SEPTIC/RURAL ⇨ PERMEABLE SURFACE/SOIL

What’s the Story?

Trickle, trickle, trickle… slowly dripping down. When wastewater from rural septic systems flows through the leach field, it is important that that soil substrate is permeable and can absorb and filter the water as it moves with gravity into the ground; if not, the water can overflow or contaminate nearby freshwater, like streams, lakes, ponds, or rivers. For example, beneath the topsoil, there may be clay or rock that are impermeable (water cannot leak through or easily be absorbed). Additionally, if a septic system is not properly maintained or too much water is used in the home, it can malfunction and overflow, leaking untreated sewage into the soil or above the surface of the ground - yuck!

Click on your water drop above to travel to the Permeable Surface/Soil next!!