• About Stormwater
• Stormwater Management Plan
• Stormwater Permit
• Stormwater Reports
• Home

• If Spills Occur
• Stormwater Systems
• Stormwater Regulations
• Management Practices
• You Can Help
• Soil Erosion Control
• <<< Back to OSEH

Storm Water Drainage System Maintenance
The University of Michigan storm water drainage system, when not properly maintained, has the potential to contribute to the pollution of the Huron River. Sediment, debris, and litter can enter the system at any time, giving these pollutants access to our surface waters. Not only do foreign materials diminish the quality of the water we drink, they also have the ability to accumulate in the storm water system and cause flooding in local streets and buildings. Proper maintenance of the system is important to prevent clogging, flooding, and surface water pollution during storms.

Two important components of the storm water drainage system are catch basins and storm water management basins. Both structures help filter storm water runoff before it enters the system so that sediment and pollutants are not carried into drinking water sources. Storm water management basins are also necessary to detain storm water in order to avoid excessive flow in local streams during a storm event. Each must be maintained regularly to ensure effective flood control and pollutant removal.

Maintaining Catch Basins
Catch basins are located at the storm water drainage system inlets. They are responsible for collecting runoff and allowing sediment to settle before the water is sent through the storm water lines. The sediment, along with any litter or debris that enters the basin, is collected in the basin instead of being washed into the river.

Removing sediment and debris from catch basins and storm water inlets is necessary to reduce the potential of flooding, clogging, and pollution of surface waters. Periodically, inlet grates should be inspected and cleared of trash, leaves, and other debris. This can be done manually or with a broom. Catch basins should also be cleaned twice per year, or anytime the storage area is about half full.

Maintaining Storm Water Management Basins
Storm water management basins are used on the UM campus to store or impede storm water runoff, allowing sediment to settle. Retention basins release water through infiltration into the soil and evaporation. Other basins are designed with outlets that discharge water into surface waters at a reduced rate. These 'detention' basins slow the water velocity, reducing stream bank erosion. When sediment is allowed to settle out of runoff in a basin, it begins to accumulate in the basin and in the lines that lead to the basin. Therefore, these areas need to be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent clogging of the lines and flooding.

The Vacuum Truck
As part of our Best Management Practices, the UM vacuum truck cleans the storm water inlets, dock drains, catch basins, lines, and management basins twice per year. Keeping all of these components clear of sediment and pollutants reduces the potential for localized flooding and pollutant discharges to the Huron River.

During routine operations, basins and inlets should be inspected for excessive amounts of debris and sediment. If there is an area that is in need of storm water system maintenance, please contact the plumbing shop at 647-2059.