Septic Systems
As a community of Des Moines Lake property owners, we benefit – in pure enjoyment and in real value – from the high degree of water quality that our lake offers. At a lake home or cabin, septic system upkeep is more crucial due to water contamination risks.
In general, a septic tank should be inspected every 1 to 3 years and pumped every 3 to 5 years. The frequency of pumping the septic tank depends on the tank size, number of people in the household, habits of water use as well as the amount of solids accumulated in the tank. Failing septic systems can contaminate and harm human health and the environment by releasing bacteria, viruses, and household toxics to ground and surface water resources.
Questions specific to Burnett County septic systems can be directed to Zoning Specialist 1 Kendra Letch at 715-349-2109 extensions 2619 or keletch@burnettcounty.org
Burnett County provides a list of septic pumpers and inspectors a the link below: https://www.burnettcounty.com/1116/Private-Sewage-Systems
Septic Smart
The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) teamed up to present Septic Smart Week 2021, an annual event that focuses on educating home/cabin owners on the proper care and maintenance of their septic system. In September 2021, the Des Moines Lake Association Board invited all lake residents to attend a free webinar in order to stay informed, and to consider the health and maintenance status of your own septic system. The presentation by Cici Rudnicki can be found here.
Additional Septic Smart Week resources produced by the EPA, including educational fact sheets and educational videos are available at:
https://www.nesc.wvu.edu/topics-of-interest/septicsmart
Together can make a difference in the health of our beautiful lake by considering this important topic!
Think at the Sink!
Learn what not to put down your kitchen sink (such as fats, oils, or greases), how to properly dispose of food waste, and how to use cleaning supplies in moderation.
Don’t Strain Your Drain!
Learn about the importance of using water efficiently, staggering water use of water based appliances, and using energy efficient appliances.
Keep it Clean!
Learn about the importance of testing your well water, and its relationship to your septic system.