Managing how stormwater flows through our community is one important way the Public Works team helps to:
- protect our environment;
- reduce flooding to protect people, property and the public drainage systems;
- support healthy creeks, streams and lagoon;
- extend the life of drainage infrastructure; and
- create a healthier, more sustainable community.
Review the Stormwater Master Plan (2018)
Managing stormwater around your property
Residents can help by monitoring nearby drains, catch basins, and gutters, and raking away any blockages.
Stormwater maintenance by the Public Works team
Colwood staff manage $85.1 million worth of storm infrastructure including 6 kilometers of drainage culverts, 25 kilometers of ditches, 35 kilometers of storm drainage pipe and 1300 catch basins.
Catch basins are inspected and flushed with a hydro-vac truck to ensure they are clear and functional. Work is also done to clear grass and brush to ensure unimpeded access to easements where manholes are located.
Storm mains are flushed and assessed using a CCTV camera to gather data and ensure the health of the system.
Open utility systems are maintained seasonally: ditches are mowed (but not beautified), culvert inlets and outlets are inspected and cleared, headwalls are repaired, and washed-out spillways are fixed as needed.
During significant winter rains, City employees actively monitor drainage infrastructure to keep systems in working order [PDF/754KB].
Protecting our sensitive creeks and streams
You can help support the protection of our watersheds by reducing the amount of water flow from your property and limiting pollutants.
When we’re not careful, pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers can end up in Esquimalt Lagoon, harming fish and wildlife and causing bacterial contamination of marine shellfish. Oil and gasoline that contain toxic compounds are eventually flushed into the ocean by the rain, threatening marine life. Increased runoff causes habitat and stream erosion, murky water and unstable flows.