How to Fix an Overflowing Ditch

Examine the ditch after a rainfall. Look for clogs, including compacted leaves, sticks and other debris. Remove all material that can block the flow of water.

Use a bubble level to check the grade of the slope. One-quarter of the bubble should sit outside of the two center lines, indicating a correct downward slope.

Measure the width of the ditch with a tape measure. While 6 inches is the standard width, a wider ditch can collect more water faster and disperse it.

Use wood stakes and the tape measure to mark a new border for the ditch that will expand the width to 12 inches. Loop a string around each stake to ensure the ditch is straight.

Unearth growth and dirt below the expanded area with a shovel. Dig it as deep as the existing ditch. Remove the gravel on the side of the ditch you are expanding.

Pour gravel into the widened ditch, tamping it with a tamper every few inches. Once the top is 6 inches from the surface, rake the gravel to form a gradual dip with the deepest point running down the center.

Lay a board down the center of the ditch beginning at the highest end, then place the bubble level on top. Shift the gravel so the length of the ditch runs 1/8 inch deeper for every foot of distance. Continue using the bubble level as your guide to slope the gravel as necessary.

Plant flood-resistant shrubs along the top of the ditch to prevent the ground from getting waterlogged. Common dogwood and pussy willow are a few examples of shrubs to consider.