ENVIRONMENT

Atlanta investigates chemical-linked fish kill on South River

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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.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

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 This Matters to You

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.

The Bottom Line

Atlanta's waterways are under threat, first from sewage overflow, now from a suspected chemical release. It's a wake-up call for better oversight of our water treatment facilities. Worth forwarding if you know someone who enjoys fishing or boating on these rivers.