permaculture

["Albert Postema" <postema@nwlink.com>]

Greetings  John,
regarding septic improvements

A constructed wetland is a good way to improve your effluent quality, though
typically not "permitted". Considerations to take into account are your
climate and adjustable water levels. The big success stories around
constructed wetlands are in the southern climates. Root growth and nutrient
uptake are key factors in the success. If you have cold winters and a
dormant period for plant growth, then be aware that there would be little if
any treatment during those periods.

Also a method of alternating beds and control of water levels is a key
ingredient to success. If you always have a static water level, then your
root growth will stop at that level. So you alternate beds and lower water
tables to promote root growth into the media. ( usually small gravel >3/8")
A good outlet filter installed in your tank to trap suspended solids is
needed as well.

The "low hanging fruit" of improving ones septic effluent is first to see
what is going into the system. In today's common culture, the effluent waste
strengths have been climbing rapidly. With the advent of processed foods,
preservatives, chemical additives, we have seen a steady rise in effluent
strengths since the seventies. The preservatives and chemicals"knock down"
the biological process in the septic tank  Organic whole foods and disposal
of only natural ingredients will go a long way to improving your effluent.

There has been some significant advances in the septic outlet filter market.
We currently install on all new systems a outlet filter that is eighteen
inches in diameter with a series of 24 stacked plates. This will not only
filter the effluent but conditions the effluent quality by providing a
growth area for the anaerobic bacteria. The whole cartridge is easily
removed for periodic inspection.  This Zabel A100 is a top of the line
filter  and should cost you about $110 plus shipping.  A online resource is
www.zabelzone.com  We also have good septic info and links on our website.
Best regards.

Albert Postema
Earthwise Excavation
Snohomish WA
www.fromthegrounddown.com