Introduction
Cesspools are a type of waste disposal system that can be common on older properties that are not connected to a municipal sewer system. However, like any mechanical system, cesspools can experience problems and require maintenance or upgrades. When a cesspool fails, it can have serious consequences for both the property owner and the environment. In this case study, we will examine a cesspool upgrade project in Southampton, NY, where the property owner faced a failing cesspool and the challenges of securing grants and approvals for the project.
Background
The property owner of a waterfront home in Southampton, NY contacted Bridgewater Environmental with a problem: their cesspool was failing and causing toilets to overflow, emptying into Peconic Bay. The property owner, a French foreign national, faced additional challenges in securing grants and obtaining the necessary permits and approvals for the project. The homeowner, who was pregnant at the time, was also impacted by the failing system.
Solution
Bridgewater Environmental worked with the property owner to secure the necessary grants and approvals for the project, including wetland permitting. As part of the solution, the team designed and installed an Innovative / Advanced Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (I/A OWTS) to replace the failing cesspool. I/A OWTS are a type of advanced septic system that use innovative technologies to treat and disperse wastewater. These systems are designed to be more efficient and effective at treating and dispersing wastewater, which can reduce the risk of future septic system failures and improve water quality in the surrounding area.
The installation of the I/A OWTS required a thorough understanding of the property’s soil and topography, as well as the local regulations and requirements for septic system installations. The team at Bridgewater Environmental has extensive experience in these areas, allowing us to design and install a system that would effectively treat and disperse the property’s wastewater.
Outcome
Thanks to the efforts of Bridgewater Environmental, the property owner was able to secure $45,000 in grants and rebates, fully covering the cost of the cesspool upgrade project. The new I/A OWTS has effectively resolved the problem of overflowing toilets and discharging into Peconic Bay. The homeowner can now have peace of mind knowing that their septic system is functioning properly and safely.
In addition to resolving the immediate problem of the failing cesspool, the I/A OWTS also provides long-term benefits for the property owner and the environment. These systems are designed to be more efficient and effective at treating and dispersing wastewater, which can reduce the risk of future septic system failures and improve water quality in the surrounding area.
Conclusion
Upgrading a failing cesspool can be a complex and challenging process, but it is essential to address these issues in order to protect both the property owner and the environment. In this case study, Bridgewater Environmental was able to successfully navigate the challenges faced by the property owner and design and install an I/A OWTS that effectively treated and dispersed the property’s wastewater. The new system not only resolved the immediate problem of the failing cesspool, but it also provided long-term benefits for the property owner and the environment.
