Canal Rehabilitation Provides Effective Flood Control

The increasing frequency and intensity of our hurricanes, tropical depressions, and thunderstorms require more than ever the regular maintenance of the LWDD 500 miles of drainage canals and 1,000 miles of associated rights-of-way. Maintenance and rehabilitation of these canals provide the free flow of water in the canal channel and provides unencumbered access along both sides of the canal bank. The LWDD established its Canal Rehabilitation Program to facilitate effective flood control for public safety. Depending on the condition of a canal, rehabilitation projects may include:

• Removal of vegetative encroachments
• Removal of structural and non-structural encroachments
• Dredging of the canal channel
• Reshaping or reconstruction of the canal bank

Current Canal Rehabilitation Projects

You can find information on rehabilitation projects scheduled in your neighborhood at www.lwdd.net/canal-maintenance/neighborhood

The Public’s Role In Flood Control

Flood control is a shared responsibility between water managers, businesses and neighborhoods. Keeping the rights-of-way clear is an important public safety role for property owners. Vegetation and structures on the canal rights-of-way can ultimately end up in the canal causing blockages and possible localized flooding. During normal operations, the LWDD staff must have clear access to canals for routine maintenance and debris removal. During emergency operations, access is essential as the LWDD staff and larger equipment must quickly navigate the canal system to address blockages and potential flooding. A well-maintained and operating canal system is the best defense against flooding. Find more information on flood control at www.lwdd.net/managing-water/flood-protection

Report Maintenance Issue

Please report issues that may affect flood control such as canal erosion, bank washouts, trash and unauthorized use of the right-of-way. Email to info@lwdd.net your name, phone number, the location, description of the issue, and photo if possible.

Save Your Time And Money

Unauthorized encroachments on the right-of-way such as trees, vegetation, patio decks, sheds or fences, will have to be removed by the property owner. Considering the time and money expended for the installation and subsequent removal, this can be a costly and unexpected expense. It is recommended to contact the LWDD and review your survey to verify property lines before starting any construction project, so you don’t waste your time or money.

More Information

• Fact Sheet: Canal Rehabilitation Frequently Asked Questions: www.lwdd.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/CRP_Frequently_Asked_Questions_FINAL.pdf
• Fact Sheet: Keeping The Canal Right-of-Way Clear: www.lwdd.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Rightofway_Water-Talk-rev-12282015.pdf
• Fact Sheet: Residential Communities & Flood Control: www.lwdd.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Water-Talk-Community-Flooding-rev-20140512.pdf