Culverts and ditches must be kept free of debris and obstructions. Ditches on newly constructed roads may require frequent cleaning and checking after each major storm until re-vegetation has occurred. While clearing ditches, follow these guidelines:

	Leave grass in the ditch unless it has filled with sediment and is no longer functioning.
	Avoid undercutting the road shoulders and banks.
	Check culverts for blockage by debris.
	Do not leave a berm on the side of the road; berms will channel water down the road.

Slide debris can cause increased sediment loads in established roadway drainage systems as well as in established streams. Do not sidecast removed material if there is a chance it will enter a stream. The cause of the slide needs to be evaluated. Under some circumstances, removal of the slide debris makes the situation worse by further undercutting the toe of the slope. In some instances, removal of some debris may be required and stabilization of the remaining material may prevent further problems. Consult an engineer for advice if the problem persists. General recommendations will not work on slides because there are too many variables that can trigger them, thus local expertise is needed. Whether a road should be closed is determined by several factors. The type of road and the landowner’s objectives are the two most important considerations. The following are some recommendations for closing temporary and permanent seasonal roads. Temporary roads should be closed to reduce the maintenance costs associated with vehicular traffic. Consider doing the following before the last piece of equipment capable of doing road maintenance leaves the site.

	Remove all temporary drainage structures and replace with water bars.
	Remove any stream crossing structures and reshape the stream channel to its original contour.
	Stabilize the roadbed and cut and fill slopes with seed, and mulch when necessary.
	If public access is a problem close the road with a gate or some other structure at a point where topography prevents vehicles from going around the closure device.
Permanent seasonal roads should have controlled access to keep maintenance costs low.
	Ensure the road surface is in stable condition by reshaping to its original specifications. Seed and mulch any remaining disturbed surfaces.
	Check all drainage structures to ensure they are in proper working order.
	Remove any logging slash or debris that has the potential to block a drainage structure.
	Periodically inspect the road to ensure drainage is being maintained.

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