How to Clean a Ditch Pipe

Ditch pipes, also called culverts, are typically cleaned by the government roads department which installed and owns the pipe. However, there are some places where culverts may not be on public land and it may be necessary to clean a ditch pipe on your property yourself. Plumbing companies and other specialty contractors can be hired to complete the job, but you can save money doing it yourself if you have the correct tools.

Pressure washer
Shovel
Riprap

Instructions

- 1
  Remove any large obstructions from in front of the entrance to the culvert. This may be done by hand, as ditch pipes are often blocked by limbs, brush and leaves.
- 2
  Rake away any small pieces or brush with the shovel. Remove as much debris as possible from the pipe.
- 3
  Pressure wash into the ditch pipe with as much pressure as possible. Focus on the sides of the pipe to wash all dirt and debris out of it. Sediment and dirt should not fill more then 20 percent of the pipe at any time.
- 4
  Stack riprap at the entrance to the pipe to prevent future dirt and debris build up in the ditch pipe, or clean the pipe annually.

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