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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 consider ations
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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