Pierce County residents can reduce flooding on Pierce County roads by picking up yard waste on their properties and making sure nearby storm drains are free of leaves.

“Practicing preventative maintenance can go a long way,” said Brian Ziegler, Pierce County Public Works and Utilities director. “Taking the time to keep yards and storm drains free of leaves can reduce the chance of flooding.”

Pierce County residents can take the following actions to keep storm drains clear:

• Pick up leaves and other yard waste from properties and put them in yard waste bins for pick up.

• If it can be done safely, remove leaves from storm drains with a rake.

• Find a list of local facilities that accept yard waste and leaves, often free of charge, at Pierce County’s yard waste website.

• Call Pierce County Public Works and Utilities at (253) 798-6000 or submit a Request for Action at this website, if the storm drain is on a Pierce County roadway with high traffic volume or limited sight distance for vehicles, the blockage can’t be cleared or the roadway is flooding.

• Call (253) 798-4274 if the flooding is occurring along a stream, river or pond in unincorporated Pierce County.

Residents in cities and towns should contact their local public works department to report flooding or storm drain problems.

For information about preparing for winter weather, visit Pierce County’s Winter Wise website.