Avery Island

Avery Island Facts

• Firstly, Avery Island is a truly unique geological site with a decidedly spicy story to tell. That’s because the entire inland portion of the small island actually conceals an enormous salt dome.
• Quite understandably, the location has been used for salt mining for many centuries. Not surprisingly, the Native Americans also used it for that purpose long before European settlers arrived.
• But in the 1830’s, private owners purchased the small island. The family that still owns it established a factory there in 1868. That’s due to the fact that the unique climate proved excellent for growing certain peppers.
• Further, the company uses those same peppers, even today. These are used to produce its signature product, known as Tabasco sauce. Therefore, this tiny piece of land serves as the home of the well-known hot sauce.
• Finally, as if its other natural assets weren’t enough, workers also discovered oil on Avery Island in 1942.

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Avery Island Physical Description

Most notably, marvelous Avery Island does not ranks as particularly large in size. In fact, it measures about 3 mi (4.8 km) in length, and about 2.5 mi (4 km) in width. It therefore has a total area of roughly 7.5 sq mi (19.2 sq km).

In addition, the great majority of the geography of the small island formed relatively flat. To further illustrate this amazing fact, the highest point only measures 163 ft (50 m) above sea level.

Furthermore, the fascinating Avery Island itself remains surrounded by several different types of habitat common to the area. These consist of salt marshes, bayous, and also vast sections of swamp. 

Avery Island Location, Formation, and Ecology

First of all, the unique Avery Island forms part of Iberia Parrish, Louisiana, United States, in North America. Yet more precisely, it sits roughly 3 mi (4.8 km) inland from Vermilion Bay. This bay in turn empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

Also, the island formed from evaporite salt deposits beneath the Mississippi River Delta. Avery Island actually forms one of five such salt domes known to exist near the Louisiana Gulf Coast.

The amazing location also serves as home to an incredibly diverse, not to mention beautiful, ecosystem. In addition to the native flora and fauna, numerous species have been brought to the island.

The owners also created a private sanctuary for numerous animals from around the world. As early as 1895, they formed a bird sanctuary for the endangered egret. Today, the island is home to an extensive population during their migration.

Features Sharing Its Region

                               

     Fly Geyser                     Hamilton Pool                 Mammoth Cave

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