Common problems and how to troubleshoot them for swales

Common problems and how to troubleshoot them for swales
Link to this table

Symptom	Possible Causes	Solution
Standing water within the swale for more than 48 hours	Soil media may be clogged with accumulated sediment or the outlet structures may be clogged with trash or de	Scrape, clean or vacuum the infiltration area. A vacuum truck may be needed for sediment removal in the pretreatment area or BMP proper. All sediments may be subjected to the MPCA’s Managing Stormwater Sediment Best Management Practice Guidance. Remove any trash or debris.
Vegetation is not able to establish	Plant selection is inappropriate for the site	Consult with a landscaper or horticulturist. Check that plants are suited to the local conditions. Make sure BMP is protected from snow storage or salt application.