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I want to use this edition to address an issue we are seeing more and more lately, excessive water and localized flooding unlike anything we have experienced in the past.
Why is this happening? Take a walk outside and look around your neighborhood. Think about all the new roofs, driveways, patios, sidewalks, decks, and buildings added over the last five to 10 years. Every new surface that covers the ground reduces the amount of rainwater that can naturally soak into the soil.
I am not suggesting we stop development or “go back to the stone age.” I simply want to point out that every project impacts the surrounding area. When rain cannot soak into the ground, it has to go somewhere.
The intensity of rainfall has not changed much over the last 50 years, but the frequency of heavy rain events has increased. Storms are coming closer together, giving the ground less time to absorb water before the next rainfall arrives. The result is more runoff and more localized flooding. Even if the flooding only lasts a few hours, the damage is often already done.
This brings me to an important reminder: when building or improving property, we must pay attention to water runoff. Building codes require that runoff be contained on the property where it falls or directed into a proper drainage system such as a ditch, stream, or other approved waterway.
In other words, if your project causes water to flow onto a neighbor’s property at a greater rate than before, you are responsible for correcting it. Likewise, standing water on your property cannot simply be pushed onto someone else’s land by adding fill dirt.
Please consider drainage and runoff when planning projects. Doing so can prevent costly repairs and avoid problems with neighbors later on.
The Garden Club has commissioned a sculpture by a local artist for the gazebo area, and we hope to have it installed this summer. The club is raising the funds independently because they want the project to truly be “from the community to the community.” Donations may be sent to Hale Garden Club, PO Box 174, Hale, MI 48739, or by contacting Bev Mason at 989-305-8823.
The Plainfield Township Historical Commission will host a program Sept. 19 at 2 p.m. at Eagle Pointe Plaza featuring Phil Naud speaking about the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), its camps, and its work throughout Iosco County and northern Michigan. Please mark your calendars for this informative event.
Please also consider a membership at the Community Center and Eagle Pointe Plaza. Activities include pickleball, yoga, cardio drumming, fitness training, walking, and TOWANDA classes. Stop in and see Roma for membership information; we would love to see you.
While you are there, visit the Plainfield Township Historical Museum on Tuesdays to explore displays showcasing our community’s history and heritage.
As always, if you have questions, comments, or concerns regarding our community, please contact me at the township office Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 989-728-2811, on my cell at 989-984-7073, or by email at [email protected].
Fred Lewis
Supervisor, Plainfield Township
