Loxahatchee River Center
One of the things that I love about living in Florida is the natural areas that the state offers. From beaches, to estuaries teaming with aquatic life, to savannahs, and rivers. One of the rivers that I am drawn to is the Loxahatchee River. This is one of two Wild & Scenic rivers in Florida. The Loxahatchee River is a peaceful flowing river. It meanders through freshwater creeks, into a brackish water estuary, and finally through the Jupiter Inlet and finally into the ocean.
I wanted to learn more about this beautiful river so I stopped in at The Loxahatchee River Center. The center is located at Burt Reynolds Park in Jupiter. The center describes the ecosystem of the Loxahatchee River and its surrounding environments through a series of aquariums and displays.
The River Center provides an opportunity to learn about the unique Loxahatchee River system. Their mission: To foster a sense of environmental stewardship for the river’s diverse watershed with education programs, exhibits, and events.
Floodplains
The Floodplain Exhibit helps visitors understand the majestic environmental value of the river. It teaches the modifications and problems associated with the ever-increasing human population and development. Floodplains are an integral part of healthy rivers. Furthermore, floods are a natural occurrence on rivers. Small floods are very important to the health of a river and the land around it. In addition, they nurture life in and around rivers. Finally, the fish, wildlife, and plants that live in or along a river, or floodplain, need floods to survive and reproduce.
Wild & Scenic
The Loxahatchee River has a variety of habitats and is home to endangered species such as manatees and wood storks. This 260 square mile ecosystem includes many communities in Martin and Palm Beach counties.
River Center Residents
Exhibits at the River Center each represent different habitats found on the river. With over 6,000 gallons of fresh and saltwater aquariums, I came face to face with some interesting creatures. Of course, I had to take some close-ups.
Sand Bar – Interactive Touch Tank
One of the highlights of the aquariums is the interactive touch tank. Folks of all ages can enjoy specimens such as sea urchins, sea cucumbers, conch, and sea stars.
Coral Reef – Sharks
And lastly, I saw the Jupiter Shark Exploration exhibit which features information and statistics about the ocean’s greatest predator. I was able to learn about the different species of sharks and what makes them top predators. In addition, I learned about shark habitats in the Loxahatchee including estuaries, coral reefs, and the open ocean to understand why it is important to protect habitats.
This nature museum is small but is laid out beautifully. Perfect for the entire family to see local sea life and nature
. I spent approximately one hour learning about marine life and what a fragile system the Loxahatchee River is.
Butterfly Garden
Before you leave, take some time to stroll through the center’s Migratory Bird & Butterfly Garden. This beautiful urban habitat is home to many native plant species such as the butterfly pea, Indian blanket, and the American beautyberry. The center regularly schedules Scout Workshops. Many scouts have earned badges while participating in (skill-based learning) workshops.
The River Center hosts events such as storytimes, fishing clinics, boat safety classes, environmental lectures, and outdoor movies. Check the Loxahatchee River Center website for dates and times.
The River Center is located at Burt Reynolds Park at 805 N. US Highway 1 in Jupiter, Florida.
Yet another way to see this river is by launching a canoe or kayak at Jonathan Dickenson State Park.
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