Satilla River facts for kids
The Satilla River starts in Ben Hill County, Georgia, near the town of Fitzgerald. It flows mostly east until it reaches the Atlantic Ocean. This river is about 235 miles (378 km) long. Cities like Waycross, Waynesville, and Woodbine are located along its path.
The Satilla River drains a large area of land. This area is almost 4,000 square miles (10,360 sq km) in size. All of this land is part of the coastal plain in southeastern Georgia. The river is known for its white sandbars. It is also the largest blackwater river that is completely within Georgia. Blackwater rivers get their dark color from decaying plants.
The name "Satilla" comes from a Spanish officer. His name was Saint Illa. Over time, the name changed to Satilla.
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Where the Satilla River Meets the Ocean
The Satilla River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. This happens about 10 miles (16 km) south of Brunswick. It meets the ocean at the 31st parallel north.
Wildlife Along the River
One special place along the river is Satilla River Marsh Island. This island is important for wildlife. It is one of the few spots in Georgia where you can see brown pelicans nesting. They build their nests and raise their young here.
Protecting the Satilla River
In May 2010, the city of Waycross took an important step. They bought a special device called a Bandalong Litter Trap. This trap was then put into Tebeau Creek. Tebeau Creek is a smaller stream that flows into the Satilla River.
How the Litter Trap Works
The Bandalong Litter Trap was invented in Australia. However, it is made in the United States by a company called Storm Water Systems. This trap helps to catch trash. It stops human-made garbage from flowing into the Satilla River. This also prevents the trash from reaching the Atlantic Ocean.
A Model for Clean Water
The city of Waycross wanted to do more to keep the river clean. Even though they followed environmental rules, they wanted to reduce pollution. Sonny Perdue, who was the Governor of Georgia at the time, praised their efforts. He said that water is a very important resource for Georgia. He also said that the litter trap in Waycross is a great example for the state and the country. The Satilla River litter trap was the first of its kind in Georgia. It was only the second one in the entire nation.
