Are You Septic Smart?

All across rural Hampshire, there are properties that are disconnected from the main sewer system. Instead, these properties use private 'off-mains' alternatives: cesspits, septic tanks, and sewage treatment plants. The three types vary in how they store, treat, and release waste, but aren’t a cause for concern when working well.

When something goes wrong, however, both people and wildlife are put at risk. While off-mains properties are in the minority, they have the potential to massively impact their surrounding environment. This is because systems that are incorrectly sized, sited, or maintained can cause chronic sewage pollution.

This pollution can damage homes and gardens, but is also rich in nitrogen and phosphorus - highly effective fertilisers. When it gets into our local chalk streams, it encourages the rapid growth of algae. The resulting ‘blooms’ starve the streams of sunlight and oxygen, with devastating consequences for wildlife.

The contamination of our waterways is especially serious in Hampshire, where pollutants can easily reach the underground chalk aquifer. As the source of both our chalk streams and most of our drinking water, this natural wonder is hugely important. Once inside, pollutants may continue to emerge even years later.

Luckily, expensive repairs and environmental harm can be avoided with a little know-how. Owners are responsible for ensuring that their system is suitable for their property and the number of residents. They must schedule frequent emptying and maintenance, and perform regular checks for signs of trouble.

Swampy ground, pooling water, a leaking tank lid, a grey film on the ground, and spots of lush grass growth can all be clues that something is amiss. Inside the home, look out for sinks, showers, and toilets draining slowly or noisily. Staying alert to potential problems is the best way to fix them before they escalate.

Care over what gets ‘flushed’ is also key, as the wrong additions can make off-mains systems inefficient or non-functional. Oil, fat, food waste, ‘flushable’ wipes, and sanitary products can cause blockages. Medicines, chemicals, bleach, and drain cleaner can kill the bacteria that help to break down the waste.

Learn more about how to keep your system safe and effective, with the Septic Smart project. It forms part of the Watercress and Winterbournes scheme, which is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

To get involved, visit www.hiwwt.org.uk/septicsmart or email: winterbournes@hiwwt.org.uk.

Whether it is an Extension, Conversion, Full Refurbishment or Renovation then look no further!

Whether it is an Extension, Conversion, Full Refurbishment or Renovation then look no further!

Silk Services are renowned for their reputation, affordability as well as providing a top quality, professional personal service no matter what your project needs.

Silk Services are renowned for their reputation, affordability as well as providing a top quality, professional service no matter what your project needs.

Nothing is too big or small for our experienced team of tradesman.

Nothing is too big or small for our experienced team of tradesmen.

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire. SO24 0JH

W: www.silkservices.co.uk

Wood Farm, Bramdean, Hampshire, SO24 0JH

W: www.silkservices.co.uk

T: 01962 771815

T: 01962 771815

E:jason@silkservices.co.uk

M: 07917 150027

E: jason@silkservices.co.uk

M: 07917 150027

A concert of Sacred a Cappella Music by the WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL CHAMBER CHOIR

Conducted by Joshua Stephens

In St Peter’s Church, Ropley on Saturday 25th February At 7.30 pm (doors & bar open at 7.00 pm)

The programme will include Finzi Seven Partsongs, Op. 17

Britten Hymn to St Cecilia

Gary Davison Awake, my soul

Tickets £20.00 per person online https://stpetersropley.org.uk/music -for-st-peters/ or from Julesflory16@gmail.com all proceeds to St Peter’s Church, Ropley