Greenville Leader

Upstate Forever, "a nonprofit conservation organization that protects critical lands, waters, and the unique character of Upstate South Carolina," according to its website, is nearing the end of a three-year grant cycle aimed at reducing bacteria and sediment pollution in the South, North, and Middle Tyger rivers surrounding Lake Robinson. 

To date, Upstate Forever has provided financial assistance to 36 homeowners to repair and/or upgrade their septic tanks from polluting Lake Robinson and groundwater sources, and the group said it remains hopeful to receive additional funding by year's end for another three years that will allow them to help more area homeowners with septic assistance.

"To qualify for financial assistance the homeowner must live within the program area," Geographic Information System (GIS) Coordinator Katie Hottel said in a written statement. "Through this grant program, Upstate Forever is able to contribute 60% towards the cost to repair/replace a failing septic system, leaving the homeowner responsible for the remaining 40%. This grant program does NOT include routine septic tank pumping but will only cover pumping if it is done in conjunction with a septic repair/replacement. 

"For any repair estimates exceeding $10,000, you will need to obtain three bids from certified SCDHEC contractors and complete and sign a short contract before Upstate Forever can authorize the repair. The purpose of this project is to help reduce bacterial pollution to rivers and streams."