Water Control Structures
Flood control and water retention is a major governmental function in our work range.
TMC has constructed many types of structures from large flood control SFWMD structures to smaller county weirs.
Some are even private to satisfy permit conditions for development. The photos to the right show examples of the work we have done.
Water control structures in Southwest Florida range from large flood control installations managed by the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) to smaller county-level weirs. These structures are essential for managing the region’s unique water challenges, including flood control, water supply, and environmental protection.
- Primary Canals and Pump Stations: The SFWMD operates an extensive network of primary canals and pump stations designed to manage large-scale water movement across the region. Key structures include the S-2, S-3, and S-4 pump stations, which move water from Lake Okeechobee to prevent flooding and ensure water supply for the Everglades and urban areas.
- Levees and Water Conservation Areas: The district maintains levees like the Herbert Hoover Dike around Lake Okeechobee and manages Water Conservation Areas (WCAs) that store excess water and help recharge aquifers. These areas act as buffers during heavy rain events, reducing the risk of downstream flooding.
- Stormwater Treatment Areas (STAs): STAs are constructed wetlands that filter nutrients from stormwater before it flows into natural water bodies like the Everglades. They play a crucial role in improving water quality and managing water levels during storm events
- Weirs: Weirs are small dam-like structures used to control water flow in local canals and waterways. They help maintain desired water levels in residential areas, agricultural fields, and natural habitats. Weirs can be adjustable or fixed and are commonly used to manage stormwater runoff and prevent local flooding
- Culverts and Spillways: These structures allow water to pass beneath roads and other infrastructure, facilitating the flow of water during heavy rains. They are essential for preventing road flooding and ensuring safe transportation routes during storms
- Detention and Retention Ponds: These ponds capture and store stormwater runoff, allowing it to infiltrate slowly into the ground or be released gradually into waterways. They reduce peak flow rates during storms, minimizing the risk of flooding in urban and suburban areas .
- Erosion Control Measures: Local governments implement erosion control measures such as riprap, vegetated swales, and sediment traps to protect water channels and shorelines from erosion, which can be exacerbated by heavy rains and flooding
Effective water control in Southwest Florida requires a coordinated approach between large-scale SFWMD projects and smaller county-level initiatives.
This integration ensures comprehensive flood protection, water quality improvement, and environmental preservation, addressing both regional and local water management needs.
