Submitted by Willem Jacobson
Do you have questions about proper septic system maintenance? Don’t miss the Bruce Peninsula Biosphere Association’s (BPBA) two upcoming workshops!
Since 2017, with support from the MECP, the BPBA has assisted homeowners with properties near important watercourses to improve their septic systems. The goal of BPBA’s Six Streams Project is to restore ecosystems through improving water quality in Judges Creek, Stokes River, Swan Lake Drain and Black Creek. Underperforming, outdated or damaged septic systems impair water quality through introducing nutrients that can lead to algae blooms in the areas of the Six Streams and in Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.
A September 2019 report by the federation of Ontario Cottage Owners (FOCA) referred to in a recent Cottage Life magazine article states that there are 250,000 waterfront properties in Ontario. Fifty six per cent of these systems were installed twenty years ago and many are outdated and not properly maintained. Another study shared in that Cottage Life article stated that 41 per cent of systems inspected had major deficiencies. FOCA is advocating for municipal re-inspection programs.
To mitigate the impact of septic systems on our watercourses, the BPBA is proud to be able to provide assistance to homeowners through covering the cost of a set number of pump outs and inspections done by Bruce Peninsula Septic Service. The BPBA offers ten $4,000 incentive payments and works with Bernie Hellyer to assist in the replacement of a failing septic system if a problem is revealed in the inspection.
As part of the program, we will be hosting two workshops, the first on July 29th, 9:00 am, at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 202 in Lion’s Head and at a location to be specified in the last two weeks of August. The workshop will feature a live pump-out demonstration by Bruce Peninsula Septic Service, a presentation on the Biosphere’s mission and on best management practices of septic systems followed by a Q&A
These workshops are a part of the Biosphere’s efforts to improve water quality throughout the region by educating the public, with thanks to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks for their generous funding.
For more information, please email info@bpba.ca. For information about our other homeowner assistance projects or activities please become a member or sign up for our newsletter at BPBA.ca.
