Why is soil permeability important for mound system design?

Soil permeability is a critical factor in the design of mound systems because it directly influences how quickly effluent from the septic system is absorbed into the surrounding soil. Permeability refers to the ability of soil to transmit water and can significantly affect the performance and efficiency of the mound system.

When effluent is discharged into the mound, it must move through the soil layers for treatment and eventual assimilation into the groundwater. If soil permeability is too low, the effluent may not percolate adequately, leading to surface pooling, potential contamination issues, and system failure. Conversely, if the permeability is excessively high, effluent may move too quickly, not allowing sufficient time for treatment within the soil. Therefore, understanding and measuring soil permeability is crucial for determining the appropriate design and layout of the mound system to ensure effective wastewater treatment and to maintain environmental and public health standards.