How is effluent typically managed in an onsite wastewater system?

Effluent in an onsite wastewater system is typically managed by treating it within septic tanks before it's discharged. In these systems, wastewater from household sources is first collected in a septic tank, where solids settle to the bottom, and anaerobic digestion partially breaks down organic matter. The liquid effluent, which has been partially treated, then flows out of the septic tank and into a drain field or subsurface soil, where it undergoes further treatment through soil filtration and microbial action before it potentially reaches groundwater or surface water. This method of treatment is crucial for protecting public health and the environment, as it ensures that harmful pathogens and pollutants are adequately reduced before the effluent interacts with the surrounding ecosystem.

In contrast, discharging effluent directly into rivers, allowing it to evaporate, or mixing it with stormwater are not standard practices in the context of onsite wastewater systems due to the risks of contamination and environmental degradation. Each of these alternatives would not provide the necessary treatment and could pose serious risks to water quality and public health.