What might indicate a problem with the septic drain field?

The presence of wet areas and strong sewage odors is a strong indication that there may be a problem with the septic drain field. This combination suggests that the septic system is failing or inadequate, potentially causing untreated wastewater to surface in the yard. The emergence of wet spots can indicate that the drain field is overwhelmed, leading to a breakdown in its ability to properly treat and disperse effluent. Additionally, strong sewage odors indicate that waste is not being effectively contained within the system, which poses health risks and environmental concerns.

In contrast, dry patches in the yard may simply indicate that a particular area is not receiving enough water and does not directly point to a failure in the septic system. Healthy grass growth often suggests that the septic system is functioning properly, as the nutrients from the treated effluent can support lush vegetation. Consistent water flow in nearby streams does not provide relevant information about the condition of the septic system unless there are signs of direct contamination or leakage into the water source. Thus, wet areas and odors are the most clear and concerning signs of potential septic system issues.