For months now, water — or the lack of it — has been a growing concern for Georgia. The northern and western parts of the state are suffering from the worst drought in the state’s history. Gov. Sonny Purdue has declared parts of the state a disaster area because of the adverse effects of the drought.

Jeff Larson, with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, will offer an overview of Georgia’s water dilemma at the November Membership Breakfast for the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce. The event will be held at New Ebenezer Retreat and Conference Center on Nov. 7 at 7:30 a.m.

Larson’s remarks will cover the state water plan and also include an update of the state’s drought status. The challenges of saltwater intrusion in the coastal empire and approval of the development of the new Savannah Harbor Georgia dissolved oxygen standard are also topics for discussion.

Larson has been with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division for 25 years. Over the years he has specialized in the water quality permitting process, compliance and enforcement. He presently serves as an assistant branch chief for the EPD’s Watershed Protection Branch with overview in the Savannah and Ogeechee River Basins.

Reservations for the Chamber Breakfast are $12 each and $72 for a table of six. Call the Effingham Chamber at 754-3301 or email at: kenstoner@effinghamcounty.com. RSVP deadline is Nov. 5.