Winnebago County supervisors on Oct. 7 discussed a large washout on a farm drain and multiple drainage district problems, directing staff to inspect sites and pursue appropriate repairs.

A landowner sent county staff a video showing a washout that appeared to originate from a 12‑inch tile discharging into a ditch; staff said the washout may extend 200–300 feet and noted sediment in the ditch. Board members and staff sought to determine whether the ditch is a district ditch or a roadside ditch; staff confirmed it is in a drainage district and pledged to call the landowner and inspect the location.

The supervisors discussed several drainage districts by identifier (DD1, DD3, DD6, DD12 were mentioned in conversation) and noted specific problem areas: an outlet under a railroad, a slough near the Buffalo Center sewage lagoon, and an area where a private tile appeared plugged inside a slough. County staff said they will drive the affected areas now that waters have receded, identify GPS coordinates to narrow down the repair locations, and determine whether work will require hauling material or tracking along the ditch.

One supervisor said he had already talked with Derek Geggie about addressing a private tile outlet that was inside the slough; staff indicated they will prepare a petition where necessary to begin formal repair work in the appropriate drainage district. The board did not take a formal vote on repairs at the meeting; staff were asked to follow up and report progress.

The discussion emphasizes process distinctions: if a problem is on a drainage district ditch, district trustees and district procedures apply; if it is a private or roadside ditch, different authorizations are needed. The board asked staff to coordinate with district trustees and contractors as needed.