Heavy Rain vs. Drought – How IFCD 3 Works in Both

Happy new year from IFCD 3! Our flood control operations are fully underway in 2025 as we work to keep Valley Ranch safe. Thanks to the systems and the expertise of our team, we’re equipped to protect Valley Ranch from flooding this year and in the years to come.

While we can’t know if this year will bring heavy rains or drought, both can present unique opportunities and challenges. Let’s take a look at flood control prevention activities we take in dry years versus wet years.

Years of Drought

Even with less rainfall, our team still stays busy. During years of drought, they work on the following:

  • Collecting Trash: Our team works hard to keep our waterways, ecosystems and infrastructure free of trash. Not only does this maintain our beautiful community, but it also allows water to move through the system properly and reduces flood risk.
  • Inspecting Facilities: Since our facilities and tools deal with water, lower water levels make it easier for us to inspect our facilities, check their conditions and note any repairs that need to be made.
  • Making Repairs: Lower water levels also make it easier to conduct repairs and routine maintenance tasks, ensuring our facilities remain useful for years to come.
  • Conserving Budget: While our team is constant, dry seasons typically require fewer resources. In drought years, we often can conserve resources for years with higher operating costs and capital improvement projects.

Years of Rain

Seasons of heavy rainfall require our team to spend more hours on immediate flood management activities. During years of heavy rain, they work on the following:

  • Collecting Trash: Trash collection is important during rainy seasons, as well. Heavy rain can often wash off debris into our facilities, blocking proper water flow and damaging equipment.
  • Operating Flood Control Systems: Our team manages the pump station and makes system adjustments around the clock during heavy rainfall events. Their expert management ensures our systems work properly and prevents the accumulation of water in Valley Ranch.
  • Making Additional Repairs: While repairs are easier when it’s dry and water levels are low, some maintenance is inevitable. It’s important to keep our systems operational in all conditions.

Regardless of rainfall totals year to year, IFCD 3 remains responsible for maintaining the flood control systems across Valley Ranch. We’ve done this since our founding in 1983, and we remain committed to effectively and responsibly protecting Valley Ranch for years to come.

To stay up-to-date on Valley Ranch conditions and flood control activities, follow IFCD 3 on Twitter and Facebook.

Irving Flood Control District III