Landowner's checklist
All elements of the drainage system – ditches, culverts, drainage outlets, and wells – should be checked at least once a year. The system is working properly if water flows freely and the ground remains dry. A drained plot of land may be part of a larger land improvement system, so maintenance work must be carried out without disturbing the use of neighboring land.
Regular activity
Regular cleaning of ditches and culverts
- Mow the grass and remove brush from ditches and culverts.
- Clear ditches and culverts of any obstructions to ensure free flow of water.
- Keep outlets open so that excess water can flow away unimpeded.
Maintenance of wells and drainage systems
- Check drainage outlets and clean them of sediment.
- Tidy up the area around drainage wells to keep them clean and easily accessible.
- Cover all wells with lids and mark them for safety.
Keeping the field free of weeds
- Keep the drained field free of weeds to prevent clogging of the drainage system and ensure its efficiency.
Possible problems and solutions
If maintenance work has been carried out but the ground remains wet, one of the following problems may be present:
- drainage clogged with sediment or silt
- drainage pipes broken
- poor permeability of the backfill in the drainage pit, caused by compaction of the soil with heavy machinery
Solution:
- drainage filters (e.g., made of straw, gravel, sawdust, or bark) can be installed in wet areas
- ask a specialist for help – see the register of companies operating in the field of land improvement
Joint maintenance with neighbors
Maintaining land improvement systems is more effective when done together with neighbors. Consider forming a land improvement association to plan and carry out maintenance work jointly.
What is a land improvement association?
Land improvement maintenance plans
A land improvement maintenance plan is a planning document that brings together the principles of targeted maintenance of land improvement systems and the establishment of environmental protection objects. The maintenance plan provides an overview of the condition of the systems and offers recommendations to landowners for maintenance work.
Principles of maintenance plans
- Maintenance plans are drawn up in accordance with the river basins specified in the Water Act.
- A maintenance plan is drawn up for five years and follows the objectives of the river basin water management plan.
The current land improvement maintenance plans for the period 2022–2027 are available on the website of the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Rural Affairs.
Related documents
Last updated: 31.10.2025
