The Nature Conservancy - Project Profile
SEAWORLD/BUSCH GARDENS/FUJIFILM ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS
 
Sandy Beach Sand Dune Rehabilitation Project
Michipicoten High School - Wawa, Ontario
     

The Celebrate the Earth Club (CTEC) of Michipicoten High School became concerned about the recent degradation of a popular beach along the shores of Lake Superior near Wawa, Ontario. Specifically, they were concerned about the enormous impact that foot traffic and motor vehicles were having on the sensitive and fragile sand dunes. This human activity was causing severe damage to dune vegetation and consequently the dunes as a result of blowout. The group first conducted a preliminary survey of the beach through the use of quadrats. They were interested in determining the normal vegetation densities for different locations on the dune. This work would also help them to determine which sites were best suited to serve as a nursery and which sites required replanting. CTEC then developed a plan which included the building of vehicular barriers and also worked to redirect foot traffic using natural materials. They also worked to reestablish dune vegetation in the negatively impacted areas. Future plans include the construction of a boardwalk and the creation of interpretive signs. The signs will serve to educate the public about the sensitive nature of the dune and the diversity of life forms found there. The group has already been successful raising nearly $25,000 towards the realization of this project.

The Nature Conservancy chose to align itself with this project and made the following statement, "The Nature Conservancy is dedicated to preserving plants, animals, and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive. Recognizing the valuable contributions of Michipicoten High School's Celebrate the Earth Club, particularly with regard to their sand dune rehabilitation project, the Conservancy is pleased to support such a valiant effort to restore Sandy Beach to its natural state. The dune rehabilitation project is a wonderful example of working with local businesses and community members to protect important natural places, an approach that is in line with how the Conservancy works."

 
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