Coastal Dunes | The Rebuild and Safety Concerns

On September 30th, Hurricane Ian made landfall in South Carolina as a Category 1 storm. While making its way through our area, Hurricane Ian destroyed several sections of our precious dunes. 

Some may think we are exaggerating when we say “precious sand dunes;” however, they are extremely valuable to coastal regions. Let’s take a moment to learn about the sand dunes and discuss the safety risks, as well as the laws surrounding the dunes.

October 27th - The current state of the dunes.

Dunes’ Purpose | The sand dunes are the first line of defense when a storm impacts our area, protecting property from damage caused by high winds, storm surges, waves, and tides. 

September 30th - During IAN.

Not only are they essential during storms, but sand dunes are very helpful during erosional times. When this sand reserve is unavailable, ocean waves often rush upland, taking high ground instead.

Vegetation | One of the most effective and aesthetically pleasing ways to build and stabilize a sand dune is to cover it with vegetation. The foliage helps increase the size of the dune by trapping windblown sand. Plant roots contribute as they bind sand particles to the dune.

Three types of grasses are best suited to flourish on the beaches of South Carolina: American Beachgrass, Sea Oats, and Bitter Panicum. Walking or climbing on the dunes damages the growing vegetation that is critical to preserving the sand dunes.

Fencing | The fencing surrounding the sand dunes serves more than as a signal to stay off. The function of sand fencing is to speed the accumulation of sand in the location chosen for dune reconstruction. Proper fencing will slow the wind allowing windblown sand grains to drop and collect around the fence.

Protecting The Dunes | According to the National Wildlife Federation, the top five tactics in protecting the sand dunes include: 

1. Limiting Human Disturbance
2. Employ Sand Fencing
3. Increase Education
4. Plant New Vegetation
5. Practice Renourishment

Building From The Ground Up | Various key members of our management team have been in communication with county officials on the damage and the rebuild process, including our Operations Manager, Kevin McWhirter:

“We are closely working with the Horry County officials and the associated contractors to reestablish a healthy dune along Seaside Drive.”

October 1st - We began rebuilding the dunes the morning after IAN.

October 27th - The current state of the dunes.

Unfortunately, we have witnessed many guests climbing, playing, and even sunbathing on the sand dunes. Horry County is working to replace all "Please, Keep Off Dunes" signage that was destroyed by IAN. 

Safety Concerns | Everyone should avoid walking, sitting, or climbing on the dunes. The sand dunes are very fragile, especially right now, because they are made of fresh sand. Vegetation has not grown on them, which creates a root system to strengthen them and help the sand stay in place.

The sand dunes are not stable. Not only do we want individuals to stay off of the dunes so we can rebuild, but because it is not safe for individuals to be on them. Climbing on dunes causes the sand to slide and move creating or exposing soft spots, which can be dangerous. There may be sharp debris under the surface. This is not to cause worry or panic, but to make you all aware and cautious. 

Against The Law | Walking on the dunes or storing items on them is against the law in Horry County. There are federal laws, as well. Those who break this law could be fined up to $500 or even be arrested. It is also illegal to cut, break, or otherwise destroy sea oat plants, beach grass, or sand fencing.

Until Next Time | The purpose of this blog is to help educate our Guests and Annual Leaseholders on the purpose of the sand dunes, the safety concerns, the laws, and to help spread the word to everyone to STAY OFF of the sand dunes. 

They serve a significant purpose in coastal areas and with your help, we can protect them and allow them to grow and flourish.