Water resources too valuable to loosen septic regs

A requirement that all septic systems in the county use pressurized distribution is on the chopping block as the Flathead City-County Health Board reviews significant updates to its septic regulations and building standards.

The amended document proposes stripping the uniform mandate, which would allow gravity septic systems. Gravity systems move sewage through pipes to a drain field, where it flows with the help of gravity, whereas pressure systems require pumps to more evenly distribute effluent.

The change in regulations would particularly benefit homes in remote locations without access to electricity required to run septic pumps. Proponents argue that gravity systems would still need to meet Department of Environmental Quality standards and that most other Montana counties allow them.

But the Flathead isn’t like most other places.

Northwest Montana is home to the most lakes in Montana, with more than 500 natural waterbodies and 3,000 miles of streams in the region. The abundance of fresh, pristine water is deeply valued by all residents and a piston for the region’s economic engine.

Experts note that gravity systems, while easy to maintain, may not be ideal for places like Flathead County with high groundwater and plentiful surface water. Among them is former county Health Officer Joe Russell, who led the department for about two decades. Russell warned the board that gravity systems pose issues that could lead to “creeping” septic failures that threaten water quality over time.

“We (Flathead County) set the standard for the state for compliance with non-degradation laws,” Russell said of establishing the pressure system requirement. Eliminating the regulation would be “a step backwards,” he said.

Protecting public and environmental health should be the top priority for the health board in all matters. There’s no room for regression.

That doesn’t mean gravity systems should fall under an outright ban — there are places where that system may be the best available option. But instead of using a butcher knife to amend septic regulations, the board should reach for a scalpel.

The appropriate mechanism to accommodate gravity systems in places where pressure systems aren’t feasible is through the department’s deviation process, which allows the health officer to review requests on a case-by-case basis. If a homeowner can present a compelling case why a pressure system isn’t possible, a deviation could be granted so long as there are no negative effects on the environment.

Currently, deviations are only allowed for replacement systems, but the regulations could be expanded to allow for new builds as well.

There’s no need to gut the regulations that have proven over time to protect public and environmental health while also accommodating robust growth in the county. Don’t fix what’s already working.