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IMPORTA/~T FACTS ABOUT MAINTAINING YOUR SEPTIC ~YSTEM A septic tank and disposal field is the most common method of sewage disposal for properties in rural areas where public sewer is not available. In cities, where public sewers are in use, the local government is usually responsible for maintenance of the system. In the rural areas, the property owner must take the responsibility for the maintenance of the sewage disposal system. The bacteria normally present in human sewage will provide all the necessary culture for starting the proper anaerobic action in a new septic tank. The septic tank will allow solid materials to be separated out of the waste stream and the process of decomposition of the solids to take place. Sludge will settle to the bottom Of the tank and scum (grease and other floating solids) will float to the top. The liquid then flows out Of the tank to the disposal field. Several steps can be taken to protect the investment yOM have made in your septic system: Paper towels, newspapers, sanitary napkins, tampons, disposable diapers, etc., should not bm flushed down the toilet into the septic system- They do not decom- pose well and reduce the storage volume of the tank. Care should be taken not to discharge excessive amounts of strong chemicals, which can hinder the microbiologi- cal actlon in the tank. Inert materials, such as coffee grounds and grease,.will add excessively to the sludge and scum layers. If a garbage disposal is present, it should be used with discretion. Wastes from these units are not easily digested by the bacteria in the septic tank and cause a more rapid build-up of solid matter in the tank. As excessive amounts of sludge or scum accumulate in the septic tank, they will begin to wash out of the tank into the disposal field. This will, in turn, cause a premature failing of the disposal, field. In order to prevent this premature failure, it is necessary to have a licensed septic tank pumper visit your property and pump out the contents of the septic tank. It is recommended that the tank be pumped approximately every five years. At that time, the septic tank pumper can tell if more of less frequent pumping is necessary.