Embracing Onsite Wastewater Changes and Technology

With 48 years in the industry, Robert Sweeney has seen the impact technology can make and hopes regulators and incoming professionals continue to utilize it

Mar 04, 2026 |

Trade Association Onsite System Design Inspection

Bob sweeney jpg — Robert Sweeney conducts a percolation test for the design of a shallow subsurface dripfield. The device is a Double Ring Infiltrometer with a timer from Turf-Tec International, Taylor model 15822. Soil profiles are the standard for test pit evaluation. Nevertheless, timing how fast soil accepts water is still a good supplemental tool.

Name and title or job description: Robert Sweeney, M.S., registered environmental health specialist, president of Environmental Management Systems Inc.Business name and location: Environmental Management Systems, Portland, Oregon (Also serve Washington and Nevada)Services we offer: Siting, design, inspection, and operation monitoring, maintenance and reportingAge: 76Years in the industry: 48Association involvement: Washington Onsite Sewage Association, president, 2003-04; Oregon Onsite Wasetwater Association, board member, 2016-20; National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association, board member, 2023-25.Benefits of belonging to the association: Connection with knowledgeable professionals. Resources for learning and problem-solving.Biggest issue facing your association right now: Legacy Systems. Even though we have all the knowledge, skills

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