Proper use and routine maintenance of septic systems is crucial for safeguarding watershed health. To preserve the well-being of lakes and streams, it is imperative for residents within the watershed’s limits to conduct regular inspections and maintenance of their septic systems.

Tips for keeping your septic system operating properly:

• Know the location of your septic tank and drainfield.

• Inspect and pump your septic tank every 3 to 5 years.

• Keep your drainfield clear.

• Never build, drive on, pave over, or fertilize around your drainfield.

• Consult your septic system pumper to establish how often your particular usage requires service.

• Plant shallow rooted plants around drainfield.

• DO NOT dispose of poisons, drain cleaners, bleach, paints, chemicals, disinfectants, grease, cigarette butts, hair, facial tissues, paper towels, sanitary napkins, motor oils, water softener waste, or band-aids into sinks or toilets.

Signs of septic system problems:

• Clogged drains and toilets backing up.

• Foul odors around septic tank or drainfield.

• Wastewater surfacing around drainfield.

• Dark green algae growth on rocks along shoreline.

• Conserving water is a key ingredient to a properly functioning septic system. Heavy water use forces solids and soil particles to clump and pack together. In turn, these clumps will clog drainfields, necessitating replacement of the entire septic system.