Program aims to reduce environmental impacts, property damage and health risks caused by failing systems
Roanoke, VA – Botetourt County households on septic are invited to apply for a free pump-out through the Roanoke Valley Alleghany Regional Commission. The program helps households with important maintenance preventing septic system back up, that can lead to expensive repairs and exposure to health hazards.
Environmentally, failing septic systems can leak untreated sewage and contribute to nutrient and bacteria pollution in streams, lakes, and rivers, as well as groundwater and soil. Septic systems should be inspected every 1 to 3 years and pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on use.
The septic-pump out program is funded through the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and is partnered with Botetourt County government.
Terra Famuliner, Environment and Resiliency Planner for the Regional Commission, said the program “is a cross section between human and environmental health. Septic system maintenance can easily be overlooked but is an opportunity for homeowners to make a positive impact on their community and watershed.”
After an application is received, Terra determines eligibility, contacts the applicant and coordinates the pump-out with Tidy Services. The cost of the pump-out is covered up-front by the Roanoke Valley Alleghany Regional Commission.
“The septic program has been one of our more popular programs. This program gives us the opportunity to help our neighbors while improving water quality in our rivers and streams,” said Amanda McGee, Community Development Director for the Regional Commission.
All Botetourt County residents who live in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed are eligible. The watershed generally covers Fincastle, Buchanan, Eagle Rock, and parts of Troutville. Income has been deprioritized at this phase of the grant, but applicants must be responsible for the home and property.
Residents can apply online at rvarc.org/septic or contact Terra Famuliner directly for assistance at 540-343-4417 or by email at tfamuliner@rvarc.org. Residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible so the Regional Commission can ensure scheduling this season through Fall.
The Roanoke Valley Alleghany Regional Commission is a leader in driving collaboration and strategy within our communities on issues that are critical to the economic growth, quality of life, and sustainability of this region.
RVARC has served member governments, businesses and residents since 1969. Member governments include the counties of Alleghany, Botetourt, Craig, Franklin and Roanoke, cities of Covington, Roanoke and Salem and towns of Clifton Forge, Rocky Mount and Vinton.
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