post trial brief - AboutForsyth.com

Mr. Ron Mayhew
October 10, 2012
Page 2 of 3
bedroom homes, and based on our observations, it is probable that many of the homes
connected to this system are larger than 4 bedrooms.
Septic system design and permitting documents do not include many of the details
required (equipment and pump specifications, piping layout and specifications, drain
field details and specifications, system maintenance requirements, etc.) for large septic
system designs. Subdivision design documents do not appear to be in compliance with
applicable regulations (Forsyth County UDC, May 22, 2000), good engineering
practice, or standard industry procedures.
A bored well was observed on Lot #17 that was not located on the proposed plan or
permit documents. The septic drain field reserve area appears to be located within the
required 100-foot setback area from this well. Added features on this lot appear to
encroach (fence, porch, landscaping trees) onto the septic drain fields. Installation of
these features may have caused penetration of the chamber structure, potentially
causing the system piping to drain, and therefore overloading soils in any areas that may
be compromised.
Water quality results from KW Soils, Inc. indicate that very high levels of fecal
coliform bacteria were detected in the stream located west of Ivyshaw Drive.
Iron bacteria was observed in water seeping from the eastern bank of the stream
below Lot #17 and from a fracture in the bedrock at the spring head. Cloudy water was
observed in a pool below Lot #18. Iron bacteria blooms are typically caused by
contamination sources. This observation may indicate failure of the septic systems on
Lot #17, Lot #18, and the community septic system located upgradient of Lot #18.
Suitable soil areas on each of the systems installed are relatively small, with very
little to no area remaining for any safety factor. Installation of replacement drain fields
would likely be difficult and impractical.
The observations above were made based on our review of files provided and our site inspection
on October 8, 2012.
Conclusions
Based on the information obtained, it is our opinion that the septic systems in the Ivyshaw
Subdivision are deficient in their design and construction and are currently failing. The failing
systems are causing significant and ongoing impacts to the stream and to Lake Lanier. The very
high levels of fecal coliform contamination detected in the stream are well above the allowable
limits for recreational use and pose a significant risk to anyone coming in contact with Lake
Lanier water in areas near the stream discharge point.
P:\Ron Mayhew\Septic Opinion Letter 10-10-12.doc