Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Onsite Wastewater Treatment: Finding the Funding May 11, 2012 Dennis J. Greci, P.E. Supervising Sanitary Engineer Connecticut Association of Water Pollution Control Authorities

The Basic Issue In parts of Connecticut, existing septic systems may not be able to treat wastewater effectively, because of – Poor soils – Small lots – Inadequate designs – Improper installation

Why is it a problem?? Each of the preceding deficiencies diminishes the ability of the septic system to perform its function; that is, to renovate wastewater to a quality that can be safely discharged back into the environment When a number of properties with similar deficiencies exists in a neighborhood, “…a community pollution problem exists, or… can reasonably be anticipated in the future…” (CGS 22a-428)

Why can’t we just fix the problems? If the problem is with the installation (small septic tank, inadequate leaching area) then an onsite repair may be possible. If the problem is with the site (inadequate land, unsuitable soils, high groundwater) a different approach is necessary.

Getting to the Funding: Accessing the Clean Water Fund In order to obtain funding under the Clean Water Fund, the project must be the most cost-effective solution. Onsite upgrades have been funded in the past (and in the present) where it’s been determined that such an approach is – technically feasible, – environmentally appropriate, and – economically affordable.

But how do we get there ? The Engineering Report An environmental consultant must prepare an engineering report (also called a Facilities Plan) that accomplishes the following: – Evaluates the severity and extent of the existing or potential pollution problems – Evaluates alternatives to determine their suitability and cost-effectiveness – Recommends an alternative or combination of alternatives – Recommends a schedule for implementing solution

Funding the Solution The municipality needs to approve the engineering report: WPCA Local Health Dept Planning & Zoning Finance Get approvals from DEEP and DPH And finally, get authorization from the citizens Referndum RTM

What’s eligible? The Clean Water Fund will provide a grant of 55% for facilities planning (balance is local share) The Clean Water Fund pays for capital costs through a grant and loan program System design, including site investigation Construction Inspection The Clean Water Fund provides funding solely to municipalities. Construction must be some form of municipal project, and is governed by the regulations. The Clean Water Fund will NOT pay for operations and maintenance, or normal costs of local government.

Advanced Treatment At the present time, only DEEP has the authority to approve the installation of advanced treatment technologies. Delegation of permitting authority to municipalities is still in development. Operation and maintenance of AT systems will still require a certified operator. At some point in the future, regulation of small AT system may fall under DPH.