Septic in Cleveland, MO

Welcome to Cleveland, MO—a friendly, down-to-earth place where many homes quietly rely on a dependable on-site system rather than city sewer. If you've ever wondered what hides beneath a yard or how wastewater is treated without a visible sewer line, you're in good company. I'm a local septic contractor who's spent years helping neighbors here, and I'll keep things straightforward, practical, and honest. Think of this as talking with a neighbor who knows the plumbing, the soil, and the schedule for maintenance.

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

Yes. In Cleveland, a good number of homes outside the main sewer network operate on private septic systems. Even in some newer developments, you'll still find septic where municipal sewer isn't available or isn't the most practical choice. If you're buying a home, your inspection should confirm the system type, its location, age, and any immediate maintenance needs. If a property is connected to a city sewer, that's great—but understanding septic basics and maintenance remains valuable for the long run.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Cleveland

High-level explanation: septic exists here because it's often the most practical, cost-effective way to handle wastewater for single-family homes when sewer lines don't reach the property. A well-designed system treats wastewater on-site, using a tank to separate solids and a drain field where liquids soak through the soil. The soil itself, along with natural microbes, helps filter and break down contaminants. Proper sizing, soil conditions, and local regulations all shape how a septic system performs, so a system that fits your lot and its geology is key.

What makes septic the right fit for many Cleveland homes

• It works with typical lot sizes and layouts outside city sewer boundaries.
• It avoids the cost and disruption of extending sewer lines across longer distances.
• Local soils and groundwater patterns often favor groundwater-safe, on-site treatment when properly planned.
• Regular, simple maintenance keeps it efficient for decades.

As you explore, you'll find practical tips and step-by-step guidance tailored to Cleveland homes, written with the familiarity of a neighbor and the know-how of a pro.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Cleveland

Unsewered areas around Cleveland

• In Cleveland, MO, most septic systems are found outside the city's municipal sewer service area. Homes on larger lots or in older subdivisions that aren't connected to a sewer main typically rely on onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS). If you're outside the main sewer district, or if a property predates sewer expansion, odds are good a septic system is in use.
• On rural or semi-rural properties, septic is often the practical, cost-effective choice. Even some in-town properties with smaller lots may use septic when sewer access isn't available or when owners choose independence from sewer connections.

Common site patterns for septic on Cleveland-area properties

• Flat to gently rolling lots with enough space for a drainfield and setback buffers.
• Areas away from wells, driveways, and property lines that could affect performance or access for pumping and maintenance.
• Homes built on soils that allow for proper drainage and infiltration, or that can be engineered with mound or specialty designs when site conditions are marginal.

Soil, groundwater, and landscape factors that influence septic suitability

• Soil texture and structure: sandy to loamy soils typically infiltrate effluent well, while heavy clay or very stony soils may require alternative designs.
• Permeability and infiltration rate: adequate absorption is needed for a conventional drainfield; slow or rapid soils may need specialized systems.
• Depth to groundwater and bedrock: excess groundwater or shallow bedrock can limit drainfield size or require raised-mound designs.
• Slope and drainage patterns: level or gently sloped lots drain more predictably; steep or heavily sloped sites may need engineered layouts to prevent runoff or erosion.
• Proximity to wells, streams, or property lines: setback rules protect water quality and prevent cross-contamination; local codes may dictate minimum distances.

Visual cues and considerations on your property

• Look for a flat, grassy area away from the house foundation, driveway, and any wells.
• If you notice fungus growth, unusually lush patches, or damp, smelly spots, these can indicate drainage issues—not a substitute for a professional assessment, but worth noting.
• On marginal sites (shallow soil, high water table, or nearby water features), owners often use mound systems or advanced treatment units.

Quick-start steps for Cleveland homeowners

1. Confirm sewer service status for your property with the city or county. If no sewer line reaches your parcel, septic is a common option.
2. Obtain a site evaluation or perc test if you're planning a new system or if you're buying a home with an OWTS.
3. Hire a licensed septic professional to design, permit, and install the system per Missouri requirements.
4. Maintain your system with regular pumping and inspections to prevent failures.
5. Keep records of permits, inspections, and maintenance; they help with resale and future work.

Quick-reference: what to ask when evaluating a septic-ready property

• Is a permit required for new installation or replacement, and what local approvals are needed?
• What design options are best for my soil type and lot layout (conventional, mound, sand filter, etc.)?
• What is the expected typical life of the system, and what maintenance schedule do you recommend?

Official resources

• Missouri Department of Natural Resources – Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems:
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• University of Missouri Extension – septic-related homeowner guidance: https://extension.missouri.edu/

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Cleveland Should Know

How to tell if you're on septic or municipal sewer

• Check your utility bill. A separate sewer charge typically means you're connected to a municipal system; no sewer line charge often signals a septic system.
• Review your property records or closing documents for a sewer connection or septic system disclosure.
• Look for a septic tank access lid or a drain field on your property; if you find these features, you're likely on septic.
• Contact your local city or county utility (Cleveland city hall or your district) to confirm your service type.

Pros and cons at a glance

• Septic system — Pros:
  • Often lower ongoing costs and more local control over maintenance.
  • Works well on rural or less-dense lots with adequate soil.
• Septic system — Cons:
  • You're responsible for pumping, inspection, and drain-field care (typically every 3–5 years).
  • Failure or improper care can cause disruptions and expensive repairs.
• Municipal sewer — Pros:
  • No septic tank pumping or drain-field maintenance; system failures handled by the utility.
  • Generally consistent service and simpler home maintenance.
• Municipal sewer — Cons:
  • Regular sewer charges and potential rate increases over time.
  • Backups or outages affect multiple homes and can require waiting for utility repair crews.

Maintenance and costs in Cleveland

• Septic maintenance to plan:
  1. Pump the septic tank every 3–5 years, or per the advice of a licensed pro.
  2. Have the tank and baffles inspected during pumping; watch for odors, damp areas, or gurgling sounds.
  3. Use water efficiently: spread out laundry, fix leaks, and avoid flushing grease, chemicals, wipes, or medications.
  4. Keep the drain field protected: don't park on it, don't plant trees with invasive roots nearby, and direct surface water away.
• Sewer maintenance (city utility): expect a regular monthly or quarterly bill that covers wastewater treatment; some homes may have surcharges based on water use.

When to consider connecting to sewer

1. Verify service availability with Cleveland's local utility or city planning office.
2. Obtain a formal cost estimate for the connection, including trenching or line work.
3. Secure necessary permits (municipal, and in some cases state permits if the project triggers on-site wastewater requirements).
4. Hire a licensed contractor to perform the connection and, if applicable, properly abandon or disconnect the existing septic system.

Environment and health reminders

• Avoid dumping hazardous chemicals, solvents, or large quantities of grease into any system.
• Keep the drain field area free from heavy machinery and contaminants; landscape to protect soil structure.
• If you notice standing water, strong odors, or slow drains, contact a licensed septic professional promptly to prevent contamination.

Official resources

• EPA Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Missouri Department of Natural Resources (On-site Wastewater programs): https://dnr.mo.gov/

Typical Septic System Types in Cleveland

Conventional gravity septic systems

• What they are: The standard setup with a septic tank and gravity-fed drainfield. Solids settle in the tank while liquid effluent moves through perforated pipes into the soil.
• How it works: Wastewater breaks down in the tank; clarified liquid spreads evenly through the drainfield by gravity.
• When it fits: Suitable soils with good vertical drainage and enough space for a drainfield.
• Pros: Simpler design, often lowest upfront cost; easy to inspect and service.
• Cons: Performance depends on soil permeability; poorly drained soils can require a replacement system or a different design.
• Quick tip: A soil test and site assessment help confirm if gravity drainage will perform well on your Cleveland property.

Low-Pressure Dose (LPD) systems

• What they are: A lift/pump delivers small, evenly spaced doses of effluent to the drainfield.
• How it works: Pulsed dosing improves infiltration in marginal soils and shallow bed installations.
• When it fits: Soils with limited depth to groundwater or perched water tables; smaller lots where uniform dispersion matters.
• Pros: Better distribution in uneven soils; can extend life of a drainfield.
• Cons: Requires electrical power and pump maintenance; higher upfront cost than gravity.
• Maintenance note: Regular pump checks and a service plan with a licensed installer.

Pressure distribution systems

• What they are: A pump distributes effluent under pressure to evenly spaced sections of the drainfield.
• How it works: A control panel times doses to keep wetting front balanced.
• When it fits: Soils with variable percolation, or where a large area must be used efficiently.
• Pros: More uniform drainage; can handle tougher soils.
• Cons: More moving parts mean more potential failures; requires professional service.
• Maintenance tip: Schedule periodic inspections to ensure valves and pumps operate correctly.

Mound systems

• What they are: Above-grade drainfields built with sand and other fill material when native soil is unsuitable.
• How it works: Effluent travels through a layered system (gravel, sand, and pipe) into the fill material, then down to the lower soil layers.
• When it fits: Shallow bedrock, high groundwater, or very poorly draining native soils.
• Pros: Enables septic service where conventional methods won't work.
• Cons: More site prep, larger footprint, and higher installation cost.
• Care point: Mounds require ongoing maintenance and professional inspections to ensure performance.

Sand filter and tertiary treatment systems

• What they are: Secondary treatment options that polish effluent before it reaches the drainfield.
• How it works: Effluent passes through a sand or engineered filter, removing additional solids and pathogens.
• When they fit: Properties with sensitive soils or closer-to-surface groundwater.
• Pros: Improved effluent quality; can extend drainfield life in challenging soils.
• Cons: Typically higher cost and more maintenance than gravity systems.
• Compliance note: Local code may require post-treatment steps for certain parcels.

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs)

• What they are: Mechanical systems that add oxygen to accelerate waste breakdown; typically paired with a secondary treatment zone.
• How it works: An aerator stirs and aerates the wastewater, then the treated liquid moves to a drainfield.
• When they fit: Homes with small lots, poor soils, or environmental concerns about effluent quality.
• Pros: Higher treatment level; can support smaller drainfields.
• Cons: Higher energy use, regular professional service, and more components to maintain.
• Maintenance reminder: Schedule routine inspections and service visits per manufacturer guidelines.

Drip irrigation and evapotranspiration (ET) beds

• What they are: Low-flow disposal methods that use drip lines or soil-based evapotranspiration to disperse effluent.
• How they works: Controlled irrigation or soil evaporation reduces surface exposure and water usage.
• When they fit: Drought-prone areas or landscapes designed for water reuse.
• Pros: Efficient water use; can be aesthetically integrated into landscapes.
• Cons: Not universally approved; requires specialized design and oversight.
• Regulatory note: Local approvals vary—confirm with Cleveland or county health authorities.

Choosing a system type for your Cleveland home

1. Start with a soil and site assessment.
2. Confirm lot size, groundwater depth, and percolation rates.
3. Check local regulations and permitting requirements.
4. Get assessments from licensed septic designers or installers.
5. Plan for maintenance and scheduled inspections.

Official resources for reference:

• EPA: Septic Systems (onsite wastewater treatment) —

Common Septic Issues in Cleveland

Drainfield saturation and failure in clay soils

• What it is: Drainfield soils that stay saturated prevent effluent from percolating, leading to surface surfacing, odors, and backups.
• Why Cleveland-specific: Many properties in the area sit on clay-rich soil with shallow groundwater or seasonal wetness, rising the risk of saturation after heavy rains.
• Quick checks: standing water over the drainfield, strong septic odors in low spots, lush grass over the field (unusual growth can indicate effluent).
• What to do:
  • Limit water during wet periods and avoid heavy irrigation on or near the drainfield.
  • Schedule a professional inspection to evaluate soil absorption and tank condition.
  • Consider upgrading to a larger or alternate absorption area if your system is undersized for current loads.
• When to call a pro: after repeated backups, surfacing effluent, or persistent odors.
• Resources: Missouri DHSS septic program – EPA septic basics –

Tree roots and landscaping damage

• What it is: Tree roots infiltrate the drainfield or sewer line, causing blockages and uneven settling.
• Why Cleveland might see this: mature landscaping and trees near disposal areas are common on older lots.
• Signs: slow drains, wet spots above the drainfield, sudden lawn greenery changes around the system.
• What to do:
  • Restrict heavy rooting near the septic system; consider root barriers.
  • Have a pro check for root intrusion and repair damaged lines.
  • Re-seed and grade to redirect surface water away from the drainfield.
• When to call a pro: anytime you suspect roots are interfering with the system.
• Resources: Missouri DNR groundwater protection info –

System age and design limitations

• What it is: Older systems may have aged components, undersized drainfields, or outdated designs that no longer meet current needs.
• Why Cleveland-specific: many homes in the area date from earlier decades, with septic tech that's not up to today's demands.
• Signs: frequent repairs, rising maintenance costs, recurring backups.
• What to do:
  • Have a professional assess whether a replacement or modernization is warranted.
  • Consider upgrading to a modern alternative septic system aligned with soil and usage.
• When to call a pro: if inspections reveal structural wear or undersized design.
• Resources: EPA on choosing a septic system contractor – Missouri DHSS wellwater resources –

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Who regulates septic systems in Cleveland, MO?

• In Missouri, onsite wastewater systems are regulated through a combination of state standards and local enforcement. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) sets the design, installation, and maintenance requirements, while local authorities—typically the county health department or the city's building/permitting office—handle permits and inspections.
• To verify specifics for Cleveland, contact your local county health department and the city's building department. They'll confirm who issues permits, what forms are needed, and which inspections apply.
• Official resources:
  • Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) – Onsite Wastewater/Septic program:
  • EPA – Septic systems overview and guidance:

Do you need a permit?

• Most projects require a permit before you begin work. This includes:
  • New septic system installations
  • Replacements or substantial repairs
  • System expansions or modifications
  • Closeout work after installation
• Some minor repairs or routine maintenance may not require a full permit, but you'll still need to notify the local authority and follow their guidance. Always check with the local department first to avoid penalties.
• Before applying, you'll typically need a soils/site evaluation and a proposed design aligned with state standards.

The permit process (step-by-step)

1. Contact your local authority
2. Call or visit the city building department or county health department to confirm permit requirements, fees, and required documentation.
3. Get a professional assessment
4. Hire a licensed designer or septic professional to perform a soils/site evaluation and prepare a system design that meets state standards.
5. Prepare and submit your permit package
6. Package usually includes: permit application, site plan or plot map, soils report, system design plans, and any required forms or affidavits.
7. Pay fees and wait for approval
8. Fees vary by jurisdiction. Once the package is reviewed and meets requirements, the permit will be issued.
9. Schedule inspections
10. Inspections are typically required at several stages: before trenching/installation, during buried work, and after installation with the final as-built.
11. Receive final approval and maintain records
12. After a successful final inspection, you'll receive approval and should keep the permit, as-built drawings, and maintenance guidance on file.

Inspections during installation

• Pre-construction site review: verify setback distances, access, and design conformance.
• In-progress inspections: check trenching, piping, tank placement, joints, and backfill methods.
• Final inspection: confirm that the system matches the approved plan and that all components function as intended; obtain your as-built record.
• If corrections are needed, work with the installer and the issuing authority to schedule re-inspection.

Real estate transactions and inspections

• When buying or selling a home, a septic inspection is highly advisable and may be required by lenders or insurers.
• Request the current as-built, maintenance records, and any service history. If the system is aging or undersized for the property, discuss options with the local authority and a qualified designer.
• Some sellers provide a recent inspection report or escrow funds for a replacement if a failure is discovered during the transaction.

Local oversight, records & best practices

• Keep a well-organized file with: permit numbers, designer/installer contact, inspection dates, and final approvals.
• Maintain the system per maintenance guidelines to extend life and prevent failures.
• If you plan significant property changes (outbuildings, pool, additions), reconfirm setback and permit requirements with the local authority.

Helpful resources

• Missouri DNR – Onsite Wastewater Program: https://dnr.mo.gov/water-management/onsite-wastewater
• EPA – Septic systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Missouri DHSS – Environmental Health: https://health.mo.gov/living/environmentalhealth/

Local contact reminders:

• Cleveland homeowners should start with the City Hall/building department and the county health department to confirm current permit requirements and inspection schedules.

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Cleveland

Cleveland-specific conditions you should know

Cleveland, MO experiences cold winters, wet springs, and periods of heavy rain that can saturate soils around your septic system. Many properties in the area sit on clay or clay-loam soils with variable water tables, which can slow drainage and increase the risk of groundwater backups if the system isn't well maintained. A well-tuned system is especially important here to prevent backups in toilets or sinks, soggy yard patches, and damage to the drain field after heavy rain events.

Regular pumping and professional inspections

• Pump every 3–5 years for a typical family; more frequent pumping may be needed for smaller tanks or higher daily water use. Use a licensed septic contractor who can verify tank condition and baffle integrity.
• Schedule a professional inspection every 1–2 years, even if you haven't noticed problems. Ask the pro to check tank integrity, electrical components if you have an effluent pump, and the condition of the drain-field lines.
• Keep a simple maintenance log: date of pumping, contractor name, tank size, and any observations about odors, water use, or backing up.

Drain field protection in Cleveland's soils

• Avoid parking or heavy equipment on the drain field. Compaction and soil disturbance damage the underground pipes and reduce infiltration.
• Plant only shallow-rooted turf over the field; avoid trees and shrubs whose roots can intrude into the trenches.
• Direct surface water away from the field. Do not connect sump pumps or downspouts to the septic system; use a separate discharge that travels away from the drain field.
• Use septic-safe products and limit harsh cleaners. Enzymes and bacteria can help, but avoid chemical drain cleaners that kill beneficial microbes in the tank.

Seasonal tips for Cleveland weather

• Winter: keep access lids clear and frost-free. A frozen tank can hinder proper digestion and pumping may become more difficult if access is blocked.
• Spring: after heavy rains, monitor for soggy areas or pooling on the drain field. Don't drive over the field during wet conditions; leachate can saturate soils and reduce absorption.
• Summer: hot, dry periods can increase demands on the system if watering is heavy; space out irrigation and fix leaks to reduce load.

Maintenance steps you can take (quick-start checklist)

1. Locate your tank and drain field, and mark boundaries. Keep maps or photos for easy reference when scheduling service.
2. Confirm tank size and year of installation with the contractor to tailor pumping intervals.
3. Schedule pumping with a licensed septic professional. Record the service date and findings.
4. Conserve water daily: fix leaks, install efficient fixtures, run full loads, and stagger dishwasher and laundry cycles.
5. Use sink and toilet disposal products that are septic-safe; avoid Dumping grease or unused solvents into drains.
6. Maintain surface drainage: redirect roof spouts and downspouts away from the drain field and keep gutters clear.
7. Observe for signs of trouble between service visits: slow drains, gurgling sounds, foul odors, or damp, lush spots over the drain field.

When to call a pro

• You notice sewage odors inside or outside the home.
• Water backs up in fixtures, or toilets won't flush properly.
• Sluggish drains persist after basic clearing, or you see wet areas or unusually lush grass over the drain field.
• Your inspection or pumping service identifies damaged pipes, a compromised tank, or baffle failure.

Resources

• EPA: Septic Systems and Water Quality — practical guidance and safety tips: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• University of Missouri Extension (local, practical septic guidance): https://extension.missouri.edu
• Missouri Department of Natural Resources (search for onsite wastewater guidance): https://dnr.mo.gov

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Cleveland

Septic Tank Pumping and Cleaning

• What it includes: removing the settled sludge and scum from the tank, inspecting baffles and inlet/outlet pipes, checking tank integrity, and measuring sludge depth to plan next pump cycle.
• Cleveland-specific notes: local soil and tank ages in Cleveland can influence pumping frequency; homes with older tanks or high daily usage may need more frequent pumping.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: roughly $300–$600 for a standard 1,000–1,500 gallon tank; larger tanks or complex access may push toward $600–$900.
• Resources:

Septic System Inspection (including Real Estate Transfer Inspections)

• What it includes: visual inspection of the septic tank, lids, risers, and accessibility; check baffles and pump chamber; look at drain field condition; optional dye tests or camera inspection to verify lines.
• Cleveland-specific notes: real estate transfers in Cleveland often require a more thorough inspection; some lenders or buyers request a closed-circuit camera view of interior pipes.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: basic inspection around $150–$300; full real estate transfer or comprehensive inspection often $300–$500 (or more with camera/dye tests).
• Resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Septic Tank Installation / Replacement

• What it includes: site evaluation, soil testing, system design (conventional drain field vs. mound or aerobic system if soil is not suitable), permitting, and full installation with tank, risers, and piping.
• Cleveland-specific notes: soil composition and permits in Missouri can affect design choice and timelines; Cleveland homes may require mound or aerobic options when soil or groundwater conditions limit conventional systems.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: conventional system installations often start around $12,000–$20,000; more complex installations (mound or aerobic) can range from $20,000–$40,000+ depending on lot size and access.
• Resources: https://dnr.mo.gov/water/onsite-wastewater-treatment-systems

Drain Field / Leach Field Repair or Replacement

• What it includes: locating compromised trenches, repairing or replacing damaged laterals, restoring soil loading and infiltration capacity, and ensuring proper grade and venting.
• Cleveland-specific notes: clay-heavy soils or limited drainage in parts of Cleveland can drive repairs sooner; root intrusion (from trees) is a common factor.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: repairs $3,000–$15,000; full replacement $7,000–$25,000+ depending on field size and access.
• Resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Drain Line Cleaning / Root Intrusion Removal

• What it includes: hydro-jetting or mechanical cleaning of the main sewer line and lateral lines, root cutting, and camera inspection to confirm cleanout.
• Cleveland-specific notes: tree roots and compacted soils are common culprits in Cleveland; timely cleaning can prevent field failure.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: $150–$450 for minor cleaning; more extensive work or camera inspection may bring it to $500–$700.
• Resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Video Sewer Line Inspection

• What it includes: sewer camera inspection of interior lines from the house to the septic tank or drain field; diagnostic video report and recommended actions.
• Cleveland-specific notes: video checks help identify root intrusion or pipe breaks before more costly repairs.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: $150–$400.
• Resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Aerobic System Service (ATU)

• What it includes: routine service on aerobic treatment units (pump-outs, chamber checks, alarm testing, and filter changes); annual or semi-annual maintenance often required.
• Cleveland-specific notes: some homes in Cleveland use aerobic systems; annual maintenance is typically required by code and warranty terms.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: $250–$600 per service visit; parts or pump replacements extra.
• Resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Perc Test / Soil Evaluation (for new systems)

• What it includes: soil percolation testing, reviewing soil horizons, and determining suitability for a septic system design.
• Cleveland-specific notes: essential for new builds or when upgrading to a different system; local approval timelines may apply.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: $1,000–$2,500 depending on property size and access.
• Resources: https://dnr.mo.gov/water/onsite-wastewater-treatment-systems

Emergency / After-Hours Septic Service

• What it includes: urgent diagnostics, pump-outs, or repairs outside normal business hours, with a priority dispatch.
• Cleveland-specific notes: winter weather and rural access can create urgent needs; expect a higher call-out fee.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: call-out $100–$200, plus time-and-materials thereafter.
• Resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Permitting and Compliance Inspections

• What it includes: coordinating with local authorities for permits, inspections, and final approvals; filing reports as needed.
• Cleveland-specific notes: Missouri requires proper permitting and periodic inspections; costs vary by jurisdiction and project scope.
• Typical cost in Cleveland: $50–$400 depending on the permit type and project complexity.
• Resources: https://dnr.mo.gov/water/onsite-wastewater-treatment-systems

Preparing for Service in Cleveland: 3 Simple Steps

1. Locate access points and clear a path to the tank lid or cleanout; if you have a driveway, clear a spot for equipment.
2. Note any signs of trouble (gurgling, sewage odors, damp spots) and share them with the technician.
3. Have recent tank size, installation date, and any previous service records ready for the technician.

Official resources referenced above provide detailed regulatory context and best practices for septic systems in Missouri and nationwide.