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.