The House Study Committee on Navigable Streams is aiming to recommend where people should have the right to boat, fish, and hunt on Georgia’s streams and will hold their final hearing of the year on the matter coming up on November 18th. They are reviewing House Bill 1172, which could potentially allow landowners to restrict access to streams on their property deemed “unnavigable. ” This issue arose from a 1863 law that has led to disputes over access to certain streams, like Ichawaynochaway Creek in Baker County and Armuchee Creek in Chattooga and Floyd counties. Paddle Georgia coordinator Joe Cook emphasizes the historical right to float down Georgia’s waterways since the 1700s, which he believes should not be eroded. The committee is considering various proposals, including one that might only ensure public access to a small percentage of the state’s vast network of streams. This debate pits property owner rights against the public’s traditional use of these waterways for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hunting. Economic reports suggest these activities have a substantial impact on Georgia’s economy, underscoring the importance of resolving this issue to maintain public access to these natural resources.