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This section has been adapted from
materials developed by the Rouge RAP Advisory
Council On-site Septic Subcommittee, which
included representatives from Oakland, Wayne and
Washtenaw County Health Departments.
Septic systems are waste water treatment
systems that use septic tanks and drainfields to
dispose of sewage in soil. They are typically
used in rural or large lot settings where a
sanitary sewer is not available.
According to the Michigan State University
Extension Service and local health departments,
when a septic system is correctly located,
adequately designed, carefully installed and
properly managed, you will have a waste disposal
system that is simple, economical, effective,
safe and environmentally sensitive.
A septic system usually is made up of a
septic tank and a drainfield. The septic tank is
usually made of reinforced concrete, is buried
and watertight. This tank receives untreated
household waste. The drain field usually
consists of a series of perforated pipes (pipes
with holes in them), which distribute the liquid
from the septic tank to the surrounding soil.
Although even the best designed and installed
system eventually fail, proper maintenance will
ensure a longer lasting waste disposal system.
A failure of a septic system can cause
serious problems. Sewage can pond on the ground
near the drainfield or back up into buildings.
Animals and people may become ill from contact
with these discharges. Pollution from failing
septic systems of contaminate ditches, creeks
and shallow drinking water supplies. In addition
to public health concerns, there are costly
repair bills to repair or replace the system.
Normal use of the system is interrupted while
the system is uncovered for repairs or
replacement.
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