Keep your Septic System in Good Working Order!
- SEPTIC TANK MAINTENANCE
by Shirley Hild
Septic systems that are properly designed,
installed, operated and maintained will provide effective sewage treatment
for many years. As homeowners with our own mini-treatment sewage plants,
we have a
responsibility to ensure that our systems
continue to adequately treat wastewater through proper use and maintenance.
A septic system that inadequately treats wastewater can potentially contaminate surface and ground water, resulting in health risks to both humans and animals. It can also allow excess nutrients to reach the lake, promoting algae and weed growth which can make lake use unpleasant and affect the quality of the water in fish and wildlife habitat areas.
Proper maintenance of a sewage treatment system includes the periodical cleaning (pumping) of the septic tank. If the floating scum and sludge that accumulates in the tank is not removed on a regular schedule, they can enter the soil treatment system (drainfield), causing expensive and most probably irreparable damage.
How often should the septic tank be pumped? The frequency will depend on the tank size, the use of the system, and its operating condition. In most cases, the tank will need to be cleaned every 18-30 months. In no case should the frequency be less than once every three years.
It is not only our responsibility as stewards of the environment to maintain our septic systems on a regular basis, but we are legally required to do so. Minnesota Rules, Chapter 7080, which provide minimum standards for individual sewage treatment systems, require that the owner of such a system check and/or pump the sewage tank at least once every three years. This inspection or cleaning must be performed by a licensed pumper. It is important to note that the rules do not differentiate between a system that serves a seasonal or a residential property.
How much does it cost to have the tank inspected or cleaned by a licensed pumper? The cost can range from $85 to $130 for a cleaning. The cost of just an inspection will be about the same. Budgeting for this item every one to three years can be much less expensive and certainly much easier to plan for than an unexpected bill of $2,000 to $10,000 to replace or repair the existing system!!
The effectiveness of a septic system in treating sewage also depends on how the homeowner uses and operates the system. Water-use habits, fixtures and appliances, product selection, and septic additives and cleaners all affect how well a septic system works. Remember, the septic system operates every time wastewater enters the system.
For more information on maintenance and use of your septic system, refer to your copy of MANAGING YOUR SHORELAND: A Guide for Lakeshore Owners, Your Septic System Owner's Guide or Link HERE to University of Minnesota Web Site Extension Service (select Environment, then Sewage Treatment, then Publications).
Plant a "Filter Strip"along
your shoreline! |
The purpose of a "filter strip" is to slow and spread out water runoff from the lawn and all impervious surfaces. By maintaining this buffer between the high ground and the lake, runoff such as silt, fertilizers, lawn clippingsand herbicides are kept from running into the lake. By NOT mowing within 10 feet of the water's edge (30 feet is optimum), over time a native filter strip (the most effective kind) will establish itself. Filter strips can also be created with tall grass or flowers . |
Practice and Promote "Catch andRelease"! The best way to improve fishing on our lakesis to release the LARGESTfish, after taking a picture of course! This easy method of smartfish management will improve fishing more effectively than the expensiveway-stocking the lake with fingerlings. "A game fish is much too valuableto be caught only once".(MN DNR).
- DNR Tips for Releasing Fish:
- Use barbless hooks.
- Play the fish quickly.
- Handle the fish carefully.
- Never hold any fish by the eyes.
- Use a needlenose pliers to remove hooks.
- Cut the line if the fish is hooked in the throat.
- Easy does it! Don't throw that fish back into the lake.
- Use Lures rather than bait, fish survive much better when caught that way.
- Clip one of three treble hooks to make removal easier.
- Use a heavier line to bring the fish in faster.
- Revive a tired fish by gently moving it back and forth in the water before release.
- DON'T:
- Don't net or handle a fish IF you can leave it in the water.
- Don't drop your fish into the boat. Fish bruise easier than apples!
- Don't release a fish that CAN'T right itself or one that "bobs" to the surface.
- Don't release a fish that is bleeding from the gills or throat. *(Any "Non-legal" size fish MUST be released regardless of it's condition).
- Don't "Stinger Sort". (We all know what this means).
- Don't place a fish you plan on releasing on a stringer or in a livewell. (Catch, Decide, Act).
