ALTERNATIVE WASTE SYSTEM TECHNOLOGY FOR LAKE SITE DEVELOPMENTS

Abstract

ABSTRACT Onsite conventional septic tank–soil absorption systems are most often chosen for lakeshore developments when public sewage treatment facilities are not available. This system is chosen because it is simplest and most economical to build; and, when properly designed, installed, and maintained on suitable sites, it provides low-cost wastewater treatment superior to that of most sophisticated secondary treatment plants. Poorly operated septic systems, however, can pollute surface and ground waters and pose a risk to public health in lake site developments. Lake developments, because of site-specific factors such as shallow soils, high water tables, and excessive slopes, may severely limit the conventional gravity-type septic system; such systems often malfunction after a few years' use. Several alternatives have been developed and tested to repair and replace the conventional septic tank system for lake site developments. The major considerations in assessing the suitability of these alternatives were (1) simplicity and reliability—able to operate without the continuous presence of a skilled operator; (2) environmental impact—health, aesthetic, water quality problems minimized; (3) flexibility—capable of operation with changing waste flow; and (4) costs—installation and operational costs less than secondary treatment systems. Several community onsite waste treatment systems meeting these criteria have been developed and installed in lakeshore communities in the south. Special problems dealing with design, installation, and operation of various systems will be discussed.