How fields fail here
- Solids from an unpumped tank clog the soil
- Groundwater rises close to the field in wet periods
- Irrigation water or roof runoff soaks the field area
- Tree roots — cottonwoods are notorious water seekers
- Age and heavy use
Replacement steps
- Confirm the field is the problem (not the tank, filter or a broken line)
- Evaluate soil and groundwater in the new field area
- Design and permit
- Build the new field — gravel, chambers or as the design requires
- Inspection, backfill and grading
Today's rules
A replacement field is permitted under current rules. Depending on groundwater and lot size, that may mean a different layout or advanced treatment.
See drain field replacement in Corrales.
Common questions
Can a saturated field dry out and recover?
Sometimes partly, if water use drops and the cause is fixed, but often it needs replacement.
Do cottonwood roots really cause problems?
Yes — keep large trees well away from fields.
Can the new field go where the old one was?
Sometimes. The permit decides location.