Our coastal protection partners say that Atlantic Beach’s dunes sustained moderate damage – roughly a quarter of the dune system was lost – during Tropical Storm Ian. The dune system will gradually restore itself, if we enable it to do so. Yet today, we’re getting reports of people taking photos, walking dogs, and letting kids play in the dunes. These actions can wholly undo Mother Nature’s work and the tax-funded effort to restore the dunes. Destroying sea oats is prohibited by state law, and punishable by a fine of up to $500. (We will replace our stay-off-the-dune signs soon!)
WHAT OUR RESIDENTS CAN DO
NOTIFY THE POLICE DEPARTMENT when someone is walking on dunes and/or destroying sea oats. When applicable, provide an address. The Police Department can be reached on its non-emergency line at (904) 247-5859 and via the Safer Watch app (download it at www.saferwatchapp.com/atlanticbeach).
TAKE PICTURES AND VIDEO. A picture to share with the City is worth 1,000 words. (Legally acquired) drone footage is welcome, too! We don’t encourage people to post those photos on social media, however. Share it with us by email (info@coab.us) or via the SaferWatch app.
HELP US INFORM FELLOW BEACHGOERS of the importance of staying off dunes and otherwise proliferate the City’s message that our residents and visitors use dune walkovers and designated beach access points to cross the dunes.
Questions? Feedback? Email info@coab.us or call (904) 247-5804.
Original source can be found here.
