Jones' Pier Conservation Area
Conservation Area: Jones' Pier Conservation Area
Location: 7770 Jungle Trail, Vero Beach, Florida
GPS Coordinates: Latitude: 27° 44' 6.08" Longitude: -80° 23' 36.55"
Conservation Area Size: 16 acres
Hours of Operation: Open Daily 7:30 AM to Dusk
Amenities
- Picnic Pavilion
- Restroom
- Observation Pier
- Historic jones’ Pier
- Walking Trails
- Boardwalks
Rules
- No Alcohol.
- Please park in designated locations only. No parking is allowed on Jungle Trail.
- No overnight mooring is permitted on Jones' Pier
- Please stay on the milled trails to protect yourself and other natural resources
- For safety concerns, bikes are not permitted along the milled trails
- As the site contains natural areas connected to the Lagoon, dogs and any other domestic animals are not permitted in the conservation area
- Motorized whicles are not allowed on the trails in the conservation area
- Hunting, fishing. taking plants or any other natural resource is prohibited
Description
The Jones Pier Conservation Area (JPCA) is part of the rich history of late 19th century/early 20th century settlement in Indian River County. The 16.5-acre JPCA that was purchased by the County in 2008 is part of this original homestead. The County acquired the site from the Jones' family with assistance from the Florida Communities Trust. As part of the purchase, the County committed to implementing a management plan for the site that restores ecological value, while at the same time utilizes the site for public access and display of educational and historical exhibits. The project objectives are summarized as follows:
- To provide for passive recreation for the public including walking trails and wetland viewing;
- To restore and create wetlands and uplands on the site to provide ecological benefits;
- To convert the existing land use to provide additional treatment of stormwater runoff prior to discharge into the Indian River Lagoon;
- To use Lagoon waters for base flow through the created wetlands. This aspect of the project allows for creation of saltmarsh habitat which is unique to the area;
- To provide refuge for wildlife, including protected species;
- To design and implement the long-term management of the site to address resiliency and sustainability issues;
- To convert the existing land use to remove a source of exotic vegetative species; and,
- To provide a comprehensive public education program that emphasizes conservation and sustainability, as well as the importance of public participation.
