Drainage Swales and Berms
Shallow, planted or rock-lined channels that move water across the yard without pipes.
- Yard Drainage
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- Middle Tennessee
Drainage Swales & Berms done right.
A swale is a gentle, shallow ditch, often planted with grass or lined with stone, that guides runoff around a house or toward an outlet. A berm is a low mound that diverts water at its edge.
Swales suit larger lots and sloped yards where a pipe would be overkill. We shape them to carry the flow you expect and finish them so they look intentional.
What you get.
No pipe to clog
A properly shaped swale is low-maintenance.
Looks natural
Grass, river rock or native plants blend into the yard.
Great for slopes
Intercepts runoff before it reaches the house.
Cost-smart
Often less than piped solutions on open lots.
Before and after: hillside runoff
Before AfterIllustrative visual. Drag the handle to compare.
How we do it.
A clear sequence from first look to final walkthrough.
- 1
Trace the flow
We follow where water flows during rain.
- 2
Shape the swale
Equipment forms the channel and berm.
- 3
Stabilize
Sod, seed, mats or stone prevent erosion.
- 4
Connect the outlet
The swale ends at a safe discharge.
Often paired with this.
YardRegradingReshape the ground so water leaves the house instead of heading toward it.Learn more 
YardErosion ControlStabilize slopes, banks and runoff paths so heavy rain stops carrying your yard downhill.Learn more 
YardYard DrainageOne honest plan for every wet spot: the right mix of drains, grading and outlets for your lot.Learn more 
YardRetaining Wall DrainageDrain pipe and gravel behind the wall relieve the water pressure that causes bulging and failure.Learn more Guides on this topic.
Yard & Property DrainageGrading and Slope Rules of ThumbHow much fall water needs, around the house and across the lot.Yard & Property DrainageStorm Season Drainage ChecklistTwelve checks that prepare your property before the next heavy rain.
Yard & Property DrainageMiddle Tennessee Drainage Guide: Soil, Rain and SlopesWhat makes drainage in Nashville and the surrounding counties different.Swales & Berms FAQ.
Will a swale look like a ditch?
Not when it is shaped and planted well. Most swales read as a soft dip in the lawn.
Can I mow over it?
Yes, when it is shallow and grassed.
Is a swale enough on its own?
Often on open lots. On tight lots, we pair it with drains.
Swales & Berms across Middle Tennessee.
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Water problem? Let’s fix it.
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