Septic Systems / On-site Sewage Systems
* April 2006 *
from the April 2006 Newsletter - Article by Eric Johnson
New Sewage Systems Law In Place
Washington State has a brand new law that addresses failing septic tanks
(or “on-site sewage systems”) within the waterfront areas of the twelve
counties that border Puget Sound – including Thurston County. The law, which
was passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor last month, directs
Thurston County to develop a management plan for on-site sewage systems by
July 2007.
The new law will also require the County to develop “marine recovery
areas” for certain waterfront areas where on-site sewage systems are a
significant factor contributing to the downgrading of shellfish growing
areas, or where nitrogen contamination is of particular concern. The
shellfish criterion, in particular, could mean that parts of Cooper Point
might be designated a marine recovery area.
Such a designation would trigger the development of a County strategy to
identify and repair failing or unknown on-site sewage systems within the
marine recovery area within six years (by 2012). There are also requirements
to ensure that system owners make necessary repairs, and that all systems
are inspected to ensure that they are functioning properly.
Because the law has just passed, the County has made no decisions about
whether any areas may become marine recovery areas, and what the boundaries
of these areas may be.
The Cooper Point Association will work with the County to gather
information on this program as it is implemented, so that all interested
parties have an opportunity to participate.
More information:
Puget Sound Action Team
Wa. State Dept. of Health |
