October 30, 2026
Lake George, NY — October 29, 2026 — Protecting Lake George starts at home, and understanding how to properly maintain a septic system is one of the most important steps property owners can take to safeguard water quality.
On Wednesday, October 28, the Lake George Association (LGA), alongside regional partners and local experts, welcomed community members to the Lake George Town Hall for Septic Savvy: Enhancing Your Property & Protecting Water, a free educational workshop designed to help property owners better understand their septic systems and the resources available to maintain, repair, or replace them.
The evening brought together experts in water quality, wastewater management, septic inspections, system technologies, and financial assistance. From understanding how septic systems work to exploring funding opportunities, attendees gained practical knowledge and connected directly with professionals who can help them take the next steps.
Understanding the Connection Between Septic Systems and Lake Health
A properly functioning septic system does more than manage household wastewater. It plays a critical role in protecting groundwater, nearby streams, and ultimately, Lake George.
Aging, failing, or improperly maintained systems can introduce excess nutrients and other contaminants into the watershed, contributing to water quality challenges and increasing the potential for harmful algal blooms.
Throughout the evening, experts shared information to help property owners better understand their responsibilities, recognize potential concerns, and make informed decisions about their wastewater systems.
Presentations covered several important topics:
- Septic system fundamentals: Lake George Waterkeeper Chris Navitsky, PE, provided insight into how septic systems function, the importance of routine maintenance, and their connection to water quality.
- Septic inspection requirements: Lake George Park Commission Environmental Analyst Dave Hatin addressed the Commission's Mandatory Septic Inspection Program and what affected property owners need to know.
- Financial assistance: Warren County Planning Principal Planner Sarah Brugger discussed the New York State Septic System Replacement Fund, while LGA Chief of Staff Jennifer Collins-Foley highlighted wastewater improvement grants available through the LGA's Lake Impact Fund.
- System upgrades and technologies: Justin Jobin and Ron Vitarelli of Infiltrator Water Technologies shared information about septic system improvement and replacement options.
Representatives from the Champlain Watershed Improvement Coalition of New York and Warren County Soil & Water Conservation District also contributed regional perspectives on the importance of wastewater management in protecting local waterways.
Lake George Waterkeeper Chris Navitsky, PE presents at the Septic Savvy Workshop
Turning Information into Action
One of the evening's most valuable outcomes was the opportunity for attendees to speak directly with experts, ask questions specific to their properties, and learn where to turn for additional assistance.
For Patricia, a local real estate professional, the workshop offered an opportunity to build upon her existing knowledge and identify resources she can share with clients.
"Tonight took me to another level and gave me the people to go to when I have further questions," she shared.
Patricia emphasized that understanding a home's septic system is an important part of understanding the property itself. She also expressed hope that more real estate professionals will participate in future educational opportunities, recognizing the value of helping buyers and homeowners make informed decisions.
Her perspective reinforces an important takeaway from the evening: septic education is valuable not only for current property owners, but also for the professionals who help people buy, sell, and care for their homes.
Making Resources Accessible to Our Communities
Beyond the presentations, the workshop highlighted the importance of making reliable information and assistance accessible to those who need it.
Lynn, a resident of Argyle in Washington County, appreciated both the educational content and the opportunity to learn about additional resources available online.
"What I really appreciate about the Lake George Association is they make all this information public," she said.
For Lynn, the workshop demonstrated the value of sharing knowledge beyond the immediate Lake George community, helping residents throughout the region better understand the connection between individual property decisions and the health of local waterways.
These conversations reflect the broader purpose of the LGA's educational outreach: equipping individuals with the knowledge, tools, and connections to become active partners in protecting water quality.
Adirondack Council's Sunita Halasz speaks with an event attendee
Financial Assistance Is Available for Qualifying Property Owners
For property owners facing the expense of repairing or replacing a septic system, understanding available financial assistance can make a significant difference.
The workshop introduced attendees to several resources, including the New York State Septic System Replacement Fund and the LGA's Lake Impact Fund.
Through the Lake Impact Fund, eligible property owners may qualify for grants of up to $10,000 for septic system repairs or replacements that help reduce pollution entering the Lake George watershed. Eligibility requirements apply, and awards are based on environmental and financial need.
Property owners can learn more about eligibility, application requirements, and available assistance through the LGA's Wastewater Homeowner Grants Program.
Additional financing options may also be available to qualifying property owners through Adirondack Trust Company and Glens Falls National Bank.
By connecting education with financial and technical resources, the workshop helped make the process of maintaining and improving septic systems more approachable for homeowners.
Working Together to Protect Water Quality
The Septic Savvy Workshop was made possible through collaboration among organizations committed to protecting Lake George and the surrounding watershed.
The LGA extends its sincere appreciation to our presenting partners, the Champlain Watershed Improvement Coalition of New York (CWICNY), Warren County Soil & Water Conservation District, and Adirondack Council, for helping bring this educational opportunity to the community.
We also thank the Lake George Park Commission, Warren County Planning, Infiltrator Water Technologies, and the participating financial institutions for sharing their expertise and connecting attendees with valuable resources.
The LGA's Lake Impact Fund has been funded wholly or in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance agreement (LC00A01141-0) to NEIWPCC in partnership with the Lake Champlain Basin Program. We also recognize the Wright Family Foundation for its generous support of the Wastewater Homeowner Grants Program.
Protecting Lake George Starts with All of Us
Whether you're maintaining an existing septic system, preparing for an inspection, or considering an upgrade, understanding your options is an important first step.
The Septic Savvy Workshop reinforced that protecting Lake George isn't solely the work of scientists, municipalities, or environmental organizations. It also depends on the everyday decisions of property owners and community members who share a commitment to clean water.
The LGA will continue working with partners throughout the watershed to provide education, technical guidance, and financial resources that help turn knowledge into meaningful action.
Want to learn more about protecting your property and Lake George?
Explore the LGA's Lake Impact Fund and Wastewater Homeowner Grants Program to learn about available resources and how to get started.
Together, we are the voice of the Lake.
