Get Ma Stormsmart Properties Fact Sheet 6: Sand Fencing 2013-2024

Dune destruction can have different causes. For example, the presence of natural vents, which are eroded by storms, overwash and sea flooding events. The vulnerability of coastal dunes to flooding depends on the characteristics of the dune system itself: height, width, conservation status etc.

Dunes can be stabilized using indegenous grasses and other plants which help by “reducing the velocity of waves and absorbing their energy” (Measures for Stabilizing Coastal Dunes, USDA). These plants take root and begin to form a strong, thick barrier which anchors the sand dune and helps keep sand in place.

0:11 2:36 Principles of Sand Fencing - YouTube YouTube Start of suggested clip End of suggested clip Looking up and down the beach to existing vegetation you typically go about 2 to 4 meters lake wordMoreLooking up and down the beach to existing vegetation you typically go about 2 to 4 meters lake word of the existing dunes to allow the sand to establish.

Other options include planting beach grass, erecting fencing, building dune paths and walkovers to prevent trampling of the dunes in multiple areas. See CT Beaches and Dunes for more information and resources. Dunes can be protected in two ways with fencing.

Sand fencing on a beach or dune can help trap sands and assist in building a new foredune in front of a natural dune, to provide additional protection against coastal erosion and flooding (Figure 1).

Dune-forming fences are installed to protect dune landforms, however the process of installation requires disturbance of the shoreline or dunes and as such has the potential to impact on natural and cultural values. It is important to identify all natural values that may be affected. Seek advice from specialists.

Other options include planting beach grass, erecting fencing, building dune paths and walkovers to prevent trampling of the dunes in multiple areas. See CT Beaches and Dunes for more information and resources. Dunes can be protected in two ways with fencing.

Mechanical dune stabilization The initial phase in combating sand encroachment consists of halting or slowing the movement of sand by erecting fences 1 to 1.5 m high to cause a buildup of sand, leading to the formation of an artificial dune.