Why Stormwater Management Is More Challenging Than Most People Realize

July 15, 2026

Most people don't give much thought to stormwater. Rain falls, flows into a catch basin, and disappears. It seems simple enough. Those of us who work in municipal government know the reality is far more complicated. Managing stormwater is one of the most important responsibilities facing highway departments, public works agencies, engineers, and environmental professionals. Every rainfall sets an enormous system into motion. Water must be safely collected, conveyed, slowed, stored, and disch…continue

Understanding the Life Expectancy of Corrugated Metal Stormwater Drainage Pipe

June 18, 2026

Stormwater drainage systems are among the most important (and often most overlooked) assets owned by municipalities. Hidden beneath roads, driveways, and rights-of-way, culverts and drainage pipes quietly move stormwater away from infrastructure and help prevent flooding, washouts, and road failures. One of the most common materials used for stormwater conveyance is corrugated metal pipe (CMP). For decades, municipalities have relied on corrugated steel pipe because it is durable, relatively ine…continue

Who Owns the Culvert Under Your Driveway?

June 8, 2026

Homeowners often assume that because a driveway connects to a public road, the culvert underneath it must belong to the town, county, or state. In most cases, however, that assumption is incorrect. Typically, the property owner owns the driveway culvert and is responsible for its maintenance, repair, and replacement. But as with many things in public works, the real-world situation is not always black and white. Municipalities frequently become involved with driveway culverts even when they are …continue

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