Minden, NV – The Douglas County Stormwater Division is continuing its proactive approach to public safety, open space preservation, and water resource management with a comprehensive community workshop focused on preserving open space in Douglas County while maintaining essential stormwater infrastructure for public safety and watershed health. The workshop takes place September 17, 2025, at 3 p.m. at the CVIC Hall located at 1604 Esmeralda Avenue in Minden.

The workshop will bring together County leaders, engineers, and residents to discuss open space inventory, stormwater system assets, maintenance successes, ongoing capital projects, and long-range funding strategies.

“Douglas County is committed to maintaining and improving stormwater systems that protect our neighborhoods, roads, and water quality,” said Stormwater Program Manager Courtney Walker. “This workshop reflects our ongoing effort to be transparent, collaborative, and future focused.”

Participants will learn about the drainage infrastructure and preserved open space spanning three major watersheds—Tahoe, Carson River, and Walker River—and review current and planned improvements, including the successful removal of more than 80 million pounds of sediment from local systems.

Highlights include: 

  • An update on more than 5,100 system inspections since 2018
  • A summary of open space in Douglas County and how it relates to stormwater
  • Overview of 30+ capital improvement projects
  • Insight into grant-supported initiatives
  • A look at future planning goals through 2031

County staff will also include opportunities for public input on sustainable funding to support long-term operations and improvements.

Event Details:

Quick Facts: Stormwater in Douglas County

  • 3 Major Watersheds: Lake Tahoe, Carson River, and Walker River
  • Open Space Inventory:
    • 26,220 total acres preserved as open space in the County
    • 9,245 of these acres preserved in the floodplain
  • Infrastructure Overview:
    • 769 culverts, 667 drop inlets, 235 manholes
    • 1,761 total stormwater features; more than 80 percent maintained by the County
  • Maintenance Since 2018:
    • 5,116 inspections logged
    • 34,140 cubic yards of sediment removed (approx. 3,414 truckloads)
    • 1,384 tons of rock placed to improve system function
  • Capital Projects:
    • 7 funded with help from federal and state partners
    • 20+ future projects in planning or design phases

About Douglas County, Nevada

Douglas County, Nevada, a community to match the scenery, is centrally located just 15 minutes south of Nevada’s state capital and borders Lake Tahoe. Located on Nevada’s western border, the community is framed by the Carson Range of the Sierra Nevada to the west and the Pine Nut Mountains to the east. The community offers miles of open space, expansive ranches and farms, many historical sites and displays, along with numerous outdoor recreation activities. Douglas County is the fifth most populated county in Nevada with approximately 48,000 residents and seasonal populations that can exceed 65,000, due to its proximity to Reno, Carson City and northern California. Douglas County is governed by a five-member elected Board of Commissioners. The County is comprised of ten functional areas – general government, judicial, public safety, public works, sanitation, health, welfare, cultural and recreation, community support and utilities. For more information, visit Douglas County online at DouglasCountyNV.gov.