Debris removal begins along Buffalo Bayou

Buffalo Bayou, swollen with floodwaters in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, is shown with the Houston skyline in the background September 1, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Getty Images)

HOUSTON – The Harris County Flood Control District has begun debris removal on Buffalo Bayou west of downtown Houston to Highway 6 in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, now that lower bayou stormwater levels are allowing for safe assessment and maintenance activities.

The work requires the use of airboats, barges and heavy equipment to remove downed trees and other debris from the channel, stockpile it temporarily on the banks, and transport it to an appropriate disposal site.

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Channel obstructions – more than 12,100 cubic yards of storm debris are estimated to be in the bayou – can restrict stormwater flow. The Flood Control District is using its existing boat ramp at Willowend Drive to launch barges and other equipment and is working to create at least one additional boat ramp on property it owns near Wilcrest Boulevard.

The Flood Control District has authority to remove obstructions from Harris County bayous, creeks and other drainage channels; however, the district has limited property rights along Buffalo Bayou.

The Flood Control District is working with adjacent public agencies and private property owners to establish multiple temporary bayou access points, as needed, as well as to secure suitable debris staging areas.

Noise and vibrations from airboats and chainsaws, as well as dust and various odors, will accompany debris removal work over several weeks, according to the Flood Control District.

While the intent is to transport stockpiled channel debris as quickly as possible, district officials said some stockpiled debris could remain in some locations overnight or for several days.

Trails will remain open as public safety allows. Trail users are asked to observe all warning signs and fencing in debris removal work areas, and drivers are urged to be cautious of equipment entering and exiting debris removal areas.

To learn more about the Flood Control District, visit www.hcfcd.org.

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