MISSION STATEMENT 1071 Coalition is a non-profit organization comprised of citizens, civic groups, businesses and other entities dedicated to maintaining water levels in Lake Sidney Lanier that sustain water supply, recreation, and economic prosperity through the advocacy of appropriate, science- based water releases necessary for the ACF river basin. 1071 Coalition has made application to the IRS for 501(C)(3) tax exempt status.

The lifeblood of this region is literally going down the drain.

Lake Sidney Lanier is not only a primary economic engine of north Georgia; it is the primary source of our region’s water supply. Yet the lake’s ability to sustain our water supply and recreation needs is threatened by excessive water releases from Buford Dam. These current water management practices have contributed to Lanier’s historic low levels. Although a full summer lake level is 1,071 feet above sea level, the lake has recently been drawn down to a record low of 1,050 feet. People are joining the 1071 Coalition to help reverse these practices and preserve our quality of life.

Over the next 36 months, federal officials will make decisions that will establish how water levels will be managed for years to come. Without proper state leadership and old fashion community activism, the needs of overzealous states and so-called endangered species will overtake our interests; leading to dry lake bottoms, a jeopardized water supply, and a shrinking economy.

To give you an idea of the extent of the problem, from May to November of 2007, flows supplied to the Apalachicola River under an Interim Operating Plan were 220% greater than its natural unimpaired flow. From October to November of 2007, releases from Lake Lanier alone were 7 times greater than inflow. The excess water released during this two-month period could have supplied Metro Atlanta’s water needs for well over a year. Unless we act now and provide suitable alternatives, federal officials will base their long-term water control plan on recent, harmful practices.

To hear our neighboring states tell it, Georgia has a consumption problem that stems from unchecked growth. The facts tell us a different story. Metro Atlanta, which includes 72% of the population within the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) Basin, consumes just 1-2% of the water in the ACF basin above the Florida line.

With your financial support, this newly formed coalition will focus on three objectives:

• Commission a study on the impact of Lake Lanier on the area economy. This data will be used to counter information disseminated by other states and to bolster our position in water management discussions. Federal officials need to understand the harm lower lake levels cause to area businesses, merchants and property owners.
• Urge our federal and state officials to give this issue their highest priority and take action in the best interests of Georgians. In addition to lingering litigation, there are multiple studies that need to be advanced on endangered species and how best to manage for minimal flow requirements within the basin. These studies must provide objective analysis. We need credible experts to apply pressure at the proper times and work with other common interests to advance our cause.
• Serve as a voice in the public relations fight between the states. Armed with data and experts, we need to launch a public relations campaign to push our message through the media and policymakers.

Although there are other organizations engaged in this issue, such as the Lake Lanier Association and the Atlanta Regional Commission, there is no single entity whose sole mission is maintaining healthy water levels in Lake Lanier and representing our interests. In order to devote full time attention and hire the necessary expertise to tackle this issue (legal, environmental, engineering, government and public relations), we have projected this three-year battle will consume a total budget of $700,000.

While the drought may eventually lift, history has shown us that harsh conditions will return. Therefore we cannot become complacent while federal officials make important decisions that affect our livelihood. Please help us protect this resource and our economic prosperity by choosing a membership level on the attached form and submit a tax deductible contribution from corporate, group or personal funds. We are asking for a commitment of three annual installments to fund this effort.