1. Know Your Septic Systems Check it, Fix it, Maintain it

2. Purpose of Workshop
Overview of what septic systems are and how they work
How to properly operate and maintain septic systems
How to identify signs of failure
Relevant codes, permits for septic systems
Where to find technical and funding assistance

3. Clackamas River Water Provider Members

6. The Importance of Properly Functioning Septic Systems
What we are trying to protect:
* ground water - wells (public health)
* surface water - drinking water for almost 300, people (public heath)
* environmental health

7. Nitrate Screening
Poorly functioning or failing septic systems can be a significant source of groundwater pollution. If your septic system is not working properly, your household well should be tested every year for coliform bacteria and nitrates. 7

8. CRWP Septic System Risk Analysis Overview

9. Septic System Analysis Potential Threats
10 – 25% of septic systems fail at some point
Direct runoff of partially treated waste or infiltration of contaminated groundwater
Contaminants of concern: pathogens, nitrates, organic matter, ammonia, nitrogen, phosphates, synthetic organics, metals, PCP’s, and pharmaceuticals

10. Septic System Analysis+
Risk Factor #1:
Septic System Clustering
Risk Factor #2:
Potential Septic System Age + = +
CUMULATIVE SEPTIC SYSTEM RISK
Risk Factor #3:
Number of Septic Systems per Two Acres
Risk Factor #4:
Proximity to Surface Water Intakes 10 10

11. Septic System Risk Analysis Results

12. Septic System Risk Analysis Results
Septic System Failure Risk
Approximately 9,000 potential septic system parcels identified in the Clackamas River watershed
4500 ranked very low or low
3500 ranked moderate
1000 ranked as high risk
6,250 of the 9,000 are in high-density clusters
Approximately 76% estimated to be aged 30 or older

13. How We Are Addressing the Problem
Workshops like this
Educational materials
Drug Take Back Boxes

15. Financial Assistance $200 Rebate for Septic System Inspections
Septic System Repair Cost Share – reimburse 50% of costs up to $1,000

16. USDA Rural Development Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

17. Energy Trust of Oregon

18. Financial Assistance
CCSWCD low interest loan program

19. Q & A