ADS, Harris Poll, finds Americans are more concerned about flooding than last year

Advanced Drainage Systems (ADS) announced on January 21, 2025, the results of its 2024 survey on stormwater management. The study conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of ADS found that more Americans are concerned about their community's infrastructure for managing stormwater this year than last (60% vs. 51%), following a devastating hurricane season that highlighted the vulnerabilities of outdated stormwater infrastructure.

The survey results come on the heels of the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) announcing that as of November 1, 2024, the United States experienced 24 confirmed weather-related disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion, 17 of which were severe storms. There was also 92 flash flood emergencies issued by the National Weather Service in 2024.

“As storms increase in frequency and intensity, causing devastating flooding damage in many communities, it’s understandable that more Americans are concerned about the infrastructure in place to manage stormwater,” said ADS President and CEO Scott Barbour in a press release. “We are focused on developing innovative products that enable increased community resilience, reducing their vulnerability with stormwater infrastructure designed to handle the increased flooding caused by stronger and more frequent storms.” 

Key findings from the survey include: 

• 64% of Americans say stormwater has a negative impact on their community – with 12% indicating it has a major negative impact.
• Among those who say stormwater has negatively impacted their community, 64% say it comes in the form of flooded streets and 45% report damaged homes and/or businesses.
• 60% of Americans report concern over their community’s stormwater management infrastructure, a notable 9 percentage point increase from last year (51%).
• Over half (52%) of Americans worry about flooding in/around their home.
• Environmental impact remains a priority for most Americans, with 60% expressing concern about how stormwater is managed to ensure sustainability and stewardship—a small increase from 58% last year.
• Key considerations include transportation efficiency, energy usage, and water reuse.

• 57% of Americans believe local officials/state regulatory bodies prioritize stormwater management in their community. 
• However, over half (52%) do not know if their community has a water resource management plan.