A 24-hour survey of trucks passing through Columbia County turned up more than 6 million pounds of hazardous cargo.

That’s everything from nuclear waste and toxic chemicals to ammunition and fireworks.

The study is part of an effort by GEMA to find out how much hazardous material is making its way across the state.

GEMA spokesperson Randy Howard says the results will give counties the information they need to guard themselves against potential accidents.

"You try to determine what is traveling and then determine do you have the ability to respond," said Howard. "If you do not then what you want to do is develop a plan to determine what kind of equipment and training you need and who is available to come to your assistance."

The same survey was done in Carroll and Douglas counties. Officials say the next survey will track hazardous materials coming to and from the coast.

Tags: GEMA, Georgia Environmental Management Agency, hazmat, hazerdous materials