The operation and maintenance of wastewater lagoons will be conducted in the following manner:
008.01 Lagoon dikes will be maintained with grass to minimize soil erosion, except for areas protected by rip rap or other stabilization methods. The grassed dikes will be mowed to prevent growth of trees or woody plants. Cattails, reeds and other emergent vegetation will be removed from the lagoons promptly as they appear.008.02 At least two feet of water will be maintained at all times in active wastewater lagoons unless the lagoon has a synthetic liner with an adequate ballast system to prevent uplift from the wind.008.03 A fence will be maintained around lagoon systems to keep unauthorized persons, pets, and domestic livestock from entering the lagoon. Warning signs will be maintained in legible condition. Gates and locks will be maintained in operable condition.008.04 If a new lagoon cell is not immediately needed, or if wastewater flow to a lagoon cell is interrupted for a period greater than a year, lagoon cells may be allowed to dry out. These lagoon cells be mowed, as necessary, to prevent the growth of woody plants. When inactive lagoon cells are placed into service, the liner's permeability rate will be tested, and if necessary, restored to meet the seepage rate established by the Department. Synthetic liners that are being placed back into service will be restored to a watertight condition. 008.05 Damage to lagoon dikes and liners caused by muskrats or other rodents, erosion, tree roots, animal hooves, or any other source will be promptly repaired.008.06 The liners of wastewater lagoons will be maintained so that wastewater seepage does not exceed the rate approved by the Department in the construction plans and specifications. Where no record of approved plans and specifications exist, the lagoon liner will be maintained to meet the seepage rate prescribed by the Department for the specific wastewater being treated. The owner will perform seepage testing when requested by the Department.008.07 Wastewater lagoons will be operated so that the water level is not maintained in the area designed for freeboard.123 Neb. Admin. Code, ch. 11, § 008
Amended effective 9/4/2019