Vancouver, Wash. – In observance of national Septic Smart Week, Sept. 18-22, Clark County Public Health reminds 35,000 Clark County homes and businesses with septic systems to be sure they are effectively treating wastewater.

Good siting, design, installation and ongoing maintenance are essential for treating wastewater, protecting the property owner’s investment and safeguarding the county’s drinking water.

“Properly maintaining your well and septic system is crucial to preventing critical deficiencies,” said Chuck Harman, Public Health program manager. “Repairing or replacing a failing septic system can cost thousands of dollars, and health impacts from surfacing sewage or exposure to toxins that leach into drinking water can be significant.”

Local inspection data indicate that septic systems that have not been routinely inspected and maintained have twice the rate of major deficiencies, requiring substantial repairs or system replacement, compared with septic systems that are maintained.

Resources for septic system maintenance:

• Clark County Public Health, (360) 397-8428: www.clark.wa.gov/public-health/septic/index.html.
• Washington State Department of Health: www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/WastewaterManagement/SepticSystem/CaringforYourSystem.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: www.epa.gov/septic.

CONTACT
Chuck Harman
Environmental Public Health program manager
Public Health
360.397.8019
chuck.harman@clark.wa.gov