​About SRWA

​The Soque River Watershed Assocation (SRWA) is a non-profit organization working to protect and restore the Soque River in Northeast Georgia. The Soque River is the only river in Georgia to begin and end all within one county, Habersham. It is a major headwater tributary to the Chattahoochee River which serves as the primary drinking water supply for the city of Atlanta. The organization, founded in 1998, is governed by a community-oriented board of directors, and has two staff members. Primary activities of the Association include: organization of a community watershed partnership; grant management of a Federal 319 project to complete a watershed assessment and draft a watershed protection plan; coordination of a community greenway project; and collaboration with local officials on conservation policy and planning improvements.

River Bank Restoration

Why River Bank Restoration Matters

river banks are the lifelines of our rivers, providing essential habitat for wildlife, preventing erosion, and maintaining water quality. Over time, human activities, natural erosion, and invasive species can damage these banks, leading to severe ecological consequences.

Key benefits of river bank restoration include:

Erosion Control: Stabilized banks reduce soil erosion, preventing sediment from polluting the river.
Habitat Creation: Restored river banks provide habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife.
Water Quality Improvement: Healthy banks act as natural filters, trapping pollutants before they enter the waterway.
Flood Mitigation: Reinforced banks can reduce the impact of flooding by absorbing excess water.

Our River Bank Restoration Process

  • Assessment and Planning: We conduct thorough assessments to understand the extent of erosion and identify the best restoration techniques.
  • Native Planting: We use native plants to stabilize the soil and create a resilient bank that supports local wildlife.
  • Structural Enhancements: In some areas, we use structures like coir logs, rock armoring, and bioengineering techniques to provide additional stability.
  • Ongoing Monitoring: After restoration, we regularly monitor the site to ensure the bank remains stable and the ecosystem thrives.

How You Can Help

Community involvement is essential to the success of our river bank restoration projects. Here are ways you can contribute:

  • Volunteer: Join our restoration teams for planting days and maintenance events.
  • Donate: Your financial support helps us purchase materials and plants for restoration projects.
  • Educate: Spread the word about the importance of river bank restoration and sustainable land practices.

Together, we can restore the Soque River’s banks and protect this precious resource for future generations.