Since the 30,000-gallon, one-week-long spill in late January the Atlanta airport has spilled fuel at least two more times. The latest was reported by the airport to downstream water utilities on 25 May (Memorial Day).

That afternoon, Flint Riverkeeper staff Director of Field Operations R.J. Gipaya confirmed fuel in the river downstream of the airport, and the next day made observations at every road crossing to determine how far fuel had traveled. R.J. documented heavy sheens and strong odors of fuel well downstream of Upper Riverdale Road (10 miles downstream) and evidence of fuel as far as GA Highway 54 (about 20 miles downstream). Cleanup crews were active at Forest Parkway, Upper Riverdale Road, and Flint River Road.

Neither GA EPD, EPA, the City of Atlanta, nor the City’s operations at the airport have reported the exact source or volume of the most-recent spill.

We are deeply frustrated that pollution from the airport continues unabated. 

Flint Riverkeeper is partnering closely with our highly valued counsel at the Southern Environmental Law Center to develop meaningful legal action against appropriate parties managing and associated with the airport. Legal action will be designed to achieve remedies for the airport’s various forms of pollution and restoration of these important headwaters of the Flint. Meanwhile, we continue to document the extent of the pollution, agency actions, and cleanup activities.



The following pictures were taken by R.J. on Tuesday, 26 May.

GA Highway 138, Tuesday, 26 May 2026

GA Highway 85, Tuesday 26 May, 2026

Poster Design by Josh May

Local favorite The Kinchafoonee Cowboys will be headlining Knobby Knees on June 6th supported by Parker Gispert and Band, The Shelby Brothers, and The Page Brothers. Flint Riverkeeper is incredibly excited for this lineup and thankful for each of these bands for sharing their talents on the Knobby stage!

Tickets are available online HERE and at the gate on June 6th.

If you would like FREE tickets, you can sign up HERE for a volunteer shift and help us make Knobby Knees a success!

We strive to create and maintain a family friendly environment at Knobby Knees Music Festival where all feel welcome. Illicit substances are not permitted under any circumstances. This is an outdoor event occurring rain or shine and attendees should dress for the weather and bring seating.

Food trucks will be on site offering a variety of meal options and Flint Riverkeeper will operate two drink stations. Outside food and drink (excluding water) are not permitted. ID checks will be in place and persons under the age of 21 found to be consuming alcoholic beverages will be escorted out by event security. Lastly, pets are not allowed at any Flint Riverkeeper event, including Knobby Knees Music Festival.

We look forward to having you join us for an exciting evening of music and celebration in downtown Albany on the banks of the Flint River!

June 6 - Knobby Knees Music Festival - Albany, GA

Knobby Knees is Flint Riverkeeper's annual summer music festival and we would love to have you join us! We have an exciting lineup and tickets are just $20. More information and tickets available HERE.

November 6 - For the Flint Fall Gala & Auction - Gay, GA

We're returning to Towerhouse Farms in Gay, GA for our Gala and Auction. The food is outstanding, the company is fantastic, and the farm is beautiful. Look for ticket availability early Fall.

December 3 - Cocktails for Clean Water - Bainbridge, GA

Cocktails for Clean Water is our most formal evening of the year, held at the beautifully restored Old Post Office cocktail bar in Bainbridge. We look forward to seeing everyone on December 3rd.