Blowing Rocks Preserve

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.cite web|author=The Nature Conservancy|url=http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/florida/preserves/art5522.html|title=Blowing Rocks Preserve|accessdate=2007-12-25] The preserve also features several coastal ecotones, including maritime hammocks, mangrove wetlands, and beach dunes.cite web|author=The Nature Conservancy|url=http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/florida/preserves/art5522.html|title=Blowing Rocks Preserve|accessdate=2007-12-25] Breaking waves spray plumes of water through erosion holes;cite web|author=United States Geological Survey|url=http://sofia.usgs.gov/virtual_tour/blowingrocks/index.html|title=South Florida Virtual Tour: Blowing Rocks Preserve|accessdate=2007-12-25] the spray can reach heights of 50 feet (600 inches).cite web|author=The Nature Conservancy|url=http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/florida/preserves/art5522.html|title=Blowing Rocks Preserve|accessdate=2007-12-25] 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.cite web|author=United States Geological Survey|url=http://sofia.usgs.gov/virtual_tour/blowingrocks/index.html|title=South Florida Virtual Tour: Blowing Rocks Preserve|accessdate=2007-12-25] Common native species include sea grapes, gumbo limbo, and Sabal palms. Invasive exotic plants are removed in order to preserve indigenous flora.cite web|author=United States Geological Survey|url=http://sofia.usgs.gov/virtual_tour/blowingrocks/index.html|title=South Florida Virtual Tour: Blowing Rocks Preserve|accessdate=2007-12-25]

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