Coastal Sand Dunes

Coastal sand dunes are dynamic but fragile buffer zones of sand and vegetation that form where the following three characteristics can be found: large quantities of sand, persistent wind capable of moving the sand, and suitable locations for sand to accumulate. The process of dune formation begins with a steady on-shore wind capable of moving sand. The wind moves the sand into piles. Eventually the sand pile becomes so steep that the leeward side of the sand pile collapses under its own weight and spills down at an angle that serves to stabilize the dune. Over time, the dune migrates in the direction of the wind, as the wind moves sand up the dune's slope and over the edge. Find out more