September 2026 - Newsletter
"Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall." — F. Scott Fitzgerald
Hello, friends!
September brings new beginnings—a new school year and a fresh start to another season. I hope the air is a little crisper where you are than it is here in the Midwest. “Scorching” would be a good description of this week’s weather! I’m praying that everyone affected by the heat wave gets relief soon.
This month, we’re introducing a couple of helpful new features. On the agricultural side, we have a free download highlighting the many ways our Ag Mix can be used around the farm. This product is incredibly versatile, and we want to share all the ways it can work for you and support your operation.
On the septic side, we’re now offering a subscription for our Sludge Mix product. For a 1,000-gallon septic tank, we recommend an initial treatment of 1 gallon, followed by 1 quart per month to maintain the system. When you order a subscription, 1 gallon of Sludge Mix will be sent to you every four months—four quarts equal 1 gallon. It’s an easy way to stay on schedule, and you’ll receive a 10% discount on every order. That brings the cost of maintaining your septic system to less than $10 per month.
As we look ahead and transition into fall, we encourage you to give some thought to your septic system. It’s definitely something no one wants to think about—until it’s too late. The tips below offer helpful reminders. Like most things in life, a good maintenance program is usually better than waiting for something to break.
Wishing you all the fun this fall! 🍂 🏈 🎃
~ John & Carrie Bryant
Septic Care: Simple Habits for a Healthier System
Your septic system works quietly every day, handling household wastewater and relying on natural biological activity to break down organic matter. A few simple habits can help support that process and may help you catch potential concerns before they become bigger problems.
Septic system tips
1. Be mindful of what goes down the drain
Your septic system is designed to handle wastewater—not everything that disappears down a sink or toilet.
Avoid flushing or pouring:
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Grease and cooking oils
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Paper towels and cleaning wipes
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“Flushable” wipes
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Paint, solvents, and chemicals
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Coffee grounds
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Medication
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Feminine hygiene products
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Excessive amounts of antibacterial cleaners
Even products labeled “flushable” may not break down quickly enough in a septic system. When in doubt, dispose of it another way.
2. Spread out heavy water use
Doing several loads of laundry, running the dishwasher, and taking long showers all in the same day can put unnecessary strain on your septic system.
When possible, spread laundry and other high-water activities throughout the week. A steady flow of wastewater is generally easier for the system to manage than a sudden surge.
This is especially helpful during busy times of year, when guests, school schedules, and household routines can increase water use.
3. Take a walk around the drain field
September is a good month to inspect the area around your septic tank and drain field.
Look for:
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Unusually green or lush grass
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Wet or soggy areas
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Standing water
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Unpleasant odors
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Surface settling
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Unusually soft soil
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Slow drains or frequent backups inside the home
These signs do not always mean there is an emergency, but they are worth noticing. Changes around the drain field can provide an early indication that the system may need attention.
4. Keep heavy equipment away from the septic system
Fall often brings mowing, landscaping, hauling, and other outdoor projects. Make sure vehicles, tractors, trailers, and other heavy equipment stay away from the septic tank and drain field.
Heavy loads can compact the soil, interfere with drainage, and potentially damage underground components.
If you are unsure where your septic system is located, September is a good time to find and mark the tank and drain field areas.
5. Keep tank access clear
Make sure the septic tank lid and access area are easy to locate and reach.
Clear away:
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Overgrown vegetation
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Stored materials
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Firewood
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Landscaping features
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Fences or other obstructions
Easy access makes inspections, pumping, and service more convenient when needed. It is much easier to prepare now than during an unexpected problem.
6. Be cautious with household chemicals
Your septic system depends on naturally occurring microorganisms to help break down organic matter. Large amounts of harsh chemicals, disinfectants, solvents, or antibacterial products may interfere with that biological process.
This does not mean you have to avoid cleaning your home. Instead, use household products thoughtfully and follow label directions. Avoid pouring unnecessary chemicals down drains or toilets.
7. Don’t wait for a problem to schedule maintenance
Routine septic maintenance is easier than emergency repairs. If you cannot remember the last time your tank was inspected or pumped, this may be a good month to check your records and consider a maintenance plan.
Maintenance needs vary depending on:
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Household size
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Tank size
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Water usage
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Amount of solids entering the system
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Garbage disposal use
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Property conditions
A quick September septic checklist
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Check what is being flushed or poured down household drains
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Spread laundry and other heavy water use throughout the week
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Walk around the tank and drain field
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Look for standing water, odors, or unusually lush grass
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Watch for slow drains or frequent backups
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Keep vehicles and heavy equipment away from the system
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Clear the septic tank access area
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Review your inspection and pumping records and consider a maintenance plan
Septic care is often about small, consistent habits and being proactive before issues occur.
Pay attention to what enters the system, avoid overwhelming it with unnecessary water, and take a few minutes to look for changes around the tank and drain field. These simple steps can help you better understand how your system is working and identify concerns before they become more serious.
