Financing Management Programs

Even if you are totally convinced that onsite septic system management is a just and noble cause, you probably are also thinking "Show me the money!" The actual cost of developing and implementing a septic system management program can vary greatly, depending on the level of management.

State, tribal, and local governments must recognize that it is likely that both the regulatory authority and the property owner will face increased costs in improving management practices and programs. The cost impacts may increase as the level of management increases; however, trade-offs exist. Costs incurred by the regulatory authority and/or management entity may be offset by increased permit fees and more efficient data management tools, while the costs to the property owner may be offset by reduced repair and replacement costs, avoidance of environmental restoration costs, and increased property values and quality of life. For the most basic level of management, Model 1, the EPA recommends that financial assistance and funding activities by the regulatory authority be as follows: (source: EPA Voluntary National Guidelines for Management of Onsite and Clustered Wastwater Treatment Systems)

*Provide the legal and financial support to sustain the management program.

Below are several publications and web sites that discuss the various funding options from state and federal government sources.