In the early years, agriculture dominated the area. However, rapid urbanization of the region began in the 1950's and has continued to the present day. The change in land use increased the quantity of rainfall runoff directed into the drainage system during wet periods. The State of Florida created regional water management districts and implemented regulations to manage stormwater. Today, new development projects are required to construct lakes and ponds to collect stormwater associated with rainfall. These practices enhance flood control efforts and avoid inundating local drainage networks.

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LWDD Control Structure No. 3

In the 1960's through the 1980's, water supply pumping stations were added to the water resource system of the District. These pumps work to maintain groundwater recharge to support both agriculture and urban supplemental irrigation demands. This same system also recharges the aquifers that serve several municipal well fields in the region. The need for quality flood control and adequate water supply must be balanced effectively. While excess water must be discharged for flood control, some water must be held back in storage to recharge the groundwater supply during dry periods

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Farming and development co-exist

While agriculture and development are sometimes at odds over land use policy or management practices, 

these two groups share a respect for each other and an appreciation for the lifestyle their co-existence fosters. For example, the term 'farm to table' is widely used in the restaurant industry increasing the market share for locally grown food and the ability to shop at a neighborhood farmer's market is an amenity coveted by many homebuyers. Living and working side by side, these two groups have created this highly desirable community we enjoy.