If you are traveling through western Palm Beach County, be sure to stop at John Stretch Memorial Park to get a first-hand look at its historic display of water management equipment.
DID YOU KNOW: There are several pieces of historic pump station machinery on display at the county park located just south of Lake Okeechobee.
A HISTORIC DISPLAY: This equipment was used by the District’s water managers to protect communities from flooding and safeguard water resources before it was retired and taken out of service.
The machinery is from the 1950s and its prominent display highlights the importance of South Florida’s regional water management system.
IMPORTANCE OF PUMP STATIONS: Pump stations are one of the most important tools used by water managers to ensure the regional water management system operates smoothly and efficiently for our communities and the environment. These mechanical control structures help move water to meet varying conditions and needs from Orlando to the Florida Keys.
A CLOSER LOOK: The District operates 98 pump stations throughout its 16-county region. Each one of these powerful structures is used by our team to manage water during heavy rains and move water where it is needed during drier periods.
PROTECTING OUR COMMUNITIES: Managing the District’s pump stations and engines is no small task. The historic display at John Stretch Memorial Park stands as a testament to the hard-working men and women of the District who ensure the continued operations of our regional water management system.
LEARN MORE: We encourage you to visit SFWMD.gov/FloodControl to learn more about the regional water management system and be sure to stop by John Stretch Memorial Park to check out the historic display the next time you are in western Palm Beach County.