Slick Septic or Sick Septic?
The Arkansas Department of Health has estimated that one in three households in Carroll County relies on an individual onsite wastewater treatment system (septic system). When properly designed, installed, and maintained, septic systems are an effective and safe way to treat household wastewater.
However, failing or neglected septic systems can contaminate groundwater, nearby drinking water wells, and surface streams with disease-causing bacteria (such as E. coli) and excessive nitrogen and phosphorus.
Signs of Septic System Failure:
- Wastewater backing up into household drains or toilets
- Spongy, soggy, or bright green grass over the drain field, even in dry weather
- Foul odors around the septic tank or leach field
- Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system
- Standing liquid or effluent pooling on the surface of the ground
Maintenance Guidelines
Septic tanks should be inspected annually and pumped out by a licensed professional every 3 to 5 years, depending on household size and water usage. Avoid driving vehicles over the drain field, planting deep-rooted trees near pipes, or flushing harsh chemicals, grease, or non-biodegradable items.
Routine septic tank maintenance at a local Carroll County residence