- The Big Otter River water-shed has been listed as an impaired water way in Virginia. The cause of the impairment is the presence of too much bacteria.
- The Bacteria is sourced from three areas; humans, agriculture animals and wildlife.
Residential Program Eligibility
1- Own a residential property in the Big Otter River watershed
2 - Have a failing, failed or non-existant on-site septic system
Big Otter Water-shed (in color)
Cost-share
Cost-share is defined as an agreement between the property owner and the conservation district where as each party agrees to share in the payment of the project.
Cost-share amounts:
50% standard cost-share on approved septic systems
Increased cost-share available to lower income families as compared to the median family income for Bedford County.
Most septic repairs involve replacing failed components and at times, replacing the whole septic system. Options available to the property owner will be defined by soil type, home location relative to the surrounding topography and available public sewer locations.
Options available to property owner:
Connection to public sewer
Replacement of minor components
Replacement of major components
Replacement of a total system to include a pump
High tech - alternative systems
Application Process
Apply for repair permit from the County Health Department
Sign the State Cost-share application at the District Office
The state application must be signed prior to the completion of the project
Provide income verification documentation
Septic System Resources:
Virginia Cooperative Extension offers many publications to help you understand the many different designs available to the property owner.
