COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Septic & Lake Health Resources
Explore visual guides from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and USDA Rural Development to better understand septic care, lake health, and community wastewater funding.
Septic systems and care
Septic Systems and Surface Water
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · Interactive diagram
Follow wastewater from a home through the septic tank, drainfield, and groundwater. Click the numbered points to learn how remaining nutrients and pathogens may reach a nearby lake.
View the interactive diagram →
Be SepticSmart
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · Printable infographic
A visual guide to caring for a septic system, protecting the drainfield, conserving water, and testing a private well. Helpful whether or not the proposed sewer project proceeds.
Open the infographic PDF → · View the graphic →
Understanding lake health
Should Your Lake Be on a Diet?
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · Printable infographic
Learn how excess phosphorus and nitrogen can contribute to algae growth and lower oxygen levels, and how everyday choices can help protect a lake.
Open the lake-health infographic →
When Good Algae Go Bad
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · Printable infographic
Understand the role of algae in a lake and why some blooms can be harmful to people, pets, and wildlife. Includes practical guidance on recognizing and reporting concerns.
These are general educational resources. National statistics and illustrations do not establish conditions or pollution sources at Swains Lake.
Community wastewater funding
Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants
USDA Rural Development · One-page fact sheet
Learn how USDA funding can help eligible rural communities improve wastewater infrastructure, who may apply, and how loans and grants can work together.
Open the USDA funding fact sheet →
This explains a funding program; it does not confirm a loan, grant, interest rate, or award for the Swains Lake project.
About these resources
Materials are published by the agencies identified above. Links open the original resources so residents can review them directly. For local project documents, schedules, and cost information, visit Documents & Resources.
Resource links reviewed October 13, 2026.