Bad Septic Tank News, Bad Martin County Blues

Scientist Brian LaPointe set the Martin County Commission on its heels Tuesday, telling members and a packed commission chamber that yes, Lake Okeechobee discharges are an issue, but he estimates the reactive nitrogen from septic tank effluent is seven times greater than that of Lake O.

Martin County, Ground Zero for damaging Lake Okeechobee discharges during excessively rainy periods, contracted the with LaPointe and Florida International University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute to assess how damaging septic tanks are to the St. Lucie River and estuary.

LaPointe also said toxic algae does come from Lake O, but it feeds and lives off septic tank effluent.

The commission approved a motion by Doug Smith to approve the Utilities Department recommendation to proceed with sewer line extensions in Golden Gate, Old Palm City and North River Shores.

The total cost is expected to be about $18,000 per resident to connect. Meanwhile the commission will entertain ideas on how to help low income residents afford it.