Ditches: a vital natural asset

How sanitary sewer overloading happens – and how ditches help

• Cause: Increased rainfall and extreme weather events due to climate change 

• Natural asset that helps: ditches! 

• Solution: Climate change increases the risk of flooding, but ditches play a crucial role in reducing this risk by containing excess water and slowing its flow. To maximize their effectiveness, ensure your sump pump drains towards the ditch by:  

  • Using a leak detector dye tablet in your sump pump to track where the water is being directed 

  • Simply contact the Urban Planning department, who will send an inspector to your house to help you find out 

Reducing flooding and improving water quality

Unlike many municipalities on the island of Montréal that rely on traditional pipe systems, Beaconsfield benefits from a natural flood protection asset: ditches. Open ditches are far more effective at managing heavy rainfall than underground pipes, significantly reducing the risk of overloading our stormwater system when used in conjunction with open streams, culverts, trench drains and traditional storm pipes. 

How ditches prevent flooding

• During heavy rainfall, ditches contain excess water and slow its flow, reducing the risk of overflow.
• In contrast, piped systems cannot store excess water, and the accelerated water flow during extreme weather events greatly increases the risk of flooding.

This advantage is particularly important during peak flow periods and prolonged rainfall. Open ditches help protect Beaconsfield from extreme weather without requiring costly infrastructure upgrades. Additionally, the grass and vegetation within ditches naturally filter pollutants, improving the quality of water entering Lake Saint-Louis.

Reduced costs

Piped drainage systems are much more expensive to build and maintain than roadside ditches. By relying on an open ditch system, Beaconsfield can extend the lifespan of its infrastructure and save thousands of dollars in maintenance and repairs.

In the long run, ditches remain the simplest and most cost-effective solution for protecting Beaconsfield and its residents from flooding during extreme weather events.

To maximize the effectiveness of our ditch system, your sump pump must drain toward the municipal ditch.

• You can check this yourself by using a leak detection tablet to track the water’s path.
• Need assistance? Contact the Urban Planning Department to request an inspection.

Why can't I drain my stormwater somewhere else?

If your sump pump is connected to the sanitary system, you risk overloading it, which can cause sewer backups – forcing contaminated water back up the drains and into basements. This leads to serious property damage and poses severe health hazards. This practice is not permitted and punishable by a fine under By-law BEAC-046.

If your sump pump drains elsewhere, such as onto your lawn or a neighbour’s property, the water may not be properly managed, increasing the risk of flooding your own or your neighbour’s basement. 

If there is a ditch in front of your property, ensuring your sump pump drains into it is the best way to protect your home and community from flooding.

What else can I do?

Here are three additional steps to help make your home and community more resilient to flooding:

1. Protect your home from flooding by using the home flood protection guide and interactive quiz created by the University of Waterloo.
2. Keep your ditches and drains clear, especially before and during extreme weather events.
3. Ensure you have insurance coverage for sewer backups and groundwater seepage.

Grassy ditches play an essential role in stormwater management. To ensure their proper functioning, regular maintenance is essential. 

Mowing 

The grass inside the ditch must be mowed regularly to facilitate the flow of water to the culverts. Grass that is too long or dense can impede water circulation and cause water accumulation. 

Recommended vegetation 

Certain plants can help to stabilize ditch banks and ensure good water flow. Choose shallow-rooted species such as: 

• white clover, 
• sedges,
• toad rush, 
• or small native wildflowers. 

Avoid shrubs, invasive or deep-rooted plants that could clog or damage the ditch. 

Keep culverts clear

It's essential not to block culvert entrances or exits with screens, garbage or debris. A blocked culvert prevents water from flowing freely, which can lead to backflow, erosion or localized flooding. 

By keeping ditches well maintained, you can help prevent run-off problems and protect your property and those of your neighbours.