From Mud Pit to Play Space: Restoring Function to a Waterlogged Property

The Problem:

The natural neighborhood water flow runs directly through the client’s property creating an algae filled pool about 4-5 inches deep, about 6 feet wide and as long as a football field is wide. The area that holds water is filled with small junk trees, vines, and weeds. It’s virtually a small swamp that was created when the neighborhood was subdivided.

The backyard, although sodded, is unusable as the soil stays supersaturated, “squishy”, and filled with mud.

The driveway is too narrow and during big rain events is actually underwater, which causes problems entering the house through the flowing water.

The Plan:

Eliminate the underbrush from the area that holds water, dredge the muddy silt, and create
positive flow along the side yard towards the driveway.

Cut the drive and insert two large (10″ culverts) under the new concrete designed to direct the water under the driveway, rather than over it.

During driveway repair, widen the narrow drive to allow two cars to park “side by side”.

Repair the back yard to ensure a dry play area.

The Solution:

Step 1: The silt, underbrush, and smallish trees were removed from the swampy area. Once the area was relatively clear, a proper grade was established, which eliminated the standing water.

Step 2: The driveway was cut and large pipes installed at the low spots. Now water could flow under the drive, rather than over it.

Step 3: In the backyard three french drains, approximately 100 feet long, were installed. Drains ran parallel to the house and drained individually into the previous swampy area.

Step 4: After the backyard was repaired and the culverts installed, the swampy area was regraded, filter fabric and large 5-9″ rocks were installed creating a ‘dry stream bed’.

Step 5: Sod was installed in all disturbed areas, concrete was poured in the area where the pipes were laid, and the driveway itself was widened to accommodate additional parking.

With careful planning and a willing homeowner the swampy, muddy yard is now child friendly, dry and usable.