Description
BACKGROUND: On May 8, 2008, Public Law 110-229 (section 202) established the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area (ONA) in Palm Beach County, Florida and designated it a part of the National Conservation Lands â¿¿ the only unit of the system east of the Mississippi River. The site, totaling 120 acres, is a mix of sensitive native habitats and historic development from previous uses of the site and includes the nationally listed Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, structures supporting previous military uses of the site and buildings related to past U.S. Coast Guard operations. The ONA is a focal point for local communities and tourist destination, attracting approximately 75,000 visitors annual, whom visit the site to engage in tours and programs, provided by the Loxahatchee River Historical Society or visit the dispersed areas of the site to participate in low-impact recreational activities, such as walking, swimming and wildlife photography. Aside from public visitation and recreation the management of the ONA focuses on protection and enhancement of the historic, natural and cultural values of the site and promotes science and education through a number of site related programs. This program is a continuation of the established partnership between the Bureau of Land Management and the Loxahatchee River Historical Society. This partnership has supported management of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse ONA since its establishment in 2008, and prior since the agencyâ¿¿s involvement in the site began in 1996. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of program is to aid in the management of the ONA through the protection, preservation and enhancement of the seven key values of the site recognized by Congress in the designation of the site as part of the National Conservation Lands. As such, the following objectives are established to support visitor services, and preservation of historic and cultural values: 1) Site and Facility Maintenance â¿¿ Assist in the maintenance of the site, to include the natural and landscaped portion of the site and all site assets such as trails, kiosks and parking areas. Assist in the maintenance of all facilities in the ONA including public use and administration structures used by the agency and partners. 2) Resource Monitoring and Management â¿¿ Perform routine monitoring of the ONAâ¿¿s key resource values, specifically historic, cultural and natural values. As dictated though planning and monitoring assist in the development, design and implementation of necessary management measures, including restoration and continued maintenance of historic structures, to ensure protection, preservation and enhancement of the ONAâ¿¿s seven key values. 3) Visitor Services and Safety â¿¿ Provide a range of educational, informative and recreational visitor experiences guided by the ONAâ¿¿s planning, and complimentary to the sites key values. Ensure mechanisms are in place to provide for visitor safety. 4) Programs, Events and Initiatives â¿¿ Aid in the development of specific programs and events to support and enhance public and community engagement with the ONA, and increase awareness and understanding of the role of the Bureau of Land Management in ONA, National Conservation Lands, and public lands management. Support various initiatives to enhance engagement of youth, veterans and other identified sectors in site visitation and management. 5) Planning and Implementation â¿¿ Assist in the development and implementation of current and future ONA planning efforts to ensure site management is up-to-date and reflects best management practices and incorporates science based decision-making. PUBLIC BENEFIT: The primary public benefit of this program is the public-private partnership created to aid in management of the seven values of the ONA recognized by Congress. This program brings together partners with expertise not found in the federal government, and maximizes public-funds through matching partner financial and in-kind contributions. These benefits manifest in the improved ecosystem services, protection and preservation of unique and significant historic and cultural values, and the array of programs, events, and recreational/educational opportunities available on site to the local community and visiting tourists.