Septic / Mass Drain Field (MDF)

Septic Systems and Freshwater Estates Mass Drain Field
 
Freshwater Estates owns, manages and maintains a Mass Drain Field (MDF) that serves 40 (primarily waterfront) lots.  Homes connected to the MDF have onsite septic systems just like non-MDF homes, with the only exception being that they share one community drain field.   MDF connected homes have the same onsite tanks for collecting and separating solids and effluent.   MDF homeowners must follow the same septic system rules and have the same maintenance requirements for their onsite systems as non-MDF homes.
 
Freshwater's MDF was designed and approved by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) to service and support a maximum of 18,000 gallons per day (gpd) from the connected 40 properties, most all of which have a VDH permit for a 3 bedroom / 450 gpd system designed system.  For homes connected to the MDF, it is imperative that home occupancies do not exceed permitted amounts and that the amount of daily effluent going to the MDF does not exceed the 450 gpd maximum.  Homes with occupancy consistently greater than the 6-person amount the system was designed for, may require the installation of larger onsite tanks for storage of excess effluent as well as an upgraded pumping system to control / limit the amount of effluent going to the MDF.  This is particularly important for homes being used / operated as a short-term rental (STR).
 
Basic septic system best practices include the following:
  • Please ensure you clean your septic filter at least once a year, ideally every 6 months.
  • Depending on the occupancy and use of your home have your septic tank pumped and cleaned (EPA recommends every 3-5 years).
  • Only 4 P's down the toilet (Paper, Pee, Poop, Puke)
  • No eggshells, grease or paint down sinks
  • Advise contractors who are working in your house NOT to put liquids or debris down sinks and toilets.
Questions? Please contact Mike Bagby 540-603-1769 or freshwater.mdf@gmail.com
 
Septic and MDF Property Owner Resources:  Onsite Septic System Responsibilities