Happy (almost) spring!

In this February edition of the Septic Scoop we’re excited to share information about landscaping, service provider reports, and a message from the LakeWise and Streamside landowner programs.

Did you know?

When you have your septic system serviced – whether it’s an inspection, pumping, or minor repair – your service provider should upload a report to an online database called OnlineRME within 30 days. If you have maintenance or repair work done, make sure you see a report appear in OnlineRME. Haven’t ever viewed your records online? Watch our tutorial on using OnlineRME.

Backyard with landscaped lawn, bench, and bridge.

Landscaping tips

With Spring fast approaching, you may have some landscaping projects in mind. Below are some important reminders and resources about protecting your septic system as you dig into your projects.

Be careful with heavy equipment: Tractors, backhoes, and other heavy machinery can harm your septic system. Not only can their weight damage components buried underground, but they also compress the soil in the drainfield. This limits the amount of oxygen that can get into the drainfield, which lowers your soil’s ability to treat wastewater properly. If you have someone coming out to do work such as cutting down a tree, you can use your septic records to point out areas of your property they should avoid with heavy equipment.

Remember to keep these off and away from your drainfield:

Vegetable gardens
Trees or shrubs
Sprinkler systems
Firepits
Artificial ponds
Decks, patios, sheds, and other structures
Rockeries
Driveways

For more info, see our landscaping webpage or view our landscaping handout.

Lakewise & streamside landowner programs

If you live near a lake or stream, you can participate in Snohomish County’s LakeWise or Streamside Landowner programs. These programs offer resources and assistance to help you keep your lake or stream healthy, including FREE site visits and FREE native plants for your stream or lake shoreline. Anyone living near a lake can also complete a checklist of pollution-reducing actions to become “LakeWise Certified,” and receive a LakeWise sign for your property. Interested in finding out more? See links and contact info for each program below.

LakeWise Program Website | Contact: lakes@snoco.org

Streamside Program Website | Contact: alex.pittman@snoco.org

That's all for this edition of the Septic Scoop!

Questions?

Do you have questions about your septic system? You can visit our website for more information on septic systems or contact SHD-EHQ@snoco.org for any additional questions.

For information on Savvy Septic financial assistance, visit savvyseptic.org or email savvy.septic@snoco.org. To find a septic professional, click here.