on perk testing…

Date: Tue, 21 Feb 2017 09:27:36 -0500
From: Bruce Hively
Subject: on perk testing…

first let me say that I am not a geologist, hydrologist, or even a digger of holes.
however, the way I understand the reasons for perk testing is to find the best possible soil composition and compaction to allow water to be absorbed at a certain rate.
ergo, it is the best spot to place your septic system, assuming you are going to have a septic system.
which begs the question, if you are not using a septic system, of which there are many choices, would you still need a perk test for a home site?
so you can do own un-official perk test by getting a hold of some post hole diggers, dig some holes, then put a measured amount of water in the holes and note how much time it takes for the water to disappear.
you may have to do this many times since obviously you are not a geologist or a hydrologist but will soon be a certified hole digger!
Bear