What should you do if a stabilization pond is going "septic"?

Raising the water level in a stabilization pond that is going "septic" is an effective strategy for addressing the issue. A septic condition typically indicates a lack of oxygen in the pond, which can lead to the breakdown of organic materials occurring anaerobically, resulting in the production of foul odors and reduced treatment efficiency. By raising the water level, you can increase the overall volume of water, which may enhance the aeration process and dilute any concentrated pollutants.

In addition to raising the water level, this action can potentially create conditions more conducive to aerobic microorganisms, which are essential for effectively treating wastewater. These microorganisms thrive in an oxygen-rich environment, so increasing the water level can help restore balance by providing these organisms with the conditions they require to thrive.

The other options, while they might seem beneficial, have limitations. Reducing inflow could lead to insufficient volume needed for effective treatment, and leaving the pond alone may exacerbate the septic conditions rather than rectify them. Introducing chemicals to balance the pH could address certain water quality issues, but it doesn't directly target the immediate oxygen depletion problem that characterizes a septic state. Therefore, raising the water level stands out as a more direct and practical approach for correcting septic conditions in a stabilization pond.