What is the primary concern when locating a septic system near waterways?

The primary concern when locating a septic system near waterways is preventing contamination of the waterway. Septic systems treat wastewater through a series of biological and physical processes, but if these systems are not properly designed or maintained, there is a risk that harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients can escape into nearby water sources. This could lead to a variety of environmental and public health issues, such as water pollution and the potential for waterborne diseases.

When assessing the placement of a septic system, regulatory guidelines often emphasize maintaining a safe distance from bodies of water to minimize the risk of contamination. This ensures that any leachate or effluent from the septic system is adequately filtered by the soil before it has a chance to reach the waterway, protecting both the ecosystem and surrounding communities from adverse impacts.

In contrast, while issues like effluent smell, maintenance costs, and land use disputes are valid considerations in septic system planning, they are not as critical as the potential for contaminating nearby water sources, which poses a direct threat to human health and the environment.