: Community cleanup events aim to remove plastic and waste from waterways before it travels downstream.
While sewage levels have dropped, new problems have emerged. In late 2025, metro Atlanta launched a funded by federal grants to address "smelly water" issues caused by nutrient pollution . High levels of nutrients lead to algae blooms in Lake Lanier , which can affect the taste and odor of the municipal supply. Additionally, stormwater runoff —carrying oil, grease, and metals from urban surfaces—continues to be a primary source of contamination for local streams. Community-Led Solutions and Stewardship WATER CLEANUP ATLANTA
Water is the lifeblood of Atlanta , a city that sits at the headwaters of the , its primary source of drinking water. Unlike many major cities located near vast aquifers or large lakes, metro Atlanta relies almost entirely on surface water , making the preservation and cleanup of its river systems a matter of survival and economic stability. Over the decades, Atlanta has transitioned from a city struggling with severe pollution to a regional leader in urban water management, though modern challenges like nutrient runoff and aging infrastructure remain. Historical Challenges and the Path to Restoration : Community cleanup events aim to remove plastic
: Reducing the use of fertilizers and maintaining pool chemicals helps prevent harmful runoff into the river basin. High levels of nutrients lead to algae blooms
