Terry Kennedy Member, Central Frontenac Committee on Septic System Maintenance and Assessment | Mar 15, 2017
Last week’s letter from David Daski reflects a commonly held belief that septic systems in locations with no proximity to either neighbours or water bodies could not be a threat to either public health or to the environment.
Unfortunately, the nature of the geology and the topography of our area indicate that this is far from reality. Seams in the fractured bedrock can provide ready access for contamination from any source to make its way into ground water. In combination with our very limited soil overburden, which if deeper would act to filter contaminants, the result is that any faulty or failed septic system, regardless of how remote, can pose a threat to ground water.
This reality has been recognized by the four local Conservation Authorities (Cataraqui, Mississippi, Quinte, Rideau) in their initiatives related to Source Drinking Water Protection. They have identified all of Central Frontenac with aquifers designated ‘highly vulnerable’ to contamination because of the area geology and topography.
By promoting and ‘piggy-backing’ on recognized best practices of system care, the Septic System Maintenance and Assessment initiative provides Central Frontenac with the means, through an effective and cost efficient process, to safeguard the health of its residents, protect the local environment and prevent potential negative economic impact.
More Stories
- Harrowsmith Public School and the Magic of Theatre
- You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown – a school wide effort at SHS
- Leadership From Within
- New Bulk Water Station in Sydenham
- Frontenac County Council looks at Healthcare Recruitment
- Good Turn Out Maple Fest Despite Rain
- Future looking brighter for Denbigh Fire Department says Chief
- Local Favourites featured at 2nd Annual SF Music Festival
- Perth Festival of the Maples, Saturday, April 27
- South Frontenac Council