Preserving Paradise: Protecting the Heart of the Jupiter Inlet

Charity Influencer: Lori Griffith

How the Jupiter Inlet Foundation safeguards our waterways, wildlife, and history.

Nestled where the turquoise waters of the Loxahatchee River meet the Atlantic, the Jupiter Inlet is one of South Florida’s most breathtaking natural treasures. But its beauty and biodiversity are fragile and their preservation depends on vigilant stewardship.

That’s where the Jupiter Inlet Foundation (JIF) steps in. Formed in 2017 by a group of passionate residents, JIF works to protect the delicate marine ecosystem and preserve the cultural history that makes this area so extraordinary.

“We wanted to shift the focus from dense development to conservation — protecting both our marine life and the rich history embedded in this area,” Cheryl Schneider, Jupiter Inlet Foundation

A Mission with Depth
The Jupiter Inlet Foundation’s mission is threefold:
1. Conservation of natural resources along the Jupi ter Inlet.
2. Preservation of the area’s historical and archaeological assets.
3. Education that inspires both residents and visitors to appreciate and protect this unique environment.

“Education is at the core of our mission,” Cheryl explains. “Most everything people love about our area revolves around the water — boating, snorkeling, paddleboarding — so protecting our natural resources benefits everyone.”

Saving the Seagrass
One of JIF’s proudest accomplishments is the installation of informational buoys throughout the inlet to protect seagrass beds, which are essential to marine health. Since 2020, the foundation has placed buoys at Suni Sands, Sawfish Bay Park, and Bird/Mangrove Island, raising awareness among boaters about how to safely navigate these delicate areas.

The results have been encouraging. “The seagrass beds had been in decline for years,” Cheryl says, “but since the buoy program began, they’ve started to recover.” “Seagrass is vital, it filters the water, provides shelter for juvenile fish, and supports everything from seahorses to manatees.”

Balancing Growth and Preservation
With the rise in boat traffic and continued development pressure, the Jupiter Inlet faces constant challenges. Boat wakes, turbidity, and prop dredging all take a toll on marine life.

To address this, JIF is developing a boater education initiative that promotes responsible navigation and environmental mindfulness. The organization is also advocating for the Suni Sands estuary to be added to the Loxahatchee River–Lake Worth Lagoon Aquatic Preserve, a designation that would strengthen environmental protections through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

Collaboration in Action
As a citizen advocacy group, JIF works closely with local and state governments, environmental agencies, and Native American tribal representatives. Together, they ensure that decisions about development and conservation consider the long-term well-being of the inlet. This collaborative approach has already infl uenced local policies and raised awareness about the importance of protecting seagrass and preserving archaeological sites.

Community Stewardship
JIF believes that every person who enjoys the inlet can play a role in keeping it healthy.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to:
● Slow down when boating and respect speed zones.
● Support local cleanups and conservation groups.
● Dispose of fishing lines and trash properly.
● Report injured marine life to authorities.
● Share knowledge and inspire others to care for the waterways.

The foundation plans to expand its volunteer and outreach programs in the coming year, offering more hands-on ways for the community to get involved.

“Every action matters,” Cheryl reminds us. “Be mindful of the marine life beneath your vessel. Prop dredging can cause damage that takes 20 years to repair.”

Looking Ahead
JIF’s goals for the future include expanding its buoy program, launching new community initiatives, and growing its network of volunteers and donors.

“The Jupiter Inlet is one of the last in South Florida that hasn’t been fully commercially developed,” Cheryl says. “When you stand at the top of the Lighthouse or walk along Dubois Park, you can feel how special it is. We have a responsibility to protect it for generations to come.”

To learn more or support the Jupiter Inlet Foundation, visit jupiterinletfoundation.org