Storm Sewer System

Storm sewer pipes carry rain, melting snow, and other clear water (but not wastewater) to streams, ponds, or other water bodies. The runoff is directed to the storm sewer system through storm drains in and under the gutters (catch basins) of the street system. As water moves toward these drains, it picks up pollutants (soil, leaves, grass clippings, pet waste, oil, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and litter) and carries them into the storm sewer system. This water is not treated before it is returned to the environment, but devices such as storm water ponds help filter sediment and pollutants before the water reaches natural waterways.

Maintaining the Storm Sewer System

Golden Valley’s 90 miles of storm sewer pipes are closer to the surface (3 to 15 feet underground) than sanitary sewer or water pipes because the water they handle is continually flowing downhill to the nearest outlet (a pond, lake, river, creek, or wetland). The City's storm sewer system also includes around 1,000 catch basins (storm drains) and multiple storm water ponds.

To keep storm water flowing smoothly, the City:

  • cleans ponds
  • cleans storm water pipes, catch basins (storm drains), and outlets
  • installs and cleans sump catch basins
  • installs and cleans environmental manholes (which catch sediment while allowing storm water to flow through)
  • sweeps streets

Bassett Creek

The City also maintains the flow of Bassett Creek, which flows in from the west and meanders through the City to the east. To prevent flooding, the City checks the creek for debris that will restrict the flow. Certain areas along the creek are in the flood plain and will rise in flood conditions. If you live in one of these areas and feel that your home is in danger of flooding, the City has sand bags available in the utility shop for your convenience.

Storm Water Management Programs

The City of Golden Valley administers several storm water management programs. The following two programs require the property owner to petition the City in order to implement the project.

Pond Treatment

The City's pond treatment policy allows property owners abutting a storm water pond to petition for a specific type of treatment for algae and weed control to improve the pond's aesthetics. At least 75% of the abutting property owners must sign the petition to have a public hearing ordered. Once the petition is signed by 75% of the abutting property owners, a public hearing is held and the City Council determines if the treatment will be authorized. If the treatment is authorized, a contract is let for the designated treatment. The cost of any treatment is assessed to all abutting property owners. This treatment is only short-term and usually must be performed annually, using this procedure.

Rear Yard Drainage

The City's rear yard drainage policy allows property owners to petition for improvements to correct a problem drainage area. The City will provide property owners with technical assistance regarding the problem; however, the City will not assist with the cost of any improvements, as it is only responsible for the drainage from the roadways and respective right-of-way. All costs associated with any improvements performed as a City project are assessed to each property contributing flow to the problem area.

How Property Owners Can Help

If the gutter in front of your property becomes clogged with leaves or debris, clear it out. Such efforts can prevent a significant amount of run-off from entering the storm sewer system and ending up in Bassett Creek, Sweeney Lake, or the Mississippi River. If you have a catch basin on your street or live near a lake, pond, or stream with an outlet basin, consider participating in one of the City's storm drain adoption programs.

You can also help by maintaining healthy lawns and not leaving debris or possible pollutants on lawns, driveways, or streets.

Sump Pumps

Sump pump systems are designed to capture surface or ground water that enters basements or crawl spaces and pump it away from the house. If you have a sump pump, make sure the discharge is directed outside your house and NOT into the sanitary sewer system. That’s called a cross connection, is a leading cause of inflow and infiltration, and results in higher sanitary sewer charges.