Loan funding is available for a limited time in 2011 on a first-come-first-serve basis for upgrades to existing systems. Landowners are encouraged to call Cindy Gentz in the Soil and Water office at (218) 387-3648.
These funds come from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture in an effort to reduce bacteria pollution. The program is called the Agriculture Best Management Practices Loan Program or AgBMP. Loans are 3% interest with a 5-year term.
Gentz encourages anyone facing a septic system repair or replacement to call. “The important thing to remember is that if we do run out of funding, it’s important to be on the waiting list. There may be other funding opportunities,” said Gentz.
The majority of people who have contacted Soil and Water know they have a problem with their septic system. But for a property owner who is unsure, the county can assist. Environmental Health Officer Mitch Everson can inspect and determine if a septic system needs an upgrade.
Gentz noted that mounds and trenches are expensive investments. She said you can prolong the life of any type of system with a professional inspection and pumping every one to three years. Systems connected to garbage disposals should be pumped annually. All systems depend on bacterial digestion, so limit the use of bleach and anti-bacterial products, practice water conservation, and do not pour poisons such as cleaners, paints, and pesticides down the drain. Don’t forget about those seasonally used systems – they need frequent pumping as well.
For more information on septic system maintenance see this website: www.lakesuperiorstreams.org/understanding/on_ site.html
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