Drainage Maintenance

The City of Midland’s Transportation Division performs maintenance on drainage ways throughout the City. The Division's goal is to reduce the potential for flooding by removing vegetation, debris, and sediment that impedes the flow of water and may increase the possibility of flooding.

Our Services:

Debris Removal

The Transportation Division will strive to remove debris and litter from drainage channels and basins which may pose a detriment to the environment and public health. Debris removed may include:

• Construction Debris
• Illegally Dumped Materials
• Loose Vegetation
• Solid Waste
• Tires
• Tree Limbs
• Any Other Object or Material that Otherwise Does Not Belong in a Public Drainage Way

Blockages

Debris tends to accumulate at bridges, storm drain structures, bends, and constricted portions of a channel where blockage is likely to occur. These blockages increase the potential for flooding and can cause damage to stormwater structures. Following significant rainfall events the Division regularly inspects locations along the channels for debris that has accumulated. If debris is discovered to be causing a blockage, the Division will mobilize to remove the material as soon as possible.

Illegal Dumping

If illegal dumping activity is discovered to be occurring within the channels and waterways, the Division will coordinate with law enforcement to locate the responsible party. The Division will work to remove the illegal dumping debris as soon as possible to prevent the material from being washed downstream. However, the responsible party will be held liable for cleanup and disposal costs of dumped material.

Channel and Basin Dredging 

Periodic dredging of channels and basins is necessary because flowing water deposits sediment as it runs downstream. This build-up needs to be removed to ensure waterways drain as designed. Maintenance includes the removal of vegetation, debris, litter, and sediment that has accumulated and may impede the flow of water.  

Erosion Mitigation

The Division will not perform maintenance on erosion issues caused by the natural flow of the channels. However, erosion concerns that affect the integrity of bridges, stormwater structures, and/or hinder maintenance operations will be addressed by the Division on a case-by-case basis.

Channel and Basin Mowing

Mowing basins and drainage channels is important for several key reasons:

• Preventing Blockages: Overgrown vegetation can obstruct the flow of water, leading to blockages in drainage systems. This can cause flooding, erosion, or damage to infrastructure.
• Maintaining Drainage Efficiency: Regular mowing ensures that water flows freely through basins and channels, reducing the risk of standing water and improving stormwater management.
• Controlling Weeds and Invasive Species: Mowing helps control the growth of weeds and invasive plant species, which can outcompete native vegetation and disrupt local ecosystems.
• Enhancing Safety: Overgrown areas can become hiding spots for wildlife or obstruct sightlines, posing a safety hazard for pedestrians or motorists.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Well-maintained drainage areas contribute to the overall visual appeal of public spaces, reflecting good urban management and care for the environment.

Street Sweeping:

The City of Midland is committed to keeping our community a beautiful place to live, work and play. One way this is done is to sweep our streets and keep them clean:

• Providing high levels of drainage improvement
• Keeping roads clean
• Ensuring that operations have a minimum impact on the environment

By sweeping we:

• Improve the area’s aesthetics
• Eliminate trash and natural debris
• Reduce pollutants from entering waterways
• Prevent clogging of drainage inlets
• Ensure that streets drain properly

Curbs and Gutters

Curbs and gutters act as a drainage system for stormwater runoff and directing water away from the roadway. Runoff is the major contributor to erosion and damage to our street system. Curbs and gutters hold the pavement in place and collect runoff from the paved streets. Curbs and gutters are designed specifically to quickly convey water runoff away from the street to the storm drains. Keeping these clear of debris and vegetation helps maintain the health and longevity of your street. Water is the single most damaging element to street pavement.

• The City cleans only streets with curbs because the accumulation of debris at the curb is caused by the design of the street and vehicular movement. Streets are designed with a crown in the middle sloping toward the sides. Water and debris move toward the curb and gutter areas. Vehicle movement scatters debris to the edges of traffic lanes.
• Streets with no curbs are affected by the same factors as curbed streets, but with no curb the debris is dispersed onto areas adjacent to the paved surfaces. Uncurbed streets are, in effect, self-cleaning. Additionally, street sweeping with no curb and gutter can actually create more problems as the brushes pull the dirt and debris from the side of the street onto the asphalt.

Herbicide Treatment

As part of the street sweeping program a licensed and trained operator will apply herbicide to control weed growth in the curb & gutter system. The City plans to purchase a vehicle especially equipped with a herbicide spray system. The herbicide treatment will focus on appearance, functionality and public safety.