Our detention and retention basins were built into the Boulder Ridge Community site plan to reduced pollutants in local streams, rivers, and lakes, protecting water quality in our state. Our community is responsible for inspections and maintenance, which have been neglected for 20 years. In 2024 the board consulted with 5 vendors, and created a multi-phase drainage plan.

Best wishes,
The 2024 Boulder Ridge COA Board of Directors

• Matthew Starrman, President
• Nicole Rogers, Vice-President
• Charlene Boccaccio, Member at Large
• Drinda Reynolds, Member at Large

DETENTION BASIN RESTORATION 2024: IMPROViNG COMMUNITY DRAINAGE

All community drainage including French drains, parking lot catch basins, and field catch basins drain into the center detention basin. Since sediment was dredged and the drains cleared in November 2024, the basin only holds water temporarily (2-3 days after rainstorms). This was the first step to improving perimeter drainage issues. The basin will be inspected and if it holds water in 2025 an additional 100-150 tons of sediment might be removed. The 2024 board also asked if grass slit seeding may occur around the edge to improve the aesthetic.

Field Catch Basin Maintenance Enhances Drainage

On September 23, 2024 Sand River Landscaping trimmed back the grass around the field catch basins throughout the community. This will facilitate drainage, particularly at the community perimeter. These may also need debris cleaning and deep cleaning to remove mineral build-up.

Benefits Of Soil Amendments For Lawn Improvement and Better Drainage

In 2024 Sand River Landscaping recommended soil amendments such as gypsum which is organic and will break up the heavily compacted clay at Boulder Ridge converting it to topsoil, promoting drainage and air circulation and improving lawn conditions. Gypsum is used to clean lawn burns associated with ice melt salt and pet yard spots and is very safe. This is not a quick fix and 1-3 treatments will be needed per year for 5-10 years to improve community drainage. In 2025 $13,000 is budgeted for mirimichi and gypsum soil amendments.

Maintaining French Drains at Community Perimeter: Importance and Costs

Several vendors noted that the old French drains have not been maintained and are now clogged and visible at soil level, requiring replacement. Additionally, some areas lack French drains and need them installed (building 5). Each French drain may cost upward of $12,000, and multiple areas in the community need attention. Since these drains are effective only for 5 feet on either side, this solution should be implemented in conjunction with other treatments.

detention basin maintenance in southeastern michigan

June 17, 2009 Phase 1 of the drainage plan completed by Pro-Scape
Phase 2; North side and down the East side on Dequindre
August 3, 2015: Phase 3 of the drainage plan completed by Pro-Scape