Septic tank maintenance is often ignored but imperative to keeping many households healthy.

To bring light to this subject and encourage homeowners and communities to take better care of septic tank systems, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has designated Sept. 16-20 SepticSmart Week.

“SepticSmart Week is a good opportunity for homeowners and those with septic systems to think about how to maintain the system to prevent future problems,” said Gary L. Hawkins, University of Georgia water resource management and policy specialist and assistant professor in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences.

Working septic systems play an important role in protecting Georgia’s waterways from harmful bacteria and other pollutants, Hawkins said. No one wants to think about their septic system, but proactively working to protect them not only saves money but protects nearby streams, rivers and aquatic wildlife, he said.

Homeowners can visit the UGA Cooperative Extension water resources website for more information regarding septic systems in Georgia.

For more information on maintaining your septic system and protecting municipal sewer systems, please contact your local UGA Extension agent by calling 1-800-ASK-UGA1.

Sadie Lackey is a student writer for the CAES Office of Communications and Creative Services.