Lutsen Sea Villas Resort, Lutsen, Minnesota
The Lutsen Sea Villas Resort, established in 1968, is situated on the North Shore of Lake Superior. The resort operates a total of 31 2-bedroom suites. The original septic system had reached the end of its life and did not meet current codes. Shallow bedrock, high water tables, and setback requirements from Lake Superior all complicated site planning efforts.
The resort owners recognized the need for a long-term solution. Resorts and developments on the North Shore will be in service for generations to come, which is far longer than the life of a standard septic system. Continued use of conventional onsite septic systems that consume more and more land for replacement systems was not a realistic option.
With the limited space available, several innovative design approaches were needed. Lowboy septic tanks were used to avoid groundwater and minimize blasting. The natural treatment cell was built on top of clay soils not suited to conventional septic use. Due to the proximity to US Highway 61, the system was vegetated with a variety of ornamental wetland plants.
Maintained and operated for over 10 years by NSU’s operating partner EcoCheck, the Sea Villas owners finally have a long-term solution to their septic problem. The natural treatment system protects the infiltration mounds and helps preserve the quality of Lake Superior. The natural system is visually appealing and enhances the property value of the resort.