BLM Accepts Jurisdiction of Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse
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JUPITER, Fla. — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Southeastern States District Office recently accepted jurisdiction over the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). The lighthouse is a prominent feature of the 120-acre Outstanding Natural Area on the Inlet, which is managed by the BLM. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse has more than 72,000 annual visitors.
“As the federal land management agency in this partnership, the BLM is proud of its role in making this area available to residents and visitors alike,” said BLM Deputy Director for Policy and Programs William Perry Pendley. “We are committed to continuing to work with all our partners to ensure the protection, preservation, and enhancement of the area’s key values.”
The Coast Guard notified the BLM in 2017 that it no longer required use of the lighthouse in North Palm Beach County, and planned to relinquish the 16.41-acre site, known as Lot 22. In addition to the lighthouse, the site encompasses 11 residences and associated storage sheds and structures. These public lands had been withdrawn for the Coast Guard’s use. The BLM administers the Outstanding Natural Area with a number of local partners, including the Loxahatchee River Historical Society, which manages visitor services there.
The BLM will continue its planning effort for this area, which includes opportunities for public comment on future management practices. The BLM will also process a Special Recreation Permit for the Loxahatchee River Historical Society to ensure continuity of services. Visitor tours provided by the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum will not be affected by the change in jurisdiction.
For additional information on the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area please visit www.blm.gov/JupiterONA, or follow the ONA on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BLMJupiterInlet.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.