168 
object in view a continuous line of paling is erected, consisting of planks about 6 feet long by 6 inches wide, 
1 inch thick, and pointed at the lower end. The planks are inserted into the ground to about half their 
length, an inch apart, the direction of the line being parallel to the coast. Against this fence the sand is 
deposited, a certain portion being forced through the interstices and coming to rest in the comparatively 
quiet air immediately behind the paling. As soon as the accumulation of sand approaches the upper ends 
of the planks, they are pulled up about 3 feet by means of levers, and this process is repeated until the artificial 
dune has reached such a height that no sand can be carried over the top. Simultaneously with the first 
erection of the paling, a wattle fence is placed at a convenient distance behind it, to prevent the sand which 
has passed through the paling from being carried inland ; when the first wattle fence has been entirely covered, 
a fresh one is made to replace it. In this way the dune is forced to adopt a moderate slope on both sides, 
which is essential to its permanent maintenance. 
Although even this modified method has been, to some extent, superseded by that 
of M. Grandjean, to be referred to presently, I think it should be followed, to some 
extent, in special cases, e.g., at Bondi and Newcastle. 
In M. Grandjean's method, only Marram Grass is used as a rule, but fascine work 
is employed in cases where neglect or accident renders this necessary. The Marram 
Grass is elastic, and is used as a substitute for the more elaborate system of fascines, 
palings, &c., already described. The grass is freely planted in rows, and the direction 
and closeness of the rows are modified according to circumstances. As the sand rises, 
the Marram, even if temporarily submerged, will push its way up and continue to grow. 
Finally, by judicious planting of the Marram, and encouragement of it, it is possible to 
obtain the " constant " for a particular spot, indicative of the height beyond which sand 
from the sea shore or other source is incapable of passing. When this is obtained, the 
" dune littorale " can be formed, and its fixation and maintenance arranged. 
The dune littorale must have a surface as regular as possible, otherwise the wind 
speedily accentuates the unevenness, and creates ridges and depressions in the mobile 
sand which steadily increase in size. The profile of the dune littorale must be decided 
upon according to local experience. In regard to this, as, indeed, in regard to other 
points in connection with sand-dunes, the personal experience and responsibility of the 
forester must be exercised. 
(b) The treatment of sand-dunes as carried on at Port Fairy and Williamstoivn 
(Victoria). 
I have already pointed out that Grandjean's method is in the direction of 
simplicity, i.e., in the use of Marram Grass pure and simple except in certain cases 
which require special treatment. 
That is the principle of the method carried out at Port Fairy, and at the risk of 
not confining myself strictly to the classification of items I have made, I give the 
following account of work carried out in Australia. 
In southern Victoria is a large tract of rich basaltic soil, which produces potatoes 
and onions galore, and hence is called the garden of Victoria. Nearly midway between 
Melbourne and Adelaide is the principal port of this rich district. It was formerly 
called Belfast, but now Port Fairy. Agricultural land in this belt has changed hands at 
85 per acre, and 70 to 75 is no uncommon figure for the best. Years ago the 
