Septic Systems
•Store and treat fecal waste
•Improper maintenance
ßIncreased nutrient loading
ßContamination of lake water
•Regulations
ßSetback, volume, and location
•Inefficient systems are present in the watershed
Septic systems are another facet of development that may deteriorate water quality.
Septic systems are designed to store and treat fecal waste.  If systems are not properly maintained, back up can lead to increase in nutrient loading and contamination of lake water.
Regulations have been established that specify proper setback, volume, and location for these systems in order to prevent adverse effects on water quality that they might have.

Although no formal records are kept of the types of systems that are currently in place in Canaan and Skowhegan, it is known that inefficient systems are present within the watershed, including primitive systems such as pit privies (outhouses).