What is a septic system?
A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system for homes that are not connected to a city sewer system. When regularly pumped and maintained, a septic system efficiently manages the wastewater produced in a house.
When you flush a toilet, take a shower, or do dishes, all that dirty water and waste goes into a large underground tank buried in the yard. Solid waste sinks to the bottom of the tank, while bacteria break down the remaining waste in the liquid. The treated wastewater, also known as effluent, flows out of the tank into a drain field, where it soaks into the ground to get naturally filtered and dispersed by the soil.
These systems generally work very well, and are “out of sight, out of mind.” But when a septic system isn’t maintained, big problems can arise. Untreated wastewater can back up into your house, or can leach out through the drain field — and into our groundwater, lakes, and streams.
What is the problem?
Michigan is the only state in the nation without a statewide septic code. That means that as a state, we do not have minimum construction, maintenance, and inspection standards. Some counties and townships have enacted their own codes, but sewage and wastewater moves underground without regard for county lines.
For over the past two decades, efforts to to address this issue have been unsuccessful. As lawmakers grapple with finding a resolution, Michigan’s waters and public health are threatened.
Good septic systems make good neighbors
Failing septic systems can harm public health, water quality, property values, and cause long-term expenses. Additionally, if your neighbor cannot replace or fix their failing septic system, it could negatively impact your property.
Human wastes are not the only pollutants that failing septic tanks are releasing to groundwater and surface water. Twenty studies on septic systems have identified 45 contaminants in septic effluent, including pharmaceuticals, personal care product ingredients, cleaning product chemicals, flame retardants, hormones (both natural and synthetic), and other common substances such as caffeine.
How you can help:
Send a letter to the editor
Send an email
Find your Health Department
Septic systems repairs: help for homeowners
Septic systems repairs can be expensive, and many homeowners struggle to afford the costs of replacing, repairing, or maintaining their septic systems. Fortunately, grants and low-interest loans are available to help with septic repair and replacement.
FLOW's work on the septic issue
FLOW has been working with a coalition of groups, including Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), the Michigan Municipal League, local governments and organizations, and the environmental community to solve the septic contamination issue. By taking proper care of your septic system, you can help protect public health, property values, and our lakes, streams, and groundwater.
