WHEREAS, proper septic system use and routine care are vital to protecting public health, preserving our highly valued groundwater, lakes, streams and waterways, and avoiding costly repairs that can result from neglect; and
WHEREAS, nearly 50 percent of North Carolina residents rely on septic systems to treat wastewater from homes and businesses; and
WHEREAS, wastewater professionals in the state of North Carolina use their expertise in the design, permitting, installation, maintenance, and regulation of septic systems; and
WHEREAS, the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s SepticSmart program used by North Carolina health officials educates homeowners about the need for proper septic system use and routine maintenance; and
WHEREAS, the public and the environment of North Carolina benefit from properly designed, permitted, installed, operated, and maintained septic systems;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim September 18 – 22, 2023, as “SEPTICSMART WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.