After recent heavy rainfall in southwest Georgia, City of Thomasville Public Works crews responded to an area where large trees and debris clogged up the flow of water at a county bridge which ultimately affects the stormwater conveyance system.
Public Works Director Stephen Stewart explained, “When blockage such as this occurs, immediate maintenance is required to continue to capture, convey, store, and treat stormwater properly. When it rains, debris and other pollutants are washed from driveways, yards, parking lots, and streets into storm drains and then are released into local watershed with no management.” Stewart goes on to say, “All stormwater runoff that does not seep into the ground or evaporate finds its way into the City's drainage systems, so we need help from citizens to alleviate this burden through practical tactics they can do at home.”
Stormwater Management is the process of controlling or reducing water runoff that comes primarily from surfaces like parking lots, driveways, and roof tops and can cause items lying around yards, including harmful wastes, to enter waterways like creeks and rivers with little or no treatment. Chris White, Interim City Manager said, “To help combat this from multiple angles, educating the community on stormwater management is key. Understanding how to prevent common water runoff issues during heavy rains will not only help prevent your yards from flooding but address other major concerns like pesticides and debris from entering and disrupting our water system.”
According to Public Information Officer Tara Pearson, citizens can follow these tips to help maintain the City’s stormwater system, minimize flooding, and keep pollutants from reaching waterways:
- Be sure to not leave yard waste in the street or sweep it into a storm drain.
- Repair leaks and dispose of used auto fluids and batteries at designated drop-off or recycling locations.
- When walking your pets, remember to pick up their waste and dispose of it properly.
For more information, contact the City of Thomasville Public Works department at 229.227.7001.