Soppy Septics
In Georgia, about 25 percent of all homes use an individual septic tank for wastewater treatment. These 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. Poorly maintained or old septic systems can become less efficient at treating and filtering wastes, putting groundwater quality at risk.
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. Instead, direct much-needed rainwater into garden areas or collect the water in a rain barrel for outdoor use.
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring
(Source: University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, Family and Consumer Sciences; Wellowner.org: Septic Systems – What You Need to Know (online information center about groundwater and wells))