Protecting Dunedin's Natural Drainage Network

The Curlew Creek, Jerry Branch, and Cedar Creek waterways stretch across approximately 6.5 miles of densely wooded terrain within the City of Dunedin's municipal boundaries. These vital drainage corridors serve multiple watersheds, helping to manage stormwater and prevent local flooding. As natural conveyance channels, they direct water safely through the landscape, ultimately discharging into various points along the Intracoastal Waterway that defines Dunedin’s scenic shoreline.

Project Elements:

• Removal a significant cubic yard of debris that has interrupted the continuous flow of water.
• Partnership with USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and grant money allocation.
• Monitoring of the debris collected and disposed of for documentation with GPS coordinates and photographic evidence.

Project Budget:

• Total Project costs: About $1.4 million
• Funding Source: Stormwater Fund with grant funding through USDA Natrual Resource Conservation Service Emergency Watershed Protection.

Why?

• To maximize the efficiency of water conveyance across Dunedin’s major drainage channels—Curlew Creek, Jerry Branch, and Cedar Creek. By completing this essential clearing project, we strengthen the resilience of our stormwater systems, significantly reducing the risk of local flooding across vulnerable watershed areas.
• This project shows the commitment of Dunedin to create a sustainable environment that safeguards property, enhances drainage performance, and preserves the natural beauty of our community.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q – Who is performing the debris removal?
A – The work is being conducted by CrowderGulf in coordination with Tetra Tech Disaster Recovery for monitoring, under the oversight of the City of Dunedin Public Works Department.

Q - What types of debris are being removed?
A – The focus is on wet vegetative and woody debris they may obstruct water flow in city drainage channels from Hurricanes Milton and Helene.

Q – How will my property be affected?
A – There should be little to no changes to property, this work is focused through the waterways with designated removal points.

Q – How often are updates provided?
A – Updates are compiled daily during active operations and shared with City staff. Public summaries will be posted regularly on the project page.

Q- How long should the channel clearing project take?
A – This clearing is projected to run until early spring of 2026.
Have additional questions about this project? Contact Public Services Stormwater office at 727-298-3232.