September 30, 2013

Commissioner Frank

Carbone related that State Assemblyman Goicoechea will be conducting a meeting later this month in Pahrump regarding AB419. He hoped that everyone would attend and learn more about the implications of this Bill. It was decided that AB419 and the Groundwater Management Plan will now become a standard agenda item to be addressed at all future Water Board meetings. 10. (03:25:06) For Possible Action – Presentation and discussion about nitrates and septic tanks in the County: Best practices, common problems, and education and outreach to septic owners. Darrell Lacy related that the Pahrump Basin has been designated a “nitrate restricted area”. He realized recently that most people with septic systems know very little about their maintenance. A septic system must be managed properly in order to work effectively. A poorly maintained septic can threaten the underground water supply too. The Nevada Department of Health regulates septic systems. Their approval is necessary when installing a new system. The biology of the septic tank must be maintained in order for it to operate properly. Chemicals and household cleaning products can harm the bacteria in the system that breaks down the sludge. The only thing that should be flushed down the toilet is sewage and septic “friendly” toilet paper. Heavy paper products cannot be broken down and will clog the system. Non-biodegradable items will settle to the bottom of the tank along with some amount of sludge so that the tank will eventually need to be pumped clean. A typical septic is anaerobic. Some systems will fail due to improper location or improperly placed leach fields. Donna Lamm excused herself from the meeting due to personal issues. 7 NYE COUNTY WATER DISTRICT September 30, 2013 Education of the public is critical. The Board can decide how this might be implemented. Septic pumping is not normally required when buying or selling a home in Nye County unless it is specifically requested in the terms of a sale.