If you live in Victor, Driggs, Tetonia, or Alta, you know that landscaping isn’t just about making your yard look good — it’s about making sure what’s underneath stays safe. From septic tanks to leach fields to buried utility lines, there’s a whole network under your property that you do not want to mess up.

Shawn at ParkFab has seen it all — from trees growing straight through drain lines to “mystery mounds” that turned out to be buried access lids. Here’s his guide to making your property beautiful without destroying the infrastructure that keeps it running.

1. Map What’s Under Your Feet

Before you even think about planting, berm building, or putting in that new patio, you need to know exactly where your underground systems are.

  • Get your as-builts or site plan so you know the exact location of septic tanks, drain fields, propane lines, water lines, and power.

  • In Teton Valley’s rocky soils, some systems sit closer to the surface than in other regions — meaning a casual shovel can do real damage.

  • Shawn helps clients mark every key feature so there are no “oops” moments later.

2. Septic Tanks & Leach Fields: Handle with Care

Your septic system is one of the most expensive pieces of infrastructure on your property — protect it like you would your foundation.

  • No heavy loads: Cars, trucks, or even large planters can compact the soil and damage the system.

  • Beware of roots: Trees like willows, poplars, and aspens are root-invasion champions. Keep them far away from your septic area.

  • Plant smart: Shallow-root grasses, wildflowers, and pollinator mixes keep the soil stable without damaging pipes. Shawn can recommend “septic-safe” landscaping that still looks great.

3. Berms, Mounds & Drainage Control

Berms aren’t just pretty — they can be powerful tools for protecting underground systems.

  • Good berm placement can divert water away from septic tanks, basements, and utilities.

  • Bad berm placement can push meltwater or runoff directly toward what you’re trying to protect.

  • They’re also great for screening utility boxes or propane tanks from view — as long as you still leave access for maintenance.

4. Utility Lines & Access Points

Buried doesn’t mean forgotten.

  • Never cover septic lids, cleanouts, or valve boxes with landscaping fabric or heavy decorative rock.

  • If you want to disguise them, use movable planters, lightweight covers, or well-placed perennials.

  • In winter, use stakes or flags so they’re easy to find under snow — Teton Valley snow loads can hide anything for months.

5. Think Year-Round

Landscaping isn’t just about summer curb appeal.

  • Summer: Overwatering near a leach field can overload the system.

  • Winter: Plow piles can compact soil and slow spring thaw over tanks and lines.

  • Spring: Melting snow and runoff can erode soil if drainage isn’t planned.

  • Shawn’s excavation and site work background means he designs landscaping that protects your property in all seasons.

Work With Someone Who Knows the Valley

The right landscaping can protect your investment — the wrong choices can cost you thousands. Shawn knows Teton Valley’s soils, seasons, and systems, and can help you design a yard that works with what’s under the surface, not against it.

📞 Call Shawn at ParkFab – 208-360-2411
📧 shawn@parkfab.com