Surfrider Foundation to host 12th annual dune restoration Christmas tree event
CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The Cape Fear Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation is continuing their winter tradition of recycling Christmas trees.
The goal is to help rebuild and strengthen the sand dunes to protect Carolina Beach.
The event is open to the public and will take place on January 31st at 10:30 in the morning at the Periwinkle Public Beach Access in Carolina Beach.
Instead of the trees ending up in a landfill, they’re strategically placed in dune systems where they naturally trap blowing sand.
“Dunes play a huge role in keeping our coastline healthy,” says Jessica Clark, Chair of the Cape Fear Surfrider Foundation Chapter. “Each year, we collaborate with the town of Carolina Beach to identify which areas need a little extra support to rebuild. Alongside Carolina Beach’s Beach Nourishment Project happening now, we will be able to assist in giving a long stretch of the beach a fresh start moving forward.”
Healthy dune systems provide habitat for coastal vegetation and wildlife, and they also serve as a frontline defense for humans- reducing storm surge, buffering high waves, and limiting coastal flooding or structural damage during major storms.
