education: upper coosa environmental practicum spring 2009
conasauga river alliance community onsite wastewater treatment
Katy Bridges
The Conasauga River Alliance is leading an ongoing project to reduce non-point source pollution of the Conasauga River. The organization has discovered that one source of the contamination is damaged or obsolete onsite wastewater (septic) systems in Murray and Whitfield Counties. The Alliance recently requested assistance in evaluating and promoting alternatives to conventional onsite systems.
My assignment is to determine the best and most economically feasible alternative to conventional onsite systems. Through research and interviews, I hope to discover an inexpensive and long-lasting alternative to conventional systems that also adhere to state onsite wastewater management regulations. Also, onsite systems must be maintained properly to ensure lasting efficiency. Informational brochures and pamphlets need to be updated and modified to be easily understandable and appealing to the homeowners. Lastly, there is a Hispanic community in these counties who need assistance in overcoming the language barrier. Therefore, all informational and contractual documentation will be translated to Spanish.
The end goal of these efforts is a healthier environment and community in the Conasauga River Basin. Successful new developments or policies that are adopted in this region may be used in regions with similar situations.
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