State Septic System Replacement Fund

In April 2021, Lewis County joined Round 2 of the New York State Septic System Replacement Fund Program with an initial allocation of $85,000, available through December 31, 2026. Established under the Clean Water Infrastructure Act of 2017, the program aims to mitigate environmental and public health risks associated with outdated septic systems near priority waterbodies, such as the Beaver River and its lower tributaries in Lewis County. Property owners within 250 feet of these waterbodies may qualify for reimbursement of up to 50%, capped at $10,000 per project.

Early Successes and Funding Increases

In 2021, Lewis County funded its first eligible project, receiving $2,450 in reimbursement. This allocation was later increased to $275,000 for the same priority waterbody, following approval by County Legislators. By 2023, an additional $2,613.73 was utilized for a second eligible septic system replacement project.

To promote awareness, the department undertook an extensive outreach campaign including website and social media postings, direct mailings, local newspaper articles, fliers at area businesses, and monthly Septic Information Station sessions at the Croghan Free Library. Despite interest across the county, affordability barriers prevented one eligible Beaver Falls property owner from proceeding. Efforts to secure supplemental funding to address such challenges remain ongoing.

Expansion and Increased Applications

Round 4 of the New York State Septic System Replacement Fund added 18 new priority waterbodies to Lewis County, spurring significant growth in applications. In 2024, the County replaced 13 septic systems/components, disbursing $80,909.91 in reimbursements. Additionally, four applications totaling approximately $20,090 were obligated.

Outreach efforts in 2024 included a comprehensive multi-platform strategy:

• Online channels, including the County website and social media.
• Radio advertisements and targeted mailings.
• Articles in local newspapers and trade newsletters.
• Flyers distributed at businesses near priority waterbodies and through lake associations.
• Direct engagement with septic contractors and engineers to highlight funding opportunities.

Due to increased program interest, the department temporarily suspended Septic Information Station sessions to focus on application processing.

Addressing Flood Impacts

Severe flooding in July 2024, followed by additional events in August and September, caused extensive infrastructure damage, including to dams, culverts, and bridges. Anticipating a rise in septic replacement applications from affected areas, the department prepared for potential increases due to elevated groundwater levels and soil saturation. However, of the 17 eligible applications received, only one originated from the flood-affected Beaver River area.

Outcomes and Future Opportunities

The 2024 funded projects primarily served seasonal residential areas such as Chase Lake and Brantingham Lake. These efforts addressed longstanding environmental challenges, resulting in notable water quality improvements.

During the year, the department received over 50 program inquiries, with 19 originating from properties on waterbodies not yet included in the Priority Waterbodies List. To extend the program’s benefits, the department strongly supports expanding the list of eligible waterbodies by New York State. Additionally, recognizing Lewis County’s demographic and financial challenges, the department continues to seek funding opportunities to assist applicants unable to meet the program’s 50% match requirement.