Be Septic Savvy – avoid an unpleasant surprise

If you can’t remember the last time you had your septic tank pumped out, you might be in for an unpleasant surprise. There’s help!

Bay of Quinte RAP offers a free ‘Be Septic Savvy’ program that offers homeowners advice on the care and maintenance of their septic system and a best management practices for shoreline property owners around the Bay of Quinte or 10kms up one of the main tributaries. Homeowners could be eligible for a free septic tank pump out, 80 per cent cost-sharing on minor repairs and a shoreline evaluation.

Most rural homes and cottages use a septic system.

When working properly, septic systems can provide a safe and reliable way to treat your household wastewater. If you do not properly care for your septic system it could add excess phosphorus to nearby waterbodies causing algal blooms, and excess plant growth, and bacteria can cause localized health impacts for homeowners and their neighbours.

Regular maintenance can add years to the life of your system, saving you costly repairs and protecting the local environment.

Things you need to know
• Know the location of your tank and bed, and protect it from damage. Don’t drive over it or construct anything (e.g. pools, driveways, and sheds) on or near any part of it
• Have the tank pumped out every three to five years
• Don’t put food, compost, or grease down your drains
• Conserve water and try to spread water use over the course of the week, especially laundry
• Avoid excessive use of anti-bacterial soaps, bleaches, and harsh cleaning products
• Don’t put paints, solvents, pesticides, and other toxic chemicals in your system; use recycling and hazardous waste collection programs for these substances
• Keep trees and shrubs away from the leaching bed

Visit the Bay of Quinte Remedial Action Plan website for:
-Septic Smart Videos – Learn how your septic system works.
-BQRAP Septic program brochure and booklet