Funding available for septic system replacements near Jefferson County waterbodies | WWTI

CLAYTON, NY (WWTI) – To help prevent future pollution problems in the North Country, funding is now available for specific septic tank replacement projects in Jefferson County.

The Jefferson County Planning Department announced that New York State’s Environmental Facilities Corporation has opened the second round of the state’s septic tank replacement program. This program provides funds to repair or replace defective or “inferior” systems in the vicinity of target waters.

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According to the Jefferson County Department of Planning, the purpose of this fund is to replace existing cesspools and sewage treatment plants that have significant and quantifiable environmental or public health effects from groundwater drinking sources or a threatened body of water.

In Jefferson County, priority areas identified in the first round of this program include Moon Lake, Red Lake, and Indian River. The areas identified in round two still include Moon Lake, but also the St. Lawrence River and Guffin Bay.

Property owners who have substandard sewage treatment plants located within 250 feet of these bodies of water are encouraged to apply. All residents of year-round houses, seasonal houses and rental properties can take part in this program.

For each project, the county limits its maximum grant to a 50% reimbursement, up to a maximum of $ 50,000 per system. The priority of selection can be determined by the condition of the exiting septic tank, possible impact on the nearby body of water, and the design of the proposed system.

Scholars have one year to complete the work and apply for a refund. Work completed before a signed procurement agreement is not eligible.

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The Jefferson County Planning Department will accept completed applications for this program by September 30, 2021. The county’s staff review and evaluate applications to determine eligibility. Applications that are not selected will remain on a waiting list and will be considered for future selection.

Applications and further information can be found on the website of the district planning office.