Public Works Department Banner, This link takes you back to home page

Flood Control and Stormwater Management


What is Flood Control?

The Flood Control Division uses science-based information and technology to reduce flood risk and to inform emergency managers and the public of real-time flooding potential during storms.  Flood control engineering work is strongly focused on the Pajaro River and its tributaries.  We coordinate with the County Planning Department on flood insurance needs in the County, and we work closely with Environmental Health on woody debris management in the watersheds of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

What is Stormwater?

Stormwater is rain that runs off streets, parking lots, roofs, other impervious surfaces, and also rain that naturally flows over the ground surface. Stormwater runoff receives no treatment and enters directly into our storm drain system and out to our creeks, rivers, and ocean.

Why Manage Stormwater?

Stormwater runoff is one of the leading causes of pollution in our surface waters. Pollutants (such as oils, chemicals, fertilizers, litter) can be transported by stormwater into our creeks, rivers, and ocean. Increases in impervious surfaces can cause water quantity issues (such as flooding and erosion) and quality problems (pollution) if not managed properly.

ONLY RAIN DOWN THE DRAIN

 

 

 
Counter Hours

Monday thru Thursday
8AM-12PM
701 Ocean St. Room 401, Santa Cruz CA 95060
Call Us (831) 454-2160
Email Us


Do you want to request or report and issue? Please use our County app

MySantaCruzCounty


Flooding in County Road
Contact (831) 477-3999

 

Report Sewer Spills
Notify Us (831) 477-3907