suggested (Coastal Engineering Research Center 1973) that dune growth in 

 most areas is limited by the amount of sand transported off the beach by 

 wind and waves rather than by the trapping capacity of the vegetation. 

 Nonetheless, the vegetation is necessary to stabilize and maintain the dune. 



Seeding is practical only when protection from drying and eroding winds 

 can be provided by mulching or frequent irrigation, and is therefore not 

 applicable to most beach areas (Coastal Engineering Research Center 1973). 

 Beach grass seeds are not available from commercial sources and must be har- 

 vested from wild plants. Additions of nutrients to beach sands for plant 

 establishment and maximum growth is essential (Gulf University Research 

 Consortium 1972). 



Loss of vegetation is due to overgrazing, man's destructive influence 

 (e.g., dune buggies, construction), fire and storm surges. Successful dune 

 construction appears to require total grazing restriction. Pathways to get 

 to beaches trample vegetation. The loss of vegetation for whatever reason 

 causes "blowouts", areas which have succumbed to the erosive effects of 

 marine influences. Dunes are a low cost method of shore protection — their 

 existence largely depends on the stabilizing and maintenance functions of 

 vegetation. 



286 



