Dune Restoration
Statewide Dune Restoration Program
Dunes are an important resource that store excess sand reserves and provide an emergency supply of sand back to the beach when erosion occurs. Healthy dunes also protect development and infrastructure from inundation and erosion damage and provide habitat for unique coastal flora and fauna. Dunes are naturally resilient and able to adapt to storm waves, high winds, and high tides. In conjunction with offshore reef systems, coastal sand dunes are one of the first lines of defense against high wave impacts, and are an important component of a healthy, sandy beach.
Heavy human use, unmanaged foot traffic, invasive vegetation and coastal erosion cause degradation of dune systems throughout Hawaiʻi. OCCL seeks to support community organizations and state and county agencies with dune restoration as a means of improving beach resources, enhancing coastal ecosystems, and building coastal resilience.
OCCL is working in partnership with Hawaiʻi Sea Grant to implement a statewide dune restoration program. As part of this programs, any entity interested in planning and implementing dune restoration projects can request technical support and guidance from our project team and financial support towards implementing the project. Financial support can either be via direct purchase of materials or through a small grant to an eligible community-based organization.
Individuals, entities and organizations interested in receiving support through this program are encouraged to complete this Dune Restoration Program Interest form to initiate contact with our team and determine the type of support we can offer to your proposal.
All dune restoration efforts will be planned and implemented in accordance with the Hawaiʻi Dune Restoration Manual and will be individually planned and executed. Dune restoration will be implemented so that lateral access along the beach is maintained and the beach and nearshore environment are enhanced by the restoration activities.
Permitting requirements will vary in each county and may include Special Management Area Permits.
