LOCKHART - The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Plum Creek Watershed Partnership and Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board will present a series of septic system workshops for homeowners to take place in September and October 2014.
The workshops are free to the public and will be held at three different locations to best suit the needs of attendees.
Workshop 1 – September 15 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the First Lockhart Baptist Church, 315 West Prairie Lea Street, Lockhart, TX
Workshop 2 – September 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Plum Creek Golf Course Pavilion, 750 Kohlers Crossing, Kyle, TX
Workshop 3 – October 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Hays County Extension Office, 1253 Civic Center Circle, San Marcos, TX
"The two-hour course in Lockhart will provide attendees with a basic understanding of the operational and maintenance activities of conventional and aerobic septic systems," said Nick Dornak, Plum Creek Watershed Coordinator. "The two full-day courses in Kyle and San Marcos will go much more in depth, particularly with regard to aerobic systems. While these courses will not certify individuals to maintain their septic system, they will give homeowners the knowledge and tools to ensure overall system safety, function and maintenance."
Dornak said the topics covered will include treatment processes, health and safety considerations, an overview of how to inspect and maintain the system, and instruction on how activities in the home can impact the system.
"The course provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, including when to pump out a tank and what can and cannot go down the drain," he said.
Seating is limited, so registration is required. To register, contact Dornak at 512-213-7389 or ndornak [at] plumcreekwatershed [dot] org.
Septic system owners in Hays County wishing to become certified to maintain their own systems should consult the Texas Onsite Wastewater Association website to view the schedule for the 16-hour Basic Maintenance Provider Course, which will certify them to maintain their system.
Funding for the development and support of the Plum Creek Watershed Protection Plan is through a Clean Water Act grant provided by the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.