BOISE, ID – Governor Brad Little has proclaimed September 15–19 as Idaho SepticSmart Week, emphasizing the importance of proper septic system care to protect public health and water resources.
According to the Governor’s proclamation, more than 4,600 septic permits were issued in Idaho in fiscal year 2024. State officials stress that proper operation and maintenance of septic systems is essential to ensure wastewater is treated correctly and does not contaminate drinking water, groundwater, or surface water.
The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) noted that septic system failures can pose significant health and environmental risks. Public health, agriculture, and communities across the state rely on clean water for economic prosperity, making routine septic care a statewide priority.
DEQ shared several tips for homeowners to help keep systems functioning properly:
- Inspect and pump septic systems every three years.
- Flush only human waste and toilet paper—avoid using toilets as trash cans.
- Never pour oil, grease, or harsh chemicals down drains.
- Protect the drainfield by avoiding parking, planting trees too close, or diverting rainwater onto it.
- Conserve water to reduce stress on the system and minimize the risk of malfunction.
“Public health and the environment are two of Idaho’s most precious resources,” the proclamation states, calling on all Idahoans to learn more about septic system maintenance.
For more details on septic care, residents can visit epa.gov/septic.
