In July '98, we awoke to find a sinkhole in the backyard next to the house.  Upon investigation, we learned that the septic tank (a glorified 55 gallon barrel!) had collapsed.  Thinking we were only a month or so away from building, we arranged to have the tank removed and the house's drains routed to the old drywell in the back yard.  That temporary arrangement lasted until October '99! 

Did Phil actually operate that back hoe and dig that big hole himself?  You'll have to ask him.