Stormwater Outfall Maintenance

Overview

The Town of Wake Forest maintains hundreds of stormwater outfalls throughout the community. These outfalls are critical components of the Town's stormwater system, conveying runoff from streets, neighborhoods, and public infrastructure to streams, ponds, and other receiving waters.

To help ensure these facilities continue to function properly, the Town operates a proactive Stormwater Outfall Maintenance Program. Each year, Town staff inspect and maintain approximately 20% of all public stormwater outfalls. This rotating schedule allows the Town to systematically evaluate and maintain its entire inventory of public outfalls over time.

The program also helps the Town meet inspection and maintenance requirements established by the State of North Carolina through the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit.

 

Why Does the Town Maintain Stormwater Outfalls?

Routine maintenance helps ensure stormwater infrastructure functions as intended and continues to protect public and private property. Properly maintained outfalls reduce the risk of localized flooding and erosion, improve water quality, extend the service life of public infrastructure, and help identify potential illicit discharges or illegal dumping into the stormwater system.

 

What Work May Be Performed?

The specific maintenance activities performed at each outfall vary depending on site conditions, access, infrastructure type, vegetation, and other factors. Typical maintenance activities may include:

  • Removal of accumulated sediment at or near the outfall
  • Removal of vegetation growing over or around the outfall structure
  • Removal of vegetation within riprap or energy dissipator pads
  • Removal of debris such as branches, trash, or other obstructions
  • Repair or replacement of riprap stone and geotextile fabric used for erosion protection
  • Minor grading or stabilization activities adjacent to the outfall
  • Inspection of the outfall structure for signs of damage or deterioration

To efficiently complete this work, Town staff may use equipment such as mini excavators, skid steers, dump trucks, wood chippers, and other specialized tools. Because of the volume of maintenance required each year, these activities cannot typically be completed using hand tools alone. Staff strive to minimize disturbance to surrounding properties and natural areas while performing maintenance activities.

 

How Are Outfalls Selected?

The Town maintains approximately 20% of public stormwater outfalls each year as part of a planned maintenance cycle. To improve efficiency, all public outfalls were divided into five groups based primarily on geographic proximity. Outfalls located near one another are often part of the same watershed, were constructed during similar time periods, and typically exhibit comparable maintenance needs. Here's a link to 5-year outfall cycle for your reference.

In addition to the planned maintenance program, the Town may perform maintenance at any time if an outfall is experiencing:

  • Significant sediment accumulation
  • Blockages affecting stormwater flow
  • Erosion concerns
  • Excessive vegetation growth impacting the structure
  • Other conditions that may affect system performance

Residents with a public stormwater outfall located on or adjacent to their property will typically receive advance notification several months before scheduled maintenance begins. Prior to construction, the Stormwater Crew Supervisor will conduct a site inspection and place a door hanger at the property. The door hanger will provide a general scope of work and anticipated start date for the maintenance activities.