ABSTRACT
One of the key concerns associated with the design and usage of septic tank systems is the potential for inadvertently polluting ground water. The chapter begins with the identification of constituents of potential concern in the effluents from septic tank systems. Mechanisms of ground water contamination from septic tank systems are addressed, including the migration of pollutants through soil and ground water systems. Contaminants originating from system cleaning can also contribute to the ground water pollution potential of septic tank systems. Ground water degradation has occurred in many areas having high densities of septic tank systems, with the degradation exemplified by high concentrations of nitrates, bacteria, and other contaminants. In considering ground water contamination from septic tank systems, attention must be directed to the transport and fate of pollutants from the soil absorption system through underlying soils and into ground water.
