Help Keep Harris County Waterways Clear After a Storm: How to Report Channel Obstructions
When heavy rains sweep through Harris County, they often leave more than just puddles behind. Trees tumble into bayous, trash collects in ditches, and stormwater channels become clogged—disrupting the natural flow of water and raising the risk of flooding in neighborhoods across Greater Houston.
To help combat this, the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) is asking for the public’s help. If you notice a channel obstruction—such as a fallen tree, a damaged fence, or debris buildup in a bayou—residents are encouraged to submit a quick report to the Service Request Center online or by phone.
This simple step can make a big difference in protecting homes and neighborhoods from water damage during and after severe weather events.
How to Report Obstructions in Harris County
Residents can report a concern directly to the Flood Control District through its Service Request Center:
- Online Form: Submit a Request
- Hotline: Call 346-286-4197
The Service Request Center logs more than 4,000 calls each year and processes approximately 1,500 work orders related to stormwater and drainage issues. It serves as the single point of contact for concerns about the operating condition of the county’s flood control infrastructure, which spans roughly 2,500 miles of channels across 23 primary watersheds.
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Who Is the Harris County Flood Control District?
The Harris County Flood Control District was established in 1937 in response to the devastating floods of 1929 and 1935. It was created by the Texas Legislature and operates under the oversight of the Harris County Commissioners Court.
Today, its jurisdiction spans all of Harris County, including the City of Houston, covering 1,777 square miles and serving a population of over 4.7 million residents.
While the District plays a key role in managing flood control infrastructure, it is important to note that it is not the sole authority on flood-related matters. In fact, 34 separate floodplain administrators operate within the county, each with jurisdiction over local drainage systems. These include the City of Houston, Harris County Engineer’s Office, and various municipal governments.
Facing Flood Challenges Head-On
Despite jurisdictional complexity, the Flood Control District works diligently to reduce flooding risks. Its extensive infrastructure must contend with flat terrain, impermeable clay soils, and an average rainfall of 48 inches per year. Projects to address these challenges are funded through:
- Dedicated property taxes
- State and federal grants
- Project cost-sharing agreements
- Allocations from Harris County Commissioners Court
The District also partners with private contractors to perform nearly all engineering design and routine maintenance tasks, maximizing impact with a lean in-house staff of just over 300.
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Why Reporting Matters
Flooding is Harris County’s most frequent and damaging natural disaster, and while it's impossible to eliminate all flooding, residents play a vital role in mitigating its impact. By reporting obstructions early, you help ensure waterways remain clear, allowing stormwater to move freely and reduce the risk of damage to homes and roads.
Whether you're a homeowner in Cypress, a business owner in Katy, or a resident along Buffalo Bayou, reporting a blocked waterway might be the small action that prevents the next big flood in your neighborhood.
Stay informed and take action. For ongoing updates on flood control efforts and neighborhood alerts, follow My Neighborhood News and stay connected to your community’s safety.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
