Blowing Rocks Preserve
USINFO | 2013-05-17 15:07

 
Blowing Rocks Preserve is an environmental preserve on Jupiter Island in Hobe Sound, Martin County, Florida, USA. It is owned by The Nature Conservancy. It contains the largest Anastasia limestone outcropping on the state's east coast. The preserve also features several coastal ecotones, including maritime hammocks, mangrove wetlands, and beach dunes. Breaking waves spray plumes of water through erosion holes; the spray can reach heights of 50 feet (15 m). This distinctive spectacle thus earned the limestone outcrop's name. The limestone outcropping also encompasses coquina shells, crustaceans, and sand. The preserve includes an educational center, native plant nursery, boardwalk, oceanside path, and a butterfly garden. Common native species include sea grapes, gumbo limbo, and Sabal palms. Invasive exotic plants are removed in order to preserve indigenous flora. The Argiope aurantia, Black and Yellow Garden Spider, Corn Spider or locally referred to as the Writing Spider, may be seen in abundance during the months from July through October. While considered harmless, the aforementioned oceanside path is a mating ground within the tall vegetation seen in the image below.

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 area environment.
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