The City of Trinidad is in the process of implementing an Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Management Program to provide for sustainable development and better water quality protection, public health and safety and economic stability in our coastal community through improved management of onsite septic systems in Trinidad.
An OWTS refers to a system of sewage disposal located on the site of an individual or small group of residences. The most common type of OWTS is a septic system. All residences in Trinidad utilize septic systems as their method of sewage disposal. Septic systems are onsite wastewater treatment systems and should be treated as such. Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Management means viewing the operation of these systems as a means of protecting the water quality of groundwater, springs, creeks and the ocean as well as public health and safety. These systems require responsible operation along with periodic maintenance and inspections to ensure that they function properly. The City of Trinidad is committed to the use of onsite wastewater treatment systems as a long-term solution to environmental protection and sustainable development. With the community’s assistance and cooperation, we can continue to preserve our water quality, the community character and our quality of life.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency has recognized the effectiveness of OWTS management as a long-term solution for water quality, public health and consumer protection and as a viable alternative to centralized sewer systems. The City’s preventative approach is intended to minimize the chance of malfunctions, failures and the resulting water quality, public health and economic impacts.
The City of Trinidad is committed to administering local rules that are practical, consistent, technically valid and in conformance with applicable laws and regulations. The City is committed to leading the way for small communities and hopes that others will follow our environmentally progressive example.
Because of the City’s commitment and logical but progressive approach, the City was awarded two grants to help develop and implement a comprehensive OWTS Management Program. For more information see: Grant Program.