Septic Systems

Septic systems are designed to handle and degrade human waste materials biologically, using natural soil and water systems. Although constructed materials such as tanks and pipes are used the basic processes are biological. The systems do depend on periodic monitoring and maintenance to sustain the process or the possibility of surface and groundwater contamination increases.

General Information

• Onsite, Out of Sight (UAF)
• Septic Systems and Groundwater  (UAF)

Maintenance

• How to Maintain Your Septic System (AK DEC)
• Properly Managing Your Septic Tank System (WSU)
• Septic Tank Maintenance (OSU)

Alternatives

• Engineered Wastewater Disposal Systems (AK DEC)

Landscaping

• Landscaping Septic Systems (National Environmental Services Center)
• Septic System Management: Landscaping and other Activities on Your Property (OSU)

Problems

• Why Do Septic Systems Fail? (OSU)
• Emergency Water (UAF)
• Septic Systems after a Flood (UAF)

Other Resources

• EPA Septic (onsite) Systems
• National Small Flows Clearinghouse Septic System Information
• The Septic Protector
• University of Rhode Island Onsite Waste Water Resource Center
• New York Cornell Cooperative Extension: Water Quality: Septic Systems and Wastewater
• Michigan Washtenaw County Sewage (septic) Systems (video)
• Minnesota University of Minnesota Water Resources Onsite Sewage Program
• Mississippi State Department of Health Principles and Design of Onsite Waste Disposal Systems with Septic Systems
• British Columbia, Septic Savy: A household information kit & video

Contacts Alaska

• University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service Water Quality Program
• State of Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Onsite