For a limited time, Clallam County Environmental Health Division is offering free classes to teach homeowners how to inspect their own septic systems. The training covers basic inspection, reporting and maintenance of conventional gravity septic systems (systems with a septic tank and drainfield only — no pumps). Six classes will be held throughout the month of June in Forks, Port Angeles and Sequim. Classes will begin at 8:30 a.m. and finish around 5 p.m. Space is limited to 20 participants per class and advance registration is required. Residents of Clallam County who are on single-family conventional septic systems are eligible for this free training opportunity. Class registration began Wednesday, June 4. Call 417-2381 on weekdays between the hours of 1:30-3:30 p.m. to reserve your seat.

State regulations require septic system owners to have their systems evaluated

regularly to ensure that they are functioning properly. Conventional gravity septic systems (septic tank and drainfield only) must be inspected at least once every three years. Pressurized alternative septic systems (those with pumps) must be inspected every year.

For more information about homeowner training and septic system management in Clallam County, visit www.clallam.net/html/septic.htm or contact the Clallam County Environmental Health Division at 417-2543 or 417-2593.

Funding for this pilot training program is provided in large part by the Washington State Department of Health.

Homeowner septic system training schedule

Thursday, June 12, Sequim

Thursday, June 19, Sequim

Saturday, June 21, Forks

Thursday, June 26, Sequim

Saturday, June 28, Sequim

Monday, June 30, Port Angeles