Get pumped for SepticSmart Week

The third week in September is SepticSmart Week, established by the Environmental Protection Agency to raise awareness about the importance of proper septic system maintenance. SepticSmart Week encourages regular care of septic systems to protect local waterways, public health and the environment.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services estimates 60% of homes in the state are served by individual septic systems and, according to the EPA, New England has the greatest proportion of homes served by septic systems in the country. Simple actions, like scheduling regular inspections and pump-outs, can help prevent costly repairs and keep our lakes and rivers clean. Whether you're a long-time septic system owner or new to it, this week is a reminder to check in on your system.

Septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures commonly used in rural areas without centralized sewer systems. The Winnipesaukee River Basin Program is the only state-owned sewer system in the Lakes Region serving over 14,500 residential connections in 10 communities (or 43% of the population — not including the influx of tourists each year).

If you are not on centralized sewer, your septic system handles everything that goes down your drains — bathwater, laundry water, and everything flushed down the toilet. When maintained properly, septic systems do an excellent job of treating wastewater. However, when they fail, they can release pollutants, including harmful bacteria, and nutrients into our waterways. Excess nutrients from failing septic systems can contribute to harmful algae blooms.

Here are some simple steps every homeowner can take to protect their investment:

Pump regularly: Have your septic tank inspected every five to seven years and pumped at least every three to five years, depending on usage. Regular pumping prevents solids from clogging the system and ensures it functions efficiently.

Mind what goes down the drain: Don’t flush anything but human waste and toilet paper. Items like wipes, grease, or chemicals can clog and damage your septic system, leading to costly repairs.

Conserve water: Using water efficiently reduces the load on your septic system. Consider installing water-saving toilets, showerheads, and appliances to help lower water use.

Protect your drain field: Never park or drive on your septic system’s drain field, as it can compact the soil and damage pipes. Remove any woody vegetation from within 10 feet of the perimeter to limit root intrusion and potential damage.

In regions surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee, failing septic systems are a growing concern. The lake, which is vital to local ecosystems, recreation, and the economy, faces threats from nutrient pollution. Local lake associations, including the Lake Winnipesaukee Association, have long advocated for regular septic maintenance to help prevent unnecessary pollution. Head to our YouTube page, youtube.com/@lakewinnipesaukeeassociati8180, for a four-part seminar series on septic sense.

SepticSmart Week reminds homeowners that maintaining a healthy septic system doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. Simple steps today can prevent long-term damage to the environment, safeguard drinking water, and ensure that our lakes remain pristine for future generations.

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Bree Rossiter is the conservation program manager for the Lake Winnipesaukee Association. She manages the water quality monitoring program, cyanobacteria monitoring initiatives, the Winni Blue/LakeSmart program, and assists with watershed management planning efforts. Bree can be reached at brossiter@winnipesaukee.org. The Lake Winnipesaukee Association is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the water quality and natural resources of the lake and its watershed. To learn more, visit winnipesaukee.org.