SpillsCall 911 to immediately report all spills.How to Report Surface Water Pollution (PDF)FloodingThe Drain Commissioner's Office addresses flooding issues only when they involve Count

SpillsCall 911 to immediately report all spills.How to Report Surface Water Pollution (PDF)FloodingThe Drain Commissioner's Office addresses flooding issues only when they involve County drains. Many water features in Kalamazoo County, such as streams and ditches, may resemble County drains but fall outside our jurisdiction.Before contacting the Drain Commissioner's Office:Check if the flooding is related to a County drain or basin by using the County Drain Maps (PDF).If the flooding is not associated with a County drain, consider the following options:Roadside Ditches: Contact the Road Commission of Kalamazoo County at 269-381-3170.Private Property Drains: These are typically the responsibility of the property owner (e.g., parking lots or farm fields).Streams or Rivers: Contact the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) at 269-567-3500.Municipal Drains: Local drainage systems are managed by your city, township, or village.MaintenanceTo report drain maintenance issues, contact the Drain Commissioner's Office. Examples include:Rubbish, debris, or obstructions blocking the drain.Erosion of stream banks.Conditions harming drain structures, livestock, fish, wildlife, or public health.Illegal DumpingDumping sewage or waste into County drains is unlawful. Report illegal dumping to the Drain Commissioner's Office immediately. For abandoned barrels:Call 911 or contact the County Sheriff.Do not approach abandoned barrels.Right-of-Way InquiriesCounty drains include easements that allow the Drain Commissioner's Office access for maintenance, repair, and operation. Property owners retain ownership of the land but must:Avoid obstructing the drain or allowing livestock to graze within it.Obtain permits for activities like crossings or connections to the drain.Permit Information:Permit applications are required for any work in the right-of-way.Activities causing erosion or sedimentation also require permits.Failing to secure a permit may result in double fees or referral to the State of Michigan for significant damage.Exact right-of-way widths vary and are recorded with the Register of Deeds and the Drain Office.Lake LevelsKalamazoo County manages legal lake levels for the following lakes:Austin LakeWest LakeSunset LakeLong LakeEagle LakeCrooked LakeHill 'N Brook LakeIf excess water conditions occur without significant rainfall, contact the Drain Commissioner's Office.Contact Us