The online Ohio Septic Forum gives industry professionals from Ohio and elsewhere another outlet for sharing information, asking questions, and getting acquainted. It was created by Jason Menchhofer, R.S., environmental health director with the Van Wert County Health Department.

His theory is that "the easiest way to learn to perform more effectively is to learn from the experiences of others who have been there, done that." Years ago, about the only ways to do that were to attend meetings, seminars and conferences, and to make phone calls to colleagues. All that is still essential, but online forums make the sharing process easier.

The Ohio Septic Forum is divided into subject areas including soils and onsite systems, conventional systems, alternative systems, system troubleshooting, legislation and rules, and education opportunities. Onsite professionals can view and join the forum at www.ohiosepticforum.com.