As the year comes to a close, we take a look back at some of the top stories on pumper.com. If you missed any of these, now is your chance to catch up. Enjoy this look back at 2017.
10. Pumper Empties Into Stormwater Drain, Forcing Cancellation of Swim Fest
Back in August, the deliberate dumping of septic waste into a stormwater drain caused the cancellation of a popular swimming festival in British Columbia.
9. How a Smaller Truck Can Get You Big Business
Owning a truck capable of getting into tighter places can translate into some new business, if you know where to look.
8. A Septic-Pumping Odyssey Across Lake Superior
It’s unsurprising Bill Leppala’s pumping journey over the largest of the Great Lakes made this year’s Top 10 list. It’s a great story, and there’s even a video!
7. How Much Should You Charge for Portable Restroom Service?
Pricing is one of the hardest decisions new portable restroom businesses face. You need to find the sweet spot.
6. Septic Tank Death Sparks Promise of Higher Standards From Jacksonville, Florida, Mayor
The tragic story of a 3-year-old’s death after falling into a septic tank this November left us all shaking our heads.
5. High-School Innovators Design, Test New Pumper Tool
After pumping a particularly difficult latrine, a trio of high schoolers took it upon themselves to design and build a solution to the problem.
4. Pumper Confuses Manholes, Dumps 20,000 Gallons of Sewage in Street
We’re not sure how he managed to do it, but this pumper dumped four truckloads of raw sewage into the wrong manhole.
3. Pumper Avoids up to $4.1 Million in Fees by Illegally Dumping Waste
This guy wasn’t so confused, however. He knew exactly what he was doing when he dumped waste illegally throughout southern California.
2. Girl’s Traumatic Fall Into a Septic Tank Is an Important Reminder
Another accident involving children and unsecured septic tank lids graces this year’s Top 10 list. Thankfully, this one has a happier ending.
1. How to Break Into the Pumping Industry on a Limited Budget
A couple who launched a septic company in South Dakota last year share their philosophy about getting started in the industry on a tight budget.