September 14-18, 2026: SepticSmart Week

WHEREAS, proper septic system use and routine care are vital to protecting public health, preserving our highly valued groundwater, lakes, streams, and waterways, and avoiding costly repairs that can result from neglect; and,

WHEREAS, over 1.3 million septic systems in Michigan treat sewage from homes and businesses, which represents a significant part of Michigan’s wastewater infrastructure; and,

WHEREAS, if not used and maintained properly, septic systems can become leaky, broken, or outdated and introduce nitrogen, phosphorus, household chemicals, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pollutants into state waters; and,

WHEREAS, wastewater professionals in the State of Michigan use their expertise in the design, installation, evaluation, maintenance, and regulation of septic systems; and,

WHEREAS, the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s SepticSmart Program used by Michigan environmental public health officials educates homeowners about the need for proper septic system use and routine maintenance; and,

WHEREAS, residents, visitors, and the environment of Michigan benefit from properly designed, installed, operated, evaluated, and maintained septic systems; and,

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan continues implementing for the second year a statewide septic replacement loan program to help system owners in replacing failing septic systems;

NOW THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 14-18, 2026, as SepticSmart Week in Michigan.