The city of Jefferson officially received its WaterFirst designation on December 16, 2019, during a ceremony at the monthly City Council meeting.  

WaterFirst Communities are committed to excellence in watershed assessment, stormwater master planning, wastewater treatment and management, water supply planning and protection, water conservation, and water reclamation and reuse.

Receiving this designation demonstrates the city of Jefferson’s commitment to the stewardship of water resources for environmental and economic benefits. Some of the city’s notable accomplishments include:

  • Environmental education programs offered by Jefferson City Schools,
  • A 57% decline in per capita water consumption since 2002, and
  • Citizen involvement in watershed management efforts, particularly in preserving and planting trees.

WaterFirst Communities are eligible for financial and other benefits from the state, including a 1% interest rate reduction on Georgia Environmental Finance Authority loans, eligibility for water-related Community Development Block Grants administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, and priority status for the 319 Grant Program administered by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division.

The city of Jefferson is the 35th community to receive the WaterFirst designation. For more information on the WaterFirst Program, visit gefa.georgia.gov/waterfirst.