Resources

• Septic tank monitoring and maintenance are well described in the easy-to-read Understanding and Caring for Your Standard Septic Tank System from the Thurston County Public Health & Social Services Department, (360) 754-3800.

• For a more in-depth look at conventional home septic systems and some available alternatives try: On-Site Wastewater Systems - Technical Bulletin No. 6 or from: The Green Center, Inc., 237 Hatchville Road, East Falmouth, MA 02536.

• Take the mystery out of the maintenance and monitoring of your septic system with these comprehensive homeowner's manuals - Pressure Distribution, Gravity, Mound, Sand Filter, Proprietary Device. For more information or to order print versions, contact the Washington Sea Grant at 206-543-0733

• Dry toilet technologies, graywater systems, compliance with local health regulations, and the related community water politics are highlighted in: We All Live Downstream - A Guide Book to Clean Water from the National Water Center, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

• Water quality concerns for rural householders maintaining livestock are addressed in Water Quality Guide - Recommended Pollution Control Practices for Homeowners and Small Farm Operators Publication No. 87-30 available from the Department of Ecology (360) 407-7472.