nuts in the crown. After this last load of sand, you can plant the surface of the bed if you SO choose. As mentioned earlier, some plants will actually decrease the evapotranspiration from the bed in the winter. Ever- 6-10' Stand Pipes Septic 6-10' Figure 7.8 Distribution system cross section. 192 ONSITE WASTEWATER DISPOSAL green shrubs have been shown to be of some advantage throughout the year. The best solution is to consult a nursery, county extension office, or landscaping service to get advice specific to your area on which plants would be best to use. The plants should be reasonably tolerant of high-salinity water and changes in soil moisture, and should grow in very sandy soil. They should not have tap roots that might penetrate the liner, have a long winter dormant period, exces- sively shade the soil, or hold and protect snow. There is no single perfect plant, but here are some suggestions. Cool to moderate climates-clover (strawberry, ladino, alsike), tall grasses (red top, timothy, tall or Idaho fesque, mountain brome). Moderate to hot climates-crested wheat grass, white Dutch clover. Hot, dry climates-sand reedgrass, canary reedgrass, barnyard grass. Operation and Maintenance Besides maintenance of the septic tank and dosing chamber com- ponents, ET and ETA systems require routine maintenance of the beds. The vegetation may require watering in the dry season, cut- ting back throughout the growing season, removal of cuttings and incidental litter, and maintenance of the original surface contours. It is a good idea to monitor the water level in the standpipes for the first year or SO of operation. You will find out if the saturated level comes too near the surface, and will be able to relate that to rainfall, water use, and bed surface condition. Then you can take steps to prevent problems before they occur. If disaster strikes, such as the boss insisting on holding the Christ- mas party at your house, then you may have to have the bed pumped out. This is a bit more tricky than having a septic tank pum