Soil Evaluations
Whether you are buying a vacant lot, planning a new home, or replacing a failed septic system, a professional Soil Evaluation shows you what lies beneath the surface. At Avizinis Environmental Services, we combine scientific expertise with regulatory knowledge to guide you through the complex Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management’s Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (RIDEM OWTS) program.
Once a test hole has been opened, our licensed Class IV Soil Evaluators analyze the physical properties of your land. The most critical data point we determine is the Seasonal High Water Table (SHWT). By examining specific soil indicators—such as redoximorphic features (mottling) and soil colors—we can accurately pinpoint the highest level groundwater reaches, even during the dry summer months. This determination dictates exactly where a septic system can be placed and if the system requires a raised mound or advanced treatment.
Additionally, we collect soil classification details to determine the texture and permeability of the earth. Whether you have rapid-draining sand or dense glacial till, these classifications determine the "loading rate" and size of the leach field required. We also identify restrictive layers like ledge that may pose construction challenges.
AES manages the entire RIDEM permitting process and assists your installer or engineer with a report of findings. A proper soil evaluation doesn't just satisfy the state inspectors; it protects your investment by ensuring your wastewater system functions correctly for decades to come.