It is hereby declared that the drainage of the surface water from wet agricultural lands is essential for the successful cultivation of such lands and the prosperity of the community, and the reclamation of overflowed swamps and tidal marshes shall be considered a public benefit and conducive to the public health, convenience, utility and welfare.\nCode 1919, § 1737; 1926, p. 604.
Virginia Legal Code
§ 21.293
Source: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/21-293/· Version 2026