As the summer heat ramps up in Harris County, you may notice mowers at work along bayous, channels, and stormwater basins. These aren’t just routine landscaping efforts — they’re part of a large-scale maintenance plan led by the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) to reduce flood risks and keep drainage systems working efficiently.

HCFCD manages over 2,500 miles of waterways and more than 18,000 acres of green space. That’s nearly the size of 14 Memorial Parks — all needing regular care.

What Gets Mowed — and Why It Matters

Flood control channels and basins are designed to safely move or hold rainwater during storms. But if vegetation grows too tall or dense, it can block water flow, trap trash, and obscure potential damage like erosion or slope instability.

That’s why HCFCD crews mow up to three times a year, depending on the location and weather. Their work helps:

• Keep water moving freely through channels
• Maintain access for inspections and emergency repairs
• Prevent overgrowth that could lead to bigger maintenance problems
• Support slope stability and discourage unwanted tree or brush growth in critical areas

In addition to mowing, crews also remove fallen trees, clear invasive plants, and clean up debris — all part of what the District calls “vegetation management.”

What’s the Mowing Schedule?

While exact timing depends on rainfall and site conditions, the general schedule includes:

• Spring Mowing: March to May
• Summer Mowing: June to August
• Fall Mowing: September to November

Some areas may receive additional attention depending on how fast vegetation grows or if there are storm recovery needs.

You can explore an interactive mowing map to see when your area is scheduled next: Check the Mowing Map Tool

Why Not Mow Everything at Once?

With thousands of acres to manage, it’s simply not practical — or beneficial — to mow everything at once. The work is staggered to match seasonal growth and avoid unnecessary strain on crews and equipment.

Also, not every area is mowed to the same height or frequency. In fact, some regions are left more natural on purpose. That’s because dense native grasses and plant roots help stabilize slopes and reduce erosion. Crews balance functionality with environmental stewardship in every decision.

How Can Residents Help?

• Report issues like overgrown vegetation or blocked channels using HCFCD’s contact form
• Don’t dump grass clippings or yard waste into ditches or drains — it clogs the system
• Stay informed about flood safety year-round by subscribing to HCFCD alerts

Why It Matters

Routine mowing may not grab headlines, but it’s one of the most visible ways HCFCD prevents flooding before storms even hit. It ensures our drainage system is ready — and helps taxpayers see where their dollars are going.