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It’s mowing season at the Harris County Flood Control District! Maintenance crews are out across the county with tractors, trimmers, and other equipment to manage vegetation, reduce invasive species, and keep our drainage network accessible for inspection and maintenance.
When it comes to mowing for flood control purposes, timing matters. We follow a carefully planned mowing schedule with three cycles during the May–November growing season. Each cycle lasts about 45 days.
Mowing is one of the Flood Control District’s largest maintenance investments. We maintain more than 19,000 acres (an area larger than Manhattan) of grass-lined bayous, channels, stormwater detention basins, and other drainage infrastructure across Harris County. In addition, we regularly mow more than 2,300 FEMA buyout lots — previously flooded properties in high-risk areas.
Each mowing cycle helps control invasive species like Johnson grass, prevents overgrowth that can block or slow stormwater flow, and provides access for inspections so crews can identify areas needing maintenance.
We prioritize function over appearance. Properly maintained grass-lined channels play a crucial role in moving stormwater efficiently through the system. Even when grass grows tall, it doesn’t significantly block or slow water flow. Instead, the soft, flexible stems bend with the current and lay flat in the direction of the water during storms, allowing rainwater to pass through smoothly and reducing the risk of flooding.
Our mowing program is part of a broader preventative maintenance effort that includes selective clearing, sediment removal, tree pruning, and invasive species management — all focused on reducing flood risk across Harris County. This work is all part of the Flood Control District’s increased investment in maintenance to preserve and strengthen our flood control infrastructure.
To learn more, including when mowing is scheduled near you, visit our mowing page. The Flood Control District is continuing to make historic progress in flood risk reduction projects and maintenance efforts thanks to voter support and dedicated staff. Stay informed by following us on social media.