SEPTIC FIELD USES

So we have a spot in our yard set aside for septic field, but what can we put on our fields? They can't be used for parking spots or driveways as this compacts the soils and won't let them breathe. This is also the reason they can't be paved or covered with a stone or concrete patio. Covering them with fill to deeply will have the same effect. Crossing over them occasionaly with farm equipment or vehicles should be ok, but hooved farm animals should be fenced out.
The best cover for them is plain grass. Easy to maintain and easy to see if you have a trouble spot. Plants and trees with water seeking roots can cause problems when the lines get plugged with them. Avoid willows. Grape growers will notice excess vegetation in their crop in the field area and planting too close should be avoided.  If you notice that just one line seems to be green in your field area it can frequently be rectified by releveling the box that distributes flows to each line (d-box). Your field may also have other service boxes and tank access covers which should be kept at grade and have their locations marked on a site plan. This will be invaluable if there is a problem or if you neglect routine service. Remember to also keep your main water shutoff visible.
A couple of times each year I run across someone who has entered their septic tank for some reason. Don't do it! People die every year in septic tanks and other confined spaces with hazardous gases and oxygen deficient atmospheres. Leave it to someone with special equipment. Ventilation fans and pre set up extraction equipment are some of the precautions which must be taken by those entering such spaces.
Some previous VOHINO articles can be viewed on our site at http://www.naramata.biz

By Gary Dicken, rowp