasting system starting in 2027. Pipeline Pressure: Massive proposed gas pipelines crossing Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi are moving through the federal review process, with opponents warning about fossil-fuel dependence and land impacts while regulators weigh a final decision. PFAS Watch: The FDA is moving to set limits for PFAS in bottled water, aligning with EPA’s drinking-water standards and targeting a rulemaking deadline by late 2028. Wildlife & Invasives: Joro spiders continue spreading north, with reports placing them as far as the Baltimore area; experts say they’re more surprising than dangerous. Agriculture Biosecurity: A new world screwworm detection in Texas is raising alarm for Georgia and Alabama cattle producers, with experts pointing to past sterile-insect approaches. Restoration Standards: The Society for Ecological Restoration updated global restoration standards, emphasizing measurable “uplift” and stronger biodiversity recovery goals.

Water Safety: Atlanta is investigating a South River fish kill tied to a possible chemical release at a water reclamation center, the second such incident since May’s sewage overflow; crews are collecting samples with state environmental officials involved. Public Health: A boil water advisory was issued in parts of Fairburn and South Fulton after a power outage hit a metro pumping station; officials say power is back and sampling will determine when the advisory lifts. Wildlife & Disease: A 5-year-old in Lowndes County is recovering at home after a rabid fox attack; health officials stress rabies cases like this are rare. Heat & Climate Risk: A “heat dome” is expected to push dangerous heat and humidity across the eastern U.S. through the Fourth of July, raising player-safety and hydration concerns. Energy Costs: Georgia Power’s fuel rate cut won’t fully offset summer bill pressure as peak demand and grid strain drive higher electricity use. Conservation: Georgia DNR reports another strong bald eagle nesting year, with nest success and fledging above long-term averages despite some missed checks.

Water Pollution Watch: Atlanta officials are investigating a possible chemical release after reports of a fish kill in the South River, with crews collecting water samples and coordinating with Georgia EPD to determine the source, volume, and environmental impact. Heat & Public Health: DeKalb County opened multiple day centers to help residents cool off during extreme temperatures, urging hydration and extra care for seniors, children, and pets. State Environmental Governance: Georgia established a new agency to unify information technology, environmental services, and agri services development, with a decree set to take effect July 20, aiming to reduce duplicated functions and speed digital service delivery. Waste & Circular Economy: Georgia officials joined an international meeting in Japan on sustainable solid waste management, and Georgia also inspected potential sites for the state’s first hazardous waste landfill with World Bank representatives. Agriculture Cooperation: Georgia and Tajikistan signed a memorandum to expand cooperation on cereal production, livestock, plant protection, research, and professional exchanges, including support for sustainable rural development.

Extreme Heat & Climate Risk: Georgia hit its all-time record high of 112°F (tied twice, most recently Aug. 20, 1983 in Greenville), a reminder that heat waves can outpace what many residents expect. Flooding & Storm Impacts: Southeast Georgia saw heavy rain from Tropical Storm Arthur, with NOAA forecasting a below-normal hurricane season but still warning that storms can bring damaging downpours. Toxic Recycling Scrutiny: An NRDC report flags hazardous chemicals stored at “chemical” recycling facilities, including high quantities of sulfuric acid, raising fire, spill, and explosion concerns in states including Georgia. Local Conservation & Trails: Sandy Springs Conservancy updated residents on proposed Chattahoochee River trail improvements, including a planned expansion of the Morgan Falls Loop and Springway plus park grants and public art. Land-Use Fight Over Industry: Brantley County residents pushed back on a rezoning request tied to a OneGeorgia Authority grant, with the plan limiting what can be built on an industrial park parcel for at least 20 years. Waterway Health: Reports also point to Georgia beach closures over elevated fecal bacteria and ongoing concerns about aquatic impacts.

Aquatic Invasive Species: Georgia DNR is rolling out online training to help the public spot and stop aquatic nuisance species from entering state waters, offering a certification tool and outreach materials at GeorgiaWildlife.com/ans. Wildlife Updates: Georgia DNR reports another strong bald eagle nesting year, with nest success and fledging above long-term averages despite lingering avian influenza impacts. Invasive Species Outreach: The same push emphasizes prevention as the best protection for native ecosystems and local boating and fishing access. Coastal Weather Watch: The National Hurricane Center is monitoring a developing low-pressure area off the Southeast; no direct Georgia hit is expected, but unsettled weather and rough surf risks could affect parts of the region. Heat Safety: A “heat dome” is expected to drive dangerous heat across the central and eastern U.S., with Georgia-area stadiums offering some relief while travel and outdoor conditions remain a concern.

Aquatic Invasives: Georgia DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division is urging summer boaters and anglers to learn about aquatic nuisance species and how to keep them out of state waters, offering online certification training to help prevent new introductions. Extreme Heat Watch: Metro Atlanta is facing oppressive humidity that could push heat index readings above 100°F through the July 4 weekend, with warnings aimed at protecting sensitive populations. Hurricane Monitoring: The National Hurricane Center is tracking a low-pressure area off the Southeast coast that could bring rough seas and unsettled weather, though no direct Georgia impact is expected right now. Rural Development Grants: Gov. Kemp announced $7.8 million in Rural Site Development Initiative grants for ten projects, adding to $28 million invested since FY 2025 to spur rural job growth. Sewage Spill Scrutiny: A report on the McLemore Resort sewage plant cites a 60,000-gallon raw sewage spill into a creek and repeated permit violations, raising fresh concerns about water pollution controls. Wildlife & Public Health: Georgia officials are also warning about the screwworm’s return and urging awareness as the pest spreads.

Fish Kill in Chattahoochee: Georgia DNR says more than 44,000 fish died after polluted water entered the Chattahoochee from Peachtree Creek during a May 20 storm, with Atlanta estimating millions of gallons of minimally treated sewage and stormwater overflow. Pollinator Protection: Georgia Tech researchers report low-dose sulfoxaflor can disrupt bumblebee reproduction at the gene level, raising new concerns for crop protection that also harms pollinators. Bee-Friendly Gardening: UGA experts share practical ways to support bees in Georgia yards, including when (and when not) to add extra water during hot, dry stretches. Composting for Cooler Footprints: UGA Extension breaks down how composting keeps organic waste out of landfills, cutting methane and emissions while turning scraps into soil. Data Centers and Power Costs: Georgia PSC-approved rate changes tied to data-center demand could lower typical residential bills by about $50 a year, as utilities invest in generation and grid upgrades. Local Infrastructure Disruption: GDOT will close I-516 overnight near Ogeechee Road June 30–July 2 for ITS equipment work, with detours in place. Wildlife & Public Safety: A Georgia teen was injured in Tennessee after a motorcycle crash with a bear.

Coastal Education: Georgia DNR’s Coastal Resources Division is kicking off Beach Week 2026 (June 29–July 1) with free, family-friendly events on Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, and Tybee Island, featuring hands-on learning and live horseshoe crab displays. Pollinator & Pesticide Risk: Georgia Tech researchers report that the common pesticide sulfoxaflor can disrupt bumblebee reproduction at the gene level, raising new concerns for pollination and crop health. Wildlife & Public Safety: DNR is urging Georgians to be “BearWise” outdoors—pack out trash and food scraps, keep dogs leashed, and store food properly to prevent bear conflicts. Road & Traffic Impacts: GDOT will close I-516 overnight at Ogeechee Road (June 30–July 2, 7 p.m.–6 a.m.) for ITS infrastructure work, with detours via the ramp crossing. Water Quality/Coast Watch: Georgia is flagging parts of Tybee, St. Simons, and Jekyll beaches for elevated fecal bacteria levels. Composting Basics: UGA Extension shares simple summer composting guidance to cut landfill waste and reduce methane emissions. Fisheries Update: Georgia DNR withdrew its red snapper exempted fishing permit plan after a federal injunction paused the July 1 start.

Coastal Education: Georgia DNR’s Coastal Resources Division is running Beach Week 2026 (June 29–July 1) with free, family-friendly activities on Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, and Tybee Island—hands-on learning with scientists and game wardens, plus live horseshoe crabs. Extreme Heat Awareness: A “Show Your Stripes” climate push highlights how much hotter places have become, using warming-stripe graphics based on long-term temperature records. Mosquito Control: Coastal Georgia health officials are watching a Google-backed “Debug” plan that seeks federal approval to release up to 32 million sterile male mosquitoes over two years to cut West Nile risk. Wildlife Safety: Georgia WRD urges campers and hikers to be BearWise—secure food and trash, keep dogs leashed, and avoid leaving scraps that can lure bears. Local Animal Care: Furkids opened a new 15,000-square-foot Sutherlin Dog Shelter in Cumming, adding private rooms, enrichment spaces, and cooling to reduce stress and speed adoptions. Data Center Pressure (Calhoun): Calhoun is weighing a proposed 500,000-square-foot data center despite a moratorium, with city officials citing development review rules.

Coastal Education: Georgia DNR’s Coastal Resources Division is bringing back Beach Week (June 29–July 1) with free, hands-on learning at Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, and Tybee Island, including live horseshoe crab displays and activities with scientists, conservation staff, and game wardens. Wildlife Safety: Wildlife officials are urging Georgians to “Be BearWise” by packing out trash and food scraps, keeping dogs leashed, and storing food securely to prevent black bear conflicts. Mosquito Control: Chatham County is watching a Google-backed plan to release up to 32 million sterile male mosquitoes over two years to cut West Nile risk by stopping reproduction. Heat Risk: A new forecast warns a July 4 heat dome could push dangerous temperatures across much of the South and East, including Georgia, with limited overnight relief. Local Waste: Baldwin County commissioners approved Ryland Environmental as the new solid waste disposal company. Animal Rescue: A 250-pound sea turtle was rescued from a Tybee highway, highlighting ongoing coastal wildlife hazards.

Fish Kill in the Chattahoochee: Georgia DNR says more than 44,000 fish died after polluted water entered the Chattahoochee from Peachtree Creek, tied to a May 20 heavy-rain event and an Atlanta Watershed overflow of millions of gallons; officials are still sorting out what caused the die-off. Local Landfill Update: Newton County commissioners approved changes to the EPD permit for the Newton County Landfill, including raising a lined cell to boost capacity, shifting boundaries farther from the Yellow River, expanding runoff controls, and adding composting to divert organics. Heat Safety for Georgians: With extreme heat in the forecast and World Cup crowds in Atlanta, climate educators shared practical steps for staying safe during hot weather. Data Centers vs. Communities: DeKalb County rejected data center regulations, while broader reporting highlights how fast-growing data center demand is colliding with local concerns over costs and impacts. Pesticides and Pollinators: A Georgia Tech-led study found the pesticide sulfoxaflor can disrupt bee reproduction even when effects aren’t obvious on the outside. Farm Bill Pressure: GOP governors, including Georgia’s, urged Congress to reauthorize the farm bill instead of extending the 2018 version again.

Chattahoochee River Fish Kill: Georgia DNR investigators say Atlanta’s May 20 sewage overflow likely triggered a massive, oxygen-depleted die-off in the Chattahoochee—about 44,500 fish dead over roughly 16 miles from South Fulton to Peachtree Creek, with the state valuing losses at about $838,600. Clean Air & Health: A Georgia EPD manager highlights how particle and ozone pollution can worsen asthma and raise risks for respiratory and heart disease, urging cleaner vehicle-emissions programs. Plastics Fight: Seventeen GOP attorneys general, including Georgia’s, sued California over its single-use plastics packaging law, arguing it will drive up costs nationwide. Heat & Safety: With a heat dome building across the middle of the U.S., Georgia residents are reminded to prepare for dangerous summer conditions. Local Nature & Community: Bee City Savannah is hosting a pollinator festival at Forsyth Park, and Atlanta Pride named its 2026 Grand Marshals for the Oct. 10–11 parade and festival.

Coastal Water Quality: Georgia flagged elevated fecal bacteria at Tybee Island, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island, with the state Environmental Protection Division citing enterococci and noting it hasn’t identified the source. Wildlife & Invasives: DNR is urging action against aquatic nuisance species, offering online certification to help prevent invasive spread; and in southeast Georgia, officials are assessing an invasive Argentine tegu population in Toombs and Tattnall counties. Fish Kill Investigation: A new state report links the Chattahoochee River’s May fish kill (about 44,500 fish) to low-oxygen water tied to Atlanta’s combined sewer overflow during heavy rain. Public Safety Outdoors: DNR also reminded Georgians to be BearWise—secure food and trash to avoid attracting black bears. Policy & Pollution: Seventeen GOP attorneys general, including Georgia’s, sued California over its single-use plastics packaging law, arguing it will raise consumer costs. Local Land-Use: Hall County commissioners denied a proposed 56-lot subdivision near Gainesville amid public opposition and renewed debate over planning and impacts.