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Replacement Windows for Birmingham, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, throughout Northern AlabamaandNashville, Tennessee

When residents of Central and Northern Alabama are in the market for replacement windows, they turn to Durante Home Exteriors.

For more than a decade, Durante has provided stylish and energy-efficient replacement windows to customers in Birmingham, Huntsville, Anniston, Pelham, and Nashville. Our replacement windows are expertly constructed with fusion-welded frames and sashes, which help keep your indoor temperature steady year-round, ensuring your HVAC system wont have to work overtime to provide a comfortable living space. These replacement windows are also made from high-quality PVC vinyl that wont warp, rot, or decay, and they require virtually no upkeep.

When you entrust Durante to outfit your Alabama home with new replacement windows, youll discover that were 100 percent customer focused. We take pride in building lasting relationships with our customers and forming a partnership that allows their dream home to become a reality. At Durante, we never consider our work finished until our customers are completely satisfied, and this dedication to service has helped us earn an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. We also have an A rating on Angies List and have been ranked as the number one remodeler in Alabama by Qualified Remodeler Magazine for the past five years and counting.

Whether youre looking to install new replacement windows in your Cullman home or youre interested in composite decking for your residence in Trussville, you can count on Durante. We have full lines of siding from James Hardie and Cedar Ridge, two of the most trusted brands in the industry.

Our reflective attic insulation is also one of our most popular products, as it reflects a staggering 97 percent of radiant heat transfer, which is one of the leading causes of home energy waste. No matter your home improvement need, Durantes friendly and experienced installers wont rest until the end result is exactly as youve envisioned.

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Replacement Windows Birmingham | Siding | Huntsville ...

ATLANTA Officials with the city of Milledgeville received some good news Thursday from Gov. Nathan Deal.

So did officials in neighboring Hancock County and Sparta.

It came in the form of a press release from the governor announcing that the city has been awarded a grant totaling $678,277 for new sewer lines in the southeast area of town.

The grant was awarded to the city by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through the Georgia Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, and administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA).

Funding from the CDBG will be used to replace aging sewer lines in two targeted areas of the city.

One phase of the project is part of a multi-stage effort involving the installation of new, replacement sewer lines, according to the 2017 CDBG application that city officials submitted.

The total cost of the project is $780,447. A total of $102,170 is the matching portion by the city.

In Hancock County, meanwhile, officials will receive $627,950 in CDBG funding. Funding there will be used to renovate the existing Hancock County Health Department building, located at 516 Boland St. in Sparta.

Some of the particulars of the project in Sparta will consist of exterior improvements, such as Hardi-plank siding, water sealant, roof replacement, window and door replacements, along with interior improvements. Inside the building, officials are planning new central heating and air conditioning, layout changes, handicap accessible restrooms, examination rooms, etc.

The health department renovations total $727,950. The county has agreed to a $100,000 match and leverage of the project.

The city of Milledgeville, as well as Hancock County, were among 59 cities or counties across the state to be awarded various amounts of CDBG funding for assorted projects, Deal said in the press release.

Those awards amounted to a total of $37.5 million.

Georgias economic growth is a result of strong and prosperous communities across the state, Deal said. The CDBG program addresses critical community needs by providing cities and counties with the necessary resources to improve overall quality of life and revitalize the local economies that need it the most. By continuing to invest in our local communities, we are preparing all of Georgias citizens for an even brighter future, as well as solidifying our position as the top state in the nation for business.

The governor said 51 of the cities and counties awarded the grants would receive $32.7 million in CDBG funding for infrastructure improvements, neighborhood revitalization and centers to serve residents in need.

Another $4.8 million in CDBG funding will benefit 10 communities across the state for the Employment Incentive Program and Redevelopment Fund, Deal said.

Such funding would allow those communities to invest in restoration and economic development projects and thus create 446 jobs, as well as generate an additional $117 million from a private investment standpoint, the governor said.

The CDBG program supports projects in Georgias small and rural communities that create jobs and assist citizens with low and moderate incomes, Deal said. Awards ranging from $237,639 to $1 million will be used for specific projects such as water, sewer, drainage or street improvements, revitalization of targeted neighborhoods and construction of facilities such as health, youth and senior centers.

Communities receiving such grants are required to complete their projects within a two-year time period.

Georgia Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Camila Knowles said such grants help lay the groundwork for future growth for various communities and are often leveraged with other funding to help them prepare for economic development opportunities.

These awards are about helping each community achieve its vision and implement plans to create a bright future.

The DCA partners with communities across the state to help them build strong and vibrant neighborhoods, commercial, and industrial areas in various ways. Included is community, economic development, local government assistance, and safe and affordable housing.

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Milledgeville receives nearly $700000 grant for new sewer lines - The Union-Recorder

This press release was orginally distributed by SBWire

Mount Ephraim, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/06/2017 -- Homeowners interested in changing the color of their home at an affordable rate are relying on New Window Factory Sales, Inc. to install vinyl siding on their homes. Vinyl siding in South Jersey offers improved protection for the home with little upkeep, and last for more than triple the amount of time as paint.

Residents who want to change the color of their home, for the most part, have two options to choose from: installing new siding or investing in a new coat of paint. At first glance, many homeowners assume that paint will be a less expensive option. While this may be true in regards to short-term costs, paint usually ends up being significantly more expensive than siding in the long run.

The best professional paint job lasts an average of eight years before it will begin to chip and fade; at this point, homeowners will have to reinvest in their paint again to keep their home looking presentable. On the other hand, vinyl siding will cost more upon installation but will last anywhere from 20 to 50 years according to manufacturer's claims. This means that even the best painting job will last less than half of the time as vinyl siding, along with requiring more maintenance as well.

Residents who are interested in learning more about vinyl siding and windows in South Jersey are encouraged to call New Window Factory Sales, Inc. at 856-546-1120 for a free quote or visit them online at http://newwindowfactory.com for more information.

About New Window Factory Sales, Inc.New Window Factory Sales, Inc. is a custom window manufacturer based out of Mount Ephraim, New Jersey on the Black Horse Pike. Their teams of experts have decades of experience in the fields of custom window building and installation, as well as expertise in a wide variety of exterior renovation options like siding and doors. They can be reached by phone at 856-389-4143. Interested parties can also reach them via e-mail or by filling out a contact form on their website.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/new-window-factory-sales-inc-offers-an-affordable-alternative-to-painting-859399.htm

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New Window Factory Sales, Inc. Offers an Affordable Alternative to Painting - Digital Journal

This press release was orginally distributed by SBWire

Philadelphia, PA -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/06/2017 -- Homeowners looking to repair their home's roof before the brute of hurricane season are relying on C.R. Thompson Roofing, one of the most-trusted roofers in Doylestown, PA since 1909. The local community has counted on C.R. Thompson Roofing to help make sure their home is ready to withstand any weather, whether it's a simple repair, or a complete new installation. The company's industry leading roofers are experienced in roofing, siding, copper restoration, and so much more.

While many parts of Pennsylvania and the rest of the country have already seen the devastating effects of this year's hurricane season, experts predict that rainfall counts are expected to drastically increase as summer comes to a close. The standard hurricane season, which began in June, and ends in November, leaves residents with plenty of time to schedule any roof repair or maintenance before winter comes.

Homeowners are advised to inspect their roofs to see if they are in good condition to survive severe weather. Any leaking or missing roof shingles in Philadelphia can cause more permanent and financially devastating damage to the home. C.R. Thompson Roofing also advises residents to have their gutters inspected, as overflowing can cause exterior damage.

C.R. Thompson Roofing provides Pennsylvania residents with affordable and professional options for roofing repairs and replacements. Those interested in learning more about this C.R. Thompson's services, or scheduling an appointment, are encouraged to visit them online at https://www.crthompsonroofing.com/.

About C.R. Thompson RoofingC.R. Thompson Roofing is a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based roofing company that serves home and commercial property owners in and around Philadelphia and South Jersey. The company can install and repair shingle roofs, slate roofs, rubber roofs, and many others. C.R. Thompson Roofing not only offers roofing services but can also install and repair siding and windows, perform brick pointing, clean gutters, and much more.

To learn more about this top-rated, family-owned and operated roofing company located in Philadelphia, please visit http://www.crthompsonroofing.com/.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/cr-thompson-roofing-helps-residents-prepare-for-hurricane-season-859374.htm

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C.R. Thompson Roofing Helps Residents Prepare for Hurricane ... - Digital Journal

This press release was orginally distributed by SBWire

Mount Ephraim, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/05/2017 -- Residents looking to improve the look of their home and make their household more manageable are turning to New Window Factory Sales, Inc. for all of their vinyl siding needs in South Jersey. Vinyl siding has gained popularity in recent years thanks to its accommodating number of design choices, low-maintenance constitution, and resistance to fading and damage.

For homeowners that are fed up with dented aluminum and stained wooden siding, vinyl is a home-exterior blessing. Vinyl siding in Philadelphia offers a low-maintenance solution to traditional exterior materials because it doesn't require a significant amount of upkeep; homeowners can easily spray down the material during pollen season and remove environmental stains in the blink of an eye, due to a protective layer that many other siding materials do not have. Vinyl siding is the best option for homeowners who aren't interested in investing massive amounts of time and money into their siding.

In addition to being super low-maintenance, vinyl siding can also change the look and dynamic of an older home. The material comes in nearly every color imaginable, and newer designs allow homeowners to manipulate the texture and shape of the siding as well. One of the most popular choices at the moment is the scallop style, meant to imitate the look of the classic Victorian style.

Those interested in learning more about New Window Factory Sales, Inc., and what vinyl siding can do for their home, please visit the company's website today to schedule an appointment http://newwindowfactory.com/.

About New Window Factory Sales, Inc.New Window Factory Sales, Inc. is a custom window manufacturer based out of Mount Ephraim, New Jersey on the Black Horse Pike. Their teams of experts have decades of experience in the fields of custom window building and installation, as well as expertise in a wide variety of exterior renovation options like siding and doors. They can be reached by phone at 856-389-4143. Interested parties can also reach them via e-mail or by filling out a contact form on their website.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/new-window-factory-sales-inc-provides-low-maintenance-vinyl-siding-857923.htm

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New Window Factory Sales, Inc. Provides Low-Maintenance Vinyl Siding - Digital Journal

At Bugners Sewer, Septic & Portable Restrooms, our goal has been to ensure the complete satisfaction of every customer, while offering knowledgeable and friendly service at affordable but competitive rates. Our staff offers quality and reliable services you can count on.

We specialize in professional sewer and septic and vac cleaning services,from maintenance to repairs and everything in between. Our company also offers Line Locating and Diagnosis, Hydro-Jetting, whichuse high-pressure water to clean away any debris in the line, andthe installation of tanks, risers and line-pipe repair. You will find that we have the very best when it comes to portable restrooms. We specialize in weekend events as well asagricultural and commercial jobs.

We have been servicing commercial and residential systems for over 30 years.

Our company is licensed, bonded and insured.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call us toll free at 1-800-560-3977. Thank you for choosing Bugners Sewer, Septic & Portable Restrooms.

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Home | Bugner's Sewer & Septic Cleaning

A septic tank is a watertight chamber made of concrete, fibreglass, PVC or plastic, through which domestic wastewater (sewage) flows for primary treatment.[1] Settling and anaerobic processes reduce solids and organics, but the treatment is only moderate.[1] Septic tank systems are a type of onsite sewage facility (OSSF). They can be used in areas that are not connected to a sewerage system, such as rural areas. The treated liquid effluent is commonly disposed in a septic drain field which provides further treatment. However, groundwater pollution may occur and can be a problem.

The term "septic" refers to the anaerobic bacterial environment that develops in the tank which decomposes or mineralizes the waste discharged into the tank. Septic tanks can be coupled with other onsite wastewater treatment units such as biofilters or aerobic systems involving artificially forced aeration.[2]

The rate of accumulation of sludge - also called septage or fecal sludge - is faster than the rate of decomposition.[1] Therefore, the accumulated fecal sludge must be periodically removed which is commonly done with a vacuum truck.[3]

A septic tank consists of one or more concrete or plastic tanks of between 4000 and 7500 liters (1,000 and 2,000 gallons); one end is connected to an inlet wastewater pipe and the other to a septic drain field. Generally these pipe connections are made with a T pipe, allowing liquid to enter and exit without disturbing any crust on the surface. Today, the design of the tank usually incorporates two chambers, each equipped with a manhole cover, and separated by a dividing wall with openings located about midway between the floor and roof of the tank.

Wastewater enters the first chamber of the tank, allowing solids to settle and scum to float. The settled solids are anaerobically digested, reducing the volume of solids. The liquid component flows through the dividing wall into the second chamber, where further settlement takes place. The excess liquid, now in a relatively clear condition, then drains from the outlet into the septic drain field, also referred to as a leach field, drain field or seepage field, depending upon locality. A percolation test is required prior to installation to ensure the porosity of the soil is adequate to serve as a drain field.[4][5]

The remaining impurities are trapped and eliminated in the soil, with the excess water eliminated through percolation into the soil, through evaporation, and by uptake through the root system of plants and eventual transpiration or entering groundwater or surface water. A piping network, often laid in a stone-filled trench (see weeping tile), distributes the wastewater throughout the field with multiple drainage holes in the network. The size of the drain field is proportional to the volume of wastewater and inversely proportional to the porosity of the drainage field. The entire septic system can operate by gravity alone or, where topographic considerations require, with inclusion of a lift pump. Certain septic tank designs include siphons or other devices to increase the volume and velocity of outflow to the drainage field. These help to fill the drainage pipe more evenly and extend the drainage field life by preventing premature clogging or bioclogging.

An Imhoff tank is a two-stage septic system where the sludge is digested in a separate tank. This avoids mixing digested sludge with incoming sewage. Also, some septic tank designs have a second stage where the effluent from the anaerobic first stage is aerated before it drains into the seepage field.

A properly designed and normally operating septic system is odor-free and, besides periodic inspection and emptying of the septic tank, should last for decades with minimal maintenance.

A well designed and maintained concrete, fiberglass, or plastic tank should last about 50 years.[6]

Waste that is not decomposed by the anaerobic digestion must eventually be removed from the septic tank. Otherwise the septic tank fills up and wastewater containing undecomposed material discharges directly to the drainage field. Not only is this detrimental for the environment but, if the sludge overflows the septic tank into the leach field, it may clog the leach field piping or decrease the soil porosity itself, requiring expensive repairs.

When a septic tank is emptied, the accumulated sludge (septage, also known as fecal sludge[7]) is pumped out of the tank by a vacuum truck. How often the septic tank must be emptied depends on the volume of the tank relative to the input of solids, the amount of indigestible solids, and the ambient temperature (because anaerobic digestion occurs more efficiently at higher temperatures), as well as usage, system characteristics and the requirements of the relevant authority. Some health authorities require tanks to be emptied at prescribed intervals, while others leave it up to the decision of an inspector. Some systems require pumping every few years or sooner, while others may be able to go 1020 years between pumpings. An older system with an undersize tank that is being used by a large family will require much more frequent pumping than a new system used by only a few people. Anaerobic decomposition is rapidly restarted when the tank is refilled.

Like any system, a septic system requires maintenance. The maintenance of a septic system is often the responsibility of the resident or property owner. Some forms of abuse or neglect include the following:

Septic tank additives have been promoted by some manufacturers with the aim to improve the effluent quality from septic tanks, reduce sludge build-up and to reduce odors. However, these additives - which are commonly based on "effective microorganisms" - are usually costly in the longer term and fail to live up to expectations.[10] It has been estimated that in the U.S. more than 1,200 septic system additives were available on the market in 2011.[11] However, very little peer-reviewed and replicated field research exists regarding the efficacy of these biological septic tank additives.[11]

While a properly maintained and located septic tank does not pose any more environmental problems than centralized municipal sewage treatment[citation needed], certain problems can arise with septic tanks in unsuitable locations. Since septic systems require large drainfields, they are not suitable for densely built areas.

Some constituents of wastewater, especially sulfates, under the anaerobic conditions of septic tanks, are reduced to hydrogen sulfide, a pungent and toxic gas. Methane may also be released. Nitrates and organic nitrogen compounds can be reduced to ammonia. Because of the anaerobic conditions, fermentation processes take place, which may generate carbon dioxide and/or methane.[citation needed]

Septic tanks by themselves are ineffective at removing nitrogen compounds that have potential to cause algal blooms in waterways into which affected water from a septic system finds its way. This can be remedied by using a nitrogen-reducing technology,[12] or by simply ensuring that the leach field is properly sited to prevent direct entry of effluent into bodies of water.[citation needed]

The fermentation processes cause the contents of a septic tank to be anaerobic with a low redox potential, which keeps phosphates in a soluble and, thus, mobilized form. Phosphates discharged from a septic tank into the environment can trigger prolific plant growth including algal blooms, which can also include blooms of potentially toxic cyanobacteria.

The soil's capacity to retain phosphorus is usually large enough to handle the load through a normal residential septic tank. An exception occurs when septic drain fields are located in sandy or coarser soils on property adjoining a water body. Because of limited particle surface area, these soils can become saturated with phosphates. Phosphates will progress beyond the treatment area, posing a threat of eutrophication to surface waters.[13]

In areas with high population density, groundwater pollution beyond acceptable limits may occur. Some small towns are experiencing the costs of building very expensive centralized wastewater treatment systems because of this problem, owing to the high cost of extended collection systems. To reduce residential development which might increase the demand to construct an expensive centralized sewerage system, building moratoriums and limits on the subdivision of property are often imposed. Ensuring existing septic tanks are functioning properly can also be helpful for a limited time, but becomes less effective as a primary remediation strategy as population density increases.

In areas adjacent to water bodies with fish or shellfish intended for human consumption, improperly maintained and failing septic systems contribute to pollution levels that can force harvest restrictions and/or commercial or recreational harvest closures.

In North America, approximately 25 percent of the population relies on septic tanks, including some suburbs and small towns as well as rural areas.[citation needed]Indianapolis is one example of a large city where many of the city's neighborhoods still rely on separate septic systems.[14] In Europe, septic systems are generally limited to rural areas.

In the European Union the EN 12566 standard provides the general requirements for packaged and site assembled treatment plants used for domestic wastewater treatment.

Part 1 (EN 12566-1) is for septic tanks which are prefabricated or factory manufactured and made of polyethylene, glass reinforced polyester, polypropylene, PVC-U, steel or concrete. Part 4 (EN 12566-4) regulates septic tanks that are assembled in situ from prefabricated kits, generally of concrete construction. Certified septic tanks of both types must pass a standardized hydraulic test to assess their ability to retain suspended solids within the system. Additionally, their structural adequacy in relevant ground conditions is assessed in terms of water-tightness, treatment efficiency, and structural behaviour.[15]

In France, about 4 million households (or 20% of the population) are using on-site wastewater disposal systems (lassainissement non collectif),[16] including septic tanks (fosse septique). The legal framework for regulating the construction and maintenance of septic systems was introduced in 1992 and updated in 2009 and 2012 with the intent to establish the technical requirements applicable to individual sewerage systems.[17] Septic tanks in France are subject to inspection by SPANC (Service Public dAssainissement Non Collectif), a professional body appointed by the respective local authorities to enforce wastewater collection laws, at least once in four years. Following the introduction of EN 12566, the discharge of effluent directly into ditches or watercourses is prohibited, unless the effluent meets prescribed standards.[18]

According to the Census of Ireland 2011, 27.5% of Irish households (i.e. about 440,000 households), with the majority in rural areas, use an individual septic tank.[19]

Following a European Court of Justice judgment made against Ireland in 2009 that deemed the country non-compliant with the Waste Framework Directive in relation to domestic wastewaters disposed of in the countryside, the Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012 was passed in order to regulate wastewater discharges from domestic sources that are not connected to the public sewer network and to provide arrangements for registration and inspection of existing individual domestic wastewater treatment systems.[20][21]

Additionally, a code of practice has been developed by the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate the planning and construction of new septic tanks, secondary treatment systems, septic drain fields and filter systems.[22] Direct discharge of septic tank effluent into groundwater is prohibited in Ireland, while the indirect discharge via unsaturated subsoil into groundwater, e.g. by means of a septic drain field, or the direct discharge into surface water is permissible in accordance with a Water Pollution Act license.[22] Registered septic tanks must be desludged by an authorized contractor at least once a year; the removed fecal sludge is disposed of, either to a managed municipal wastewater treatment facility or to agriculture provided that nutrient management regulations are met.[22]

Since 2015, only certain property owners in England and Wales with septic tanks or small packaged sewage treatment systems need to register their systems, and either apply for a permit or qualify for an exemption with the Environment Agency.[23] Permits need to be granted to systems that discharge more than a certain volume of effluent in a given time or that discharge effluent directly into sensitive areas (e.g., some groundwater protection zones).[24] In general, permits are not granted for new septic tanks that discharge directly into surface waters.

In Northern Ireland, the Department of the Environment must give permission for all wastewater discharges where it is proposed that the discharge will go to a waterway or soil infiltration system. The discharge consent will outline conditions relating to the quality and quantity of the discharge in order to ensure the receiving waterway or the underground aquifer can absorb the discharge.[25]

The Water Environment Regulations 2011 regulate the registration of septic tank systems in Scotland. Proof of registration is required when new properties are being developed or existing properties change ownership.[26]

In Australia, septic tank design and installation requirements are regulated by State Governments, through Departments of Health and Environmental Protection Agencies. Regulation may include Codes of Practice[27][28] and Legislation.[29] Regulatory requirements for the design and installation of septic tanks commonly references Australian Standards (1547 and 1546). Capacity requirements for septic tanks may be outlined within Codes of Practice, and can vary between states.

In many council districts (e.g. Sunshine Coast) septic systems have been banned and need to be replaced with much more expensive small scale sewage treatment systems that actively pump air into the tank producing an aerobic environment.[citation needed] Septic systems need to be replaced with any new building applications, regardless of how well the old system performed.[citation needed]

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, in the United States it is the home owners' responsibility to maintain their septic systems.[30] Anyone who disregards this requirement will eventually be faced with costly repairs when solids escape the tank and clog the clarified liquid effluent disposal system.

In Washington State, for example, a "shellfish protection district" or "clean water district" is a geographic service area designated by a county to protect water quality and tideland resources. The district provides a mechanism to generate local funds for water quality services to control non-point sources of pollution, such as septic system maintenance. The district also serves as an educational resource, calling attention to the pollution sources that threaten shellfish growing waters.[31]

Excerpt from:
Septic tank - Wikipedia

Vero Beach's hybrid septic-sewer systems drastically cut the cost of hooking homes up to sewer. Video by Jim Waymer. June 1, 2016. Wochit

Cornelius Kossen (left), of the city of Stuart Public Works, Utilities Division, and Holwinster Alexis install a grinder tank at a home on Osceola Street on Feb. 9, 2015, in Stuart. The system grinds sewage which is pumped through a 1.25-inch hose also buried in the yard into an established sewer line.(Photo: ERIC HASERT/TCPALM)Buy Photo

ABOUT THIS SERIESThis report is part of the Troubled Water project produced by the Carnegie-Knight News21 initiative, a national investigative reporting project headquartered at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University. TCPalm provided the local information.

Most of the 43 million Americans who rely on privatewells dont know if their water is safe to drink because unlike the regulation of public water systems, there is no government monitoring of wells.

The responsibility lies with owners, many of whom never test their wells because of cost, disinterest and a lack of knowledge about what could be in groundwater.

Yet their wells could be contaminated by substances such as arsenic or uranium from bedrock, nitrate and manure runoff from farming, or human waste from the well owners own septic systems.

Water quality experts Leslie DeSimone and Bruce Lindsey of the U.S. Geological Survey's National Water-Quality Assessment Program told News21the water in millions of wells is likely to be contaminated. In 2009, DeSimone conducted a study for the USGS and found that 23 percent of surveyed private wells were contaminated. She said these figures remain reasonably representative.

Lindsey added that its more likely that (groundwater) concentrations are moving slightly higher.

National figures like 23 percent mask the fact that some places are better than that and others are worse, Lindsey said. Especially for private well owners, the responsibility is almost always on them to test and treat their water, which many don't do.

MostFloridians are served by public water systems covered byfederal and state safe drinking water laws that require routine testing; but about 12 percent gettheir water from private wells or "limited-use" public water systems, such as wells shared by apartment house residents.

Under an arrangement with regional water management districts, state health department offices in Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties inspect the construction of private wells andlimited use public wells.

After that, the health department recommends but doesn't require private well owners have their systems inspected once a year for contaminants including bacteria, arsenic, radon and lead.

The department does inspect limited-use public wells annually and requires owners to test for bacteria every three months.

"We don't see a lot of problems," said Todd Reinhold, Martin County environmental health director. "If bacteria is found in a well, we'll require the owner to add disinfectant."

Jane Disney of Maines MDI Biological Laboratory saidgetting people to test their wells is an unending challenge in high-risk areas, where they could be drinking anything from bovine feces to arsenic.

We wont let parents bring a baby home from the hospital unless there's a car seat in the car, but you can take a child home to contaminated well water, Disney said. People either need to see an economic crisis or a public health crisis or something that they can point to before they take action.

Read more: For the complete Troubled Water project, visit troubledwater.news21.com.

We dont drink the water, Surry, Maine, resident Mike Miltner said of his private well. He added that he does absolutely nothing to filter the water.(Photo: Fionnuala O'Leary/News21)

Mike Miltner, a carpenter who lives with his wife and two children in rural Surry, Maine, told News21he knows the family'swell contains naturally occurring arsenic and radon. But he said they can't afford to spend anywhere from between $5,000 to $10,000 on a well filtration system.

Many Americans who get their drinking water from private wells also dispose of their human waste in septic systems on their property. Only seven states regularly monitor septic systems after installation. When septic systems fail, sewage can back up into homes, flood backyards and sink to the base of wells, contaminating drinking water.

Personally, Im concerned, said Zachary Lowenstein, an environmental scientist with the Environmental Protection Agency. We need that data to talk about what the concern is and where in the country we may or may not have a strong septic population. So its really just a big data gap right now.

In Florida, the health department inspects all septic systems when they're installed. After that:

Calls from neighbors about smelly septic system, possibly from a faulty drain field, are common.

"We probably get a call a day," Reinhold said. "Of course, not all are valid."

In 2010, the Florida Legislature approved a law requiring septic tank inspectionsevery five years, but repealed the measurejust two years later.

In areas where proper wastewater treatment is rare, regulation is not enforced "because a lot of people just cant afford to get a system that works, said Mark Elliott, a civil engineer and researcher at the University of Alabama. In the South in particular, he added, Many of them are living in conditions similar to before outhouses came in 120 years ago.

Leslie Bean is from Wilcox County, Ala., where most rural residents rely on septic systems that often overflow and spill into the source of their drinking water.(Photo: Michael M. Santiago/News21)

Id rather drink water of the creek than drink the water from here, Leslie Bean said of his community in Wilcox County, Alabama.

Although rural areas generally have a high rate of domestic well use, the numbers vary. In New Hampshire, more than 46 percent of people rely on wells compared to 17 percent in West Virginia and just 6 percent in South Dakota, according to a national sampling of states by News21.

In New England, 55 percent of people in Vermont and 57 percent in Maine have domestic wells.

In addition to filtration systems for wells, home septic systems can be expensive. New systems cost between $2,000 and $10,000. Fixing pipes and tanks as they age can cost more.

Altogether, this can create an insurmountable financial burden for low-income families. And maintaining a working septic system is especially difficult for families in places with poor soil conditions and insufficient drainage.

Several septic-to-sewer programs are underway along the Treasure Coast, mostly to keep contaminants out of the St. Lucie River and Indian River Lagoon rather than for human health concerns.

About 120,000 septic tanks are in use alongthe Treasure Coast.There are as many as 600,000 septic tanks in the five counties along the Indian River Lagoon, including those on the Treasure Coast.

Septic tank pollution contributed to the 2016fish kills in the Banana River and the northern lagoon. While septic systems contributed to the algae blooms in the St. Lucie River last summer, the algae came from Lake Okeechobee discharges.

News21 reporters Jenna Miller and Fraser Allan Best and TCPalm reporter Tyler Treadway contributed to this article.

Read or Share this story: http://www.tcpalm.com/story/news/investigations/2017/09/06/news-21-wells-and-septics/553222001/

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Troubled Water: Wells aren't regulated and septic tanks aren't inspected - TCPalm

Officials are becoming concerned about some failing household septic systems in neighboring Nimishillen Township.

LOUISVILLE Louisville officials are expressing concern about failing septic systems at a cluster of homes in neighboring Nimishillen Township.

While the city has a sanitary sewer trunk line near the area of Ravenna Avenue and Brookside Street NE, no one is rushing to have the affected homes connected.

"We have sanitary sewer directly across the street from these homes," City Manager E. Thomas Ault said. "Eventually these people will need sanitary sewer. There will be some ongoing discussions on this. We are not looking to impose anything on them. The septics are leeching into Louisville. We are getting the problem."

While the identifiedproperties with the failing septic systems are on the west side of Ravenna Avenue NE, the city's sewer line is on the east side of the street, which also is state Route 44.

The townshiphomeowners "want no part of annexation," Ault said. "I don't want to get the township trustees all fired up. We have not had any discussions with the township on this topic yet. Typically, when properties are contiguous, we do consider annexation. We are willing to work with the township to resolve this in a reasonable way."

Health concerns

Officials with the Stark County Health Department acknowledge there are some failing septic systems in the area.

"We have to figure out how we are going to take care of these issues," said Paul DePasquale, the agency's environmental health director.

"We are working with interested parties to figure out what is the best option. We are looking for viable options for these homeowners. Anytime untreated septic (waste) rises to the surface of the ground, it is considered a public health nuisance."

At a recent work session, city officials were briefed on the status of the septic system concern. Three of the six properties apparently have ample space to install new septic systems. However, the other three properties are too small to accommodate new septic systems.

"This whole area, for more than a decade, the Stark County Health Department has been scrutinizing because of failing septic systems," City Councilman Richard Guiley said. "We are being told the Stark County Health Department is taking a stronger approach."

Township's view

The possibility of losing the properties to the city through annexation looms, said Nimishillen Township Trustee Todd Bosley.

"It is our hope they can replace their septic systems without tying into the expensive sewage system of Louisville," Bosley said. "Their monthly rates are high. And I don't see them going down in the future."

For the homes with the smaller lots, Bosley suggested installing something like a household sewage treatment system.

"You would have to put in an aeration system," he said. "It is clean water that comes out. That is going to be a lot less expensive to the residents."

When told that a Health Department sanitarian had a discussion with a representative of Louisville about the septic system concern, Bosley took issue.

"At no time was I ever contacted about this matter," Bosley said. "Not one time did we get a call. This whole thing is disappointing to me. It can solved without the city of Louisville being involved."

But at the moment, no action has been taken.

"We haven't ordered anything yet because we are still researching what will be the best solution for these homeowners," DePasquale said.

Connecting the Nimishillen Township properties to the Louisville sewer line on the east side of Ravenna Avenue NE might be cost prohibitive. Louisville officials extended a sewer trunk line northwardin this area recently to accommodate what was envisioned to be future development, possibly commercial.

"I believe that pipe is about 18 feet deep," Ault said. "You can't just connect each house into a sewer trunk line that deep. We don't know which direction this will go yet. We know the County Health Department will or has sent some notices to some people."

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Louisville concerned about failing septic systems - Massillon Independent

Harveys filthy floodwaters pose significant dangers to human safety and the environment even after water levels drop, experts say.

Houston already was notorious for sewer overflows following rainstorms. Now the system, with 40 wastewater treatment plants across the far-flung metropolis, faces an unprecedented challenge.

State officials said several dozen sewer overflows had been reported in areas affected by the hurricane, including in Corpus Christi. Private septic systems in rural areas could fail as well.

Also in the noxious mix are spilled fuel, runoff from waste sites, lawn pesticides and pollutants from the regions many petroleum refineries and chemical plants.

Houstons mayor said Tuesday that Americas fourth-largest city was open for business, but with many areas under water and some residents not able to get to work, many huge problems remained.

The potentially toxic water is a big one. Floodwaters have inundated at least seven Superfund toxic waste sites near Houston and some may be damaged, though Environmental Protection Agency officials have yet to assess the full extent of what occurred.

The Houston area has more than a dozen Superfund sites, among the nations most intensely contaminated places. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott told CNN that the EPA is working on some of them already, but they have restraints on their ability to check out some of them just simply because of the water.

Meanwhile, repairs continued on the water treatment plant in Beaumont, about 85 miles from Houston, which failed during flooding. Houston said its water was safe to drink. Keeping it that way will require stepped-up chemical treatments because of the flooding.

Its prudent to pump more chlorine and other disinfectants into drinking water systems in emergencies like this, to prevent outbreaks of diseases such as cholera and dysentery, said David Andrews, senior scientist with the Environmental Working Group, an advocacy organization. But doing so poses its own risks, he said.

Theres often more organic matter sewage, plants, farm runoff in reservoirs or other freshwater sources during heavy rains. When chlorine reacts with those substances, it forms chemicals called trihalomethanes, which can boost the risk of cancer and miscarriages, Andrews said.

Right now its a tough time to deal with that, when youre just trying to clean the water up and make sure its not passing illnesses through the system, he said. But we should do better at keeping contamination out of source water in the first place.

A report by the nonprofit research group Climate Central said more than 10 billion gallons of sewage was released along the East Coast during Superstorm Sandy.

The Houston Chronicle reported last year that Houston averages more than 800 sewage overflows a year and is negotiating an agreement with the EPA that would require system improvements.

A Texas A&M analysis of floodwater samples from the Houston area revealed levels of E. coli bacteria that signal the presence of fecal matter 125 times higher than is safe for swimming. Even wading through such tainted water could cause infections and sickness, said Terry Gentry, an associate professor and specialist in detecting tiny disease-producing organisms.

Precautions should be taken by anyone involved in cleanup activities or any others who may be exposed to floodwaters, said a statement from the EPA.

Hazards will remain as waters gradually recede. Puddles, tires and other pools of standing water will attract mosquitoes, which can spread viruses such as West Nile and Zika.

Much of the dirty water will flow through rivers, creeks and bayous into Galveston Bay, renowned for its oyster reefs, abundant wildlife and seagrass meadows. Then officials will need to monitor shellfish for signs of bacterial contamination.

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Harvey's floodwaters are a foul mix of sewage, chemicals - Omaha World-Herald