Correlation does not equal causation.
There are also a lot of larger parcels such as farms with associated livestock, fowl and such in areas where there are a lot of septic systems.
A properly functioning septic tank and drainfield system does not discharge ANY water (directly to streams and ricers
“...any water directly to streams and rivers.”
Proofreading is my friend...
There are also a lot of "fake" septic systems in areas with a lot of septic systems. What's a fake system, one where the out pipe runs directly down to the river or other open waste area.
“ricers”
I think you just stumbled on a new pejorative term.
> A properly functioning septic tank and drainfield system does not discharge ANY water (directly to streams and rivers.
There’s the rub. There are lots of poorly functioning septic systems out there in the sticks. I know the majority where I used to live were not up to snuff.