​About SRWA

​The Soque River Watershed Assocation (SRWA) is a non-profit organization working to protect and restore the Soque River in Northeast Georgia. The Soque River is the only river in Georgia to begin and end all within one county, Habersham. It is a major headwater tributary to the Chattahoochee River which serves as the primary drinking water supply for the city of Atlanta. The organization, founded in 1998, is governed by a community-oriented board of directors, and has two staff members. Primary activities of the Association include: organization of a community watershed partnership; grant management of a Federal 319 project to complete a watershed assessment and draft a watershed protection plan; coordination of a community greenway project; and collaboration with local officials on conservation policy and planning improvements.

Water Quality Testing

At SRWA, our commitment to the Soque River includes rigorous water quality testing. This vital work helps us monitor the health of the river, detect pollutants, and take action to maintain clean and safe water for our community and wildlife.

The Importance of Water Quality Testing

Water quality testing is essential for:

  • Detecting Contaminants: Identifying pollutants like chemicals, heavy metals, and pathogens that can harm health and ecosystems.
  • Monitoring Ecosystem Health: Assessing the river’s ecological balance and the wellbeing of aquatic life.
  • Informing Restoration Efforts: Data from testing guides our conservation and restoration projects.
  • Protecting Public Health: Ensuring the water is safe for recreational use and local water supplies.

 

Our Testing Program

  • Regular Sampling: We conduct routine water sampling at various points along the Soque River to monitor changes over time.
  • Comprehensive Analysis: Samples are tested for a wide range of parameters, including pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and contaminants.
  • Data Reporting: Results are compiled and shared with the community, stakeholders, and regulatory agencies.
  • Responsive Action: If testing reveals issues, we initiate targeted responses such as pollution source identification and remediation.

How You Can Help

Your involvement is crucial to our water quality efforts:

  • Volunteer for Sampling: Join our teams in collecting water samples from the river.
  • Support Our Work: Financial contributions fund testing supplies, lab analysis, and reporting.
  • Advocate for Clean Water: Promote policies and practices that protect our waterways from pollution.

Together, we can ensure the Soque River remains a pristine and healthy waterway for generations to come.