How to Report Storm Debris Blocking HCFCD Ditches, Creeks
Here’s how to report storm debris blocking Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) ditches and streams.
After a storm, it’s crucial to keep HCFCD channels clear of fallen trees and debris to reduce future flood risk. One tree down across a stream can catch other trees that create a log dam, backing water up into neighborhoods and streets.
If you spot any obstructions, please report them immediately.
Visit hcfcd.org/service-request to submit a service request or call the helpline at 346-286-4197.
HCFCD
The Next Step in Recovery
With most power lines restored, now is the time to start the next step in the recovery process from Hurricane Beryl: clearing creeks and ditches.
In places like Kingwood, many creeks and ditches are in greenbelts. And many blockages may still be difficult to reach because of debris that has fallen on greenbelt trails.
Residents should seek out problems that could affect their homes and report them immediately.
Reporting Tips
HCFCD maintains more than 2000 miles of channels. So, report problems quickly; you don’t want to be at the end of that line.
Also make sure you clearly identify the location.
- Many cell phones and cameras allow you to embed GPS coordinates in images if you turn the function on in settings.
- Most drones also attach GPS coordinates to images.
- At a minimum, use street addresses and crossroads.
I use a shareware program called PhotoGeoTag that generates a map of a problem’s location from GPS coordinates embedded in a photo like the one above. See below.
It’s also important to identify the channel. Many locations won’t have names or street addresses. But they should have channel ID numbers at a minimum.
Consult the Harris County Flood Education Mapping Tool for the ID number of unnamed channels or tributaries.
Now you know how to report storm debris. Over to you!
Posted by Bob Rehak on 7/30/2024
2527 Days since Hurricane Harvey
