Please note this website is not an official Howard County Government website. To learn more about the programs mentioned in this website and available through the Howard County Government, please visit: https://www.cleanwaterhoward.com/
Regrading involves leveling your yard and changing how the water flows to make the path the water takes longer, thus slowing the water down. Slower water has a higher chance of being filtered into the ground and it does not erode (see homepage for an explanation) as much as faster moving water does. Rock features spread the water out over a larger area as opposed to channeling water in a narrow swale or ditch, which allows more of it to seep through pervious surfaces and decreases erosion. Rock features can also stop sediment in the water that would otherwise pollute waterways. You may want to hire a professional for these changes, but you could do them yourself.
A french drain is a similar solution that may help with ponding water (see homepage for explanation). It consists of a trench filled with gravel, lined with landscape fabric to keep dirt out, and sometimes a perforated pipe. The trench is sloped so water flows down to the end of it.
Where would the french drain be on your lawn? Where does water flow and where do you want it to flow?
What would be at the end of it? Would it end at an area that has the necessary drainage? Would you need a rain garden or other feature to catch the water? Would this cause problems for your neighbors?
Would you be moving water close to your house? If so, you may want to consult a professional.
Sediment needs to be removed from rock features regularly to prevent it from collecting and blocking the water's path.