Jupiter Narrows
Community-Led Conservation: The Jupiter Narrows Conservation Alliance
The Village of Tequesta is a proud supporter and partner of The Jupiter Narrows Conservation Alliance (JNCA). JNCA was founded in January 2024 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a clear mission: to preserve and protect the environmental integrity of the Jupiter Narrows, the eastern stretch of the Intracoastal Waterway from Cato’s Bridge north into Coral Cove Park. This treasured area is loved for its pristine waters and abundant wildlife—but it’s under threat. The mangroves and seagrasses that form the backbone of this delicate ecosystem are rapidly declining.
In response, JNCA has launched a fully volunteer-driven, community-led initiative to protect and restore this vital habitat. By engaging a broad coalition—including local governments, NGOs, scientists, outdoor guides, businesses, and passionate residents—JNCA is working to create a sustainable, long-term conservation strategy.
A Science-Based Solution: Stabilizing the Shoreline
To develop an effective solution, JNCA engaged Taylor Engineering, a firm with extensive experience in marine restoration. Taylor designed the “Bird Island” restoration in the Loxahatchee River and the restoration of the mangroves south of the Jupiter Lighthouse. After careful analysis, the recommended strategy is to install limestone breakwaters between the boating channel and the remaining mangrove islands. These structures are designed to reduce wave energy, stabilize sediment, protect mangrove root systems, and foster the return of seagrass beds. Taylor Engineering has submitted the necessary permit applications and is optimistic based on the success of similar, permitted projects elsewhere in Florida.
Partnerships and Support: A True Community Effort
This initiative has gained momentum through strong public-private partnerships and broad community support. In May 2023, JNCA partnered with Ocean Conservancy, the nation’s oldest nonprofit dedicated to marine conservation. The JNCA effort complements the nearby $14 million restoration of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area (JILONA), a federal project overseen by the Bureau of Land Management. Both initiatives use the same engineering firm and techniques, creating potential for collaboration and cost-sharing.
Other key partners and supporters include: Andrew "Red" Harris Foundation, Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, Curtis & Edith Munson Foundation, Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management, Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserves, Village of Tequesta Council, Beach Road Association, Jupiter Inlet Colony, West Palm Beach Fishing Club, and many local businesses, residential communities, and recreational organizations.
How You Can Help
JNCA has made great progress so far—but the work is far from over. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Visit their website to learn more about their mission and progress
- Donate
- Spread the word to friends, neighbors, and local organizations
- Connect them with individuals, foundations, or businesses who may be willing to support the cause
- Share your ideas and enthusiasm—they welcome community involvement!
- Protect what remains of the mangroves and seagrasses
1) don’t tie up to or climb on mangroves, or otherwise disturb them - this negatively impacts their growth,
2) don’t drag your anchors in the seagrass - there is more seagrass there than you think!,
3) trim boat engines when in shallow water to prevent scarring the seagrasses,
4) respect local wildlife like manatees, turtles, and seabirds, and treat them with the care they deserve,
5) share these tips with others who use the area.
This is a model for how citizens, working together, can create lasting impact. By showing what’s possible here in Tequesta, we hope that the JNCA will inspire similar efforts throughout the Indian River Lagoon and beyond. To learn more please visit the JNCA website at: https://www.jupiternarrowsconservation.org/. If you have questions, email Sue Panella.