How to Repair an Overflowing Ditch

Driveway culverts become clogged with branches and leaves.

An overflowing ditch is caused by one of two things. Either the ditch does not have enough pitch to evacuate the water inside it, or there is a blockage in the ditch downstream. This is particularly problematic in ditches where a driveway culvert has become clogged. After clearing the clog, the storm water in the ditch should flow freely again.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Grass seed

Instructions

1. Check the down-slope side of the backed-up ditch for clogs such as branches, leaves or washed-out gravel and dirt. These clogs can usually be found inside culverts where branches may have become lodged, blocking the flow of water.

2. Remove the source of the clog with the shovel, breaking up branches or other debris impeding the flowing water.

3. Watch the water begin to flow through the culvert, taking note of any other places where the water slows. This may be caused by a low spot in the ditch. If so, use the shovel to fill the low spot with dirt so that the water flows more easily over it. Plant the ditch with grass seed to help prevent erosion.

Tips & Warnings

• Ditches situated at the bottom of a long hill on either side are naturally prone to flooding. Since redirecting the water is out of the question, consider having a large french drain installed to help control yard flooding.

• Use caution when working with driveway culverts. Large amounts of rushing water from a cleared culvert can knock your legs out from under you.

References

• "Step-by-Step Landscaping"; Better Homes and Gardens; 2007
• "New Fix-It-Yourself Manual: How to Repair, Clean, and Maintain Anything and Everything In and Around Your Home"; Reader's Digest; 1996
• "Homeowner Basics"; Jodie Carter; 2008