Septic systems can be designed and operated to be ‘permanent infrastructure’ equivalent to municipal wastewater treatment systems by taking the sewage treatment outside of the natural environment.  High-level treatment by aerobic bio-filtration followed by polishing and disposal in the soil greatly reduces the environmental impact on natural soil and water, as well as the potential for health and safety risks.  When coupled with high levels of nutrient removal, this permanent infrastructure is also ‘environmentally benign’ with little or no impact on natural water resources.

A three part mini-series by Waterloo Biofilter focuses on septic system nutrients and their effects on Ontario cottagers.  Part I was published by the Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations (FOCA) in their Spring/Summer 2010 Newsletter.

Please click the following link to read Part I of this series on septic system nutrients.