Drainage Management

Drainage of agriculture lands has been increasing over the years and especially within the last year. Continual growth of towns is rapidly replacing agricultural ground with impermeable surfaces thereby increasing storm water runoff and impacts. Improved technology has increased the potential for individuals to affect very rapid and significant changes to our hydrological landscape. Our existing network of roads poses a regional dilemma. Cumulative impacts to watersheds from altered surface water runoff and groundwater drainage is an important and complex issue that will grow in adversity if unchecked.

The Lincoln County Commissioners did have a county drainage plan and drainage ordinance drafted in 2011 in accordance with state law, and similar to other counties with drainage concerns. The intent of the ordinance was to manage adverse drainage effects caused by development of the land and that the regulation process not burden individuals with unnecessary requirements. Townships, towns, other counties, experts and experience  all played a part in the creation of these documents.

The Plan and Ordinance was not adopted, though these drafts still serve as a guide for developing any new drainage systems or maintaining existing ones. The documents promote understanding of the potential for adverse effect and compliance with other authorities as well as coordination with or notification of other landowners. The value of  planning and keeping associated records and documents is noted. The drafts of the proposed 2011 Drainage Plan and Ordinance are available at the GIS Department during regular business hours or here on the drainage management page.

Additional resources are available on our GIS web page and through the county geographic information system. You may also email or phone us at 605-764-0101 with general drainage questions or for information on developing a particular site. Please note that development within a Zone A or AE floodplain requires a floodplain development permit issued by the County Floodplain Administrator.