Nick Rahall: “The pending measure would establish the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area, to be managed by the Bureau…”

“The pending measure would establish the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area, to be managed by the Bureau of Land Management in coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard and a local working group. The lighthouse is the oldest building still standing in Palm Beach County. The design for the elegant brick and wrought iron building was originally drawn by Lieutenant George Gordon Meade, who later gained fame as the victorious Union general at Gettysburg. The bill would set aside 126 acres surrounding the lighthouse for protection as an Outstanding Natural Area as part of the BLM's Natural Landscape Conservation System. In addition to protecting the historic property, the bill would allow BLM, the Coast Guard and their local partners to continue and enhance their long-term stewardship of the area, including several habitat restoration projects. I fully support passage of the legislation and urge its adoption.”