The topography of the land can tell you where the water will go in the case of heavy precipitation. When property owners fill in ravines, they have found that the water that drained through that ravine now drains through their house. A flash flood can occur, especially during the summer months, and turn a dry gully into a river. It is wise to take this possibility into consideration when building. Spring run-off can cause a very small creek to become a major river.
Many residents use sand bags to protect their homes.
The county does not provide sand bags, equipment or people to protect private property from flooding. Nature can provide you with some wonderful neighbors. Most such as deer and eagles are positive additions to the environment. However, there are some others that you need to be concerned about. Coyotes, mountain lions, bears, mosquitoes and other animals can be dangerous and you need to know how to deal with them.