Who is required to perform a soil evaluation for an OSSF system?

For an On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) system, a soil evaluation is critical to ensure that the site is suitable for the installation and operation of the system. The correct choice indicates that a soil scientist or a licensed professional is required to conduct this evaluation.

These professionals possess the necessary education and training to analyze soil properties and hydrology accurately. They can identify the soil characteristics that affect wastewater treatment, such as drainage capacity, permeability, and depth to the water table. Their expertise is essential for determining whether a specific site can adequately treat the effluent and prevent contamination of groundwater and surface water.

Other options are less appropriate for this task. While a trained technician might assist in the process, they do not typically have the same level of specialized knowledge and training that a soil scientist or licensed professional possesses. A property owner may lack the expertise required to make a qualified assessment, and a state inspector's role is more focused on compliance and enforcement rather than conducting evaluations. Hence, the requirement for a soil scientist or licensed professional ensures a rigorous and reliable assessment for the OSSF system's success.