While you might think of erosion as a lakefront or oceanfront problem, erosion occurs across the Region. Erosion is an environmental process where rocks, soil and plants wash away with excess rainwater and flooding. Communities along the Lake Michigan shore have a higher, wetter water table, making the ground prone to more rapid erosion.
Even if your home is miles away from the Lake Michigan shoreline, it is susceptible to surface and deeper-level erosion. So why does that matter for your septic system? Erosion around septic tanks typically occurs during heavy rainfall or flooding events because excessive water washes away the soil and vegetation covering the tank. Without that vegetation, the soil becomes loose and is more likely to erode. Additionally, if the septic tank is not maintained correctly or there are leaks, the effluent from the tank can saturate the soil and weaken its stability, worsening erosion. Unfortunately, more surface water is added to the drain field as erosion occurs.
Why is this erosion so problematic? If the soil around your septic tank erodes, your system can’t remove excess water, leading to clogs and backups. Over time, your system will fail. Even worse, your septic tank might sink or move out of place, requiring costly repairs or replacement. Fortunately, the experts at Johnson Septic Service have several steps you can take to prevent erosion around your septic system.
4 Important Erosion Prevention Steps For Your Septic System
- Schedule routine maintenance. One of the easiest ways to prevent costly erosion is to have your septic tank pumped regularly. When we pump your septic tank, we remove excess sludge and scum that can make your tank dump too much or too little water into the surrounding drain field. Routine septic inspections also ensure problems with your system, including erosion, are caught and addressed early.
- Plant appropriate vegetation. The soil is mounded above septic tanks to ensure water runs away from the drain field. That means the topsoil is usually drier than the surrounding areas. Planting grass, shrubs and other ground cover with deep root systems that can hold soil in place effectively around the septic system can help stabilize the soil and reduce erosion. Additionally, we recommend minimizing walking and traffic around the septic system to ensure the soil does not become too compacted. Subsequently, it’s essential to plant low-maintenance, low-moisture plants on and around the septic field.
- Incorporate mulch. Mulch, including straw and wood chips, is a lightweight material that absorbs water quickly and effectively. It acts as a sponge, soaking up excess water on the ground and preventing it from leaching into the drain field. Using mulch around the drain field can prevent rain or floodwater from increasing the field’s water density.
- Redirect water flow on the property. If your lawn is sloped or hilly, consider redirecting water flow on your property. Retaining walls, drainage ditches and retention ponds are great strategies for moving water away from your septic system drain field. Berms and French drains are additional strategies for redirecting water. Terracing can also help slow down the speed of water absorption from flooding and rain if your septic system is lower than the rest of your yard.
Keep Your Septic System Running with Johnson Septic Service
Johnson Septic Service experts have industry-leading tools and techniques to keep your septic system performing at its best. Our inspection and pumping services ensure your septic system can do its job quickly and effectively. We also install and repair septic tanks and systems if it’s time to replace yours. Contact us today to schedule your annual inspection.