Washington City is proactively maintaining its storm drain system to prepare for the upcoming monsoon season. The city aims to ensure water is appropriately captured by the system to prevent flooding and severe damage as moisture increases.
Stormwater travels from neighborhoods and commercial areas into creeks and rivers. According to Public Works, if any part of the system is not adequately maintained, there is a real possibility for failure and downstream damage. Proper maintenance of catch basins and inlets helps prevent water accumulation and flooding where it does not belong.
Preventing deficiencies through maintenance is described as being easier and less expensive than correcting failures after they occur. While Washington City routinely inspects and maintains storm drain system features, the large number of features throughout the city means some issues may not be caught immediately.
The city strives to address debris or buildup by removing accumulated leaves, dirt, and trash from the surface and interior of drains. Proactive maintenance also helps keep water cleaner from the moment it enters the system until it reaches downstream locations.
Residents are asked to notify the Washington City Public Works Department if they see inlets or drains with visible blockages or debris that would prevent proper drainage. Residents should also report if drains are discharging substances that should not belong in the river.
For questions or concerns regarding the Washington City storm drain system, individuals can contact the Public Works Department at (435) 656-6317 or via email at stormwater@washingtonutah.gov.