JUPITER, Fl. - In the next few weeks, you can expect to see construction along the shoreline at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse ONA. The Bureau of Land Management and the Jupiter Inlet District have partnered to construct a living shoreline that will stabilize a portion of the site’s rapidly eroding Loxahatchee River Shoreline and ensure protection of the site’s unique and significant archaeological and historic resources. “We are excited to be working with the Jupiter Inlet District and look forward to seeing the completed project this summer," said Robert Swithers, District Manager.
The living shoreline project includes installation of eleven offshore breakwaters, contouring and planting of the existing shoreline and the installation of an observation pier. The breakwaters are designed to decrease wave action and reduce the scouring energy associated with tidal currents and storm events. Plantings will bind together sediment and further serve to reduce erosional forces. The observation pier will allow ONA visitors impressive views of the Jupiter Inlet and provide opportunities for learning about the important connection between history and nature found throughout the site. In addition, the project will enhance local aquatic habitats by providing shelter for juvenile fish and substate for the development of small reef systems.
“We hope that once the project is complete, residents will realize the benefit to this alternative form of erosion control. Overall, this project will demonstrate the aesthetic and environmental benefits of this approach to protecting and stabilizing the effected shoreline," said Robert.
The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse ONA and site partners will remain open to visitors during this time, however the presence of materials and construction equipment on and around the site is to be expected. For additional information about the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse ONA please contact Peter De Witt, Program Manager (ONA) at 561-295-5955.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management
