What posters, such as the satellite map I've seen, or other publications are available?
A:
The SFWMD produces a wide variety of publications which are offered FREE to the public. These can be picked up at our offices, or we can mail them to you. Many can be downloaded directly from the web site. Some of the most popular posters or brochures available for download include:
Satellite Poster, Journey Through the K-O-E Two sides: satellite view and text & graphics (Download only – currently out of print)
I've noticed that water levels in lakes, canals and rivers seem to rise or fall too quickly or too slowly, depending on the time of year. Would you explain this?
A:
Water levels in most parts of south Florida are determined largely by rainfall, especially the smaller community lakes and canals you are likely to see in your neighborhood. These are most often managed and maintained by either Home Owner Associations; developments, water control districts or local governments such as counties or municipalities.
When rainfall has been either unusually high or low, these local water managers and our agency work together: to either make room for heavy rainfall to try to prevent severe flooding; or to maintain minimum levels to prevent saltwater intrusion and protect groundwater and surface water storage.
Check out "Know the Flow" - a brochure describing how local/neighborhood, secondary and regional water management systems work, and offering residents tips for checking/maintaining their neighborhood drainage system.
In preparation for the summer rainy season and Hurricane Season, many parts of the regional water management system (also known as the Central and Southern Florida Flood Control Project) are purposefully lowered -- to create additional room to safely store stormwater and provide flood protection.
During the drier winter and early spring months, water levels are likely to be naturally lower. To maintain navigation and protect water supplies, minimum levels must be maintained in major waterways. Water levels are allowed to rise naturally during the dry season (November - April) when sustained heavy rainfall and flooding is much less likely.
Q:
How can I learn about water levels in major waterways, or if water structures are open or closed?
A:
The South Florida Water Management District web site includes a Real Time Data page, which provides real-time water level information, as well as information about the status of water control structures such as coastal locks and gates.
NOTE: Most canals and water control structures have names such as C-58, or G-120. The map below can help you determine the name of the structure you are interested in.
My neighborhood lake, pond or canal is full of weeds. Who is responsible for clearing the canals and banks?
A:
Private canals are maintained by the person or entity that owns the canal. The Homeowners Association or Municipal Services Taxing Unit (MSTU) is responsible for maintenance (including managing aquatic weeds) of the stormwater management system. You can usually find contact information on your deed or property tax bill.
Only those canals directly associated with the primary flood control system are maintained by the South Florida Water Management District. How to tell? Look for a dark green sign with a smiling, green alligator.
Check out "Know the Flow" - a brochure describing how local/neighborhood, secondary and regional water management systems work, and offering residents tips for checking/maintaining their neighborhood drainage system.
The South Florida Water Management District regulates large water users such as city or county water supply utilities, but is not directly involved in the delivery of water to your home, nor the billing for that service. The same is true for sewage service.
Look for either a phone number or web address on your water bill. Most utilities provide some type of contact information on the paperwork they send you.
Permitting
Q:
How do I get a Surface Water, Wetland, Right of Way, or Water Use permit from the SFWMD, and how long is it likely to take?
A:
For detailed information on who needs a permit and how to apply for one, click on the LWC Permitting link on the left sife of this page.
The South Florida Water Management District is bound by rules that require our permit application reviewers to act within 30 days of receiving an application.
Storms, Flood & Drought
Q:
Can you tell me if I need flood insurance?
A:
The SFWMD is not involved in establishing the criteria for flood insurance.
Storms blew down a number of trees in the conservation areas in our community. Who is responsible for removing these?
A:
If the downed trees present a hazard, the property owner, often the community association or homeowners' association, is free to remove downed trees that pose a threat to private property, life or limb.
Downed trees have ecological value and are part of the natural succession of natural areas. If the trees are not resting on private property, nor creating a threat, they should be left alone.
Big Cypress Basin
Lower West Coast
