2023 Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Conference

March 5-7, 2023 • Cincinnati, OH

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5/22/2019 | 9:00 AM - 9:15 AM | IGNORANCE IS BLISS: THE CURRENT STATE OF SEPTIC SYSTEMS IN THE U.S. AND THE RISKS THEY POSE TO FRESHWATER SYSTEMS | 150 DEF

IGNORANCE IS BLISS: THE CURRENT STATE OF SEPTIC SYSTEMS IN THE U.S. AND THE RISKS THEY POSE TO FRESHWATER SYSTEMS

Septic systems are a fundamental component of global wastewater infrastructure. In the US, one in three residences relies on septic systems for wastewater treatment, but the vast majority of these systems are poorly documented and maintained. Improperly managed septic systems can fail and lead to groundwater and surface water contamination through increases in nutrient concentrations and the release of potentially harmful pathogens and contaminants. However, most municipalities have limited information regarding the total number, location, age, and maintenance history of septic infrastructure in their jurisdiction. Here, we discuss the important role that septic systems play in wastewater infrastructure in the US, summarize the policies governing the installation, maintenance, and oversight of septic systems, and describe the potential risk factors failing septic systems pose to freshwater systems in the US. We use septic data collected by Athens-Clarke County, Georgia--a county that has invested significant effort in accurately accounting for and regulating septic systems in their jurisdiction--to highlight important information gaps faced by counties throughout the US. We identify some methods stakeholders can employ to overcome information gaps \and predict the potential impact of septic systems on in-stream water quality.

Watershed
Management
Urban

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Presenters/Authors

Rebecca Parsons (), University of Georgia, beccap97@gmail.com;