Inadequate maintenance is the number one reason for septic system failure and this new program is the most cost effective measure to prevent system failures. Failing septic systems result in significant public health risks and environmental degradation. Specifically, they cause contamination of groundwater and local streams, rivers and lakes, as well as contamination of shellfish beds and nutrient enrichment of sensitive water bodies. Households that are not served by public sewers depend on septic tank systems to treat and dispose of wastewater.  Household wastewater carries with it all wastes that go down the drains in our homes, including human waste, dirt, food, toilet paper, soap, detergents, and cleaning products. It contains dissolved nutrients, household chemicals, grease, oil, microorganisms (including some that cause disease), and solid particles. If not properly treated by your septic system, chemicals and microorganisms in wastewater can travel through the soil to groundwater and pose a health hazard. Help us to Protect our Future.