The Aquatic and Buffer Preserves manage the conservation, protection, and restoration of important ecosystems and landscapes in order to protect significant surface water, coastal, recreational, fish and wildlife resources.
Provides protection for native species habitat and archaeological and historical sites as well as opportunities for natural resources-based recreation.
Located in one of the most ecologically and significant nature areas in the Southeastern United States.
Located in one of the six Hot Spots in the world. Known for ecological diversity.
Protects an intact natural coastal landscape with one of the highest concentrations of rare plants in Southeast, including globally imperiled species such as Chapman's rhododendron, Telephus spurge and Pinewoods aster.
Provides an essential buffer for St. Joseph Bay that helps protect the Bay's water quality, natural productivity and critical habitats.
Includes Money Bayou - an unusual tidal creek that flows directly into the Gulf of Mexico instead of an intervening bay or sound.
Contains 20 known archaeological and historic sites dating from prehistoric times to the 20th century.
Has one of the most stable and clearly defined dunes/swale systems formed by sand dunes created by ancient changes in sea level - of such topographic features found anywhere.
Contains rare/endangered species: reptiles, birds, mammals and plants.
Designated as an EPA Gulf of Mexico Ecological Management site.