The Environmental Impact of Cesspools on Long Island Waterways

As the population on Long Island continues to grow, the need for proper wastewater management becomes increasingly important. One of the most common ways of disposing of wastewater in residential areas is through the use of cesspools. While cesspools have been used for decades, they have a significant impact on the environment, especially on Long Island’s waterways.

Cesspools are essentially holes in the ground that collect wastewater from sinks, showers, toilets, and other household plumbing fixtures. As the wastewater accumulates, it percolates into the surrounding soil. This process can take years, depending on the size of the cesspool and the amount of wastewater produced by the household.

Unfortunately, the wastewater that leaches into the soil can contaminate groundwater and surface water. This can cause a range of environmental problems, including the growth of harmful algae blooms, the depletion of oxygen levels in the water, and the destruction of aquatic habitats.

The use of cesspools is especially problematic on Long Island because of the area’s unique geology. Long Island sits on a bed of porous sand and gravel, which allows wastewater to move quickly through the soil and into the groundwater. This means that even a small amount of contamination from a single cesspool can spread rapidly and contaminate large areas of groundwater.

To address these concerns, the state of New York has introduced a septic improvement program aimed at replacing cesspools with more efficient and environmentally friendly wastewater treatment systems. One such system is the Innovative and Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (I/A OWTS).

The I/A OWTS is a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment system that uses a series of filters and other treatment processes to remove harmful pollutants from the wastewater before it is discharged into the environment. This system is much more efficient than traditional cesspools and can significantly reduce the impact of wastewater on Long Island’s waterways.

Rescue Cesspool & Drain is a certified installer of the new I/A OWTS and can help homeowners in Long Island make the switch to this more sustainable wastewater treatment system. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, they have the expertise and knowledge to ensure that the installation process is seamless and stress-free.

By switching to an I/A OWTS, homeowners can significantly reduce their impact on the environment and protect Long Island’s waterways for future generations. If you’re interested in learning more about the septic improvement program and how you can make the switch to an I/A OWTS, contact Rescue Cesspool & Drain today.