MCKENZIE BRIDGE, Oregon (STPNS) -- The Eugene Water & Electric Board’s Drinking Water Protection Program is again offering two programs to assist homeowners in the McKenzie Watershed with septic system repairs, replacement, inspections and pump-outs. Funds are available for cost-share and zero-interest loan programs. The utility established the venture as part of its continuing efforts to encourage homeowners to regularly maintain their septic systems and to assist those who need to repair failing systems. Properly-functioning septic systems will help to protect the excellent water quality of the McKenzie River.



The septic system cost-share program will reimburse homeowners upstream of EWEB’s drinking water intake 50 percent of the cost for a septic system inspection and pump-out, if needed. (Note: Homeowners who have had their systems inspected or pumped out within the past three years are not eligible.)  In addition, EWEB will reimburse 50 percent of the cost of minor, necessary septic system repairs that cost up to $300. Last year, EWEB assisted 84 homeowners with inspections and/or pump-outs.

The zero-interest loan program is designed to address septic systems that need repairs in order to function properly or to replace failing systems. The maximum loan amount is $7,000 and has a maximum repayment term of 60 months.

For both programs, homeowners need to use a Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) approved contractor and provide EWEB with documentation of the work completed. For more information, please visit: http://eweb.org/septic/assistance,or contact Nancy Toth (nancy.toth@eweb.org) at 541-685-7438.