A downspout that drains water into the yard can water the grass or a garden nearby. Downspouts push the water away from the house so that the basementis less likely to flood. A downspout will only drain the water away if ther gutter is kept free of debris that can be manage by installing grates over the gutter. If the downspout is connected to a sewer drain it is best to disconnect it and
. redirect it to flow into the yard, thereby eliminating sewer backups and flooding. There is a website that discusses the various issues that can arise from improperly placed downspouts and clogged gutters at:http://www.managemyhome.com/mmh/authored/articles/Gutters+and+Downspouts
