Standard spring melt operations in West Fargo

In the City of West Fargo, the Sheyenne River Diversion Flood Control Project provides excellent protection from overland flooding. The diversion has successfully protected West Fargo through historic floods, such as the events that took place in 1997 and 2009.

The City is coordinating with Southeast Cass Water Resource District to manage the Sheyenne River Diversion and maintaining normal spring operations this year. To prepare for the melt, crews check the City’s infrastructure to ensure water is properly channeling throughout the system. This include clearing storm drains, ensuring diversion gates are operational, servicing and testing equipment like pumps and generators, and securing additional equipment and supplies in case sandbags and emergency structures are needed.

During the melt, the City of West Fargo and Southeast Cass Water Resource District continuously monitor and evaluate the condition of the flood control system, including the diversion, riverbanks and levees, and prepare multiple contingencies to

By City of West Fargo Staff

respond to any risks. The diversion still allows water to flow through the river south of I-94, but completely channels water around the city north of I-94. Officials predict the river south of I-94 will flow full this spring, meaning the water will reach a few feet shy of riverbanks. Therefore, the condition of the riverbanks south of I-94 is critical to contain the flow of the river and require extensive monitoring during the spring melt.

For residents with homes that border the Sheyenne River, it is imperative to notify the City of any changes made to the riverbank. Berms and dikes were constructed on many of these properties to protect against flooding and any changes to these structures and the riverbank could lead to flooding. Additionally, homeowners who have blocked culverts or drains on their property need to remove these devices or contact the City of West Fargo to report them.

To report any changes to riverbanks, berms or dikes, please email springmelt@westfargond.gov.

In emergency cases of riverbank failure or extreme sloughing, residents should call Red River Regional Dispatch Center’s non-emergency line at 701-451-7660.

Residents should also keep storm drains clear on the street and in yards. This ensures water is flowing into the system at an even pace, as a large influx of water can cause backups. Property owners are also encouraged to divert all sump pumps to discharge outside. This assists in managing the flow of water into the system and ensures it does not get overwhelmed, which can lead to water and sewage backups in basements. Residents can also push snow away from foundations to ensure foundations and basements do not become over saturated, which could result in damage.

For more information and updates regarding spring melt and flooding in West Fargo, visit www. westfargond.gov/springflood.

To report any changes to riverbanks, berms or dikes, please email springmelt@westfargond.gov. In emergency cases of riverbank failure or extreme sloughing, residents should call Red River Regional Dispatch Center’s non-emergency line at 701-451-7660.