The Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources is certainly doing its part to protect the environment. With the help of stimulus funding, three groundbreaking green projects are underway. Click here for more details.

(Lawrenceville, Ga., Jan. 20, 2010) - Gwinnett County is asking for help from the public to catch people who are prying up sewer system manhole covers to dump various kinds of waste.

"People have been dumping everything from grease and chemicals to septic tank pumping," said Acting Director of Water Resources Lynn Smarr. "It's not only illegal but it's also dangerous for the perpetrators and our employees. We're asking anyone who sees suspicious activity to report it immediately."

Residents can call Gwinnett Police at 770.513.5100 or Water Resources at 678.376.7000. Both lines are staffed 24 hours a day. County vehicles are clearly marked and Water Resources employees wear uniforms.

"Tough economic times lead people to do things they wouldn't normally do," said Deputy Director Tyler Richards. "We all need to be vigilant to protect public health and safety."

"As environmental regulations get tighter, we've got to be strict about enforcing illegal dumping laws," added Smarr.

Georgia EPD Director Carol Couch declared on June 10, 2009, that the state of Georgia has returned to a non-drought condition. According to the state's rules, outdoor water use is allowed on the even-odd schedule with no restrictions as to hours of use. This means that homeowners with even-numbered addresses can water on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday and those with odd-numbered addresses can water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday. Gwinnett County will follow the state's rule. More...

Water Resources Department
684 Winder Highway
Lawrenceville, GA 30045

For a list of Water Resources contact phone numbers, click here.

Gwinnett County will flush some of its water lines in the coming months to remove sediment, test fire hydrants, ensure water quality in low-usage lines, and ensure safe, clean water after repairs or maintenance.

"We only discharge water when necessary for customer health and safety," said Lynn Smarr, Acting Director of Gwinnett's Water Resources Department. Line flushing may cause brief, temporary pressure drops in the water supply or discoloration from dislodged sediment in the pipes. Smarr said it usually does not pose a health hazard and should clear up after the water runs a few minutes. She recommends doing laundry after 5 p.m. and letting the water run a few minutes to ensure clarity before drinking or cooking in areas where flushing work is being done.  

Residents should call the Department of Water Resources at (678) 376-7000 if they have continued problems with discoloration or pressure.

Gwinnett County Water Main Flushing Program FAQs

At Gwinnett County, we believe that a career in water resources is both satisfying and rewarding. Professionals in the water industry are directly involved in protecting and preserving the health of the community and environment. There are also a vast number of job opportunities that exist within the industry. Please visit www.H2Opportunity.net for more information on careers in the water industry.

Toilet Rebate Program Information