OpenAI applies for permit to fill wetlands for data center | Exclusive
OpenAI has applied for a federal permit to fill 72 acres of wetlands for a planned four-building data center campus in Effingham County, Georgia. Environmental groups and residents are concerned about flooding and ecological damage, while OpenAI says its design preserves 70% of the wetlands and includes stormwater controls.
OpenAI filed an application with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to fill 72 acres of wetlands at the planned Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub data center campus in Effingham County. If approved, the permit would support construction of four large data centers and related infrastructure, with each facility having a proposed footprint of about 183 acres. Public comments are being accepted through Nov. 4.
Environmental advocates and nearby residents have raised concerns about flooding, habitat loss and the destruction of wetlands near Dasher Creek. Jeff Beauvais of One Hundred Miles said the project would add extensive impervious surface in an area already prone to flooding and urged officials to consider less damaging alternatives. OpenAI said it evaluated multiple layouts, would preserve 70% of the onsite wetlands and plans stormwater infrastructure intended to prevent increased downstream flooding. One Hundred Miles is seeking a public hearing on the permit.