Troubleshooting

Problems sometimes occur.  The following list may help narrow down the cause of the problem:

  • Lagoon depth falls below 2-foot minimum due to:
    • Leak in artificial liner
    • Clogged inlet pipe
    • Low flow rate into lagoon
    • Holes in dike from plant roots or burrowing animals
    • Not enough clay in natural soil liner or not compacted
  • Lagoon flows over the dike and banks. This may be caused by:
    • Improper sizing
    • Excessive water use
    • Heavy precipitation
    • Surface water from site is draining into lagoon
  • Lagoon has persistent odor.   This may be due to:
    • Algae bloom blocking sunlight
    • Anaerobic conditions
    • Improper sizing and /or overloading
    • Insufficient air flow-blocked by trees, shrubs, or other vegetation
  • Lagoon has high numbers of flies and mosquitoes:
    • Long grass and weeds may be blocking the wind and providing breeding areas for flies, mosquitoes, and other insects.

Review of Lagoon Operation and Maintenance

  • Maintaining your lagoon system is your responsibility.
  • Keep hazardous materials out of the system.
  • Manage solids.
  • Manage and monitor water level.
  • Maintain a log. Keep records of structures, maintenance, water levels, repairs.
  • Check and repair structures monthly.
  • Check the fence and repair holes, gaps or sags. Check the gate to ensure that it fits well.
  • Check the lock and replace it if not working properly.
  • Check the dike. Repair it if necessary to maintain the same height and shape as when built.
  • Repair any damage to dike caused by rodents and burrowing animals.
  • Maintain a cover of perennial grass.

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