The
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE)
estimates that more than 10% of the state’s 1.3 million septic systems
are in some state of failure. The current and future reality of onsite
systems is that they are and will continue to be permanent solutions to
wastewater treatment and are a long-term part of Michigan’s
infrastructure. Importantly, these systems require careful maintenance
in order to properly treat wastewater, especially in environmentally
sensitive areas along inland lakes. Given the thousands of individuals
living on or near inland lakes who rely on septic systems, the influence
of shoreline soil type and water table level on potential septic system
contaminants, and consideration of alternatives to conventional
treatment systems are critical in minimizing negative impacts on both
human and lake ecosystem health. Compounding these issues is Michigan’s
changing climate. We are currently experiencing one of the state’s
wettest weather periods, as evidenced by record-level water and extreme
shoreline erosion along the Great Lakes. The resulting high surface
water and groundwater levels have threatened the ability of on-site
wastewater disposal systems to function properly, and have also impacted
the safety of private drinking water wells as well. This panel-style
session begins with a look at the septic system policies in watersheds
located in Northwest Michigan, problems that were identified, and
discussion of options local units of government can consider when
deciding the best ways to protection of Michigan’s inland lakes. Next,
alternative treatment system options will be discussed which are better
suited for inland lakes. Finally, impacts of high surface water and
groundwater on septic systems and best management practices that should
be taken during flooding events will be discussed. Time will be
scheduled for questions and answers to close out the session.
Session handout: Additional Resources for Septic System Maintenance, Policies & Treatment Options
Presented by Grenetta Thomassey,
Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council; Larry Stephens, Stephens Consulting
Services, PC; and Regina Young, Michigan Department of Environment,
Great Lakes, and Energy, as part of the 2020 Michigan Inland Lakes Convention.