How to Spot Signs of Illicit Discharges in Stormwater

June 19, 2025

Stormwater systems are designed to carry rainwater; not wastewater, chemicals, or other pollutants. When something other than rain or snowmelt ends up in the storm drains, it's called an illicit discharge, and it can cause serious harm to local waterways, ecosystems, and even public health. For highway departments, especially those operating under MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) requirements, being able to identify signs of illicit discharge is essential. Here’s what to loo…continue

Stormwater Infrastructure: What Highway Departments Should Be Inspecting

June 19, 2025

Stormwater infrastructure plays a crucial role in protecting roads, the environment, and nearby communities from flooding, erosion, and water pollution. For highway and public works departments, regular inspection of these systems isn’t just good practice, it’s essential for compliance with environmental regulations and for preventing costly failures. Here's a breakdown of the key components that should be on every department’s stormwater inspection radar. 1. Catch Basins a…continue

How Stormwater Management Reduces the Need for Road Maintenance

June 10, 2025

Stormwater management is one of the most effective tools municipalities can use to protect their road infrastructure and stretch maintenance budgets. Too often, the relationship between drainage and pavement longevity is overlooked , but the presence of standing water on or near a roadway is one of the primary causes of accelerated road deterioration. This article explains how water affects roads, why good stormwater management is essential, and how investing in drainage can reduce the long-term…continue

Using Check Dams to Control Water Flow and Erosion in Roadside Ditches

June 6, 2025

For highway departments, managing water flow in roadside ditches is an essential part of maintaining road integrity and protecting the surrounding environment. One effective tool in the erosion control toolbox is the check dam - a small, temporary or permanent structure built across a ditch to slow water velocity, reduce erosion, and trap sediment. Depending on the situation, different types of check dams can be used. Here’s a rundown of the most common options: Rock Check Dams Description…continue

Protecting Watershed Health: A Key Responsibility of Highway Departments

June 5, 2025

Highway departments do more than just plow snow and patch potholes - they are stewards of the environment, particularly when it comes to the health of local watersheds. Every culvert installed, ditch cleared, and storm drain maintained can have a significant impact on the water quality of streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands downstream. This makes watershed protection a fundamental responsibility of highway crews, especially in communities governed by MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) …continue