Ongoing Stormwater Maintenance

Ongoing Volusia County Stormwater Maintenance

Volusia County remains committed to proactive stormwater management by conducting regular maintenance and improvements in the unincorporated areas under its jurisdiction. Recognizing that properly maintained canals and drainage systems are essential for effective flood control, the county performs routine inspections, vegetation management, sediment removal, and clearing operations to ensure stormwater flows efficiently and does not become obstructed.

The Drainage Task Team of the Road & Bridge Division plays a central role in this effort, providing ongoing maintenance to maximize system performance and service life. Maintenance activities include removing sediment from pipes, inlets, and curbing; clearing debris from roadside ditches; mowing and inspecting retention ponds; and applying chemical and physical weed control in ditches, canals, and stormwater facilities. These routine tasks are crucial for preserving capacity and preventing overgrowth or blockages that could contribute to flooding.

Canals maintained by Volusia County are inspected three times per year, far exceeding the national standard of inspecting stormwater systems every three to six years. This frequent monitoring allows crews to identify and address potential issues early, keeping systems functional and responsive, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall. In many cases, work is performed by hand to ensure precision and to minimize environmental disruption, particularly in sensitive or narrow drainage corridors.

To further reduce long-term maintenance costs and protect water quality, the county also supports preventative programs such as street sweeping and erosion control projects. These measures help limit the amount of sediment and debris that enters the stormwater system, reducing pollution and maintaining capacity.

While these efforts are vital in managing flood risks and protecting infrastructure, it's important to note that Volusia County is only responsible for stormwater infrastructure within unincorporated areas. Each municipality manages its own system, though the county collaborates with cities on broader flood mitigation strategies when appropriate.

Through consistent inspections, hands-on maintenance, and pollution-prevention efforts, Volusia County continues to strengthen its stormwater infrastructure and protect communities from the growing threat of flooding.