Athens Water Festival This Saturday!

Don't forget that the 16th annual Athens Water Festival is this Saturday, September 6 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Sandy Creek Park! Water is your quest during this day filled with power-up splash zones, watery obstacle courses, and more. Whether you're playing games, creating art, making bubbles, or watching the magic show, there's something for every player - young or old! Bring a bathing suit to run through the spray of water trucks and a water bottle to fuel up at the water monster.

If you want to lend a hand, there are currently a few volunteer slots remaining! Volunteers receive free lunch, a Water Festival t-shirt, and Kona Ice. Learn more at accgov.com/waterfestival or athenswaterfestival.com.

Rivers Alive Volunteer Slots Open Soon!

Volunteer slots for Rivers Alive 2025 will open on Monday, September 15 via GivePulse. From stream cleanups to storm drain decaling, there is an event for everyone! Visit accgov.com/riversalive for more information and a link to the event's GivePulse.

Septic Systems, Water Quality, and You!

Know Your System

• Learn your tank size, location, and age.
• Avoid driving, planting, or building over your system.
• Most septic systems last about 20 years.

Use Water Wisely

• Fix leaks and install low-flow fixtures.
• Don’t overload the system, especially during rain.

Flush Smart
Remember the “4 Ps”: pee, poop, paper, and puke. Nothing else belongs in the toilet. Avoid garbage disposals and skip additives that promise quick fixes.

Maintain Regularly
Have your system inspected and pumped every 3–5 years by a certified professional. Don’t wait until it fails—repairs are far more expensive.

Watch for Warning Signs

• Wet spots or standing water near the drainfield
• Strong odors
• Lush grass patches or slow drains

Why It Matters
Failing systems can leak harmful bacteria and nutrients into our waterways, leading to fish kills, algal blooms, and risks to human and pet health. Since our drinking water comes from local rivers, every homeowner plays a role in protecting water quality.

For more information, visit accgov.com/septic or call (706) 613-3795.

Upcoming Events

Athens Water Festival
Saturday, September 6, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sandy Creek Park

$2/person entry to park

Make a splash at the 16th annual Athens Water Festival! Learn more or register to volunteer at accgov.com/waterfestival or athenswaterfestival.com.

Rivers Alive
Saturday, October 11
Kickoff at Dudley Park

Join your neighbors and wade into local rivers, lakes and streams as part of the continuing statewide campaign to clean and preserve over 70,000 miles of Georgia’s rivers and streams. Visit accgov.com.riversalive for more information and a link to the volunteer GivePulse.