The Georgia Department of Natural Resources will conduct a public forum in Peachtree City tonight on proposed rules that will govern the Georgia green space program.

The forum is one in a statewide series.

The new program, which Governor Roy Barnes signed into law April 16, seeks to preserve 20 percent of the land area in developed and rapidly developing counties.

Fayette is one of 40 counties eligible for land grants in fiscal year 2001, from $30 million in appropriated funds. A city is eligible to participate if it lies within an eligible county.

Local governments can use the state grants to purchase land for community green space which will protect water quality, scenery and historic resources; offer informal recreation such as free play, jogging, bicycling, hunting and fishing; and connect homes, schools, parks and local commercial districts with land for trails so people can walk or ride bicycles between them.

If it wants to receive the funds, an eligible county must develop a local green space program. The local program sets a goal of permanently protecting at least 20 percent of the county's land area and identifies how this will be done.

The county commits to using land acquisition and development regulations to achieve its goal. It must amend its comprehensive land use plan to be consistent with the green space program.

Copies of the draft rules are available in electronic form at rebecca_head@dnr.state.ga.us. Printed copies may be reviewed at the County Administrative Complex and at the regional or branch libraries within the 40 counties.

A public forum will be Wednesday, May 31, at City Hall in Peachtree City at 7 p.m.

For information on forums in other areas, phone the DNR at 404-656-3500.