Summit County Health releases two-year water study findings
Report available to the public
Park City, Utah (Feb. 22, 2017) — After two years of study, Summit County Environmental Health released the findings from its wastewater systems assessment of water quality and soil suitability. The complete findings can be found at www.summitcountyhealth.org/environmental-health/septic-analysis-2016.
“These studies represent a new direction for addressing wastewater in Summit County,” Health Department Director Rich Bullough said. “We believe these data will allow us to be more proactive in our decision making, more collaborative, and will help us protect the quality of our water as our population grows and demands for water resources increase.”
Results from the study identified areas across Summit County sensitive to ground water. Using this information, Environmental Health staff can ensure septic systems are appropriately suited to the area where they are installed, ultimately increasing the life of the system and its ability to protect the environment. The end goal is to prevent future septic system failure due to growth and protect overall water quality throughout the county.
“This study creates a framework that integrates science, technology, and regulation for use in evaluating wastewater systems in Summit County,” Phil Bondurant, Director of Environmental Health said. “It provides Environmental Health with the most accurate information available and gives us the tools to make decisions that will protect the natural resources of Summit County through responsible permitting and regulation.”
Sampling was done in both Snyderville Basin and parts of Eastern Summit County to determine sensitive areas optimal for sewer or septic upgrades. Water samples were taken during peak runoff (spring) and baseflow conditions (summer) to test for Escherichia coli (E. coli), nitrates, general bacteria and human-associated bacteria.