Wastewater Contingency Plan

This section describes most of the likely issues that may cause failure of the HOA wastewater system and their remedies.

Home High Water Alarm

Pump Switch Failure

If the pump switch fails, the pump will not be activated, and the tank will fill up.

  1. Minimize/stop sewer use until repaired
  2. Replace the switch (contractor)

Pump Failure

If the pump fails, the tank will fill up.

  1. Minimize/stop sewer use until repaired
  2. Repair the pump (contractor)

Backflow From Main Line

Since the force main is slightly pressurized, effluent can flow back into the tank if the check valve fails.  The tank will fill up. 

  1. Minimize/stop sewer use until repaired
  2. (determine what has failed)
  3. Isolate the home by turning off the valve
  4. Turn off the pump breaker/switch
  5. Repair the problem (contractor)

Lagoon High Water

When the lagoon reaches a level of 5′ depth (2′ freeboard) there is a danger of the wastewater spilling into the irrigation pond.   Homeowners should be notified and encouraged to reduce flows into the system. 

Break In Home Feeder Pipe

Between the home a PVC pipe connects the septic tank to the force main.  A break in the line will cause wastewater to flow from the lagoons to the break spilling onto the homeowner’s property.  A prolonged leak will flow into the Shasta River watershed.  

  1. If the pipe is damaged or broken isolate the home from the mainline using the valve in the valve box.
  2. Turn off the breaker/switch to the tank pump
  3. Repair the line (call contractor)
  4. Notify the WQCB if the leak leaves the property. 

Force Main Leak

A mainline failure is unlikely unless caused by digging around the sewer line.    Typical lifespan of PVC pipe is at least 100 years and the system was installed in the 1980’s.  The main risk is discharge into the Shasta River.  The location of the leak would determine the path to the Shata River (see map). 

  1. Isolate the lagoon using the mainline valve (is this working?)
  2. All homes must discontinue pumping (turn off breaker).
  3. Closing the valves may be needed to prevent siphoning. 
  4. Call contractor  

Lagoon Levee Break or Leak

The lagoon levee is earth fill and a small leak could easily erode into a large spill.   A spill from the main lagoon would travel quickly down into the Shasta River.  Repairing such a leak will require heavy equipment.  

All homes must discontinue pumping (turn off breaker). 

  1. Contact WQCB.  
  2. Pump remaining lagoon water into second lagoon (source of pump?)  Note:   If lagoons are connected this would not be an option. 
  3. Call for repairs.