Help the Village Protect BHI’s Dunes

Dunes act as a barrier from storm surge during severe storms and hurricanes.  They act as a storage reservoir for sand that only gets taken away when there is an infrequent but severe storm or hurricane.  The larger the dune, the more time it takes to erode, and the more protection it provides to landward properties and infrastructure. The sand stored by the dunes also reduces wave heights compared to areas that have little or no dunes. 

Through the years the Village of Bald Head Island has gone to great expense and effort into stabilizing and protecting the dune system along West and South beaches.  In addition to shoreline restoration projects, the Village has planted vegetation and installed rope fencing to help build up sand on the dune line.  The Village also routinely monitors the beaches and dunes to see if any weak areas exist that could be vulnerable to storm surge. 

Ensuring your beach access is built up and over the dunes will help preserve the dune system and create a contiguous barrier to storm surge.  Having the crossover built up and over the dune will also prevent beachgoers, including those who may be visiting or renting from violating the Village’s Dune Protection Ordinance ($500.00 fine). 

Before having your crossover extended, repaired, or replaced, please get in touch with Stephen Boyett in Development Services via email, call 910-457-9700 ext. 1004, or stop by his office (at the Contractor Services building – 299 A Edward Teach Extension).  He will be able to determine if the Division of Coastal Management needs to flag the first line of vegetation and can provide the specifications for construction.  Before construction can begin, Mr. Boyett must review the construction drawings and issue a building permit.   If your property is in Stage I Bald Head Association, review by the Architectural Review Committee is also required.

If you do not have a private beach access, you can help by reminding your visitors and guests to stay off the dunes and to use the public beach accesses or designated accesses near your home. 

If you are interested in learning more about dunes, erosion, and how the beach works, NC Sea Grant has published a booklet called “The Dune Book. ” It is an excellent resource and was the source for this post. It can be found online HERE.