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Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area

March 15, 2020 - March 21, 2020

Trip Navigation

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area is the BLM’s most easterly unit of the National Conservation Lands. The site, known for its namesake lighthouse, was designated by congress in 2008 for the protection and enhancement of various resources – including recreation. The 120-acre site is located in the highly urbanized south Florida atlantic coastline, just 1/4 mile from the Atlantic Ocean. The site itself is visited by over 100,000 people each year to engage in everything from fishing to cultural appreciation. The site currently contains 1.5 miles of trail (both ADA and Natural Surface) that require routine maintenance. In addition to the existing trails a number of new trails are planned, but remain unconstructed. The goal of this project is to complete any needed maintenance on the existing trails (involving brushing, tread stabilizations/surfacing and general maintenance of the trail corridor) and clear and construct all or portions of the planned trails. These planned trails include shoreline access spur trails and a new loop trail providing increased walking/hiking opportunities on the site. Tools involved include trimmers, chain saws, shears, loppers, and shovels. However the workload is largely manual labor clearing vegetation, moving and spreading mulch, setting natural materials to mark trail edges and general tidying of the trail corridor. The overall goal for the week is to enjoy some time enhancing the recreational values of the Outstanding Natural Area, while becoming familiar with one of the Bureau’s more unique sites in the National Conservation Lands.

Host

Bureau of Land Management

Accommodations

Dormitory/Bunkhouse

Hiking/Access

Day hiking up to 1 mile each work day

Project Rating

Easy

Minimum Volunteer Age

14

Maximum Group Size

10

Area and Attractions

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area is located in south Florida, just 1/4 mile from the Atlantic Ocean in northern Palm Beach County. The site is 120 acres of green in an otherwise urban area. Boarded by the Indian River Lagoon and Loxahatchee River the site sits as the Jupiter Inlet; a rich diverse ecosystem known of its clear blue waters, snorkeling opportunities and manatee viewing. The site itself hosts a museum and the Historic Jupiter Lighthouse along with a rich history of Native American presence and U.S. Military operations. When it comes to nature, aside from the marine life, the site is known for its diversity with over 600 different species, including 26 special status, across three distinct communities (mangrove swamp, hardwood hammock and scrub). The site is an ideal spot of bird watching and exploring some of the wildlife on a smaller scale. The surrounding area, although far from remote, is abundant with opportunities from the beautiful Palm Beaches to Wildlife Refuges and State Parks. Most notable attractions include the Jonathan Dickenson State Park and the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, both less than 5 miles from the site. Due it its location, there's not a shortage of after hours activities, with restaurants, theaters, and malls all within a few miles of the site.

Accommodations Description

Volunteers will stay in a 1960's United States Coast Guard home that has been repurposed to serve as the ONA's crew/volunteer bunkhouse. This four bedroom/two bath space is a equipped to comfortably accommodate 12 people (sharing rooms) and has all typical appliances and cooking equipment you'd find in a home. A number of cots are provided. Volunteers should bring their own sleeping bag and pad, towels, and personal gear.

Travel

No aiport pickup provided for this trip. The closest airport is West Palm Beach International Airport. Meeting times will be sent to registrants when the trip is confirmed.

Location

Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area
600 State Road 707, Jupiter, FL 33469 United States
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