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Harris County Flood Control District FAQs
What is the mission of the Harris County Flood Control District?
The HCFCD's mission is to provide flood damage reduction projects that work, with appropriate regard for community and natural values.
The HCFCD accomplishes its mission by:
- Devising the flood damage reduction plans
- Implementing the plans
- Maintaining the infrastructure
How and why was the Harris County Flood Control District formed?
The Texas Legislature created the HCFCD in 1937, in response to heavy flooding that struck the region in both 1929 and 1935. The HCFCD was charged with "the control, storing, preservation and distribution" of Harris County's rivers, streams, tributaries and flood waters "for flood control, irrigation and other useful purposes," as well as the reclamation and drainage of overflow land, the conservation of forests and the protection of navigation on the navigable waters. Although its primary function was to serve as the local partner for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the HCFCD gradually has taken on a much more complex role and continues to expand its responsibilities every day.
Will the Harris County Flood Control District be able to eliminate flooding in Harris County?
No. Preventing all flooding in Harris County is impossible, given the area's flat terrain, impervious clay soils, the potential for tropical storms and hurricanes and an average annual rainfall of 48 inches. Floods cannot be "controlled." The HCFCD works to lessen flood damage to structures when devastating storms come our way by implementing programs and projects to significantly reduce the risk of flooding in many areas of the county.
What is the Federal Water Resources Development Act of 1996?
The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 1996, which was passed by the United States Congress and signed into law by the President of the United States, authorized non-federal agencies, such as the HCFCD, to undertake major flood damage reduction projects with federal funding assistance. The funding assistance is in the form of reimbursements from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the federal share of approved and completed projects.
How frequently does HCFCD mow the bayou?
While there are some exceptions, the standard program involves three cycles of mowing between May and November. Vegetation cutting, which combines mowing and other cutting procedures, helps desired vegetation to grow by reducing or eliminating undesirable plants. A plant is considered undesirable if it affects water flow or the growth of desired vegetation, hides dangerous terrain or areas in need of repair, or offers no recreational, aesthetic or environmental benefits.
> Learn more about HCFCD vegetation management
How frequently does HCFCD clean debris out of the bayou?
HCFCD has a process that identifies channels that often have a build-up of debris. These areas are on an eight-week cyclical schedule for major debris removal, which includes trees. HCFCD also collects floating debris, such as plastic foam cups, from several waterways. However, it is not allowed to remove any debris from private property.
> Learn more about HCFCD property management
> See more HCFCD FAQs at the District's main website
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