If you’ve spent any time on our site, you’ve seen one of our services is Wash Relocation. If you’re not too familiar with the nitty gritty of land development, this might have you scratching your head. Aren’t washes just a feature of the landscape? Why would you move one rather than just remove it entirely? Sit back and let us fill you in.
It All Comes Out in the Wash(es)
Washes are a common sight in the natural landscape of Arizona, and they are an integral part of the land’s ecosystem. These dry creek beds are characterized by steep banks, loose sediment, and rocky terrain, and they carry stormwater runoff during periods of heavy rainfall. While washes are essential for maintaining the balance of the ecosystem, they can pose significant challenges for developers looking to build on or near them.
When developing land in Arizona, it’s common for washes to need to be relocated. This is because washes are unpredictable and can change course or size during periods of heavy rain. If a wash is located in an area where development is planned, it can pose a significant risk to both the development and nearby properties. As a result, it’s often necessary to relocate the wash to a more suitable location before any development can begin.
The primary reason why washes need to be relocated when developing land in Arizona is to reduce the risk of flooding. When a wash is located near a development, there is a high risk of flooding during periods of heavy rain. This can cause significant damage to buildings, roads, and other infrastructure. By relocating the wash to a more suitable location, developers can reduce the risk of flooding and ensure the development is safe and sustainable.
Another reason washes must be relocated instead of just removed is to preserve the natural ecosystem. Washes are an essential part of the ecosystems of Arizona. They provide a habitat for various plant and animal species and are an important part of the natural landscape. When developing land, it’s essential to consider the environmental impact and take steps to minimize any adverse effects. By relocating a wash, developers can ensure that the natural ecosystem is preserved and protected and that the heavy rains have somewhere to go that doesn’t interfere with the developments.
Additionally, washes may need to be relocated to comply with state and local regulations. In Arizona, several regulations govern the development of land near washes. These regulations are designed to protect the natural landscape and ensure that development is sustainable and environmentally responsible development – a massive concern for desert communities. By relocating a wash, developers can ensure that they comply with these regulations and avoid any potential legal issues.
Washes are an essential part of the natural landscape here in Arizona and play a vital role in the ecosystem. When relocating a wash, it’s important to work with experienced engineers and contractors who can help design and implement a plan to minimize the environmental impact. This may involve rerouting the wash to a more suitable location, creating a new channel to redirect the flow of stormwater, or building culverts or other drainage structures. By taking these steps, developers can ensure that the relocation is done in an environmentally responsible way that minimizes the impact on the ecosystem.
Does your prospective development land have washes that need moving? Are there other factors that make it a little less than ready to build? Call BC Land Development today, and we’ll get right to work!