Septic lagoons are basically big ponds into which effluent or sewage from the sewage system collects.  Bacteria in the lagoon breakdown the sewage and effluent assisted by sunlight, warmth and oxygen present.  Here is how to properly maintain a septic lagoon system.

Specifications

According to lagoon covers specialists, in order for a septic lagoon to dissolve sewage and effluent it should be up to standard with the following specifications.

  • It should not be deeper than 1 meter
  • The banks of the lagoon need to be sloped at least 15 to 20 degrees and should be constructed from either concrete, rock or gravel.
  • The water needs to be free of any vegetation and objects that might surface wave action
  • It should be surrounded by a fence and a lockable gate to keep animals and unauthorized people out

Controlling Surface Water and Runoff Control

lagoon coversAccording to pond covers specialists, in order to stop overflow or “floating out” during wet periods where there is potential for high water levels, it may be vital to establish a curtain drain or intercept for the purpose of keeping the surface water as well as the groundwater out of the septic lagoon.  Normally, the intercept drain should be at least one to two feet in width and at least six inches deep. For the curtain drain trench it needs to slope at least 4 inches in 100 ft. of horizontal run and needs to dispose of runoff daylight or to a preferred destination downhill from the lagoon where water won’t be able to run back towards the controlled area.

Septic Tank Maintenance

The tank needs to be inspected once a year to guarantee that it is working correctly as designed. The inspection will also determine when scum and sludge need to be cleaned out.

Monthly Checklist

  • Repair holes and gaps in the fence that might allow animals or children to gain access to the lagoon
  • Make sure the lock is working properly and if not replace accordingly
  • Check the dike and repair as needed to maintain same height and shape when it was originally constructed
  • Check for damage caused by rodents and other burrowing animals along the dike

To know more on how to properly secure a lagoon log on to www.ieccovers.com