Water from the washing machine splashed back recently, so, I took that
as a sign that the septic tank needed to be emptied. I was right. Been
there for 30 years without ever having been cleaned.

When we pulled the lid off, the level was up over the entry pipe to
the drain field, indicating the drain field is not draining. Probably
clogged with sludge.

So, looks like I have two choices; spend a ton of money on a new drain
field, or try to salvage the drain field in place. The economy has
been rough on me and I haven't had much work this year. Funds are low.

I need ideas and suggestions as to what I can do to get this drain
field draining again, without totally replacing it.

One plan is to expose the ends of the drain pipes, dig a large hole
and dump rock in it to creat more drainage. I'm wondering if I can
also run a snake or waterhose into the existing drain pipe to get it
working a llittle better.

Any advice?