Why So Many Aerobic Systems in East Texas?
In much of East Texas, soil and groundwater conditions limit the use of conventional septic systems. During a site evaluation, I often encounter:
Seasonal groundwater – at certain times of year, the water table rises closer to the surface.
Perched water tables – layers of soil trap water above less permeable layers, creating “pockets” of saturated soil.
Redoximorphic features – changes in soil color (gray mottling, streaks, or spots) that show the soil has been saturated with water in the past.
Clay soils – East Texas has large areas of clay-rich soil. Clay is very dense and drains poorly, meaning wastewater can’t soak in and be naturally treated the way it would in sandy or loamy soil.
In plain terms, these conditions mean the soil can’t absorb and treat wastewater safely the way it should. That’s why aerobic treatment units (ATUs) are so common across East Texas — they provide a higher level of treatment before water is dispersed into the soil, keeping your system safe, reliable, and compliant with state regulations.
What will you get from me?
I provide licensed septic system design and site evaluation services for homeowners, businesses, and contractors across East Texas. Every project starts with a thorough evaluation of your property, followed by a design tailored to your soil, usage, and long-term needs.
Site Evaluations
TCEQ Licensed Site Evaluator – License #OS0038609
A site evaluation is the foundation of every On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) design. I document the soil conditions, slope, drainage, and available space on your property to determine what types of systems are suitable. A detailed report is prepared that meets all Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requirements and becomes part of the planning materials submitted with your permit application.
Professional Designs
Registered Professional Sanitarian – License #5343
Once the evaluation is complete, I’ll meet with you to ask important questions about how the property will be used, how many people it will serve, and your preferences for operation and maintenance. Using this information, I design a system that is both compliant and reliable for many years to come.
My goal is to balance cost, performance, and long-term reliability so you get a system that truly works for your site.
System Types I Typically Design
Each property is unique, and the right system depends on soil, usage, and county regulations. I design all major system types, including:
Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) – High treatment efficiency; ideal for smaller lots or properties with poor soils.
Conventional Septic Systems – Cost-effective and reliable when soils and space allow.
Low-Pressure Dosing Systems – Suitable for sloped or restrictive soils, evenly distributing effluent under pressure.
Drip Irrigation Systems – Efficient land use and distribution; excellent where space is limited or landscaping is important.
Service Area
Based in Nacogdoches, I serve property owners and contractors throughout East Texas, including:
Nacogdoches County • Angelina County • Shelby County • San Augustine County • Cherokee County • Houston County • Polk County • Rusk County • Anderson County • Trinity County • Leon County • Jasper County • Newton County • Sabine County • Panola County • Smith County • Freestone County • San Jacinto County • Tyler County • And More!
Why Choose Boatman Design?
Licensed and credentialed (TCEQ Site Evaluator + Registered Sanitarian)
Years of septic design and environmental health experience
Tailored designs — no cookie-cutter plans
Local knowledge of East Texas soils, terrain, and county permitting processes
Commitment to reliable, long-lasting systems
