Can a Drainage Ditch Alter a Natural Spring's Flow?

Question: New drainage ditch along property line with perforated pipes, gravel, catch basin to lake. Fixed standing water. Neighbor claims it changed underground spring flow, making their lawn soggy. Must I fix?

Possibility

Yes, it could. Many variables need on-site engineer. Spring water followed path of least resistance—digging or compaction may have closed that path. Gravel should act like French drain but may not have.

Steps

• If water surfaces, run drain pipe from catch basin to main drain.
• Check if near previous standing water—filling low spot alters flow; may have been soggy before.
• Engineer with core sample can determine if new or old problem.
• Grading company may have responsibility—they should have ensured proper spring flow.

Start with grading company—they should have an engineer.