LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – As the Las Vegas Valley sees more rain, flood control officials say there could be more trash in the stormwater system.
They say rain can move trash from the streets into the stormwater system. If not caught, it could go all the way to Lake Mead.
The Regional Flood Control District has several steps in place to filter stormwater before it makes it there, like grates above curb inlets, and trash screens in detention basins. But, Regional Flood Control District Chief Engineer Steven Parrish says those systems are at risk of being clogged by the trash they’re filtering.
“It can cause a situation where the water can’t get through the system and it’s going to spill out and flood people,” Parrish says.
He says the Flood District checks trash screens in detention basins twice a year, and after it rains, but they need the public’s help, too.
“We can’t be everywhere all at once, so we rely on the public and their eyes to let us know if there is a problem,” Parris says.
To report a clogged storm drain, click here.
Parrish says the Regional Flood Control District is not directly responsible for the cleanup, but will alert the Public Works Department for the municipality that is.
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