Streambank Erosion is a natural process where soil , gravel , and rock within the bank of a waterway becomes mobilized by the flow of water . However , activities that alter the surrounding environment can greatly increase the rate of erosion , threatening property and adversely impacting water quality .
The reduction in vegetation within a waterway ’ s riparian zone is one of the primary causes of streambank erosion . The riparian zone is the area of trees , shrubs and groundcover adjacent to streams , creeks , lakes and other water bodies . Extensive root systems in these areas binds the soil and helps prevent erosion . The introduction of ornamental species , low growing lawn grasses and the removal of trees and shrubs contributes to the rate of erosion . Property owners in these areas can help minimize erosion .
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Streambank Erosion
Maintain a 5 to 10 foot vegetated buffer zone� between the stream bank and your regular yard .
Use pervious material for patios and walkways . � This will allow runoff to infiltrate the soil .
Replant barren slopes with native plants , taller� grasses , trees and shrubs . This can reduce� erosion and filter out harmful lawn chemicals� improving the overall water quality and local� wildlife habitat .
Remember that any grading or construction� activity in or near a waterway such as a stream� or creek may require a permit from the city . � Contact the Community Development and Planning department at 817-459-6502 or visit� www . arlingtontx . gov / ��� / to apply for a permit .
For information about native and / or adaptive plants visit www . wildflower . org www . texassmartscape . com www . txnativeplants . org
Storm Drain System and Natural Creek Maintenance
The Stormwater Maintenance Division is responsible for the inspection and upkeep of the City ’ s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System ( MS4 ) or storm drain system . The MS4 system includes improved channels , flumes , storm drain pipes , storm drain inlets and other stormwater facilities which convey stormwater away from homes and businesses and into our creeks , streams , and lakes .
Using routine inspections , timely maintenance and repairs , the stormwater maintenance crew strives to efficiently remove obstructions like leaves , trees and other debris along with tires , trash , fencing and building debris or illegally dumped material from the storm drain system . This includes removing trees and debris adjacent to bridges or culvert crossings . The city ’ s maintenance program helps to improve our local water quality and reduce flooding throughout the city .
Private property owners are responsible for most drainage features within property limits . This includes natural creeks , streams , and adjacent banks , as well as any privately owned stormwater facilities such as French drains , swales or retention ponds . The maintenance crew will remove fallen trees or debris in a natural waterway if it is blocking the flow of the water and / or becoming a potential downstream hazard .
Report blocked , broken or defaced stormwater facilities or material illegally dumped into our local waterways through the City ’ s Action Center at 817-459 -6777 or online at www . arlingtontx . gov / contact / under the Drainage and Flooding section . Private property maintenance or other nuisance issues should be reported under the Code Compliance Division section .
Groundwater and High Mineral Content
Groundwater will normally look clear and clean because the ground naturally filters out particulate matter from rain water which has soaked into the soil . But as water flows through the ground in some areas of Arlington , metals such as iron and manganese are dissolved and may later be found in high concentrations as groundwater leaches out of the ground . In these areas you will typically see staining of the streets , sidewalks and driveways . This is a common natural occurrence .
Sanitary Sewer Overflows and Back Ups
Wastewater can be a significant source of harmful bacteria and other pollutants into our creeks , streams and lakes .
The Water Utilities Department is responsible for operating , maintaining , and repairing water lines and sanitary sewer lines throughout the City of Arlington .
Report sewer or water line leaks , breaks , sewer overflows or water contamination issues to the Water Utilities Department ’ s 24 Hour Emergency Service at 817- 459-5900 .
For non-emergency customer care questions contact 817-275-5931 or visit www . arlingtontx . gov / contact /.