Subsurface Drainage

Pumping Station

Subsurface drainage is used where the soil is permeable enough to allow economical spacing of the drains and productive enough to justify the investment. A subsurface drain will provide trouble-free service for many years as long as it is carefully planned, properly installed, and constructed of high-quality materials.

A subsurface drainage system consists of a surface or subsurface outlet and subsurface main drains and laterals. Water is carried into the outlet by main drains, which receive water from the laterals. Submains are sometimes used off the main drain to collect water.

The system will function only as well as its outlet. When planning a subsurface drainage system, make sure that a suitable surface or subsurface outlet is available or can be constructed. Where a surface outlet channel is used, all subsurface drains emptying into the outlet should be protected against erosion, against damage that occurs during periods of submergence, against damage caused by ice and floating debris, and against entry of rodents or other animals.

CAQ Engineering Associates, Inc.