Why might surface application be preferred over other OSSF disposal options?

Surface application might be preferred over other On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) disposal options primarily due to considerations involving the characteristics of the soil and the presence of seasonal groundwater. When clay soils are present, they often do not provide adequate drainage, leading to potential issues with effluent disposal and treatment. In such cases, surface application can be effective because it allows for the natural processes of evaporation and transpiration, reducing the risk of effluent pooling and providing a more efficient means of treatment.

Additionally, seasonal groundwater issues can further complicate the installation of traditional subsurface systems. If the groundwater level is high, this can interfere with the proper functioning of those systems, leading to significant public health and environmental concerns. Surface application can help mitigate those issues by using the surface area effectively to manage wastewater treatment, thus preventing direct contact with groundwater and enhancing the natural breakdown of nutrients and pathogens.

Other options might have certain advantages; for example, lower installation costs and ease of maintenance might be appealing, but they do not address the specific soil and groundwater conditions permanently. The availability of space is also an important consideration, particularly for installation requirements. However, the unique challenges posed by clay soils and fluctuating groundwater levels can make surface application the most feasible and efficient solution