Georgia Rivers Gala: Honoring President Jimmy Carter’s Environmental Legacy

On August 22, 2024, outdoor recreation enthusiasts, conservationists, and leaders from across the state will gather at the Atlanta History Center for the Georgia Rivers Gala. This prestigious event celebrates the river conservation efforts of President Jimmy Carter and supports the future of river recreation in Georgia

River Hero Award for Jimmy Carter

President Jimmy Carter will receive the River Hero award in recognition of his enduring environmental legacy for Georgia’s rivers. His love for spending time outdoors, especially on rivers, led to significant conservation achievements. Let’s explore some of these accomplishments:

1. Flint River Protection: After paddling the Flint River, then-Governor Jimmy Carter vetoed plans for three dam proposals on the Flint. His commitment to preserving wild spaces for outdoor recreation set a powerful precedent.
2. Chattooga River Designation: Paddling over Bull Sluice, a class V rapid on the Chattooga River, Carter protected it from dam building and designated it as a Wild and Scenic River—the first river to receive this title nationwide.
3. Presidential Advocacy: During his presidency (1977–1981), Carter continued to protect water resources and encourage river recreation. He de-authorized more than 16 national water reclamation projects that would have harmed riverways. He also signed legislation designating land for the future Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area and the 48-mile Chattahoochee River Water Trail flowing through Atlanta.
4. Coastal Conservation: Carter’s efforts extended to the coast. He created the Shore Protection Act, saving Little Tybee Island from mining, and the Coastal Marshlands Protection Act, which banned mining in the marsh.

Freedom to Float

The quality of life for all Georgians is greatly enhanced by improved public access to the state’s waterways. The Georgia General Assembly recently passed HB 1172, clarifying Georgians’ right to boat, fish, and hunt on rivers and streams. However, legislators also signaled an intention to restrict these rights by using an outdated definition of navigable streamsGeorgia River Network advocates for legislation that protects the public’s right of passage on streams capable of supporting small, person-powered watercraft.

In celebrating President Jimmy Carter’s legacy, we honor not only his contributions but also the freedom to float on Georgia’s rivers. Let us continue to protect and cherish these natural treasures for generations to come.

You can visit the official event page for more information about the Georgia Rivers Gala. President Carter’s dedication to environmental conservation serves as an inspiration, and this gala provides an opportunity to recognize his remarkable achievements