The Operations and Maintenance staff at the District work every day to ensure the water management system operates smoothly and efficiently to provide flood control to our residents. Throughout the year, Operations and Maintenance staff oversee approximately 500 miles of canals and 1,000 miles of canal rights-of-way. In addition, the District operates 20 major water control structures which release or hold back water depending on conditions. 

Residential communities are part of this overall water management system. Communities hold stormwater on site in retention ponds/lakes and discharge excess stormwater into District canals for flood control. To be ready for whatever nature sends our way, whether it's a typical summer rainstorm, a hurricane or drought both the District and communities must have properly working drainage systems in place.

South Florida's dry season runs from approximately November through May. January is the ideal time of year for residential communities to conduct inspections of their drainage infrastructure and make any necessary repairs. Taking time during the dry season will help ensure that your community is ready for the oncoming rainy season.

To ensure a well-maintained drainage system, communities should:

• Maintain swale areas with regular mowing
• Clear debris from inlets
• Inspect discharge points/outfalls into the District's canals
• Have underground drainage pipes inspected every three to five years
• Exercise operable discharge control structures by opening and closing them a few times
• Visually inspect fixed discharge control structures for structural integrity and potential blockages
• Update your community contact information at www.lwdd.net