The Neebish Island News

You've probably heard in the news about drugs showing up in tap water. This story - EPA urges Great Lakes residents not to flush old meds - is a follow-up. And it reminded me to share a little ditty that I've taped on the walls of the cottage at Neebish Island so guests understand that a septic system is not a trash can.

What you flush down
Goes into the ground
Makes its way around
Back to the well it's bound
So please, make decisions that are sound

The website InspectApedia is quite a septic system resource. Here is their just one of their guides - Septic Tank Maintenance: What Can or Cannot Be Flushed into a Septic Tank - Septic Tank Maintenance and Cleaning Advice

And Montana State University has this resource - Septic Tank and Drainfield Operation and Maintenance

- The area over the drainfield should be left undisturbed, with only a mowed grass cover. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs may clog and damage your drain lines.
- Keep automobiles and heavy equipment off the drainfield.
- Do not plan any building additions, pools, driveways, or other construction work near the septic tank, drainfield or the replacement drainfield area.
- Do not put too much water into the se
- Do not flush non-biodegradable materials such as plastics, disposable diapers, sanitary napkins and applicators—they rapidly fill up the tank and will clog the system.
- Restrict the use of your kitchen garbage disposal—it increases the amount of solids in the tank, making them slower to decompose.
- Do not pour grease or cooking oils down the sink drain because they solidify and clog the soil absorption field.
- Don’t allow paints, motor oil, pesticides, fertilizers or disinfectants to get into your septic system. They can pass directly through the septic system and contaminate groundwater. These chemicals can also kill the microorganisms which decompose wastes and can damage the soil in the drainfield.
- Do not use caustic drain openers for a clogged drain. Instead use boiling water or a drain snake to free up clogs. Clean your toilet, sinks, shower and tubs with a mild detergent or baking soda rather than the stronger and potentially system-damaging commercial bathroom cleansers.

Labels: cottage, pollution, water