Septic in Des Allemands, LA

Des Allemands feels like a small-town secret tucked along the river, with friendly faces and yards that back up to leafy, shady lots. If you're here as a homeowner or someone looking to buy, you'll hear a lot about septic systems—and that's for good reason. In this part of St. Charles Parish, on-site wastewater treatment is the practical, common-sense choice that keeps homes comfortable and neighborhoods connected.

Is septic common in Des Allemands? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home?

Yes. Septic systems are the norm for many Des Allemands homes, especially where city sewer lines don't reach or aren't practical to extend. If you're buying, you should expect to see a septic tank and a drain field as part of the home's wastewater solution. When you're evaluating a property, ask for the septic permit history, the tank size, the date of the last pump, and whether there's a current inspection report. A well-maintained system can last for decades, but a neglected one can lead to costly repairs or sudden backups—things you'll want to know before you close.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Des Allemands

• Rural layout and lot spacing: Many homes sit on individual lots where running a new sewer line isn't straightforward or economical.
• Availability and cost of public sewer: Central sewer service isn't always available in all parts of Des Allemands, and extending lines can be expensive for municipalities and homeowners alike.
• Groundwater and soil realities: The local soils and water table influence how well waste can be treated in a shared system, making on-site treatment a practical solution in many neighborhoods.
• Quick, practical wastewater management: Septic systems let homes manage waste on-site, with a grid of tanks and drain fields designed to fit typical Louisiana properties.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here)

In Des Allemands, the combination of soil types, occasional flooding risk, and the cost/feasibility of extending municipal sewer lines means many homes rely on on-site treatment. A well-chosen, properly installed septic system is designed to safely break down waste, protect groundwater, and keep yards usable and inviting. Regular maintenance—like periodic pumping and careful use—helps the system work as intended and protects your investment.

What to keep in mind day-to-day

• Schedule pumping every 3–5 years for a typical family, or per the tank size and usage.
• Watch for signs of trouble: slow drains, gurgling sounds, wet spots above the drain field, or odors.
• Protect the system: don't pour fats, oils, or grease down drains; minimize harsh chemical cleaners; keep surface drainage and landscaping away from the tank.
• Locate and label the tank lids, and hire a licensed septic professional for inspections and service.

Next, you'll find practical steps you can take today to care for your Des Allemands system.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Des Allemands

Why septic systems are common in Des Allemands

Des Allemands sits outside most of the parish sewer network, so many homes rely on on-site wastewater treatment. Septic systems are a practical, cost-conscious way to manage household waste where public sewer lines haven't been extended. The area's mix of older homes and newer rural subdivisions also means many parcels were designed for on-site systems rather than centralized sewer service. Properly designed, installed, and maintained septic systems work well in this part of St. Charles Parish when site conditions permit.

Where you'll typically find septic systems in Des Allemands

• Rural and semi-rural lots outside established public sewer boundaries
• Older subdivisions and agricultural properties that predate sewer expansion
• Homes with space for a drainfield a safe distance from wells, water features, and structures
• Parcels with soils suitable for supporting a drainfield, or areas where a properly designed alternative system is used

Site and soil conditions that influence septic suitability in Des Allemands

• Soils in southeast Louisiana can be clay-heavy or hydric, affecting natural drainage
• Groundwater tables may rise seasonally, which can limit drainfield placement or performance
• Flood risk near the river and low-lying areas requires careful siting and sometimes elevated or mound systems
• In challenging soils, designers may choose mound systems, sand-filter beds, or other enhanced treatment approaches

Common septic system designs you'll see here

• Conventional gravity septic systems with a drainfield on typical residential lots
• Mound systems on sites with shallow soils or high groundwater
• Alternative treatments such as sand filters or aerobic treatment units (ATUs) in constrained areas
• Tank-and-drainfield configurations with appropriate dosing or enhancements as needed

Maintenance and care for Des Allemands septic systems

• Schedule pumping every 3–5 years, or per a licensed professional's guidance
• Conserve water to reduce the load on the system
• Protect the drainfield: avoid heavy vehicles, grading, and tree planting over the drainfield area
• Inspect after major rains, floods, or high groundwater events; address issues promptly
• Keep a maintenance log and work with a licensed septic contractor for periodic service

Helpful, official resources

• EPA Septic Systems:

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Des Allemands Should Know

Quick definitions

Septic systems are private, on-site wastewater treatment units that handle all household wastewater on the property. Sewer means a connection to a municipal (parish) sewer system where wastewater is conveyed to a central treatment plant. In Des Allemands, older neighborhoods are more likely to rely on septic systems, while newer developments may be connected to public sewer. Knowing which system serves your home affects maintenance, fees, and future upgrades.

How to tell which you have

• Check your bills: a separate Sewer charge on a monthly utility statement usually means a municipal connection.
• Look for clues in the yard: a visible septic tank lid or cleanout is evidence of an on-site system; a curb box or street manhole line can indicate a public sewer connection.
• Ask the parish or a licensed professional: contact St. Charles Parish Public Works or a local plumber to confirm your service type for your address.
• Review documents: closing statements, property surveys, or tax records often note sewer connections.

Pros and cons at a glance

• Septic system: typically lower ongoing costs, but responsibility for pumping, maintenance, and failure prevention rests with the homeowner.
• Sewer: predictable monthly charges; the utility handles maintenance and repairs, but rates can rise and service decisions affect your property.

Costs and maintenance

Septic system maintenance

• Pump every 3–5 years (tank size and household flow influence frequency).
• Conserve water and stagger laundry to reduce load on the system.
• Avoid flushing or pouring fats, grease, chemical cleaners, diapers, wipes, or non-biodegradable items.
• Schedule regular inspections with a licensed septic contractor if you notice damp areas, odors, or slow drains.

Sewer system maintenance

• Monthly sewer charges appear on utility bills; rates depend on the provider and usage.
• The public utility handles mainline and treatment plant upkeep.
• Keep household drains clean by using strainers and avoiding chemical drain openers; back-ups can still occur, but homeowner impact is typically lower.

Practical steps for Des Allemands homeowners

1. Confirm service type for your address with the parish or your title documents.
2. If septic, locate the tank lid and arrange pumping with a licensed contractor.
3. If sewer-connected, review your rate plan and stay aware of any local infrastructure projects that might affect service.
4. Practice good wastewater habits to protect your system, whether private or public (no hazardous chemicals, minimize fats and oils, and use water-saving fixtures).

Environmental and health considerations in Des Allemands

• Des Allemands sits in soils and hydrology where flooding and high water tables can challenge septic performance. Regular maintenance and proper design reduce risks of groundwater contamination.
• Proper disposal protects local streams and wetlands; failures can lead to backups and contamination. See EPA guidance for septic systems:

Typical Septic System Types in Des Allemands

Conventional gravity septic systems

Des Allemands homeowners commonly use conventional gravity systems when soils drain well enough to move effluent from the tank to a buried drainfield by gravity alone.

• How it works: a septic tank collects solids; clarified liquid flows by gravity into a network of trench lines or a drainfield.
• When it fits: soils with adequate permeable layers and a stable water table.
• Pros: simple design, fewer moving parts, lower upfront cost.
• Cons: performance depends on soil conditions; may require larger drainfields on difficult sites.

Pressure distribution and trench-based drainfields

When soil conditions are uneven or the water table is shallow, pressure distribution helps uniformly push effluent through multiple parts of the drainfield.

• How it works: a small pump or air pressure unit distributes effluent through several small lines, reducing overdose or underload in portions of the field.
• When it fits: variable soils, limited drainage, or where a longer drainfield is needed in a compact footprint.
• Pros: improved longevity and even performance; better in challenging soils.
• Cons: higher installation cost; needs reliable power and maintenance.

Modern drainfield designs (Chamber, Mound, Drip)

These options expand on traditional drainfields and suit challenging Des Allemands sites.

• Chamber systems
  • Use lightweight, modular chambers instead of narrow gravel trenches.
  • Pros: quicker installation, potentially lower backfill weight; flexible footprint.
  • Cons: may require careful site assessment to ensure stability.
• Subsurface mound systems
  • Elevated soil beds built above the native soil, with a controlled sand-fill layer.
  • Pros: effective where native soil drains poorly or groundwater is shallow.
  • Cons: more complex design; higher upfront cost.
• Drip irrigation drainfields
  • Emitters apply effluent gradually under surface or slightly below grade.
  • Pros: uses smaller footprint, good for limited lot size or high-water-table sites.
  • Cons: requires precise design and monitoring; specialized maintenance.

Advanced treatment and packaged systems

For sites with challenging soil, high strength effluent, or stricter discharge needs, advanced on-site wastewater treatments may be installed.

• Aerobic Treatment Units (ATU)
  • Pre-treat and aerobically digest waste before final disposal.
  • Pros: higher quality effluent, better performance in tight soils.
  • Cons: more complex, requires regular service and electrical power.
• Sand filter and other treatment units
  • Additional polishing after the tank, sometimes paired with a drainfield.
  • Pros: improved effluent quality, expanded suitability in marginal soils.
  • Cons: higher maintenance needs; periodic media replacement.
• Package/optical or membrane-based systems
  • For high-demand or space-constrained sites.
  • Pros: compact footprint; strong effluent treatment.
  • Cons: higher cost and specialized service needs.

Choosing the right system for Des Allemands soils

Site conditions in Des Allemands—soil type, depth to groundwater, sloping, and drainage potential—drive system choice. A local soils evaluation helps determine which design yields reliable performance and long-term cost savings.

• Start with a soil evaluation (percolation test) and groundwater depth check.
• Consider lot size, footprint, and future use (e.g., expansion or additional bedrooms).
• Compare upfront costs with long-term maintenance and replacement needs.
• Verify permits and inspections with the local health authority.

Official guidance and regulations

• EPA on-site wastewater systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Louisiana-specific on-site wastewater guidance (Louisiana Department of Health and state programs): https://ldh.la.gov/

Common Septic Issues in Des Allemands

Drainfield Saturation and Soil Conditions in Des Allemands

• Symptoms: wet, spongy ground over the drainfield; persistent odors near the leach field; repeated backups in sinks or toilets after modest water use.
• What's happening: Des Allemands sits in a region with clay soils and a rising groundwater table. Heavy rain and flood-prone seasons can keep the soil around the drainfield saturated, preventing effluent from draining properly.
• Why it's common here: clay-heavy soils slow percolation, and the Mississippi River basin influence means groundwater levels can rise quickly after storms. Seasonal flooding can saturate the leach field for days or weeks.
• Practical steps to fix or prevent:
  1. Have a licensed septic contractor perform a drainfield assessment, including soil and percolation evaluation.
  2. If the drainfield is undersized or failing due to soil, consider upgrading to a more resilient design (for example, a mound or bed system) or reconfiguring the field layout.
  3. Limit water use during wet periods and avoid driving or parking on the drainfield.
  4. Regularly inspect for surface pooling or lush, wet growth over the field and address issues promptly.
• Maintenance tip: schedule routine pumping and inspections, especially after heavy storms or flood events.
• Official resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Tank and System Components: Tank Baffles, Pumps, and Filters

• Symptoms: slow drains, gurgling noises, sewage odors inside the home, or effluent backup into plumbing fixtures.
• Why it's common here: older homes in Des Allemands may have aging tanks and compromised components. In a wet climate, groundwater pressure can stress seals and connections, accelerating wear on baffles and joints.
• Key failure modes to watch:
  • Cracked or separated tank walls
  • Damaged or missing inlet/outlet baffles
  • Clogged effluent filters or pumping mechanisms
• Steps to diagnose and fix:
  1. Schedule a professional tank inspection and pumping if solids are high (typical interval is every 3–5 years, but may be sooner in households with heavy use).
  2. Have the baffles inspected and replaced if compromised; ensure the outlet is directing flow properly.
  3. Check pumps, floats, and alarms; replace faulty components and test the system after service.
  4. Ensure a proper seal on all access lids to prevent rainfall or groundwater from entering the tank.
• Maintenance tip: keep a maintenance log, and avoid dumping fats, oils, and non-septic-safe cleaners down drains.
• Official resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Overuse, Waste Disposal, and Water Management

• Symptoms: frequent backups, slow drainage, and a high effluent level in the tank after minor household activity.
• Why it's a problem in Des Allemands: when the drainfield is already stressed by high groundwater in the area, extra solids or flushing non-degradables can push the system past its capacity more quickly.
• Common causes:
  • Excessive toilet paper, garbage disposal waste, or cat litter in toilets
  • Fats, oils, and greases entering the septic tank
  • Use of septic-incompatible cleaners or chemicals
  • Overly long or multi-day irrigation cycles (sprinklers can flood the drainfield)
• Steps to address:
  1. Audit water use: spread out laundry, showers, and dishwashing across the day; avoid simultaneous high-flow events.
  2. Keep garbage disposals to a minimum; compost appropriate scraps.
  3. Route non-septic-safe products to the trash or sink disposal if appropriate, and use septic-friendly cleaners.
  4. Pause irrigation during wet periods and when the yard shows signs of field saturation.
• Maintenance tip: use a septic-safe enzyme or bacteria promoting product only as directed; avoid chemical drain cleaners.
• Official resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Flooding, Groundwater, and Tree Root Intrusion (Unique Local Factors)

• Symptoms: surface pooling over the drainfield after rain, rising damp or sewage smells during flood season, or roots invading pipes.
• Why it's unique here: Des Allemands is in a flood-prone area with shifting groundwater levels and mature vegetation. Floodwaters can saturate or inundate bedrock and pipes; tree and shrub roots can seek moisture and infiltrate lines.
• steps to mitigate:
  1. Keep trees and shrubs away from the drainfield and sewer lines; prune or remove invasive roots approaching the system.
  2. Elevate or protect septic components if your property is prone to frequent flooding (consult a licensed professional for code-compliant options).
  3. Improve drainage around the system with proper grading and avoid redirecting roof runoff toward the drainfield.
  4. Have a professional inspect for any sewer line cracks caused by shifting soils or root pressure after heavy flood events.
• Maintenance tip: monitor after storms for new damp areas or odor changes in the yard; address promptly.
• Official resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Local oversight in Des Allemands

Des Allemands follows Louisiana state rules for on-site wastewater systems, with responsibilities split between the state health program and your parish's local offices. The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) administers the On-Site Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) program, while St. Charles Parish handles most local permit reviews, inspections, and code enforcement. Working with both your parish health unit and parish building department helps keep your project compliant and on track.

Permits you may need

• OWTS permit for new installations, major repairs, or system replacements. This permit typically comes from the parish health unit under LDH rules and requires plan review and soil/site information.
• Local building or construction permits if the project involves new construction, additions, or substantial plumbing work that sits near utilities or property lines. Your parish Planning & Zoning or Building Department can confirm what's required.
• Real estate transfer-related inspections. Some buyers, sellers, or lenders request or require a septic system inspection or a "certificate of compliance" as part of closing.

The permit process (step-by-step)

1. Contact the appropriate offices early: St. Charles Parish Public Health Unit for OWTS permits and plan reviews; Building Department for any related construction permits.
2. Have a licensed septic designer evaluate your site and prepare system plans. The design must meet LDH/OWTS standards and local setbacks.
3. Submit the plan package and permit application to the parish health unit (and any building department as needed). Include soil evaluation results, site drawings, and a proposed schedule.
4. Pay all applicable permit fees and wait for the review. The review may involve environmental constraints, setbacks from wells and streams, and compatibility with existing infrastructure.
5. When approved, schedule the installation work with a licensed septic contractor who can perform inspections along the way.
6. After installation or repair, schedule final inspections. A certificate of compliance or operating permit is issued once the work meets all requirements.

Inspections you should expect

• Pre-construction or design-phase checks may occur if the plan requires special soil or site considerations.
• In-progress inspections during trenching, tank placement, backfilling, and distribution lines to verify alignment with the approved plan.
• Final inspection to confirm the system is properly installed, protected, and functioning per LDH/OWTS standards.
• Documentation review to ensure all permits, inspections, and records are on file with the parish.

Real estate transactions and inspections

• If you're buying or selling, ask your lender or closing agent about a septic system inspection or a transfer letter. Some transactions require proof of compliance before closing.
• Have recent maintenance records ready (pump-outs, repairs, or replacements) in case the inspector requests them.

Documentation to gather

• Property parcel number and current deed.
• Any existing OWTS permit numbers, plans, and inspection reports.
• Site drawings showing tank locations, leach fields, and setbacks.
• Licensed designer or contractor contact information and copies of design plans.

Helpful official resources

• Louisiana Department of Health – On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) program:
• St. Charles Parish Building Department / Planning & Zoning (local permitting guidance): https://www.stcharlesparish.gov/ (search for Building Department or Planning & Zoning)

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Des Allemands

Why Des Allemands-specific conditions matter

• Des Allemands sits in flood-prone, groundwater-rich St. Charles Parish. Seasonal high water tables and heavy rainfall can saturate soils, stressing the drainfield and increasing the chance of backups if maintenance isn't proactive.
• Clay-rich soils, common in parts of the region, slow drainage and give groundwater a longer presence in the root zone. This can reduce the drainfield's capacity to absorb effluent after storms.
• Proximity to bayous, creeks, and the Mississippi River means more moisture and a higher likelihood of surface flooding during tropical storms and hurricanes. Flooding can push system components out of alignment and slow infiltration.
• In short, Des Allemands homes often need a proactive maintenance plan, regular inspections, and thoughtful water-use habits to keep septic systems working through wet seasons.

Routine maintenance plan

1. Schedule professional inspections
2. Have a licensed septic technician inspect every 1-3 years, or per parish requirements. In flood-prone Des Allemands, schedule inspections after major storms or heavy rainfall.
3. The visit should check tank condition, baffles, pump chamber integrity, and overall system function.
4. Pump and service on a schedule
5. Typical pumping interval is every 3-5 years for a standard 1,000-gallon tank; adjust for tank size, family size, and actual use.
6. In Des Allemands, frequent rains and high groundwater can shorten the effective life of solids in the tank, so discuss a target interval with your pro.
7. Conserve water and balance loads
8. Fix leaks promptly; install and maintain low-flow toilets, efficient faucets, and a compact yet effective laundry routine.
9. Spread out high-water activities (e.g., avoid long laundry bursts and simultaneous dishwashing) to prevent overloading the drainfield during peak wet periods.
10. Protect the drainfield area
11. Never drive or park on the drainfield. Keep heavy equipment off the absorption area.
12. Plant only turf or shallow-rooted grasses over the drainfield; avoid trees and shrubs with deep roots nearby.
13. Direct roof drainage and surface runoff away from the system. Ensure grading and swales keep water from pooling over the absorption area.
14. Manage irrigation carefully; don't sprinkler directly onto the drainfield.
15. Mind chemicals and solids
16. Do not flush or pour grease, solvents, paints, pesticides, or cleaners that kill beneficial bacteria.
17. Do not flush wipes, diapers, coffee grounds, or food scraps. Use a waste bin for solids.
18. Consider septic-safe cleaners; many systems work well with regular household products, and additives are not universally beneficial. Ask your pro if you're unsure.
19. Flood and storm guidance
20. After a flood or heavy rain, avoid flushing or running the system until an inspection confirms it's safe to resume normal use.
21. If you've experienced prolonged inundation, have the system checked before heavy use resumes.

Signs your Des Allemands system needs attention

• Slow drains, gurgling sounds, or sewage odors indoors or in the yard.
• Damp patches or unusually lush vegetation above the drainfield, or standing water near the system.
• Backups in toilets/sinks after rain events.
• A tank lid that's damaged or a noticeable change in system performance.

When to call a pro

• Recurring backups, persistent odors, or visible damp areas around the drainfield.
• After a flood or major storm, have the system evaluated before heavy use resumes.
• If you're unsure about the system's condition or notice damage.

Resources

• EPA Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Louisiana Department of Health – On-site Wastewater Systems: https://ldh.la.gov
• LSU AgCenter Extension – Septic System Tips: https://www.lsuagcenter.com

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Des Allemands

Septic Tank Pumping

• What it includes: removal of sludge and scum from the septic tank, inspection of baffles, and basic functional check of pumps and lids. Most pumping also prompts a quick visual check of the outlet for signs of slow drainage.
• Des Allemands specifics: the area's clay soils and sometimes high water table can drive more frequent pumping to prevent solids from reaching the drainfield. Flooding risk can also necessitate coordinating pumping before heavy rains or high-water periods to reduce field saturation.
• Typical cost in Des Allemands: 250–450; may run 500–700 for oversized tanks or challenging access.
• Scheduling notes: plan for a follow-up inspection of the drainfield after pumping if the system has shown signs of backup.

System Inspections and Certifications

• What it includes: overall evaluation of tank health, pump and float operation, lid accessibility, outlet baffle integrity, effluent screen/filters, and performance testing. For real estate transactions, a formal certification may be required.
• Des Allemands specifics: local buyers and sellers often want a full certification due to flood risk and groundwater levels that can reveal hidden issues. Expect documentation aligned with Louisiana on-site wastewater guidelines.
• Typical cost in Des Allemands: 150–350 for a standard inspection; 350–500 for a more comprehensive report or combined dye/functional test.
• Quick tip: if you're purchasing property, verify that the inspector is certified for on-site wastewater systems in Louisiana.

Camera Inspections and Diagnostics

• What it includes: endoscope or CCTV inspection of septic lines from the tank to the drainfield to identify cracks, root intrusion, or blockages; may include dye tracing.
• Des Allemands specifics: restricted access or long run lengths are common in older properties; camera work helps locate trouble spots before costly field repairs.
• Typical cost in Des Allemands: 350–700.
• When to choose this: recommended if drainage seems slow, there are gurgling sounds, or you're evaluating a potential drainfield replacement.

Drainfield Evaluation and Soil Testing

• What it includes: soil borings or percolation tests, evaluation of soil percolation rates, and assessment of drainage capacity; a critical step if a future replacement or expansion is anticipated.
• Des Allemands specifics: clay soils and fluctuating groundwater can complicate drainfield performance; a thorough soil evaluation is especially important in flood-prone zones.
• Typical cost in Des Allemands: 400–1,200 depending on scope (testing, reports, and whether a full replacement plan is involved).
• Outcome: helps determine whether a conventional drainfield, mound, or alternative design is needed.

Drainfield Cleaning, Jetting, and Line Clearing

• What it includes: mechanical cleaning of lines between the tank and drainfield, often with high-pressure water jetting; root cutting if roots are infiltrating lines.
• Des Allemands specifics: after periods of heavy rain or flooding, lines can be congested with sediment or roots; timely jetting can extend drainfield life in clay soils.
• Typical cost in Des Allemands: 250–500.
• Follow-up: may require a subsequent camera check to confirm clearance.

Drainfield Repairs and Replacement

• What it includes: repairing cracks or compaction issues in the drainfield bed, replacing failed components, or installing an entirely new system (often a mound or alternative design in this region).
• Des Allemands specifics: elevated or mound systems are more common where the native soil is clay or the water table is high; these designs are more expensive but often necessary in flood-prone Des Allemands areas.
• Typical cost in Des Allemands: repair 4,000–12,000; conventional replacement 15,000–30,000; mound/alternative systems 20,000–40,000+.
• Decision point: replacement costs rise significantly with design criteria and site requirements.

Pump Replacement and Backup Systems

• What it includes: replacing failed effluent pumps or submersible pumps, installing or upgrading alarms and backup pumps, and ensuring proper wiring and float control.
• Des Allemands specifics: flood risk and power reliability concerns mean owners often opt for higher-grade pumps and battery backup options.
• Typical cost in Des Allemands: 900–2,500 for pump and installation; backup systems add 400–1,500.
• Maintenance note: regular checks of floats and power supply help prevent sudden failures.

New System Installation or Major System Replacement (Des Allemands)

• What it includes: design, permitting, installation of a new conventional system or an elevated/mound system tailored to site conditions; soil testing and final inspections.
• Des Allemands specifics: due to clay soils, high water table, and flood exposure, many homes here require elevated designs or alternative systems, which are more robust in this environment.
• Typical cost in Des Allemands: conventional 7,000–15,000; mound/alternative 15,000–40,000+.
• Planning note: early coordination with the parish health unit and a qualified installer helps avoid delays.

Official resources

• EPA: Septic Systems and Household Water Quality: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Louisiana Department of Health – On-Site Wastewater Program: https://ldh.la.gov/
• LSU AgCenter (consumer guidance on home wastewater systems): https://www.lsuagcenter.com/