Sewer Maintenance

Between the sanitary and stormwater sewer systems, there is a lot happening below the streets to protect streams, lakes and wetlands.

House showing sewer systems

Sanitary

The Sanitary Sewer System collects the dirty water that goes down our drains and toilets (i.e. sewage).

The word "sanitary" is confusing because it refers to the "sanitation system," not the water itself, which is definitely not sanitary! The entire drainage network of pipes must be well sealed to keep raw sewage from leaking out before the water gets treated. We also don’t want clean groundwater to enter the system because then we’re treating clean water. Too much water can also overflow the pipes and pumping stations before it gets to the treatment plant.

Learn more about West Des Moines’ Sanitary Sewer Operations by selecting this link:

Sanitary Sewer Operations

Sewer Cleaning and Televising Public Service Announcement Video: https://youtu.be/KrXm-JVJ2gM

Sewer Rehabilitation Public Service Announcement Video: https://youtu.be/RKEuLfav8yA

Stormwater

The Stormwater Sewer System collects rainwater and snowmelt runoff from streets, roads, driveways, sidewalks and parking lots to prevent flooding.

Learn more about West Des Moines’ Stormwater Sewer System by selecting this link:

Stormwater Management

Intakes Public Service Announcement Video: https://youtu.be/FgbrZHIkxYY

Channel Repair Public Service Announcement Video: https://youtu.be/KAgoXTVBG0U

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