Jefferson County Public Health is offering free classes in June that give details on how to maintain a septic system.

County officials note that homeowners play an important part in protecting public health and vital water resources by taking care of their septic systems. It can also save property owners money by preventing costly repairs while extending the life of the septic system. 

Called “Septics 101” and “Septics 201,” the classes are free and will cover septic system operation, maintenance, and inspection. Septics 101 is devoted to the basics of septic system operation and maintenance. 

Topics include: How does your septic system operate? How do you maintain it? How do you landscape your yard without interfering with the smooth function of your septic system? What about garbage disposals? What impact does a working or failing system have on our drinking water, ground and surface water?

Septics 201 is a step-by-step inspection of the septic system and reporting the results. 

Registration is required as space is limited; call 360-385-9444 to sign up, or use the links below.

Classes will be held at:

• The Quilcene Community Center (294952 US Highway 101, Quilcene); 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, June 1. Register for the Quilcene class at septicdiy1.brownpapertickets.com or call 360-385-9444.

• The Tri-Area Community Center (10 West Valley Road, Chimacum); 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Friday, June 2. Register for the Tri-Area classes at septicdiy2.brownpapertickets.com or call 360-385-9444

• The Tri-Area Community Center (10 West Valley Road, Chimacum); 4 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 8. Register for the Tri-Area classes at septicdiy2.brownpapertickets.com or call 360-385-9444.

After completing the classes, county officials noted that homeowners may be able to complete required septic system monitoring inspections at a more reasonable cost.

Resources about caring for a septic system are also available for homeowners online at jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/650/Septic-Systems.