FAQ'S

DUNE & MANGROVE RESTORATION

Question 1

What does the term Sand Banking Mean :

This term refers to a naturally vegetated Dune's ability to collect wind blown or wave driven sand in a process known as accretion.

The waves move sand up onto the beach at high tide. The sand dries and the wind blows the tiny sand particles up toward the base of the Dune. Then stronger winds pick up the sand particles and blow them over the face of the Dune where the Sea Oats and other Native species catch the sand and the particles drop to the base of the plants. As more sand accumulates at their base , the plants grow up and over the sand in a steady ongoing process. The elaborate root systems of the Native plants hold the collected sand.

Over time the Dune continues to collect and deposit sand at about a foot a year. The Dune is Banking Sand.

Question 2

I look at my Beachfront Dune and see it covered with vegetation.

What is wrong with the plants I have ? I've been told they may be invasive plants. What are they?

Too often our Dune systems become infested with Non Native species that spread onto the Dune and overwhelm the important Native Dune species. Native plants create a natural ecosystem that form, build, and sustain a healthy Dune.

Exotic/Invasive species do not create a diverse Habitat. A natural Dune is home to over 200 different species that work together in balance and harmony.

In addition these Noxious species do not collect sand and help build the Dune into a stable and resilient defense against erosion.

Instead these plants are overly aggressive and left unchecked will quickly weaken and degrade the Dune, leading to loss of Sand and Beach.

Question 3

How much does it cost to Repair or Restore a Dune ?

Since this is part of your Deeded Property the responsibility of the costs would be to the homeowner.

Here is a general idea of costs... if we quoted a Project by the square foot, it would be comparable to the cost of a first rate Tile Project; or the cost of quality Carpet or Flooring; Or for Work by a Licensed Landscape Architect on your front yards.

We are a very experienced Restoration Company and we offer cost effective, long lasting solutions for your projects. Our Work includes a long range Monitoring and Maintenance program.

Each property of course is different and has to be assessed first to determine a plan of action and a cost.

For more specifics on costs: See Costs and Services Section under the "What We Do " tab

FAQ's Continued

Question 4

Why can't you walk on the Dunes ?

What about when you are volunteering for a Beach cleanup ?

Dunes are a unique and sensitive natural habitat that are critical to preserving and protecting our Public Beaches, Coastal infrastructure, and private Beach properties.

Dunes are the first line of defense against erosion from storms, rising water levels, and other high water events.

In addition to these threats the greatest damage done to the Dunes is from people.

Walking on the Dunes, lounging on beach towels, picking the pretty stalks of Seaoats or the flowers of other Dune plants does irreparable damage that weakens and degrades this important ecosystem.

Many people are unaware of the damage that can be done, and are unaware that it is illegal to walk on or damage the Dunes in any way.

There can be a fine of up to $500.00 for walking on the Dunes. There should be an increased effort to post signs to direct and inform the public.

Well meaning groups who volunteer for Beach cleaning just need to stay below the high tide line and off the Dunes.

Question 5

Do you need a permit to work on Beach and Shoreline Restoration?

Yes a permit is required to do work on Dunes, Mangroves, and other Coastal Wetland Habitats.

These areas are protected by Federal, State, County, and Municipal regulations.

These are highly sensitive natural environments that need to be preserved and enhanced. Those doing work on these Habitats need to be qualified and obtain the necessary permits from the governing authorities to ensure that the work is done properly.

If you have questions, the best place to start is the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. They have a wealth of knowledge and information and they want to encourage people to do the right thing and help save the environment.Articles –

Question 6

What are some simple things the individual can do to protect and preserve our Beaches and Shores?Here are some basic recommendations:

Preserve Native Dune Plants.
Have Invasive Non Native Vegetation removed from the Dune.
Do not prune Native Dune Plants.
Limit Beach Raking . Keep the Native Habitat.
Clean your own Beachfront.
Limit Fertilizer