​by Commissioner Hal Valeche

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is an iconic symbol of the Town as well as an identifying feature in northern Palm Beach County, and there is not a festival around where an artist has not depicted the majestic red brick edifice in a painting or photograph.

This historical beacon of light and the surrounding 126 acres of natural lands on which it sits holds the proud designation as one of only three Outstanding Natural Areas in the entire United States.  Designated by Congress in 2008 to protect, conserve, and enhance the unique and nationally significant historical, natural, cultural, scientific, educational, scenic, and recreational values of the Federal land surrounding the Lighthouse for the benefit of present and future generations of people in the United States.  It is the only unit of the National Conservation Lands east of the Mississippi River and the only site managed by the Bureau of Land Management's Eastern States.  A celebration on May 8, 2018 honored the 10^th anniversary of this designation.

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area (JILONA) preserves over 5,000 years of Florida history, Native American heritage, early river pioneer settlements, U.S. Lighthouse Service era, and World War II.  The 156-foot lighthouse is the oldest existing structure in Palm Beach County, dating from 1860, and continues as an active U.S. Coast Guard aid to maritime navigation. 

Sitting at the convergence of the Indian and Loxahatchee Rivers, JILONA bears archaeological evidence of continuous Native American habitation from 3000 B.C. until 1763 A.D.  The site earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.  It is home to 4 sensitive habitats and 26 special status species.

Through a partnership with the Loxahatchee River Historical Society, JILONA offers interpretive exhibits, tours, and programs to over 75,000 visitors annually, enjoyed by students and eco-tourists from around the globe.  Another of the featured structures is the Tindall house, Palm Beach County's oldest known residence. A walk along the hardened trail and boardwalk will take you through native and restored Florida coastal habitats and tropical hardwood hammocks.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection Greenways & Trails and the Florida Parks Service report that outdoor recreation is a major economic driver in this state, employing more than information technology and aviation/aerospace industries combined.  This industry contributes $58.6 billion annually for our economy and generates $3.5 billion in state and local tax revenue.

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area is a unique and historically significant site, contributing an annual local economic impact of more than $5 million.  I encourage you to visit and enjoy this jewel in North County.

As always, please contact me if I can be of assistance at (561) 355-2201 or by email at hvaleche@pbcgov.org.