Free Homeowner Septic Class on October 5th: Protect Property, Your Water, and the Town Run Watershed

The Town Run Watershed Association invites Shepherdstown and Jefferson County residents and homeowners to attend a Free Homeowner Septic Class on Saturday, October 5th, from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM, at the Shepherdstown Public Library, 145 Higbee Lane, Shepherdstown.

This informative session follows the nationwide SepticSmart Week to bring attention to the importance of caring for and maintaining septic systems in order to protect property, local water systems, and the health of the Town Run. Participants will also receive information about accessing special grants to cover up to $150 of the cost of a septic pump out.

Septic systems, or on-site wastewater treatment systems, are designed to manage wastewater from homes or properties that are not connected to a public sewer system. Approximately one in five households in the United States depend on septic systems to treat their wastewater. Malfunctioning septic systems can leach contaminated wastewater into yards, neighborhoods, streams and drinking water sources.

The workshop will include:

Welcome and Introduction to the Town Run Watershed
Kay Schultz, member of the Town Run Watershed Steering Committee, will open the class with an overview of the Town Run Watershed’s current state and the critical steps needed to protect and restore it. Attendees will learn about the importance of Town Run as a future drinking water source, the threats facing its health, and how to become a “Friend” of Town Run to support ongoing conservation efforts.

Well Water to Your Septic Field: An Overview of Septic Systems
Alexis L. Davy, Director of Environmental Health for Jefferson County, will provide a comprehensive overview of septic systems and how they function. She will cover why caring and maintaining a septic system is crucial, what causes systems to fail, and essential tips for ensuring the long-term health of a septic system.

Cost-Share Programs for Jefferson County Residents
Kristen Bisom from the West Virginia Conservation Agency will introduce available cost-share programs for residents in Jefferson County. These programs offer homeowners up to $150 for septic pump outs and maintenance efforts.

This event provides a unique opportunity for long-time and new homeowners to learn about protecting drinking water, maintaining septic systems, reducing costs, and appreciating Town Run and the broader environment.