San Juan Islands National Monument facts for kids
Quick facts for kids San Juan Islands National Monument |
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 San Juan Islands National Monument
Location in Washington (state)
San Juan Islands National Monument
Location in the United States
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| Location | San Juan, Whatcom, and Skagit Counties, Washington, USA |
| Nearest city | Friday Harbor, WA |
| Area | 1,000 acres (400 ha) |
| Created | March 25, 2013 |
| Governing body | Bureau of Land Management |
| Website | San Juan Islands National Monument |
The San Juan Islands National Monument is a special protected area in the United States. It is located in the beautiful Salish Sea in the state of Washington. This monument helps protect important archaeological sites of the Coast Salish people. It also protects historic lighthouses and items from early European American settlers in the Pacific Northwest. Plus, it helps keep the amazing plants and animals of the islands safe. President Barack Obama created this monument on March 25, 2013. He used a special law called the Antiquities Act to protect these lands.
Contents
What is the San Juan Islands National Monument?
The San Juan Islands National Monument is not just one big area. It is made up of about 75 different smaller places. These places add up to about 1,000 acres (about 4 square kilometers) in total. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management takes care of these sites. They are part of a larger group of protected lands called the National Landscape Conservation System.
Why are these islands important?
These islands and rocks are very important for many reasons. They have a rich history and amazing nature.
History and Culture
The monument protects places where the Coast Salish people lived long ago. These sites show how they used to live and connect with the land and sea. There are also old lighthouses that helped ships navigate the waters. These lighthouses tell stories of early settlers in the region.
Nature and Wildlife
The monument is home to many different kinds of plants and animals. It helps protect the unique biodiversity of the islands. You can find many types of birds, marine life, and plants here. Protecting these areas helps keep the natural balance of the island environment.
Where are the monument sites located?
The monument sites are spread across several islands in the San Juan archipelago. Most of them are in San Juan County. Some are also found in Whatcom and Skagit Counties. Each site is a small piece of land, often a tiny island or a rocky outcrop.
Important Locations in the Monument
Many of the sites are small islands or rocks near larger islands. For example, there are protected areas near Lopez Island, San Juan Island, Stuart Island, and Orcas Island. Some of these spots include historic lighthouses.
Lighthouses and Coastal Features
- Cattle Point Light: This lighthouse is located on San Juan Island. It helps guide boats safely through the waters.
- Turn Point Light: Found on Stuart Island, this lighthouse is another important guide for ships.
- Patos Island Light: This lighthouse is on Patos Island. It stands tall, watching over the sea.
These lighthouses are not just old buildings. They are important parts of the monument's history and help keep the waters safe today.
Visiting the San Juan Islands National Monument
Many parts of the monument are small, rocky islands or coastal areas. Some are easy to visit, while others are more remote. Visitors can enjoy activities like wildlife watching, hiking, and learning about the history of the islands. Remember to always respect the natural environment and historical sites when you visit.
