Fall 2000 - National Environmental Services Center (NESC)

Fall 2000

Pipeline Vol.11,No.4

Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems

T he town of Pegram sits did not want to see treated wastewater Key Terms
along the scenic Harpeth (effluent) discharged into the river.
River approximately 10 An onsite system is a natural system
miles west of Nashville, The town also looked into installing or mechanical device used to collect,
a centralized collection system and treat, and discharge or reclaim waste-
Tennessee. Pegram has a population running sewage pipes to Nashville’s water from an individual dwelling with-
treatment system. However, the cost out the use of community-wide sewers
of about 2,000 people and supports for the extensive piping to go the 10 or a centralized treatment facility. A
miles was prohibitive, and the cost of conventional onsite system includes a
several businesses including a bank, having the city of Nashville treat their septic tank and a drainfield. Other
wastewater would have resulted in types of alternative onsite systems
a restaurant, a flower shop, and the high sewer bills for Pegram’s residents. include at-grade systems, mound sys-
tems, media filters, small aerobic units,
locally famous Harpeth Clock and The last option city leaders looked and pressure distribution systems.
into was installing a cluster system
Quilt Company. that uses watertight effluent collection A cluster system is a wastewater col-
pipes, sand-gravel filter treatment, lection and treatment system that
In 1997, Pegram faced a difficult and effluent disposal by subsurface serves two or more dwellings, but less
drip irrigation in a nearby farm pasture. than an entire community. Individual
situation. Many of the businesses that septic tanks or aerobic units may pre-
This choice takes what is known as treat wastewater from several homes
used septic tanks and drainfields had a “decentralized approach,” using a before it is transported through low
combination of processes to treat and cost, alternative sewers to a treatment
failing systems. The Pegram Ele- dispose of wastewater. The town of unit that is relatively small compared to
Pegram decided that a cluster system, centralized systems.
mentary School, as well as several using new watertight interceptor
(septic) tanks at each home or business A decentralized system is an onsite
homes, also had failing systems. and a watertight collection system or cluster wastewater system that is
running to a treatment facility, was used to treat and dispose of relatively
Town leaders evaluated their options the most feasible way for them to small volumes of wastewater, general-
ly originating from individual or groups
for providing wastewater treatment continued on page 2 of dwellings and businesses that are
located relatively close together.
service to the area. They initially Onsite and cluster systems are com-
monly used in combination.
looked at a centralized system to col-
Adapted from the Response to
lect and treat wastewater and dispose Congress on use of Decentralized
Wastewater Treatment Systems.
of it in the Harpeth River.

This option proved to be impossi-

ble because of the close proximity of

a neighboring town’s drinking water

intake. Besides, many of the town’s

residents were actively working to

protect their local environment and

A cluster system

Decentralized Systems

What’s Right for Your Town?

Why Decentralize? When town leaders face having to decentralized system is then managed
upgrade wastewater treatment, the (with varying degrees of control) to
The decentralized approach to waste - first choice usually is to build a cen- ensure each component functions
water treatment is seen as beneficial tralized collection and treatment properly.
for a number of reasons. facility. However, centralized collec-
This approach: tion and treatment may not be the Two Options Usually Considered
• saves money by deciding on a pre right answer for every community’s
wastewater disposal needs. (See table In the time since wastewater treat-
ventive strategy (such as assessing on page 3.) ment has been an issue, only two
a community’s needs and condi options were ordinarily considered,
tions) to manage wastewater before Small and rural communities often the previously mentioned centralized
a crisis occurs, thereby avoiding cannot afford these expensive facili- systems and conventional septic sys -
unnecessary cost; ties, and their populations may be too tems. Onsite systems have been used
• allows homeowners to continue to spread out to make centralized treat- for centuries, evolving from simple
use their properly functioning septic ment a realistic option. Additionally, outhouses to cesspools to septic
systems; some existing onsite systems may tanks and drainfields to the more ad-
• enables better watershed mainte function effectively, so they don’t vanced treatment units available now.
nance by eliminating the large trans need to be replaced.
fers of water from one watershed to A conventional septic system, con-
another that happens with central In circumstances like these, decen- sisting of a tank and drainfield,
ized treatment; tralized wastewater treatment is often treats wastewater at its source. But,
• may be the most cost-effective treat the best solution for wastewater man- older septic systems that were built
ment strategy for rural communities agement. Decentralized treatment without thought of adequate soil
with sparse populations; and involves using a combination of depth and/or that have not been prop-
• is appropriate for varying site condi treatment technology options, both erly maintained can fail, leading to
tions including ecologically sensitive traditional and innovative, where surface and groundwater contamina-
areas—treatment methods can be they are most appropriate in a com- tion. This potential for failure most
tailored to suit different site conditions. munity. Conventional onsite systems, often results from neglect of mainte-
alternative onsite systems, cluster nance or inappropriate drainfield siting.
systems for groups of homes and Nevertheless, this process remains an
businesses, and some use of central- option where soils are suitable.
ized treatment can all be included
when considering decentralized com- Centralized systems require a net-
munity wastewater management. The work of collection pipes (sewers)
leading from all homes and businesses

continued on next page

Introduction town funds and through revolving cost-effective. Management and
loan funds from the state of funding issues are presented plus the
continued from page 1 Tennessee. various treatment options that may be
part of a decentralized system.
achieve their wastewater treatment Many towns find themselves in cir-
goals. cumstances similar to Pegram’s. They Readers are encouraged to reprint
may need to upgrade or replace most this issue or any Pipeline articles in
All of the businesses in town were of their wastewater treatment pro- flyers, newspapers, newsletters, or
required to hook into the cluster sys- cesses. And, they may find that running educational presentations. We ask
tem, while homes had the option of extensive sewer lines or building a that you include the name and phone
connecting, depending on whether or single, centralized treatment facility number of the National Small Flows
not their existing septic systems cannot be done for any number of Clearinghouse (NSFC) on the reprinted
worked properly. reasons. information and send us a copy for
our files.
Taking this decentralized waste- This issue of Pipeline discusses
water treatment approach was not decentralized wastewater treatment If you have questions about reprinting
only financially realistic, but Pegram systems and how they can meet both articles or about the topics discussed
was able to build the system and public health and environmental pro- in the newsletter, please contact the
serve the businesses, as well as many tection goals in areas where central- editor at (800) 624-8301 or (304)
of the failing home systems. The ized treatment is impractical or not 293-4191.
project was financed through available
National Small Flows Clearinghouse (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191
2

PIPELINE – Fall 2000; Vol.11, No. 4

Decentralized Systems

Hypothetical EPA rural community technology costs

Technology Total capital cost Annual O&M* cost Total annual cost Average monthly
option cost per household
(annualized capital plus O&M)

Centralized systems $2,585,600 – $4,176,590 $33,110– $44,830 $241,480 – $381,410 $149 – $235

Alternative SDGS** collection $666,040 $8,120 $61,800 $38
and small cluster systems $14,920 $60,690 $37

Onsite systems $567,940

Note: The rural community consists of 450 people in 135 homes. (Adapted from the Environmental Protection
*O&M means operation and maintenance Agency, 1997—extrapolated to year 2000 costs )
** SDGS stands for small-diameter gravity sewers

What’s Right for Your Town? Decentralized Systems
Offer Flexibility
continued from previous page
A decentralized system employs a causing a reevaluation of present
to a central wastewater treatment combination of onsite and/or cluster wastewater treatment? Are local sep-
facility. Urban and suburban areas systems and is used to treat and dis- tic systems failing? Is residential
with high population densities (more pose of wastewater from dwellings development stifled because of a lack
than three to four dwellings per acre) and businesses close to the source. of adequate wastewater treatment facili-
would probably be better served by Decentralized wastewater systems ties? An organized plan will help man-
centralized wastewater collection and allow for flexibility in wastewater agers clearly define the problems,
treatment, but these facilities may be management, and different parts of review the possibilities, and assess the
cost prohibitive for more sparsely the system may be combined into costs associated with each potential
populated, rural communities. “treatment trains,” or a series of solution.
Centralized treatment facilities also processes to meet treatment goals,
face increasing environmental con- overcome site conditions, and to Many options now exist for waste-
straints on discharging effluent into address environmental protection water treatment and disposal in rural
surface waters. requirements. areas and small communities. Each
technology has advantages, as well
Septic systems have often been Managed decentralized wastewater as limitations, so a treatment technol-
considered a temporary solution to systems are viable, long-term alterna- ogy must be selected specifically to
be used only until public sewerage tives to centralized wastewater treat- meet local conditions and treatment
became available. So when deciding ment facilities, particularly in small objectives. Similarly, every commu-
between options, many people con- and rural communities where they nity’s own financial, physical, and
sider onsite systems to be “second are often most cost-effective. These regulatory factors must be evaluated
class” or the less desirable choice for systems already serve a quarter of to find the best technology for their
treating wastewater. the population nationwide and half circumstances.
the population in some states. They
Although opinions are changing, should be considered in any evaluation Onsite systems now include a number
this prejudice against onsite systems of wastewater management options of alternatives that surpass conven-
still exists today. However, onsite for small and mid-sized communities. tional septic tank and drainfield systems
systems are available now that treat in their ability to treat wastewater.
wastewater more thoroughly than So, how does a community decide Alternative onsite processes, such as
septic tanks. When operated under a which management approach is right sand filters, peat filters, aerobic treat-
management program, these systems for its wastewater treatment? Com- ment units, pressure distribution sys-
can be used as a true alternative to munity leaders first need to ask some tems, drip irrigation, and disinfection
large treatment plants. questions and then create a manage- systems, can be employed in a wide
ment plan. What circumstances are
PIPELINE – Fall 2000; Vol.11, No. 4 continued on page 4

3

National Small Flows Clearinghouse (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191

Decentralized Systems

continued from page 3 federal government provided direct functioning properly. Management
funding to help build wastewater can encompass planning, siting,
range of soil and site conditions. treatment facilities. Federal funds for design, installation, operation, main-
Alternative systems require more wastewater systems increased signifi- tenance, and monitoring onsite and
monitoring and maintenance, making cantly in 1972 as a result of the cluster systems. Regular inspection
a strong case for these systems to be Federal Water Pollution Control Act and maintenance form the basis of
managed. (later called the Clean Water Act). any management program.
Between 1972 and 1990, the federal
Small satellite treatment plants or government spent more than $62 bil- Using one management strategy
soil absorption systems that have lion to build or upgrade treatment over another may depend upon local
low-cost collection sewers are called facilities through the Construction environmental sensitivities, the com-
cluster systems. Cluster systems treat Grants and the Innovative and Alter- plexity of treatment technology and
wastewater from a group of dwellings native (I&A) Technology programs. equipment, and the local regulatory
and/or businesses and are most agency’s authority and resources.
appropriate in moderately populated This money more often made its
areas. These systems serve two or way to larger municipalities, and More than one management model
more dwellings (but not usually an many smaller towns across the U.S. might be effective under particular
entire community) and are located never received any of these funds. circumstances, but any model should
near the buildings they serve. Consequently, wastewater manage- give the regulatory agency enough
ment problems were never resolved authority to make sure failing systems
The wastewater from each dwelling in many small communities. are repaired or replaced.
or business flows into its own inter-
ceptor (septic) tank to settle out and Today, direct federal funding to The National Onsite Wastewater
allow solids to break down. From communities is nearly nonexistent. Recycling Association (NOWRA)
the tank, the effluent is able to travel The Construction Grants and I&A suggests these seven elements be
through smaller diameter, therefore programs were eliminated in the included in any management model:
less expensive, collection pipes. early part of the 1990s. The Clean • system performance requirements
Water State Revolving Fund
These pipes are buried at a shal- (CWSRF) Program replaced them. that protect human health and the
lower depth than full sewers and run Communities now must depend on environment;
relatively short distances to smaller, CWSRFs and other sources of • system management to fulfill spe-
less maintenance-intensive treatment money for infrastructure improve- cific and measurable performance
and disposal units. These units often ments. (See the Fall 1999 Pipeline requirements;
use soil absorption fields or effluent for more funding sources.) • compliance monitoring and
recycling rather than discharging the enforcement to ensure adequate sys-
treated wastewater into surface waters. Systems Must be Managed tem performance;
• guidelines for all aspects of siting,
Funding Changes Affect Choices Management is the key to keeping design, construction, and operation;
decentralized treatment systems • education for all service providers,
Cost is always a primary consider- regulators, planners, and owners;
ation in deciding among wastewater
treatment options. Costs include the continued on next page
money needed to install the system
and the annual cost to operate and Pipeline issues with related topics
maintain it. Depending on whether a
community is an isolated, rural town Funding Sources for Wastewater Projects —Fall 1999
or is on the fringes of a larger Inspections Equal Preventative Care for Onsite Systems—Spring 1998
municipality, different circumstances Choose the Right Consultant for Your Wastewater Project—Winter 1997
play a role in what system will best Alternative Sewers: A Good Option for Many Communities—Fall 1996
serve the community’s needs. Management Programs Can Help Small Communities—Spring 1996
Septic Systems—A Practical Alternative for Small Communities—Fall 1995
System costs are related to popula-
tion size and density, topography,
distance to an existing treatment
facility, and state and local perfor-
mance standards. In sparsely popu-
lated areas, upgrading or replacing
failing onsite systems and building
smaller, cluster treatment systems to
serve the community’s core is usually
most cost-effective.

During the 1970s and 1980s, the

4 National Small Flows Clearinghouse (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191

PIPELINE – Fall 2000; Vol.11, No. 4

Small C

The National Small Flows Clearing- &Options
house (NSFC) offers free and
low-cost information and services
to small communities and home-
owners. A sampling of resources
includes the following topics:

1. home aerobic wastewater treatment

2. public health

3. alternative sewers

4. sand filters

5. septic systems

6. septic system maintenance

7. managing onsite systems

8. lagoons 14

9. combined sewer overflows (CSOs)

10. hiring consultants

11. wastewater characteristics

12. spray and drip irrigation

13. onsite system inspections

14. constructed wetlands 1

15. biosolids School

16. infiltration and inflow (I/I) Drinking Water
Treatment Plant
17. mound systems
16
18. funding
Town Hall
19. evapotranspiration systems 4
7
20. site evaluations
18
21. alternative toilets
Bank
22. decentralized wastewater Wastewater 19
treatment 17
10 Consultants
See the information on
back for more details.

Health
Department

2

15

Wastewater
Treatment
Plant

11

8 13
9 5

(800) 624-8301For more information please contact the NSFC at or

(304) 293-4191, fax (304) 293-3161, e-mail [email protected], or write

NSFC, West Virginia University, P.O. Box 6064, Morgantown, WV 26506-6064

ommunity

&Resources

21

Lake

3

12
20

7 22
6
Pipeline

Small Community Wastewater Issues Explained to the Public

Small Community

&Options Resources

For more information or to order any of the following products, please contact 8 lagoons
the NSFC at (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191, fax (304) 293-3161, e-mail Lagoons are common around the
nsfc_orders@ mail.estd.wvu.edu, or write NSFC, West Virginia University,
P.O. Box 6064, Morgantown, WV 26506-6064. Please request each item by world because they are a low-cost, low-
title and item number. A shipping and handling charge will apply to all orders. maintenance, and energy-efficient waste-
water treatment technology. The Spring
1 home aerobic wastewater describes open, buried, and recirculating 1997 Pipeline (vol. 8, no. 2) presents an
treatment sand filters, how they work, and their overview of different types of lagoon sys-
operation and maintenance. The price tems, how they work, their operation and
Aerobic treatment can be a good is 20 cents. Request item #SFPLNL10 maintenance, and their advantages and dis-
Sand Filters Provide Quality, Low- advantages. The price is 20 cents. Request
option for homes on sites unsuitable for maintenance Treatment. item #SFPLNL09 Lagoons Systems can
Provide Low-cost Wastewater Treatment.
5 septic systems
septic systems or in environmentally Septic tank/soil absorption systems are

sensitive areas. The Winter 1996 Pipeline the most common type of onsite waste- 9 combined sewer overflows
water treatment. When properly designed, (CSOs)
(vol. 7, no. 1) explains the advantages sited, constructed, and maintained, they
are the best and most economical choice Combined sewer overflows (CSOs)
and disadvantages of these systems, for many homes and businesses. The are remnants of the country’s early infra-
Summer 1995 Pipeline (vol. 6, no. 3) structure, when cities built combined
how they work, and their operation explains when septic systems are a good sewer systems for collecting both waste-
idea, how they work, and their advantages water and stormwater. Combined sewers
and maintenance. The price is 20 cents. and disadvantages. The price is 20 cents. can become overloaded during wet weath-
Request item #SFPLNL02 Septic Systems— er, causing untreated wastewater to over-
Request item #SFPLNL04 Home Aerobic a Practical Alternative for Small flow into the nearest body of water. The
Communities. Spring 1995 Pipeline ( vol.6, no. 2)
Wastewater Treatment: An Alternative to explains the U.S. Environmental
6 septic system maintenance Protection Agency’s CSO Control Policy
Septic Systems. Proper operation and maintenance and its requirements for small communi-
ties. The price is 20 cents. Request item
2 public health are essential to prolonging the life of #SFPLNL01 Combined Sewer Overflows
Whether you are a homeowner septic systems and preventing system fail- —A Priority for Small Communities.
ures. Homeowners and community leaders
with a septic system or a local official will find the Fall 1995 Pipeline (vol. 6, 10 hiring consultants
responsible for a community system, no. 4) full of helpful information. It Consultants are not all the same. Like
wastewater treatment is an important issue explains how to care for septic systems,
for you. The Summer 1996 Pipeline (vol. when to pump, what to and what not to doctors, lawyers, and other profession-
7, no. 3) describes the dangers associated flush, and what to expect at an inspection
with inadequate wastewater treatment and visit. The price is 20 cents. Request item
how to avoid them. The price is 20 cents. #SFPLNL03 Maintaining Your Septic
Request item #SFPLNL06 Wastewater System—a Guide for Homeowners.
Treatment Protects Small Community
Life, Health. 7 managing onsite systems
For many small communities, onsite
als they have different talents, interests,
and decentralized wastewater systems
3 alternative sewers are more practical and economical than and levels of experience. The Winter 1997
Small diameter sewers can be used centralized systems. However, many com-
munities view lack of individual control Pipeline (vol. 8, no. 1) offers some strate-
of these systems as a disadvantage. The
to collect and transport wastewater Spring 1996 Pipeline (vol. 7, no. 2) gies for hiring consultants that can be used
explains why community management
from small clusters of homes, developments, of wastewater systems is a good idea and by small communities and homeowners.
gives several strategies for developing
and communities. Because they don’t programs for the operation, maintenance, Topics include developing requests for
or monitoring of these systems. The price
require deep excavation, alternative sewers is 20 cents. Request item #SFPLNL05 proposals (RFPs), conducting interviews,
Management Programs Can Help Small
are often a more practical and economical Communities. and negotiating contracts. The price is 20

choice than conventional gravity sewers. cents. Request item #SFPLNL08 Choose

The Fall 1996 Pipeline (vol. 7, no. 4) pro- the Right Consultant for Your Wastewater

vides an overview of alternative sewer Project.

technologies. The price is 20 cents.

Request item #SFPLNL07 Alternative 11 wastewater characteristics
The water we use may disappear
Sewers: A Good Option for Many

Communities. from sight, but it never really goes

away. Wastewater continues to affect our

4 sand filters lives long after it swirls down the drain.
Sand filters are used by many com-
How? Because certain wastewater compo-
munities as an alternative to centralized
wastewater treatment. Because they pro- nents degrade water quality and can
vide high quality treatment, sand filters
are one of the best options for environ- endanger public health. The Fall 1997
mentally sensitive areas or for providing
additional treatment where septic tank/soil Pipeline (vol. 8, no. 4) answers some
absorption systems have failed. The
Summer 1997 Pipeline (vol. 8, no. 3) basic questions about wastewater and its

potential to impact public health and the

environment. The price is 20 cents.

Request item #SFPLNL11 Basic

Wastewater Characteristics.

12 spray and drip irrigation 16 infiltration and inflow (I/I) and how an evaluator uses test results to
Reusing water to irrigate land can High groundwater or water remain- determine the best type of treatment system
for a site. The price is 20 cents. Request
help protect surface water resources ing in the soil after rain or snow can item #SFPLNL21 Site Evaluations.
by preventing pollution and by conserving infiltrate mainline pipes, joints, service
potable water for other uses. The soil pro- laterals, connections, and other parts of 21 alternative toilets
vides additional treatment through naturally older, damaged collection systems. Reduced amounts of water for toilet
occurring physical, biological, and chemi- Additional water can also enter collection
cal processes. The Winter 1999 Pipeline systems from above-ground sources. Extra flushing is standard in the industry
(vol. 10, no. 1) discusses two types of water entering collection systems is today. In addition to low-volume toilets,
wastewater irrigation systems—spray sys- referred to as infiltration and inflow (I/I). other alternatives have been developed.
tems and subsurface drip systems—plus The Spring 1999 Pipeline (vol. 10, no. 2) The Summer 2000 Pipeline (vol. 11, no.
operation and maintenance issues that go provides an overview of common methods 3) discusses several designs of alternative
along with land-applied disposal methods. for evaluating and correcting I/I problems, toilets, and what circumstances may be
The price is 20 cents. Request item plus maintenance practices to prevent I/I suited to their use in the home or in public
#SFPLNL16 Spray and Drip Irrigation from occurring. The price is 20 cents. restrooms. The price is 20 cents. Request
for Wastewater Reuse, Disposal. Request item #SFPLNL17 Infiltration and item #SFPLNL22 Alternative Toilets:
Inflow can be Costly for Communities. Options for Conservation and Specific
13 onsite systems inspections Site Conditions.
Routine onsite system inspections 17 mound systems
Mound systems were developed to 22 decentralized wastewater
help protect the health of families, treatment
their neighbors, and communities. They overcome three natural conditions: slow
help homeowners determine when and or rapidly permeable soils, shallow soils, Small communities are frequently
how often maintenance is needed. The and/or a high water table. A site with any
Spring 1998 Pipeline (vol. 9, no. 2) of these conditions is not suited for a faced with needing to upgrade or replace
focuses on inspections of existing onsite conventional septic system. The Summer
systems to determine whether they are 1999 Pipeline (vol. 10, no.3) discusses their wastewater infrastructure, but cen-
functioning properly and to diagnose mounds and how they are designed,
problems before they lead to expensive operated, and maintained. The price is tralized sewerage and treatment may not
repairs. The price is 20 cents. Request 20 cents. Request item #SFPLNL18
item #SFPLNL13 Inspections Equal Mounds: A Septic System Alternative. be the answer for everyone. The Fall 2000
Preventative Care for Onsite Systems.
18 funding Pipeline (vol. 11, no. 4) discusses ways to
14 constructed wetlands If your town is like other small
Constructed wetlands can treat waste- improve community wastewater treatment
communities, the most important—
water from a variety of sources—homes, and perhaps the most difficult—part of a by using managed individual onsite and
businesses, and communities. The Summer wastewater treatment project is securing
1998 Pipeline (vol. 9, no. 3) offers basic the funding. Fewer residents help pay for cluster systems. The price is 20 cents.
information for homeowners and commu- a project, and fewer experts and resources
nity leaders about the types of constructed are available to help find funding sources. Request item #SFPLNL23 Decentralized
wetlands, how they work, and some of The Fall 1999 Pipeline (vol. 10, no. 4)
their advantages and disadvantages. discusses funding sources for wastewater Wastewater Treatment Systems.
The price is 20 cents. Request item treatment projects. The price is 20 cents.
#SFPLNL14 Constructed Wetlands: Request item #SFPLNL19 Funding Environmental Services
A Natural Treatment Alternative. Sources are Available for Wastewater and Training Division
Projects.
15 biosolids The Environmental Services and
Treating and disposing of sewage 19 evapotranspiration systems Training Division (ESTD) helps small
Evapotranspiration (ET) systems use communities protect their public and
sludge and domestic septage can sig- environmental health. Located at West
nificantly add to wastewater treatment an alternative onsite treatment technology Virginia University, ESTD houses four
costs. These materials called “biosolids” suitable for areas where risks of ground- national programs:
have a variety of beneficial agricultural water and surface water contamination
uses and help to rehabilitate land damaged might exist. The Winter 2000 Pipeline • The National Drinking Water
by mining and other industries. The Fall focuses on two versions of ET systems, Clearinghouse (NDWC)
1998 Pipeline (vol. 9, no. 4) presents a how they are designed, how they treat
brief overview of options for managing wastewater effluent, and what climate and • The National Small Flows
biosolids and discusses the regulations soil conditions warrant their use. The price Clearinghouse (NSFC)
that are involved in biosolid recycling and is 20 cents. Request item #SFPLNL20
disposal. The price is 20 cents. • The National Environmental
Request item #SFPLNL15 Evapotranspiration Systems. Training Center for Small
Managing Biosolids in Communities (NETCSC)
Small Communities. 20 site evaluations
More than one-fourth of • The National Onsite
Demonstration Project (NODP)
Americans use some type of
onsite wastewater treatment Each organization has a separate mis-
systems, and thousands of sion and distinct goals, but they work
new onsite permits are issued collectively to provide a one-stop shop
each year. The Spring 2000 for small community drinking water,
Pipeline explains the impor- wastewater, and environmental training
tance of a site evaluation, what information and technical assistance.
steps are taken in the process,
To receive an information packet
about the ESTD and its services,
call (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191,
or visit ESTD’s Web site at
http://www.estd.wvu.edu.

Decentralized Systems

Public Acceptance of Decentralized
Wastewater Treatment

When appropriately designed, installers. Because of training pro- CONTACTS
sited, operated, and maintained, grams, some states’regulatory officials
decentralized wastewater systems allow a broader use of alternative National Small Flows
meet public health and water quality onsite technologies—with the condi- Clearinghouse (NSFC)
goals as well as centralized systems. tion that these systems be managed
Still, barriers exist, both real and by professional, certified operators. The NSFC offers a variety of technical
imagined, that can hamper wide- assistance and free and low-cost infor-
spread acceptance of decentralized Educational materials directed to mation and materials about waste-
wastewater systems. These obstacles homeowners should explain proper water technologies for small commu-
may be due to several factors: wastewater disposal and maintenance nities. Just a few of the NSFC’s many
• lack of knowledge and mispercep- practices, as well as provide infor- resources and services are mentioned
mation about the consequences of in this newsletter. Call the NSFC at
tions about decentralized systems; system failures. Increased awareness (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191 or
• state and local regulatory barriers; about decentralized systems ought to visit our Web site at
• lack of adequate management help reduce the number of failing www.nsfc.wvu.edu for more informa-
systems and the eventual negative tion.
programs; effects on groundwater and sur-
• liability and engineering fee issues; face water. National Onsite Demonstration
Program (NODP) Phase IV
and Managing individual onsite systems
• financial limitations of the com- within the community presents one The NODP Phase IV was established
of the biggest hurdles officials may to promote, develop, and demonstrate
munity. face. Brochures, newspaper articles, management strategies for onsite
If decentralized systems are to helplines, and other forms of public wastewater treatment in our nation’s
become accepted as a wastewater information will help homeowners small communities. Program staff can
treatment solution, people need to be become aware of the importance of assist local officials in setting up man-
educated about the benefits of this managing and maintaining onsite agement districts around the country
choice. Some states (Arizona, Mis- systems. by identifying successful management
souri, North Carolina, Rhode models and providing educational
Island, Texas, Florida,Washington, information about these models. Call
and others) have training programs the NODP at (800) 624-8301, or (304)
on the subject for sanitarians and 293-4191, or visit their Web site at
www.estd.wvu.edu/nodp4.
Decentralized Systems Four additional models have been
proposed with increasing levels of NReactiyocnlainlgOnAssisteocWiaatsiotne,wInacte. r
continued from previous page oversight. The far end of the scale
suggests a public or private utility The National Onsite Wastewater
• certification/licensing for service own and manage all aspects of the Recycling Association, Inc. (NOWRA)
providers and regulators; and decentralized system, including both is a national professional organization
onsite and cluster systems. This created to advance and promote the
• program reviews to resolve model is most appropriate where a onsite wastewater industry. NOWRA
shortcomings and to correct complex network of advanced onsite serves all aspects of the industry
problems. systems and cluster systems is in including governmental regulatory
The U.S. Environmental Protection place, and where the environment personnel, installers, field practition-
may be especially sensitive. ers, suppliers, distributors, engineers,
Agency (EPA) is in the process of research professionals, designers,
developing a number of management consultants, educators, soil scientists
models for decentralized wastewater and manufacturers. Call NOWRA at
systems. The EPA’s models start (301) 776-7468 or visit their Web
from a hands-off level of involvement site at www.nowra.org.
where a regulatory agency invento-
ries systems, but property owners
are responsible for their own systems’
maintenance.

PIPELINE – Fall 2000; Vol.11, No. 4 5

National Small Flows Clearinghouse (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191

Decentralized Systems

Cranberry Lake: A Management Case Study

Cranberry Lake and Byram Town- a booth at the Cranberry Lake a plot plan showing the location of
ship officials started looking into Community Club’s annual meeting, the property’s well and septic tank
septic system management in the and they inserted wastewater man- and drainfield. They must also attach
1980s because the water quality of agement flyers in various township a brief description of the septic system.
the lake was being threatened by mailings. Homeowners receive an educational
household wastewater. Aging and packet with each permit renewal.
poorly-maintained septic systems, Because some residents declared
small lot sizes, and an increasing that they’d never had their septic To renew the three-year permit,
number of homes used year-round systems pumped in 25 years, and homeowners must pay the fee and
converged to create problems. others were not even sure they had submit proof that the septic system
septic systems, the committee dis- had either been pumped out or that
Byram Township is one of four tributed all kinds of information, they had received a board of health
municipalities in Sussex County, from broad environmental concepts waiver. Waivers might be issued
New Jersey, that shared a $500,000 to basic information about how a under certain circumstances, such as
state grant to help establish waste- septic system works. The steering infrequent use of a vacation home, so
water management programs. The committee dedicated itself to dis- that a six-year pumping period is
township appointed a steering com- pelling rumors and to making sure granted instead of the usual three years.
mittee (to provide input and guid-
ance) that included the town manager, “I see getting a septic license as similar to
a board of health representative, mem- getting a dog license. It costs twice as much,
bers of the Cranberry Lake Associ- but it’s no big deal. People know it’s for
ation, and members of the Byram everybody’s protection.” Ronald Gatti
Environmental Commission.
Cranberry Lake residents were fully Failure to comply can result in a
The steering committee initially aware of the seriousness of their fine of up to $1,000 per day and/or
met with the county’s planning dilemma. up to 90 days of community service.
department to discuss their principal Even though compliance has not
concerns including: After several more public meetings, been perfect, the township doesn’t
• financial assistance to residents to the board of health finally passed the want to fine anybody.
ordinance, and its regulations impose
repair or replace their systems; very straightforward basic mainte- Margaret McGarrity, a member of
• technical assistance to identify nance requirements. Key provisions the Byram Township Environmental
of the ordinance require that all Commission, said they send out a
appropriate, cost-effective technolo- homeowners obtain a $15 septic sys- notice when it’s time for license
gies that would perform well given tem operator’s permit, valid for three renewal and pumping. If there’s no
Cranberry Lake’s soil limitations; and years. Property owners must submit response, another notice follows in
• educational assistance for the com-
mittee and residents to learn about continued on next page
all aspects of onsite wastewater
treatment.
As word spread about the potential
for a wastewater management ordi-
nance,which could mean septic sys-
tem inspections and fees for residents,
friction arose in the community. The
steering committee realized that its
most urgent task was to educate the
community. They obtained materials
from the county health department
and from Rutgers University to begin
a vigorous educational campaign.
Committee members and county
officials made presentations and gave
seminars at local meetings. The com-
mittee developed newspaper articles to
explain the issues. They also manned

6 Former Pipeline Editor Cathie Falvey and her brother, Jim, enjoyed spending time at Cranberry
Lake when they were children.
PIPELINE – Fall 2000; Vol.11, No. 4
National Small Flows Clearinghouse (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191

Decentralized Systems

How Homeowners Can Help Themselves

The Clean Water State Revolving (e.g., permitting fees and legal to offer the applicant a loan and at
Fund (CWSRF) is a low- or no-interest fees); and what interest rate and term. The lend-
source of funding for installing, • capital costs associated with cen- ing institution notifies the Ohio EPA,
repairing, and upgrading decentralized tralized management programs who then deposits the loan amount in
wastewater systems in small towns (e.g., trucks, storage buildings, the bank at a reduced interest rate.Sav-
and rural and suburban areas. Federal and spare parts). ings from the reduced interest rate are
and state contributions are used to Ohio is an example of a state that is then passed on to the loan applicant.
capitalize or set up the programs. helping residents improve their onsite
These assets, in turn, are used to make wastewater systems. In August 1997, Ten individuals have received loans
low or no-interest loans for important the Ohio EPA and Mahoning County totaling $53,335. Over the next three
water quality projects. Funds are then General Health District agreed to create years, Ohio’s EPA Water Pollution
repaid to the CWSRF over terms as a linked deposit program to make Control Loan Fund will make
long as 20 years. low-interest loans available to indi- $1,425,000 available for use in this
vidual homeowners who needed to program. A similar program is being
Repaid loans are recycled to fund upgrade or replace their home sewage launched in Cuyahoga County, Ohio,
other water quality projects. These disposal systems. Ohio’s process for with $1,950,000 earmarked for the
CWSRF resources can help supple- obtaining a CWSRF loan is outlined first three years of the program.
ment the limited financial resources below.
currently available for decentralized The homeowner obtains a permit *The EPAencourages establishing or desig-
treatment systems. Projects that may from the county that outlines specifi- nating a management entity for all decen -
be eligible for CWSRF monies cations about proper installation, tralized projects. Acceptable management
include: operation, and maintenance of the entities include cities and counties, special
• new system installation (single onsite system. The homeowner is governmental units (e.g., sanitary districts
then issued a certificate, which he or and county service districts) public or private
and cluster systems) to correct an she can take to any bank that partici- utilities, private corporations, and nonprofit
existing nonpoint source problem; pates in the linked deposit program. organizations.
• replacing, upgrading, or modifying The lending institution, using its
inadequate or failing systems; own criteria, decides whether or not
• costs associated with establishing
a centralized management entity*

Cranberry Lake Case Study Web Sites: Funding for Onsite Wastewater Treatment

continued from previous page EPA State Revolving Fund (SRF) Program General Information
www.epa.gov/owm/finan.htm
one month. If after another month
has lapsed and the property owner EPA SRF Program State Revolving Fund State Contacts
still has not responded, a notice of www.epa.gov/owm/srfcon.htm
violation can lead to a summons.
Funding Decentralized Wastewater Systems Using EPA’s Clean Water SRF
Community support for the waste- www.epa.gov/owm/septic3.htm
water management program has
grown stronger each year as resi- HUD State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
dents come to understand its impor- www.hud.gov/progdesc/cdbg-st.html
tance. Ronald Gatti, township manager,
said, “Having to stand before a judge HUD Community Connections Information Center
and defend against willful violation www.comcon.org/
of the law isn’t an attractive
prospect. Besides, I see getting a National Small Flows Clearinghouse National Onsite Demonstration Program
septic license as similar to getting a www.estd.wvu.edu/NODP
dog license. It costs twice as much,
but it’s no big deal. People know it’s USDA Rural Development Field Offices
for everybody’s protection.” www.usda.gov/rus/water/states/usamap.htm

PIPELINE – Fall 2000; Vol.11, No. 4 USDA Rural Utilities Service Water Programs 7
http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/index.htm

National Small Flows Clearinghouse (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191

RESOURCES AVAILABLEMOUND SYSTEMS FROM NSFC

To order any of the following prod - tance to communities to help them services that the NSFC offers. The
ucts, call the National Small Flows attain or maintain adequate waste- catalog may also be downloaded
Clearinghouse (NSFC) at (800) 624- water treatment services. Item from the NSFC Web site at
8301 or (304) 293-4191, fax (304) #WWFSFM32. http://www.nsfc.wvu.edu or is avail-
293-3161, e-mail nsfc_orders@mail. able free upon request. Item
estd.wvu.edu, or write NSFC, West Wastewater Treatment and #WWCAT.
Virginia University, P.O. Box 6064, Disposal for Small Communities
Morgantown, WV 26506-6064. Be PIPELINE
sure to request each item by number This manual is designed to guide
and title. A shipping and handling planners and designers through the Pipeline is published quarterly by the National Small
charge will apply. required steps for developing small Flows Clearinghouse at West Virginia University,
community wastewater management P.O. Box 6064, Morgantown, WV 26506-6064
Choices for Communities: systems. The book provides general
Wastewater Management Options descriptions of alternative treatment Pipeline is funded through a grant from the
for Rural Areas technologies available for small com- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
munities. The cost is $16.55. Item Washington, D.C.
This booklet examines alternatives to #WWBKDM70. Steve Hogye—Project Officer
the conventional septic system, alter- Municipal Support Division
native wastewater collection tech- Funding Decentralized Wastewater Office of Wastewater Management
nologies, and land-based treatment Systems Using the Clean Water
and disposal technologies. It begins State Revolving Fund National Small Flows Clearinghouse
with a history of onsite systems and West Virginia University
discusses alternatives to centralized The Clean Water State Revolving Morgantown,WV
sewering, stressing that management, Fund (CWSRF) is a low- or no-
maintenance, and inspection are key. interest funding source for installing, Peter Casey—Program Coordinator
The cost for the booklet is 50 cents. repairing, and upgrading decentralized Michelle Moore—Editor
Item #WWBLMG09. wastewater systems in small-town,
rural, and suburban areas. This free, David Pask—Technical Advisor
Rural Community Assistance four-page fact sheet describes how
Program (RCAP) Help for Small the CWSRF operates and lists eligible Permission to quote from or reproduce articles in
Community Wastewater Projects projects, as well as who may qualify this publication is granted when due acknowledgement is
and how to get a project funded. Item given. Please send a copy of the publication in which informa-
Developed by the EPA Office of #WWFSFN07. tion was used to the Pipeline editor at the address above.
Water, this free, two-page fact sheet
describes RCAP, a national network Wastewater Products Catalog 2000 an equal opportunity/affirmative action
of nonprofit organizations, and how institution
they provide onsite technical assis- This newly updated catalog lists and
describes the many products and ISSN 1060-0043
The contents of this newsletter do not necessarily reflect the views and
policies of the Environmental Protection Agency, nor does the mention

of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or
recommendation for use.

Printed on recycled paper

For wastewater information, call the NSFC at (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191

8 National Small Flows Clearinghouse 1-800-624-8301 or (304) 293-4191

PIPELINE – Summer 1999; Vol.10, No. 3