The U.S. Department of Agriculture is awarding low-interest loans to rural homeowners with failed septic systems or wells, according to a USDA news release. The USDA awarded a $3.525 million grant to the Water Well Trust for its Decentralized Water Systems program.
Low-income, rural homeowners can receive 1% loans of up to $15,000 to improve their septic systems or wells. The loans can be repaid over a 20-year period. To be eligible for assistance, applicants meet income guidelines and must own and live in their home as their primary residence for at least a year.
Forty-four states have participated in the Decentralized Water Systems program since 2014, resulting in upgrades for 974 water wells and 170 wastewater systems. For more information, visit waterwelltrust.org.
Massachusetts town’s Board of Health recommends stricter septic rules
The Mashpee Board of Health in Massachusetts is recommending stricter septic system regulations for the areas around its waterbodies and wetlands, The Enterprise reported. The board reviewed proposals that require the installation of I/A technology that removes up to 19 mg/L of nitrogen for new construction projects. These rules would apply to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s Zone II areas, which cover about one-third of the town.
The Board of Health planned to finalize the proposal and set an implementation date in October.
Eastham discusses options to replace cesspools
The town of Eastham, Massachusetts, is weighing the options regarding the replacement of cesspools in the Salt Pond watershed, The Provincetown Independent reported. In an effort to remove nitrogen from the watershed, the Board of Health discussed ways to upgrade the 240 cesspools located in the town. Options included converting septic to sewer or requiring homeowners to upgrade cesspools to A/I systems.
Jefferson County offers septic upgrade grants for waterfront residents
Jefferson County, New York, is offering grants for waterfront residents to upgrade their septic systems, NNY360 reported. The county will offer a 50/50 match up to $10,000 for property owners located along Moon Lake, Red Lake, Indian River, St. Lawrence River, Guffin Bay, Hart Brook, Oswegatchie River, Pleasant Lake tributaries, Skinner Creek and West Creek. Visit the Jefferson County website for more information.
Bee County considers 3 amendments to septic regulations
Bee County Commissioners in Texas are considering stricter regulations on septic systems, reported the Beeville Bee-Picayune. In September, commissioners considered three proposed amendments. The three amendments would prevent property owners from installing their own septic systems, eliminate the exemption for 10-acre septic permits, and end self-maintenance allowances after the first two years of service for aerobic systems.
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