How to Construct a Drainage Ditch

Digging a drainage ditch is a simple way to control water on your property.

Water in the wrong place can be the downfall of any building or landscaping project. Fortunately, getting rid of unwanted water is a task within the reach of most do-it-yourselfers. A well-planned drainage ditch can move existing water from one location to another, and it can also prevent water from going where it's not wanted to begin with. If you do not have the equipment necessary to dig a drainage ditch, equipment rental stores have everything you need, no matter how large or small your ditch requirements.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Marking spray
• Shovel or backhoe
• Dump truck (optional)
• Gravel

Instructions

1. Outline, with marking spray, the length and width of your proposed ditch.

2. Dig from the area you want to drain toward where you want to direct the water. So that water will flow in the right direction, make sure the end of the ditch is lower than the beginning.

3. Spread the dug-up dirt alongside the ditch if you are digging a small ditch by shovel. Load it into the dump truck if you are using a backhoe to dig a large ditch.

4. Spread gravel evenly along the bottom of the ditch.

Tips & Warnings

• The ditch should be wider than it is deep.

• Make sure the end of the ditch is lower than the beginning.

• Always run drainage ditches away from buildings.

References

• Free Plants: How to get rid of standing water in your yard