For Santa Barbara County Environmental Health Services
Santa Barbara County, California

Questa completed a septic system-sanitary survey and water quality investigation for Santa Barbara County involving the inventory of existing onsite sewage disposal practices, assessment of existing and potential impacts on water resources and public health, and identification of potential corrective-management strategies for problematic areas

The study encompassed the entire County, with special focus on known or suspected problem areas in the Santa Ynez Valley and along the South Coast. The study effort included extensive file reviews, GIS mapping, questionnaire surveys, reconnaissance watershed surveys, and bacteriological sampling of approximately 50 surface water stations, in addition to review of geology, soils, hydrologic, and groundwater conditions. The results of the survey were mapped and presented in a report along with recommendations regarding the need for public sewers, improved design standards/practices, and new management-maintenance approaches for specific problem areas of the County. The study was part of a comprehensive County program to upgrade septic system management practices and address non-point source pollution problems.