The City of Atlanta is investigating a fish kill in the South River due to a potential chemical release at a water reclamation center on June 29.
This is the second fish kill since May 20, when severe flash floods caused an estimated 6 million gallons of sewage and stormwater to overflow into Peachtree Creek.
As a result, the Chattahoochee River experienced a severe drop in oxygen levels, and 44,500 fish were killed, according to a report from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Now, days before a holiday weekend when rivers and lakes are heavily used for recreation, Atlanta’s Department of Watershed Management (DWM) is investigating the South River incident. The South River flows 60 miles southeast from metro Atlanta to Jackson Lake, where it becomes the Ocmulgee River. It is a headwater to the largest freshwater system in the state.
Early results suggest chemicals may have reached the storm drains. The leak’s source, volume, and environmental impact are still being determined, the city said.
DWM has deployed crews to collect water quality samples and is coordinating closely with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division to support the ongoing investigation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
