Atlanta investigates chemical-linked fish kill on South River
Tap title to read story
Atlanta’s Department of Watershed Management has opened an emergency investigation into a large fish kill along the South River that officials suspect is tied to an accidental chemical release from the South River Water Reclamation Center, a major municipal wastewater treatment plant. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources was alerted on Saturday, June 27, 2026, after a resident reported thousands of dead fish near the Jonesboro Road SE crossing, about six miles south of downtown Atlanta. State staff confirmed extensive fish mortality, collected samples, and notified the city. The incident follows a recent sewage overflow that killed thousands of fish in the Chattahoochee River.
More context
Timeline
- 2021 South River named endangered waterway
- Weeks before June 27, 2026 Chattahoochee sewage overflow kills fish
- June 27, 2026 Resident reports thousands dead fish
- June 28, 2026 DNR staff confirm fish mortality
- June 28, 2026 Water samples collected for analysis
- June 28, 2026 State agency formally notifies Atlanta
- June 30, 2026 City links deaths to possible chemical release
- Late June 2026 Emergency investigation launched by Atlanta
Why it matters
This fish kill could impact your local environment and potentially your health. If you live near the South River, be cautious about using the water for now. Officials haven't confirmed the exact chemical involved yet. Keep an eye on updates from the Department of Watershed Management.
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
