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Falco’s Children Village, an orphanage made up of a quaint cluster of stucco homes in the remote area of Qurus, Tanzania. Here where power is scarce, and water is transported by horse and cart, dignitaries and local leaders gathered a few years ago to commemorate the opening of this orphanage. Unfortunately, that was the day the wastewater problems began to surface.
Within moments of the orphanage guests arriving the wastewater system was failing. What to do with the wastewater when traditional techniques were not suitable for the conditions, proved to be an ongoing struggle. In December 2017, Falco’s Children Village approached Anderson Engineering, headquartered in Saratoga Springs, Utah, seeking help to resolve the issues associated with their wastewater. Anderson Engineering elected to sponsor a trip to the village to provide an engineered solution.
It was the health and safety of the children that compelled Steve Anderson, principal of Anderson Engineering to offer to provide the service. “As a company, we had the knowledge and skills to diagnose and engineer a solution,” he said. In January 2017, Anderson Engineering assembled a volunteer team a Civil Engineers and a Landscape Architect who traveled to Falco’s Children Village in Tanzania.
As a company, we had the knowledge and skills to diagnose and engineer a solution.
Steve Anderson, Principal
Falco’s Children Village Background
The orphanage idea occurred a few years earlier when Jerry and Tammy Backus moved to Tanzania to open a Bible school. Within a few days of getting to the country, a little girl was dropped off at their doorstep whom they welcomed into their home. The experience inspired them to replace the Bible school plans with the orphanage.
Of the 42 million people in Tanzania, 2.5 million are orphans under the age of 15. Jerry and Tammy looked at the situation and said, “we can either complain about it or do something about it.” They subsequently created Falco’s Children Village, a unique orphanage designed to be a loving home for these vulnerable children.
From the beginning the Backus’ tried to integrate the orphanage into the local community. They partnered with the government to have land donated, used local labor to construct the homes, operate the farms, and have a full-time staff from the local area. The vision was to create a sustainable orphanage that is self-sufficient and able to achieve lasting progress for years into the future.
Overcoming Challenges in Implementing On-Site Wastewater Systems
Part of sustainability was determining what to do with the wastewater issue. The contractors who constructed the village had built the wastewater system based on how it was done elsewhere in Tanzania—using a large seepage pit. Except, in this case, the pit was not draining. Over the next few years, more pits, trenches, and tanks were built to increase the system capacity. Despite all the additional storage, the wastewater surfaced.
Several times a week, the orphanage was forced to have the tanks pumped out and sprayed across the surface. A costly solution that consumed precious solar generated power and potentially spread harmful pathogens across the surface.
When the Anderson Engineering team arrived, they spent the first few days evaluating the existing wastewater system. “The soil over most of the site was poorly drained silts, directly above a layer of sandy soils and ash caliche,” Team Member Corey said. “We concluded that the existing system was severely undersized for the soil profile. Not only was the system failing, but it also had the potential to impact local groundwater creating a health hazard.”
Waster Water Design Objectives
Sustainable System
Create a sustainable system that would treat water passively, without the need for electricity/mechanical equipment to operate.
Zero Impact on Groundwater
Have zero impact on the local groundwater drinking water supply
Natural Elements
Utilize soil, oxygen, water, and plants to provide the treatment needed..
The Solution
Understand Topography
Right away it was necessary for the team to understand the local topography and groundwater flow. They used a drone to capture the aerial mapping data required to generate topographic maps and determine groundwater flow.
Determine Existing Soil Profile
The second step was to determine the existing soil profile’s capacity for passive treatment. The team accomplished this by carrying out soil exploration, percolation, pH, and soil conductivity tests. Test results were used to perform engineering calculations and size the new treatment system. Once calculations were complete, the design phase began.
Implement Sustainable Design
Through a combined team effort and use of their collective knowledge, skills, and resources, the team designed a system that accomplished the set goals. Stage One: Biological treatment system. Stage Two: Adequate resident time for primary waste reduction. Stage Three: Discharge into eight absorption trenches for final treatment.
“The existing system is in soils that are not adequate for wastewater distribution and treatment. Through our engineering test, we were able to locate an ideal area for final treatment. Each trench was filled with gravel and contained a perforated pipe for distribution. Custom drop boxes were designed and built to distribute water using gravity down the sloped area.
Corey Anderson, P.E.
Knowledge Sharing
The most satisfying part of the project for the team was the opportunity to train Tanzania youth in science and engineering, so they can take ownership and develop solutions of their own.
“Utah has an excellent on-site wastewater program based on research from Utah State University’s well-respected water research lab,” Corey said. “This opportunity allowed us to take some of those best practices and share them with the technicians at the village.” The team worked side by side with the technicians helping them understand the science behind the construction methods.
“We hope that the technicians will take what they learned while working with us and apply it to other wastewater projects they are hired to construct,” Corey said.
Likewise, the technicians taught the Anderson team how to do more with less. “I think we could learn a lot from Africa concerning innovation and frugality,” Ryan said. “I was impressed at some of the ways they accomplished tasks with simple tools and methods.”
Corey said one of his motives for studying engineering was to learn how to bring basic infrastructure to those who need it most, though he had never imagined building a system in Africa. He said one of the most significant rewards of the trip was when one of the older children at the village told him that she now wanted to be an engineer to learn how to help build a better Tanzania. “I hope she reaches her dream; she could do a lot of good for Tanzania.”
Corey said one of his motives for studying engineering was to learn how to bring basic infrastructure to those who need it most, though he had never imagined building a system in Africa. He said one of the most significant rewards of the trip was when one of the older children at the village told him that she now wanted to be an engineer to learn how to help build a better Tanzania. “I hope she reaches her dream; she could do a lot of good for Tanzania.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a remote septic system be installed on a slope?
A remote septic system can indeed be installed on a slope, but careful consideration of the site's grading and drainage is essential. Proper design ensures efficient wastewater management and prevents issues related to runoff and system failure.
How does soil type affect rural septic system performance?
Soil type significantly impacts rural septic system performance. Sandy soils facilitate quick drainage, while clay soils can hinder absorption, leading to potential system failures and groundwater contamination. Proper soil assessment is essential for effective septic system design and operation.
Can a remote septic system handle high water tables?
Remote septic systems can indeed handle high water tables, but they require specialized design features. These may include elevated drain fields or alternative technologies to ensure proper wastewater treatment and prevent system failure.
What are the benefits of using a remote septic system?
The benefits of using a remote septic system include enhanced flexibility in placement, reduced impact on local ecosystems, and the ability to serve areas without access to traditional sewage systems. This solution minimizes environmental disruption while maintaining efficient wastewater management.
How often should a remote septic system be inspected?
The inspection frequency for a remote septic system is typically recommended every one to three years, depending on usage and local regulations. Regular inspections help ensure the system operates effectively and prevent costly failures.
What is the minimum lot size for a rural septic system?
The minimum lot size for a rural septic system typically depends on local regulations, but generally, it ranges from 0.5 to 1 acre to ensure proper spacing, drainage, and environmental protection. Always check specific local guidelines for accurate requirements.
Are remote septic systems environmentally friendly?
Remote septic systems can be environmentally friendly when properly designed and maintained. They effectively treat wastewater on-site, minimizing contamination risk and protecting local water sources, especially in areas lacking centralized sewage systems.
How deep should a rural septic system drainfield be?
The depth of a rural septic system drainfield typically ranges from 18 to 30 inches below the surface. This depth ensures proper wastewater absorption while accommodating soil types and local regulations.
What are the key considerations for rural septic system design?
The key considerations for rural septic system design include soil characteristics, ground water proximity, system size, and local regulations. Proper assessment ensures effective waste treatment and environmental protection while accommodating the specific needs of the rural location.
What factors influence remote septic system installation?
The factors influencing remote septic system installation include soil type, site topography, local regulations, available space, and proximity to water sources. Each element plays a critical role in ensuring effective and sustainable wastewater management.
How do you maintain a rural septic system?
Maintaining a rural septic system involves regular inspections, pumping the tank every 3-5 years, conserving water, avoiding harsh chemicals, and ensuring drain fields remain clear of debris to ensure proper function and longevity.
What challenges exist for remote septic systems?
The challenges of remote septic systems include limited access to maintenance services, potential soil and groundwater contamination, and difficulties meeting local regulations due to isolation. Additionally, lack of infrastructure can complicate system installation and long-term sustainability.
How can high water tables affect septic systems?
High water tables can negatively impact septic systems by limiting the soil's ability to absorb effluent, leading to system failure, backups, and increased contamination risks. This can hinder proper wastewater treatment and require costly remediation.
What maintenance tasks are crucial for septic systems?
Crucial maintenance tasks for septic systems include regular inspections, pumping every 3 to 5 years, monitoring water usage, avoiding the disposal of harmful chemicals, and maintaining vegetation over the drain field to ensure proper function and longevity.
What permits are needed for rural septic systems?
The permits needed for rural septic systems typically include a site evaluation permit, a construction permit, and an operation permit. It's essential to check with local health departments for specific requirements.
How does terrain impact septic system design?
Terrain significantly influences septic system design by affecting drainage, soil type, and water table levels. Factors like slope, soil permeability, and proximity to water sources determine system placement and functionality, ensuring effective wastewater management and environmental protection.
What are common issues with remote septic systems?
Common issues with remote septic systems include inadequate soil drainage, clogs from improper waste disposal, maintenance challenges, and difficulty in accessing services for emergency repairs, often exacerbated by remote locations and limited resources.
What materials are best for septic system construction?
The materials best for septic system construction include high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for tanks, concrete or fiberglass for septic chambers, and perforated pipes for leach fields, ensuring durability and effective wastewater management.
How do remote septic systems manage waste effectively?
Remote septic systems manage waste effectively by utilizing advanced treatment technologies and design strategies that ensure waste decomposition and filtration occur efficiently, even in isolated locations. This allows for safe disposal and minimizes environmental impact.
What regulations apply to rural septic systems?
Regulations for rural septic systems typically include local health department guidelines, state environmental laws, and federal standards aimed at protecting water quality. Compliance ensures proper installation, maintenance, and operation to prevent environmental contamination.
How long does a remote septic system last?
The lifespan of a remote septic system typically ranges from 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance and care. Regular inspections and servicing can prolong its effectiveness and efficiency.
What is the ideal soil type for septic systems?
The ideal soil type for septic systems is well-draining soil, such as sandy or loamy soil, which effectively filters wastewater and prevents ponding. Adequate drainage is essential for the proper functioning of the system.
How often should rural septic systems be pumped?
Rural septic systems should typically be pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on usage and household size. Regular maintenance helps ensure proper function and longevity of the system.
Can remote septic systems be gravity-fed?
Remote septic systems can indeed be gravity-fed, provided the site has a suitable slope for the effluent to flow naturally without the need for pumps. Proper planning and design are essential for effective operation.
How to troubleshoot septic system performance issues?
Troubleshooting septic system performance issues involves checking for clogs in the pipes, ensuring proper drainage, inspecting the septic tank for signs of overflow, and monitoring the drain field for saturation. Regular maintenance and expert consultation are also recommended for effective resolution.
What innovations exist for rural septic systems?
Innovations for rural septic systems include the development of advanced treatment technologies such as constructed wetlands and membrane bioreactors, which enhance wastewater treatment efficiency and sustainability, ensuring better environmental protection and reduced maintenance costs.
How do seasonal changes affect septic systems?
Seasonal changes significantly affect septic systems. Cold weather can freeze components, while heavy rains can saturate the ground, reducing soil absorption. Conversely, hot, dry conditions may lead to increased evaporation, stressing the system’s performance and potentially causing malfunctions.
What are tips for choosing septic system components?
Tips for choosing septic system components include assessing your household size, soil type, and local regulations. It's vital to consult with a professional to ensure the selected components are suitable for your specific site and wastewater treatment needs.
How can septic systems be made more sustainable?
Septic systems can be made more sustainable by incorporating advanced treatment technologies, utilizing eco-friendly materials, regular maintenance, and promoting water conservation practices to reduce the overall environmental impact.
What role do filters play in septic systems?
Filters play a crucial role in septic systems by preventing solid waste from entering the drain field. They help maintain a healthy wastewater treatment process, ensuring that only clarified effluent is released, which protects the surrounding environment and prolongs system lifespan.