What type of On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) is recommended for use in clay soil?

The recommended type of On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) for use in clay soil is drip or spray irrigation. Clay soil has low permeability, meaning it does not allow water to drain quickly or absorb effectively. This can pose significant challenges for traditional systems that rely on gravity flow or conventional trenches for effluent dispersal.

Drip or spray irrigation systems, on the other hand, are designed to apply treated effluent slowly and evenly over a large area, which maximizes absorption and reduces the risk of surface ponding. By utilizing small-diameter tubing with emitters, these systems can ensure that effluent is delivered at a rate that the clay soil can handle, preventing over-saturation and potential contamination.

Choosing drip or spray irrigation systems in clay soil environments helps to enhance treatment efficiency and protects the surrounding area from the potential issues associated with saturated soil conditions, such as odor, mosquitos, and environmental contamination.