Septic Smarts (Indianapolis, IN)
There are about 30,000 homes served by private septic systems in Marion County, and 18,000 of those systems are either failing or near failure. Septic systems function by collecting waste in an underground tank for treatment, and then allowing liquids to slowly soak through surrounding soil, which filters out bacteria and nutrients before reaching groundwater supplies. As septic sytems age, they become less effective at filtering waste water.
Viewer Tip: If you have a septic system, it is important to make sure house gutters, sump pump drains, and other outdoor drainage systems for rainwater do not drain onto the soil absorption area. If the soil around your tank becomes soggy or flooded, it can be less effective at treating wastewater, putting our groundwater quality at risk. If you have an older system, be sure to have it checked annually to make sure it is working properly.
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
(Source: City of Indianapolis, Department of Public Works, “Septic Tank Elimination Program.” http://www.indygov.org/eGov/City/DPW/Environment/CleanStream/Problems/septic.htm; Wellowner.org: Septic Systems – What You Need to Know (online information center about groundwater and wells))
