Need septic pumping in Cherokee Strip? Call (661) 320-8662 and we'll connect you with a local septic provider who serves the small communities just south of Shafter. Homes here sit among farmland, so irrigation and equipment are the main things to plan around.
Cherokee Strip at a glance
Cherokee Strip is a small census-designated place in Kern County, about 2.5 miles south-southeast of Shafter, at an elevation of about 331 feet. The 2020 census counted 206 residents. It is one of a cluster of small communities just south of Shafter, along with Smith Corner and Mexican Colony.
Small community, farm surroundings
Cherokee Strip is surrounded by the farmland of the Shafter area. The city of Shafter has its own services, but small unincorporated communities outside city limits are a different story. Homes in places like Cherokee Strip commonly rely on on-site septic. To confirm how your home is served, check your tax bill, look for a septic lid or cleanout, or ask Kern County Environmental Health about permit records.
Irrigation next door
Farm irrigation is the biggest outside factor for septic systems around Shafter. When nearby fields are irrigated, groundwater and soil moisture can rise, and water can run onto neighboring yards. A drain field in wet soil absorbs less wastewater. If your drains slow down during irrigation season, the field may be wetter than usual. Steps that help:
- Keep yard irrigation off the drain field.
- Watch for water running onto your lot from neighboring fields, and talk with neighbors if it does.
- Spread out laundry and showers during irrigation season.
Flat ground and older homes
The land around Cherokee Strip is flat valley floor. Flat ground drains slowly, and low spots can hold water after storms. Many homes in small farm-area communities are older, with tanks that may have buried lids and incomplete records. If you do not know when your tank was last pumped, assume it is due and have it checked. See how to find your septic tank lid for tips on finding the tank.
Large households
Farm-area homes often have large or extended families. More people means more solids going into the tank and a shorter interval between pumpings than the general three to five year guideline. If your household has grown, adjust your schedule. See how often to pump a septic tank.
Farm equipment and vehicles
Trucks, trailers and farm equipment are common around Cherokee Strip. Keep all heavy vehicles off the tank and drain field. An older concrete lid can crack under a heavy load, and crushed pipes cause backups.
Close to Shafter, still plan ahead
Being near Shafter means you are not as remote as the west side communities, but septic service still comes from yards spread around Kern County. Routine pumping is easier to schedule than an emergency call. When you call, give the nearest cross street and describe where the truck can park.
Know the warning signs
Slow drains in several fixtures, gurgling, sewage smells outside, or wet ground over the field in dry weather all mean it is time to call. See signs your septic tank is full.
Making the most of a pumping visit
In a small community, each service visit counts. When the provider comes out, ask them to note the tank size, how full it was, the condition of the inlet and outlet baffles, and whether there is an effluent filter. Ask for a recommended date for the next pumping. Keep that information with your home papers. If you sell the home, those notes help the next owner too.
Neighbors close by
In a small community, a failing system can affect neighbors. Fix problems promptly.
How it works when you call from Cherokee Strip
Call (661) 320-8662 with your address in Cherokee Strip, what is going on, and anything you know about the tank. We pass your request to an independent local septic provider who serves your area. The provider confirms timing, explains what the visit includes, and gives you a quote before any work begins. We are a referral line, not a septic company, and providers set their own prices and schedules. Providers commonly handle septic pumping, locating buried lids, inspections for home sales, and repairs such as baffles, lids and drain field problems.
Nearby areas
We also take calls from Smith Corner, Mexican Colony, Shafter. See all service locations, our septic articles and the septic FAQ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Cherokee Strip?
About 2.5 miles south-southeast of Shafter in Kern County.
Does farm irrigation affect my septic?
It can. Wet soil from irrigation reduces how much wastewater the drain field absorbs.
Should a large household pump more often?
Usually, yes. More people means more solids in the tank.
What should I do if water from a neighboring field reaches my yard?
Keep it off your drain field if you can, by redirecting it with a small berm or swale away from the system, and talk with the neighbor or landowner about where the water is coming from. A field that stays soaked cannot absorb wastewater well.