Greenville County has already experienced two 10-year floods in 2020 alone, and has nearly reached its 50.1-inch average annual rainfall with 49.5 inches of rain since January.

In March, we talked about how land use and rapid growth have led to increased runoff from storm events, and local policy recommendations to curb flooding. As reported in a recent Greenville News article, flooding issues are becoming more commonplace across the Upstate as the result of increased development and the destruction of wetland and stream systems.  

Wondering what you can do on your property to prevent flooding and sediment runoff into nearby waterways? Consider ways to slow the flow of water and increase the amount that goes back into the soil.

A great local resource is Carolina Clear, a Clemson Extension program that provides stormwater education, outreach, workshops, and public involvement opportunities, including a guide to managing water in the home landscape.

Clemson’s Stream Bank Repair Program is another resource for homeowners, land managers, park staff and landscape professionals looking to address erosion and instability on stream banks and riparian areas. While in-person workshops have been postponed, they are planning to host webinars this Fall/Winter and will continue to share resources through their website and newsletter.

This online interactive tool allows you to enter your address and information about your property to determine best management practices to reduce runoff. It walks you through how to figure out where stormwater is generated, how it flows, and how much stormwater comes from your property.

Lastly, this tool will help you determine the flood risk of your property and neighborhood, and will provide guidance on local solutions you can advocate for within your community.

I would love to hear from you! Feel free to send me your water-related questions at mchase@upstateforever.org.

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Upstate Forever is a nonprofit conservation organization that protects critical lands, waters, and the unique character of Upstate South Carolina.  Over the past two decades, we have worked to protect the natural assets that make the Upstate so special — our farmlands, forests, natural areas, rivers, and clean air. We are committed to ensuring that our communities are vibrant and retain their green spaces, outdoor heritage, and unique identities in the face of rapid development and significant sprawl. Our vision is an environmentally healthy, economically prosperous Upstate that offers a high quality of life now and for future generations.

For more information, visit our website at upstateforever.org or send us an email.