System Failure
How to Spot a Failing System
When properly operating, a private sewage system safely treats wastewater by storing sludge and solids in the septic / holding tank and by treating and dispersing wastewater in a soil absorption field. However, a failing system can harm the environment by discharging sewage to the surface, to a lake or stream, or to groundwater. Your private sewage system may not show any apparent signs of failure and yet be failing.
Types of System Failure
The types of failing private sewage systems are divided into three categories:
- Category 1: Systems are those systems which fail by discharging sewage to surface groundwater, drain tiles, bedrock or zones of seasonally saturated soils. These are considered the most serious types of failure, and are given highest priority for grant assistance.
- Category 2: Systems are those systems which fail by discharging sewage to the surface of the ground. This type of failing system is eligible for a grant but has a lower priority for funding than Category 1 systems.
- Category 3: Systems are those systems which fail by causing the backup of sewage into the structure served. This type of failing system is not eligible for grant assistance.
Who to Contact
Questions concerning a fail system should be addressed to the Bayfield County Planning and Zoning Department at 715-373-6138.