Avoid drainfield compaction

• Aerobic bacteria are an important requirement for treatment that occurs in the soil. Pores in the soil hold air. Compaction will reduce porosity, and therefore reduce the amount of air available in the soil.

How?

• Do not drive or park vehicles, farm machinery on drainfield.
• Do not site dog kennels or animal confinement facilities over the drainfield.
• Do not construct patios, decks, driveways, garages, etc. over the drainfield.

• Excess water in the drainfield will fill soil pore spaces with water that doesn't need treatment, taking up space needed for oygen and / or wastewater.

How?

• Divert roof drains, downspouts and basement drainage

  

  tile water outside the septic system and away from the drainfield.
• Irrigate sparingly in the drainfield area.
• Never apply large amounts of water to the drainfield area.

Maintain structural integrity of the drainfield.

• Do not add soil except to fill slight depressions to prevent water from ponding.
• Keep rodents and burrowing animals out.
• Establish and maintain grass over the drainfield.
• Do not plant trees on or near the drainfield. Roots will damage it.

For NEW systems, maintain a replacement drainfield area.

• Regulations require that newly constructed systems have a reserve area for a replacement if and when the first drainfield fails.
• It must be managed the same as the first drainfield.