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The SCCD-NRCS Septic
System Improvements program is a local improvements
program that provides voluntary, locally-directed,
financial and technical assistance for repair or
replacement of existing septic systems that likely
impact water quality.
During 2003, SCCD was
awarded Federal grant monies to initiate a local
program geared towards the repair or replacement of
faulty septic systems which may potentially be
contaminating local streams.
Many existing homes,
new developments, and their associated septic
systems within Sheridan County are located in areas
with very shallow water tables as is often the case
near a stream. Local regulations require that
the bottom of septic system leachfield stone be at
least four feet above the seasonal high water table
(Sheridan County Regulations for a Permit to
Construct, Install or Modify Small Wastewater
Facilities and Related Design Standards).
In areas of shallow ground water, this requirement
often cannot be met without constructing a mounded
leachfield. Construction of a mounded system
ensures regulatory compliance, allows for proper
function of the system, and protects the quality of
local groundwater. As part of a demonstration
project, SCCD provided funding assistance for a
landowner to construct a mounded leachfield system
located along the Tongue River. A video of
this project was produced to help educate landowners
with similar systems and locations about the proper
design and construction of a mounded leachfield
system. This video is available through the
SCCD office and the Sheridan County Engineer’s
Office.
Funding for the program
is provided by a combination of Federal and State
grants administered by the SCCD, and landowner
contributions.. Federal grants come from US
EPA through section 319 of the Clean Water Act and
are administered through the Wyoming Department of
Environmental Quality. State grants come from
the Wyoming Department of Agriculture.
Approximately 50% cost-share is available on
contracts at this time.
INFORMATION
PACKET
 The
Septic Information packet will provide the homeowner
with a starting point on the considerations for
installing, replacing, and maintaining a septic
system, in addition to providing some basic
summaries of alternatives for locations where a
conventional system will not protect human health
and the environment. The material presented is
for general information purposes only. Please
contact the Sheridan County Engineer’s Office or the
Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality for
specific requirements regarding any situation.
Not all of the alternatives and requirements
presented will be suitable or applicable for all
situations. Nothing in this packet can replace
the advice of a qualified professional.
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Sheridan
County Conservation District