What is the minimum separating distance from a sewage tank to a water supply well if the well has a capacity of less than 10 gpm?

The minimum separating distance from a sewage tank to a water supply well that has a capacity of less than 10 gallons per minute (gpm) is set at 75 feet due to public health concerns and the potential for contamination. This distance is critical because it helps to ensure that any contaminants from the sewage tank do not migrate towards the well, which could compromise the quality of the drinking water. Maintaining a separation distance provides a buffer that minimizes the risk of pollutants infiltrating the groundwater and reaching the well supply.

Regulatory guidelines are put in place to protect drinking water sources from various types of contamination, and the 75-foot distance is established based on studies that evaluate the likelihood of contamination spread under different environmental conditions. This specific measurement reflects the understanding of hydrology and the behavior of wastewater as it moves through the ground, reinforcing the importance of safeguarding potable water supplies from harmful pathogens and chemicals that might be present in sewage. Thus, the choice of 75 feet is grounded in these public health principles and accepted environmental practices.