Officials to meet with Lake Lackawanna residents regarding new septic tank rule

BYRAM-Byram officials are inviting all Lake Lackawanna residents to an informational meeting on the Septic Management Plan. The program, which will include a question and answer portion, will take place starting at 8, Nov. 10 at the Lake Lackawanna clubhouse. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) is encouraging local governments to establish septic maintenance programs to help homeowners manage their systems properly and to protect lakes, rivers and wells. The many benefits of this program include protecting the quality and quantity of lake water and well water, protecting public health and maintaining property values. Two of Byram's largest lake communities - Cranberry and Mohawk - already have programs requiring the registration and pumping of septics. Since the extension of sewers is not a viable option at the present time, Byram Township and Lake Lackawanna Club (LLIC) officials have discussed adoption of a septic management program in the Lake Lackawanna community. This summer, the Township received a small Smart Growth grant from the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions to establish a Lake Lackawanna Septic Management Program (LLSMP). Regular pumpouts will be the most important requirement of the township ordinance that establishes the LLSMP, and the township will maintain a database to generate notices to homeowners when pumping is due or overdue.