NOTE: As of June 9, 2021, CSWCD is not accepting any new applications for the Residential Septic System Repair Loan program until such a time as a new staff member is available to coordinate this program.
Both the Clackamas and Molalla Rivers provide drinking water to residents of Clackamas County.
Did you know that the Clackamas Soil and Water Conservation District offers a Residential Septic System Repair and Replacement Loan Program to homeowners in Clackamas County? And did you know that these loans are now interest-free to eligible borrowers?
Discovering that your septic system has failed is a miserable experience. Sadly, most septic systems will fail at some point because they are designed to have a useful life of 20 to 30 years under the best conditions. Older septic tanks with concrete or metal parts degrade over time. Eventually, the soil in the drain field becomes clogged with organic material.
Septic systems can leak or break over time.
Why offer a septic repair and replacement program?
Old septic systems that are wearing out or leaking become a public health and water quality concern. This is especially problematic when the home is along a river or stream that serves as a source of public drinking water, such as the Clackamas and Molalla rivers. If the problem is bad enough, residents may have to vacate their home until the septic system is repaired or replaced.
Old septic systems that are wearing out or leaking are an increasingly common source of water contamination in Clackamas County. That’s why Clackamas Soil and Water Conservation District and the Clackamas County Septic and Onsite Wastewater Systems office (“County”) are partnering on this issue. No-interest loans from the Conservation District are financed with funding provided by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.
Septic repairs can be costly, but financial and technical help may be available.
Septic system repair or replacement can be expensive and may not always be within a homeowner’s budget. Our Residential Septic System Repair and Replacement Loan Program enables us to assist homeowners with costs that they may not otherwise be able to afford.
The District coordinates this loan program with funds provided by Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. This is an exciting opportunity to help landowners protect water quality and address public health concerns.
Looking for Additional Information?
For details on our Septic System Loan Program, visit our Residential Septic System Repair and Replacement Loan Program web page or call us at 503-210-6000.
If you would like information regarding additional Septic System Financial Assistance for homeowners in the Clackamas River watershed, please contact our partners at Clackamas River Water Providers at 503-723-3510. Homeowners in the Molalla River watershed may contact Canby Utility or City of Molalla for possible assistance.
For technical assistance or questions about septic system permits, call Clackamas County Septic and Onsite Wastewater Systems at 503-742-4740.