Surfrider Foundation Restores Miami Beach Dunes to Combat Erosion and Climate Impacts

Dune Restoration Efforts in Miami Beach

• 💡 The Surfrider Foundation's Miami chapter is actively working to restore the city's coastal dunes.
• 🎯 Their efforts focus on removing invasive plants like Skavola, which hinder the growth of native Florida plants by blocking sunlight.
• 🔑 Volunteers are crucial in this process, physically removing invasive species to promote healthier dune ecosystems.

Nature-Based Solutions and Climate Resilience

• 🌊 A 2025 State of the Beach report highlights Miami Beach as America's most climate-vulnerable coastal city.
• 🌱 The report showcases how nature-based solutions, implemented over nearly two decades, are proving effective against accelerating climate impacts.
• 🤝 The Surfrider Foundation partners with the City of Miami Beach to restore coastal dunes, a collaboration recognized in the report.

Economic and Environmental Benefits of Healthy Dunes

• 📈 Miami's beaches attracted 28 million visitors last year, contributing $22 billion to the local economy.
• 🛡️ Healthy dunes are essential for protecting beaches and nearby properties from storm surge and hurricanes.
• 🛠️ Since 2006, the Surfrider Foundation has restored over 10 acres of dunes and planted more than 3,000 native plants, including sea oats.
• 📍 Progress is visible on Mid Beach, with ongoing work and plans to expand efforts to South Beach.