Detention basins are usually located in new residential, commercial and industrial developments, helping control potential flooding and improving water quality. Detention basins require regular maintenance in order to ensure proper function. Poorly maintained basins lose their ability to control flooding and pollution, allowing sediments, fertilizers and pesticides to enter creeks and streams. Homeowners associations and business owners are responsible for maintaining their detention basins.
There are three different types of detention basins:
Dry detention basins -- typically dry depressions that temporarily fill with stormwater after a major rain storm. Dry detention basins are less effective at removing pollutants because the stormwater passes through quickly.
Wet detention basins -- typically have a permanent pool of water and more wetland plant life. These basins are more effective at removing pollutants.
Stormwater marsh basins -- similar to wet detention basins, but contain more wetland plants such as cattails, bulrush and sedges. They also provide fish and wildlife habitat.
Maintenance Tips
Get a copy of your detention basin plan -- contact your municipality's public works department in order to determine what type of detention basin is in your neighborhood.
Inspect inlet and outlet pipes -- check to make sure pipes aren't crumbling or broken; make sure pipes are free of debris and obstructions; check for erosion around the pipes.
Inspect for litter and debris -- check for debris near the inlets and basin twice a year and after major storms. Remove debris and dispose of it with your household trash.
Examine for erosion -- check twice a year and after major storms, filling in damage with topsoil and seeding it with turf grass. If erosion problems continue, contact your municipality for further guidance.
Inspect vegetation -- inspect the banks and in the basin, removing dead vegetation. Dead vegetation should be disposed of with other compost materials. Consult with a professional landscape architect for planting information.
Mowing -- the amount will depend on the type of detention basin and desired appearance, but typically basins will only need to be mowed two or three times a year. Do not fertilize the grass in your detention basin.
Keep records -- good records will help you make adjustments to your maintenance program as needed. Keep records of all inspections, including dates, names of inspectors, maintenance activities performed, what was observed, and costs.
For more information on detention basin maintenance, please call our 24 hour customer service number at 314-768-6260.
