The original item was published from June 3, 2021 11:24 AM to June 8, 2021 10:57 AM
The segment of the study area that extends between the Dog River Reservoir to the county line on the north side of Highway 166 is protected by the county’s most stringent watershed protection restrictions.
The Dog River Watershed Basin is one of several watershed basins protected through Douglas County’s Unified Development Code (UDC). Watershed development restrictions limit things such as land disturbance and impervious surface coverage to as to protect drinking water reservoirs
Natural/ Recreational Qualities
The Dog River Reservoir is not only an important natural resource for Douglas County, but also provides recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing. Though recreational opportunities are limited to ensure that water quality is preserved. According to the Metro North Georgia Water Planning District, “the Metro Water District relies almost entirely on surface water to meet the needs of the region. Access to groundwater is negligible, so we must rely on our small rivers and streams for water supply and capture and store rainfall in reservoirs to provide relief in times of drought.”
Developed Areas
The purpose and intent of the Watershed Protection Ordinance of the Unified Development Code underscores the importance of protecting the quality and quantity of the present and future water supply of the County. As a result, much of the land in this segment has had limited development. Very few major subdivisions have been built in this area. Development is generally restricted to a 3 acre density or lot size, and impervious surface is limited to 25% of the lot. Non-residential development is discouraged.
Cultural/ Archaeological Qualities
The Dog River Reservoir is managed by the Douglasville-Douglas County Water and Sewer Authority, and they maintain a record of archaeological excavations completed prior to construction of the reservoir.
The 1999 survey of historic resources in Douglas County identified several sites with historic value in this area.
- NW corner of SR 5 and Hwy 166
- NE corner of SR 5 and Hwy 166 (likely demolished)
- 8030 SR 166 (likely demolished)
- N side of SR 166, just west of Small Wood Drive
- 9094 SR 166
- 7544 SR 166
- 7434 SR 166
Community Centers
The historic Fairplay community is centered around the intersection of Highway 166 and Post Road. The story of the area that we refer to today as Fairplay seems to encompass multiple older communities, including McWhorter and Hannah. As such, of the early landmarks associated with these communities are in areas on the south side of Hwy 166. But areas north of Hwy 166 in the segment are also recognized as part of the Fairplay community, and distinguished here only because of the existing watershed regulation that preserves large lot residential areas and limits non-residential development. The various communities will be discussed in detail in a later post.
