September 15-19 is SepticSmart week! This is a national initiative led by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Here are some ways to be SepticSmart:

1. Schedule regular inspections and pumping – have your system inspected by a licensed professional every 3 years.

2. Practice water conservation – spread out laundry and dish loads, install low-flow plumbing fixtures, turn off water when not using it.

3. Respect your drainfield – don’t park vehicles or build structures over the leech field, avoid planting woody vegetation within 10 feet.

4. Be mindful of what you flush – avoid pouring fast, oils, paint, bleach, or other chemicals down the drain. Flush only toilet paper.

5. Keep systems accessible – make septic care part of your lake-friendly living plan. Reach out to our LakeSmart program for more information (watchiclakeassociation@gmail.com).