Here Comes The Rainy Season!

Flood mitigation is a high priority for the city of Rohnert Park and partner agencies, such as the Sonoma County Water Agency (SCWA). Throughout the summer, preventative measures were taken to reduce flooding and improve drainage throughout the community.

Prior to this summer's work, a significant portion of the flooding was caused by overgrown vegetation, debris and sediment in the creeks. Flood control projects implemented by water agency have focused on improving the flow of water at Five Creek and the Laguna Channel, Copeland Creek near Country Club Drive and Snyder Avenue and Cooks Creek near G Seciton. 

The water agency cleared out a great deal of vegetation and is transitioning creeks and channels into waterways that improve flood protection. Improvements include planting native plant species and mature tree canopies. These measures not only improve the flow of water, but also provide safe and well-shaded areas for hiking, walking, running and cycling. 

In areas where flooding is typically problematic due to the collection of sediment, the water agency constructs a low-flow channel that allows sediment and debris to flow through the system and reduces the need for regular sediment removal. These channels also provide many ecological benefits that provide a better environment for aquatic species and a cooler environment throughout the summer. 

These are significant improvements to Rohnert Park's creeks and waterways that will help to reduce flooding throughout the rainy season. However, you can help too! 

1. Keep storm drains free of unnecessary debris: Don't dump leaves, oil, garbage or other random items into the storm drain system. Doing so will cause the storm drains to back up and can lead to flooding.
2. Report unusual flooding: Many residents are aware of the areas that typcialy flood, if you see something unusual happening please call the Public Works Department at 707-588-3300 and we'll check it out.
3. Report dumping into the storm drain system: Provide extra eyes on the street — if you see someone dumping into the storm drain system, please contact Public Works. You can also log it on .
4. Drive slowly through flooded areas: Speeding through a flooded street is not only unsafe, it can also worsen the flood or create additional damage along city streets or to property. Watching your speed, driving cautiously and being aware of your surroundings is a great flood prevention measure we all can take!