Septic Systems Around
Our Watershed
Ageing septic systems are a huge threat to future water quality in the Flathead Watershed.
Issues surrounding outdated onsite septic systems have long been a problem in both Lake and Flathead counties, and it is not likely to go away soon. Many homes on Flathead Lake and watershed now have septic systems that are well over 50 years old.
Wastewater Treatment in the Flathead Valley
Hooked up.
< 30 % of homes and businesses are serviced by a community wastewater treatment plant in Lake and Flathead Counties.
Treated on-site.
+ 70% of us treat our wastewater from our homes and businesses with an on-site septic system/drain field.
Flushed into or on.
+ 90K people flush their toilet, bathwater, and wash water into or on the ground in the Flathead Watershed.
Thousands over 50 yrs old.
Researchers estimate that thousands of septic systems in the Flathead Watershed are over 50 years old and no longer able to treat wastewater.
Flathead Lakers Advocacy
Flathead Basin Commission launched a new committee to address septic leachate problems around the Flathead watershed. The Flathead Lakers are excited to be participating, and working on this important issue. The partners are working with researchers, environmental health departments, geographic information systems departments and others to identify ways to make septic issues a priority in our local community and government.
Additionally, with support from Confederated Salish Kootenai Tribes, the Flathead Lakers submitted a letter to state leaders requesting an amendment to the draft of the Montana Water Rights Protection Act that would provide the Tribes with authorization to use a portion of their Trust Fund to improve the treatment of wastewater throughout the reservation. The letter asks a portion of the act be slightly amended to say the Tribes may “plan, design, construct, maintain, and replace community water distribution and wastewater treatment facilities including onsite septic systems on the reservation.” Language in the draft currently omits “including onsite septic systems.”
Group seeks amendment to Water Rights Protection Act, Kianna Gardner, Daily Inter Lake | May 22, 2020
Understanding your septic system
Pumping and inspecting your septic system every couple years can help your system run longer, save money, and protect water quality in the Flathead watershed.
Learn more about your how your septic system works, how to maintain it, tips to keep it functioning properly, and signs of a problem on our page, Understanding Your Septic System.