BLM Celebrates 80 Years of Stewardship at the 2026 Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area Annual Meeting

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) invites the public to join the 2026 Annual Meeting of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area (ONA) on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, 500 Captain Armour’s Way, Jupiter, FL. This year’s event celebrates a major milestone: the 80th Birthday of the Bureau of Land Management and the agency’s enduring commitment to protecting America’s public lands. The event will also honor Freedom 250, a national commemoration recognizing 250 years of American independence. 

In addition to the annual meeting, the public is invited to a special premeeting community information event hosted in collaboration with the Jupiter Inlet Foundation (JIF). This open house style gathering will give visitors an opportunity to learn directly from agency experts about dredging, habitat protection, public safety, and the collective efforts that support the Jupiter Inlet. 

The May 8 schedule includes: 

• 3:00 PM – 5:15 PM: Free Lighthouse admission, climb the lighthouse and meet-the-experts 

• 4:15 PM – 5:00 PM: Optional Tour of Shoreline Stabilization Project construction 

• 5:30 PM – 6:15 PM: Annual JILONA Meeting 

• 6:15 PM – 7:00 PM: BLM 80th Birthday Mingle — All guests invited to stay for cake 

During the Annual Meeting, BLM Program Manager, Peter De Witt, will highlight the ONA’s progress over the past year, including: 

• Major advancement on the Shoreline Stabilization Project, significantly improving long-term resilience 

•  Removal of modern derelict structures to restore natural and cultural landscapes 

• Collaborative programming with the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, including the launch of new events such as the River to Reef Art Festival 

• Expansion of partnerships supporting wildlife studies, habitat monitoring, archaeological research, interpretation, and public education 

Looking ahead, BLM will share updates on: 

• Completion of the Shoreline Stabilization Project 

• Restoration of construction zones and expanded native replanting efforts 

• Growth in community engagement programs—from enhanced wellness opportunities to new recreational offerings that connect more people to their public lands 

Guests will have the opportunity to meet BLM staff, partners, and community organizations under the historic banyan tree, explore the ONA’s latest initiatives, and celebrate a historic year for both the Lighthouse ONA and the Bureau of Land Management.