Craig County households with septic systems may apply for a free pump-out through the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission.
The program is offered in partnership with Craig County Government and the Virginia Environmental Endowment. It is designed to help homeowners maintain their septic systems and prevent backups that can lead to costly repairs and potential health hazards.
Failing septic systems can release untreated sewage and contribute nutrient and bacteria pollution to streams, lakes, rivers, groundwater and soil. Septic systems generally should be inspected every one to three years and pumped every three to five years, depending on use.
“This is a cross section between human and environmental health,” said Terra Famuliner, environment and resiliency planner for RVARC. “Septic system maintenance can easily be overlooked but is an opportunity for homeowners to make a positive impact on their community and watershed.”
Famuliner helps determine eligibility, contacts applicants and coordinates pump-outs with a servicing provider. RVARC covers the cost of the pump-out upfront.
Households earning at or below 80% of the area median income within the service area are eligible. A two-person household can earn up to $63,050, while a four-person household can earn up to $78,800.
Craig County residents can check eligibility requirements and apply online at engage.rvarc.org/septic.
RVARC also will host a Septic Pump-Out Program Workshop from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 8 at the New Castle Volunteer Fire Department. Residents may drop in during the workshop to apply or can apply online in advance.
The workshop also will feature local partners providing resources and education about septic system maintenance and protecting homes and the environment.
“I think most of us take our septic system for granted. Then, one day you flush and nothing goes. At that point, it’s an emergency that didn’t need to be,” said Woody Lipps, a Craig County resident and liaison to RVARC. “This pump-out program is an opportunity to prevent an emergency and help protect our groundwater at the same time.”
Residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible so RVARC can schedule pump-outs through the fall.
For more information, contact Famuliner at 540-343-4417, ext. 304, or [email protected].
-The New Castle Record
