The
Southwest Florida Water Management District (District), unofficially nicknamed “Swiftmud” or
SWFWMD, is one of five regional agencies directed by
Florida state law to protect and preserve
water resources. Established in 1961 the agency operates and maintains several large properties and
flood protection projects, sometimes with other agencies. The District's responsibilities have expanded to include managing
water supply and protecting
water quality and the natural systems —
rivers,
lakes,
wetlands and associated
uplands.