What is considered the most critical soil characteristic for an on-site sewage facility?

The most critical soil characteristic for an on-site sewage facility is the ability to absorb wastewater. This property, often referred to as the soil's permeability, determines how well the soil can manage and treat the wastewater that is being introduced into it. Soils with high absorption capacity allow for effective filtration and breakdown of contaminants, which is essential to prevent pollution and protect groundwater.

Understanding the ability of soil to absorb water helps in the design and installation of septic systems, ensuring that the facility can function properly without causing health hazards or environmental issues. This characteristic directly impacts the system's performance, effectiveness, and longevity, making it essential for properly functioning on-site sewage facilities.

While other soil characteristics, such as texture, color, and depth, play roles in determining the feasibility and design of an OSSF, they do not directly relate to how well the soil can absorb and process wastewater. Therefore, the ability to absorb wastewater is the primary focus when evaluating soil for on-site sewage systems.