Swales
Swales are the broad shallow channels along, roads, driveways, and parking lots and plays a key role for the City’s Stormwater drainage system.
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The three functions of a swale are:
To collect runoff from the roadway and properties
Direct water to an outfall (ditch or canal)
Retain runoff for percolation and recharge of the aquifer.
Swale Maintenance
Swale Related Issues
Concern/ Question
If you have any questions or concerns about swales, create a case and we will answer them as soon as possible.
Concern/QuestionProperty Issues
Create a case for Property damage, asphalt damage, or if site corrections are needed.
Create a Property CaseDrainage Issues
Create a case if you are having drainage issues. This includes miscellaneous drainage issues.
Create a Drainage Issue CaseHere are some simple, yet significant, steps the property owner should follow for routine swale maintenance:
DO
- Mow and maintain an acceptable grass height in the swale. Tall grass slows water movement.
- Keep driveway culvert ends open by removing debris, grass and dirt. You should blow grass clippings back onto the grass or landscaped areas.
- Repair erosion from along the sides and under your driveway.
- Remove sediment or anything that has built up in the bottom of the swale that could potentially block the flow of water such as trash, leaves, limbs and grass.
- Minimize the use of fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides within 50 feet of a swale.
- Install Plants / landscaping 15-20 feet from the road.
DO NOT
- Fill in your swale or install a drain pipe from property line to property line.
- Have roof drains running onto the driveway or into the right of way.
- Use an edger along the sides of your driveway.
- Park on or drive across your swale as cars and the tire tracks they leave behind can block the flow of water.