Many properties in Suffolk County have aging and antiquated septic systems that are contributing to the pollution of East End waters. Reversing this degradation of water quality depends on replacement of existing systems with new, individual Innovative and Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (I/A OWTS). To make the cost of I/A systems that remove nitrogen to protect water quality more affordable for homeowners, Suffolk County has developed the Septic Improvement Program. Under the Reclaim Our Water Septic Improvement Program, homeowners who decide to replace their cesspool or septic system with the new technologies will be eligible for a grant of up to $10,000 from Suffolk County, up to $10,000 from New York State and up to $40,000 from East Hampton or Southampton town to offset the cost of the new systems thus guaranteeing a minimal out of pocket cost to the property owner. In addition to the grant, homeowners can qualify to finance the remaining cost of the systems over 15 years at a low 3% fixed interest rate.