ATLANTA – State Representative Lynn Smith (R-Newnan), chair of the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee, recently participated in a water management policy forum hosted by the Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) of The Council of State Governments (CSG). Rep. Smith previously served as chair of the SLC’s Energy & Environment Committee and was invited by the SLC to participate in this special seminar, which took place from October 12 – 15 at the Water Campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
“This was the most informative water seminar I have attended, and it was an honor to join other southern legislators who chair natural resources committees,” said Rep. Smith. “It was extremely insightful using interactive maps to study water flows and problems, such as floods, soil loss and land mass loss. I appreciated speaking with water experts from the Netherlands who shared how they plan to manage the rising ocean water table and increased interior storm events, as well as learning how Louisiana’s public/private partnerships are invaluable for managing the ever-increasing water dilemmas of increased floods, storms and rising ocean water table. This learning experience and networking opportunity has better armed me to deal with Georgia’s coastal and interior water issues.”
This policy workshop was intended for legislators in SLC member states who work on natural resources and environmental issues. During the event, Rep. Smith and other legislators had an opportunity to learn about extreme weather events, water management, flood planning and mitigation and how southern states are working to address these issues. The legislators also heard presentations on building coalitions between the private and public sectors and creating sustainable water plans for the future. The seminar featured issue experts from southern states, including presenters from the Water Institute of the Gulf, South Carolina Floodwater Commission, Texas Water Development Board and the LSU Coastal Sustainability Studio.
The Water Campus is located on the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge and is the country’s first major center dedicated to the study of coastal restoration and sustainability. Research scientists, water management professionals, contractors and support staff fill the campus’ labs, research facilities and commercial space. These professionals collaborate to study coastal threats, formulate theories, exchange ideas and work to create innovative solutions.
For more information about the SLC’s water management forum, please click here.
*Editor’s Note: Photos of Rep. Smith speaking during the forum and an interactive water management map are attached.
Representative Lynn Smith represents the citizens of District 70, which includes portions of Carroll and Coweta counties. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 1996 and currently serves as Chairman of the Natural Resources & Environment Committee. She also serves on the Special Committee on Election Integrity, Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government, Legislative & Congressional Reapportionment, Creative Arts & Entertainment and Rules committees.
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