Gov. Sonny Perdue signed the Statewide Water Management Plan into law today.

The plan is intended to guide Georgia in managing its water resources, although Floyd County's legislative delegation voted agains the measure.

The resolution was sponsored by Rep. Lynn Smith (R-Newnan) in the House of Representatives and state Sen. Ross Tolleson (R-Perry) carried the resolution in the Senate.

“Water management is one of the most critical issues facing Georgia today,” said Perdue. “This plan was created by an inclusive process, allowing all parties to contribute and offer their solutions – from local governments to business owners to the agricultural community and the general public. Georgia now has a comprehensive, statewide plan for managing and conserving this precious resource.”

The local legislative delegation voted against the plan because they felt it didn't provide enough protection for regional water resources.

See Thursday's Rome News-Tribune for complete story