Could Building a Swale Prevent Runoff and Flooding in Cottage Grove?

4/9/2024 (Permalink)

We restore water damage from rainstorms 24 hours a day in Lane County.

Cottage Grove residents rely on our local Springfield and East Lane County teams to restore water damage from heavy rains. One method of reducing runoff is to build swales into low-lying areas around the home.

Swales are shallow, vegetated channels designed to manage stormwater runoff effectively, mitigating flooding during heavy rain. These features work by slowing down the flow of rainwater, allowing it to infiltrate the soil and be absorbed by plants rather than rapidly running off the surface.

When heavy rain occurs, water naturally follows the path of least resistance, often resulting in runoff that can overwhelm drainage systems and cause flooding. Swales intercept this runoff, channeling it along a gentle gradient, which encourages infiltration and helps to distribute the water more evenly across the landscape. The vegetation within the swale further aids in absorption and filtration, as plant roots help to break up compacted soil and absorb excess water.

By slowing down the flow of water and promoting infiltration, swales reduce the volume and velocity of runoff reaching downstream areas, thereby minimizing the risk of flooding. Swales can also help trap sediment and pollutants, improving water quality as the filtered water percolates into the groundwater table.

Swales function as natural and sustainable stormwater management solutions, effectively reducing the impact of heavy rainfall events while also providing ecological benefits.

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When your Cottage Grove home or business has water damage, our local Springfield and East Lane County teams are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 541-741-7925.

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