As warmer weather settles into Northwest Georgia, the Coosa River Basin Initiative is gearing up for another season of water safety monitoring ahead of the busy summer months.
The Chattooga River Group is inviting the public to take part in an upcoming Blue Trail paddle event on Lyerly Dam Road in Summerville. The paddle will begin with a mass launch at 10 a.m. and will follow the route from Lyerly Dam Launch to Chattoogaville.
Special guest Shane Kornberg, former manager of the Fish Hatchery in Cohutta and now an Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent with UGA Extension in Whitfield County, will lead discussion during the outing. Organizers say Kornberg will cover topics including river ecology, invasive versus native species, and the benefits of a diverse ecosystem.
Participants will need to bring their own kayak, paddle, life jacket, and snacks, and should also make their own transportation arrangements for after the paddle. Organizers say each participant will be asked to provide an emergency contact and sign a waiver before launching.
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect average to slightly above-average temperatures to continue through the weekend, along with several opportunities for rainfall and a few thunderstorms heading into Thursday and Friday.
The Town of Trion will shut off water service to part of town Friday morning as crews work to repair a water line.
Town officials say beginning Friday, February 20th at 9:30 a.m., water will be turned off for customers from the Chattooga River southward to Moore Street. Trion Maintenance Superintendent Brandon Croy said service will remain off in that area until the repair is completed.
Residents and businesses in the affected area are encouraged to plan ahead, store water for essential needs, and limit water usage before the shutoff begins. Once service is restored, customers may notice temporary discoloration or air in the lines, which typically clears after running water for a short time.
The Coosa River Basin Initiative is keeping lines of communication open with local legislators on several water-related issues during the 2026 session of the Georgia General Assembly.
Georgia State Troopers responded to a two-vehicle crash Monday night involving a City of Summerville backhoe and a Dodge Ram truck on Highway 27 (Georgia 1) just north of the Chattooga River bridge.
Local animal advocate Kristy Kirby Colbert addressed the Summerville City Council, Mayor, and City Manager Monday night, urging city leaders to consider alternatives to trapping beavers that have been obstructing water flow in Town Creek.
The Summerville City Council met Monday evening at Summerville City Hall, marking a major night of recognitions, official action, and public input.