DEQ Issues Draft Environmental Assessment for Proposed Septage Land Application Site in Flathead County

• Moira Davin
• February 28 2024

Helena—Today, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) published a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for Mel’s Pumping Inc. (MPI) regarding a proposed land application site in Flathead County. The proposal includes approximately 25 acres of private property located in Kalispell, Montana.

In the application, MPI proposes to apply septage pumped from septic tanks, cesspools or other primary treatment sources to agriculture fields. Primary treatment reduces bacteria and other pathogens prior to land application, where remaining pathogens are destroyed by sunlight or application of lime. DEQ reviews and licenses septic tank pumpers and assesses applications for proposed land application sites according to requirements in state administrative rules. These rules include requirements related to site access as well as setbacks to surface water, residences, groundwater wells and steep topography. The application review process ensures that projects are protective of human health and the environment.  

DEQ prepared a draft EA in compliance with the Montana Environmental Policy Act to analyze potential impacts of the proposal. DEQ is currently accepting public comment on the draft EA, after which DEQ will review comments and make a final decision on the application. Public comment closes March 29, 2024, and comments can be submitted electronically or by mail. To view the draft EA or to submit comment, please visit the DEQ website at: https://deq.mt.gov/News/publiccomment-folder/mels-pumping-02-28-24