'Expert' consensus

This image shows the excavator bucket at left holding up the (rusty & perforated with corrosion) five-foot diameter tank lid.The consensus of our three septic experts at this moment was that the tank was compromised too, too much and not functional.   Holding tank  was recommended.  Replacing a portion of our septic system would require permitting from the Town of Caroga.  Replacing the entire system would not be permitted by the Adirondack Park Agency, under any circumstances or price.  Shoreline restrictions for new land use or expansion require septic systems to have 100' setbacks from the mean high water mark.  Camp's back line IS the high water mark.

APA septic projects are described here, and with more codified APA information here.

The Klingbeil sisters need a bit of time to discuss the merits of using a composting toilet.  Our septic experts were quizzical, and those three didn't see it as an advantage. 

Disagreement between the two contractors occurred however, regarding reconnecting a new holding tank to the existing leach field.  Cosselman didn't think it would work;  Anderson said if connected, but didn't work, it would not be any problem.  If connected and did work, it would be a benefit for the camp.

Holding tank cost is approximately $3,200 for installation by Anderson.  Details are not yet available with his estimate (nor his excavation bill).  Inspection by the code enforcement officer would of course occur. Anderson did not speak whether architectural drawings would be required.  

Caroga Town Directory addresses some of the septic concerns, such as requiring holding tanks be emptied by June first annually.