Cumberland Channel Desilt Project

Article and Photos by
Lauren Svatek & Emily Stuckey-Treichel

There is a system of four large, constructed channels within Fort Bend MUD 47, which the district manages and maintains to ensure that each channel collects and transports storm water effectively to allow the direct rainwater runoff to flow unhindered to a larger waterway.  Its purpose is to prevent flooding and manage water levels. Monthly maintenance to the channels such as mowing, seeding, trash removal and other actions keep the channels working efficiently in their purpose. Inspections are performed annually or biannually to examine slope integrity, erosion, sediment accumulation and other aspects vital to a healthy channel.

Over time, changes happen to the channels that require more significant measures to bring them up to optimum performance. At this time, the Cumberland Channel (located off the asphalt trail and running to Aldridge Drive) is the focus of this type of project. Over several years, construction runoff and materials, sediment, gravel, sand, trash, traffic cones, Christmas trees and other materials have accumulated and impacted the channel.  By removing the excess sediment in the channel, desilting will extend the life span of the drainage infrastructure, improve water quality by removing pollutants carried in the sediment, and improve overall performance of the drainage system during heavy rainfall events.  It is a costly and time-consuming project, but absolutely necessary. Remember Hurricane Harvey?

Preliminary work began on February 24, 2025 which included the use of a tracked marsh master mower to cut down overgrown vegetation in the channel bottom. Once vegetation is cleared, a long-stick excavator will be mobilized to desilt areas of the Cumberland Channel. This excavator will move any silt away from the center of the channel to fill low areas to promote positive drainage for access. Some soil will be stockpiled on the top of the bank to dry. This dried soil will be repurposed to regrade low spots on the top of the slopes.

A skid steer/dozer will regrade low and disturbed spots on the top of the slopes and prepare the ground for overseeding. The final focus will be to reestablish the turf and restore vegetation on the slopes. This will protect the slopes during future weather events and enhance the overall appearance of the channel along the trail. 

This project is estimated to take about 2-4 weeks to complete and weather can impede its progress.