Client/Sponsor Virginia Department of Military Affairs VAFM-E Project Location State Military Reservation - Camp Pendelton, Virginia Beach, Virginia Period of Performance February 2008 - June 2009 Capabilities Military Lands Field Ecology CMI Personnel Technical Lead Eric D. Wolf Associated Personnel Verl Emrick

Sand dunes are vital components of coastal ecosystems but are rapidly vanishing in the face of development pressure. Intact dune/swale systems serve as flexible and dynamic barriers, protecting low-lying fragile backshore areas from ocean waves and storm surges as nothing else can. They also provide important habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species and migratory birds.
With the support of Virginia Department of Military Affairs- Environmental, CMI is working to preserve this vanishing resource at State Military Reservation-Camp Pendelton located just south of Virginia Beach. This multi-pronged project includes: - A comprehensive inventory of existing plant species and vegetative communities currently on the installation. - The development of a planting guide and execution of test planting plots in order to support and/or re-introduce native grasses, herbaceous, and woody species that will in turn stabilize and protect the dunes. - Design and construction of sand fence barriers to physically rebuild dunes and discourage vehicle and foot traffic in sensitive areas while allowing for continued use of the beach for both training and recreation. - Design and construction of informational kiosks explaining the benefits of the project and the importance of dune/swale ecosystems.