Many of the region's most densely populated areas were wetlands less than 70 years ago. Because most of the region is relatively flat and the average annual rainfall is 55 inches a year -- catastrophic flooding was once quite common. In the late 1940s, work began on the regional water management system that today minimizes the effects of both flood and drought. The canals, rivers, water control structures and wetlands of this system can move and store runoff from rainfall, helping to minimize flooding; and when it's not raining act to protect coastal wellfields from saltwater intrusion.
When it was designed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the assumption was that the Central and Southern Florida (C&SF) system would need to protect a population of about 2 million people by the year 2000. Today's population is more than three times that, but thanks to technical advances and operational refinements, that system continues to protect residents of South Florida from catastrophic flooding.
Regional Water System With more than 1,900 miles of canals and levees and hundreds of water control structures, our regional water management system helps to protect regional water supplies and alleviate flooding for more than 7 million residents. more >
Operations & Maintenance Operations and Maintenance Resources (O&M) staff, many working out of field stations or other facilities located throughout the 16 counties within the District are responsible for routine and emergency operations and maintenance of the District's infrastructure. more >
Know the Flow Do you know how water moves -- from rainfall to your neighborhood, to ever-larger systems, and finally to groundwater? Learn how SFWMD's regional water management system interacts with local and secondary drainage systems [PDF]. more >
Flood Zone Map Modernization New technologies are helping federal, state and local governments update flood zone maps so they are more accurate and accessible -- helping homeowners and communities to better determine their flood risk, and prepare for the unexpected. more >
Environmental Resource / Storm Water Permits An Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) must be obtained before beginning any activity that could affect wetlands, alter surface water flows, or contribute to water pollution. more >
Right-of-Way Permits A Right of Way Occupancy Permit is actually a revocable license granted pursuant to the District's proprietary interest in the rights of way acquired for the canal and levee system which makes up the Central and Southern Florida (C&SF) Flood Control Project, and for certain other canals and works. more >
Agency Overview
Flood Control
Northern Everglades
