Blowing Rocks Preserve is an environmental preserve on Jupiter Island in Hobe Sound, Martin County, Florida, USA. Owned by The Nature Conservancy, it contains the largest limestone outcropping on the state's east coast, part of the Anastasia Formation.[1] Breaking waves spray plumes of water up to 50 feet (15 m) in height through erosional holes, hence the moniker blowing rocks;[2][1] this distinctive spectacle thus earned the limestone outcrop's name. The limestone outcropping also encompasses coquina, crustaceans, and sand, protruding visibly from the beach.[2]
The preserve also features several coastal communities, including maritime hammocks, mangrove-dominated wetlands, and oceanfront dunes.[1] Common native species include sea grapes, gumbo limbo, and Sabal palms. Invasive exotic plants are removed in order to preserve indigenous flora.[2] The preserve includes an educational center, native plant nursery, boardwalk, oceanside path, and butterfly garden. The Hawley Education Center features rotating natural history and art exhibits, and offers environmental education classes and workshops. A boardwalk along the Indian River Lagoon contains interpretive signs about the plants, wildlife, and environs.[1]
References edit
- ^ a b c d "Blowing Rocks Preserve". Florida: Preserves. The Nature Conservancy. 2001. Archived from the original on 3 January 2002. Retrieved 11 February 2024.
- ^ a b c United States Geological Survey. "South Florida Virtual Tour: Blowing Rocks Preserve". Archived from the original on 2008-05-11. Retrieved 2007-12-25.
External links edit
- Blowing Rocks Preserve
- USGS photos Archived 2008-05-11 at the Wayback Machine
26°58′28″N 80°04′52″W / 26.9745°N 80.081°W
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