Lake Worth Drainage District (LWDD) is a Florida-based corporation created in 1915 under the General Drainage Laws of the State of Florida. LWDD is a special taxing district because it was created at the request of the landowners to provide the special services of drainage and irrigation since these services are not provided by other existing entities. The types of services provided by LWDD include items such as canal construction, canal maintenance and canal operation. A board of five elected supervisors governs the district, which encompasses approximately 208 square miles. There are 511 miles of drainage ditches, 20 major water control structures and numerous minor structures. During heavy rainfall the structures are opened to release water and prevent loss of property or life from flooding. General maintenance of banks includes mowing, tree cutting, general inspection of canal banks, riprapping or revetment work and removal of hindering encroachments.