Report on Nassau County’s SEPTIC Replacement Program

Introduction

The Nassau County Legislature and several environmental groups have recently celebrated the 100th installation of an Innovative and Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment system (I/A OWTS) as part of the SEPTIC Replacement Program. This program aims to address the threat to water quality posed by cesspools and septic systems in Nassau County.

Background

Thousands of homes and small businesses along Nassau County’s North Shore are currently served by cesspools and septic systems, which release a significant amount of nitrogen into the soil and groundwater. To reverse the degradation of water quality, the county has implemented the SEPTIC Replacement Program, which promotes the installation of new I/A OWTS designed to remove nitrogen. These systems are cost-effective and environmentally sound alternatives to sewers in areas outside designated sewer areas.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed:

1. Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
2. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
3. Goal 14: Life Below Water

Grant Program

Under the SEPTIC Replacement Program, eligible property owners can receive grants of up to $20,000 for nitrogen-reducing septic upgrades. These grants are funded by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation and Nassau County’s American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed:

1. Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
2. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Benefits and Impacts

By replacing outdated and environmentally harmful septic systems with new I/A OWTS, Nassau County aims to protect and preserve water quality for future generations. This program will significantly reduce nitrogen, biochemical oxygen demand, and total suspended solids in wastewater, mitigating groundwater pollution and surface water contamination. It will also contribute to the reduction of toxic algae blooms and the preservation of aquatic life.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed:

1. Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
2. Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
3. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
4. Goal 14: Life Below Water

Other Initiatives

In addition to the SEPTIC Replacement Program, Nassau County has implemented the Bay Park Conveyance Project on the South Shore. This project aims to redirect treated wastewater from the Bay Park facility to the Cedar Creek facility, reducing the nitrogen impact on Nassau’s western bays and preserving marine life.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed:

1. Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
2. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
3. Goal 14: Life Below Water

Conclusion

The SEPTIC Replacement Program in Nassau County is a crucial step towards improving water quality and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. By incentivizing the installation of nitrogen-reducing septic systems, the county is taking significant strides in protecting its precious water resources and preserving the environment for future generations.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed:

1. Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
2. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
3. Goal 14: Life Below Water

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators in the Article

1. SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues

   • SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • SDG 14: Life Below Water

2. Specific Targets Based on the Article’s Content

   • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
   • Target 14.1: Prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

   • Number of installations of Innovative and Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment systems (I/A OWTS)
   • Amount of nitrogen reduction achieved through septic upgrades
   • Number of eligible property owners receiving grants for septic system installations
   • Amount of wastewater discharged by residents and businesses
   • Number of Advanced Nitrogen-Reducing septic system installations

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Source: longislandpress.com

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