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On-site sewage treatment systems are used to treat wastewater from 25% of all homes in the U.S. (US EPA 4/97). In Minnesota 27% of all homes recycle their wastewater via on-site sewage treatment systems. On-site systems can and do safely recycle wastewater when properly designed, installed, operated and maintained. If an on-site system fails to properly treat sewage, it is likely because of: (Olson, 1999) 1. Improper design or installation 2. Lack of maintenance 3. Over use of water Local units of government, the MPCA and the University of Minnesota continually work to improve the design and installation of systems through research, training of professionals, and enforcement. This must continue. Improved management (operation, monitoring and maintenance) of on-site systems has been the goal of the University of Minnesota Extension Services homeowner education program since 1992. The program educates homeowners and persons in direct contact with homeowners through the use of educational materials, classes, seminars, and mass media. The volume of materials distributed, follow-up evaluations and unsolicited feedback and testimonials indicate success in meeting the objectives. With continued emphasis on system design and installation plus increased attention to system management, on-site systems will remain a viable sewage treatment option to meet long-term ecological sustainability and protect human and environmental health.