Monitor a catch basin
Keep catch basins clear to help prevent flooding near your home and in your community.
On this page
Who should take action
- Anyone can take this action to help their home and community
What it is
A catch basin or storm drain is a drain, often located adjacent to a road. They direct water from the street to the municipal stormwater system.
Catch basins can become clogged with snow, ice, leaves or debris. Plugged drains cause water to build up on streets and sidewalks during heavy rainstorms or when overland flooding is occurring. This can increase flood risk to nearby properties.
Your local government may not be able to regularly monitor all catch basins in your area. Take initiative by sharing the responsibility for this low effort, inexpensive, and rewarding activity.
Benefits
When you monitor and keep a catch basin clear in your neighbourhood, you're helping to prevent flooding on your street, in your home and community. You can encourage others to do the same. Strike up a conversation with a neighbour or promote the activity at a community event such as a neighbourhood cleanup day.
What you'll need
- Rake, shovel and ice breaker
- Work gloves
- Yard waste and garbage bags
- High visibility safety vest (optional)
What's involved
Select a catch basin somewhere convenient for you, such as on your street. Monitor it by ensuring it's draining water effectively and is clear of:
- leaves
- grass clippings
- twigs and small branches
- ice and snow build-up
- litter and other debris
Raking, shoveling and removing debris can take 10 minutes or less.
If the catch basin is still not draining or if you notice damage to the metal grate or cover, contact your local government.
Some municipalities run programs to facilitate community involvement in catch basin monitoring. This often involves a community member who:
- takes responsibility or "adopts" a catch basin, and commits to keeping it clear
- educates their neighbours about this important task
Consult with your government about these programs.
When to do it
Check nearby catch basins:
- at least once a month year-round
- more frequently during spring and fall
- before and after severe storms with high winds such as hurricanes and thunderstorms
Be flood ready
Flood readiness requires regular upkeep just like any other home or property maintenance task. Add monitoring a catch basin to your monthly maintenance checklist.
Seek support from a local professional, friend, family or neighbour if you're unable to complete this task on your own.