(UPDATE! Sept. 17, 2017) Governor Mark Dayton has proclaimed the week of September 18-22, 2017 as SepticSmart Week in Minnesota to recognize the importance that septic systems play in properly treating wastewater, protecting public health and maintaining clean water for drinking, swimming and fishing.

“Proper septic system care and maintenance is vital to protecting public health; preserving our much valued groundwater, lakes and streams; and avoiding costly repairs. Citizens and the environment of the State of Minnesota benefits from properly designed, installed, operated, and maintained septic systems” said Governor Mark Dayton.

It isn’t difficult to maintain a septic system. Just like a wastewater treatment plant, homeowners have to maintain their system in good condition to keep it working right. All it takes is regular maintenance. During SepticSmart Week homeowners are reminded to pump their septic tank(s) every 2 years and protect their drain field from digging and damage by heavy vehicles and machinery.

One in five Anoka County homes have a well and septic on their property.  Maintaining a septic system is important because the sewage we put down the drain must be cleaned up before it gets into groundwater, wells and the water that we drink. Plus, a properly constructed and maintained septic system reduces pollution while recycling water back into our natural environment.

For most home and cabin wells, the nearest source of possible water pollution and dangerous bacteria is the septic system. Septic systems that are not maintained in good working order not only hurt the environment but risk your family’s health. Plus, you may be flushing thousands of dollars in repairs down the drain by damaging your septic system! Check out the Pumping and Maintenance of Septic Systems video (YouTube, 4:20).

SEPTIC CLASS. The Anoka County Extension Service is holding a Homeowner Education for Septic Systems workshop on October 3, 2017 and March 12, 2018. Contact the Extension Service office at 763-755-1280 for more information.

WELL WATER TESTING. For information on testing the safety of your home well go to the Anoka County Environmental Services Well Water Testing webpage or call 763-422-7063.

SEPTIC REPAIR LOANS. Anoka County Community Development is offering Agricultural Best Management Practices Loans (AgBMP) to repair septic systems. Since 2014, Anoka County assisted property owners to repair or replacing failing wells or septic systems. The AgBMP program has provided residents with over $1.5M to correct water quality issues in Anoka County. Contact Community Development for more information at 763-323-5722.