As stated at the beginning of this chapter, poor drainage is the cause of most problems in path management. However well designed and built, nearly all drainage systems require regular maintenance in order to keep functioning properly. Without maintenance drains become blocked, causing waterlogging on flat or lowland paths, and erosion and damage to upland paths and surrounds.
In the past, ‘lengthsmen’ were employed by parishes to maintain highways within their area, which included unsurfaced roads and tracks. Cleaning and repairing drains was an important part of this job. A return to a system of regular maintenance is needed for the rights of way system. Where permanent path teams are employed, some of their time can be allotted to maintenance. However this is the exception, as most path projects are done as a ‘one-off’, with no resources for regular maintenance. Some parishes are employing lengthsmen again, while others are encouraging individuals and groups to adopt a path and do regular maintenance , along with the reporting of any problems to the landowner or highway authority as appropriate.
Problems with drainage systems are both more obvious and more damaging during wet weather, so plan maintenance checks accordingly. Maintaining drainage systems should include opening ditches, and drains. Cut-offs and culverts should be cleaned to remove silt, stones and other debris. Mound material on the lower side of ditches, use it for path repair or scatter it as appropriate.
