Marram grass planted to protect sand dunes
government of JerseyAT A GLANCE
- About 2,000 marram grass plants have been planted in Jersey sand dunes to help protect them
- The roots of marram grass stabilise the dunes by binding the sand together, helping to rebuild them
- The Government of Jersey's Environment Department say they are being “considerate about not impacting people's enjoyment” of the dunes while stabilising the dunes
Volunteers have planted about 2,000 marram grass plants in sand dunes in Jersey to help protect them.
The Government of Jersey's Environment Department said the grass would help stabilise the dunes at St Ouen's Bay, which are part of Jersey National Park.
The dunes, Les Blanches Banques, are designated as a site of special interest because of their zoological, botanical, archaeological and historical features.
Senior natural environment officer, Tim Liddiard said when areas were trampled, "areas of bare sand develop and then you get what's called a blow out, as the wind scours the sand", leading to erosion through sand loss.
government of JerseyMr Liddiard said the dunes were a "very popular spot", receiving many visitors each year.
The Environment Department said the planting had been done by Natural Jersey Conservation Volunteers, who were “considerate about not impacting people's enjoyment” of the dunes.
The matted roots of marram grass help to stabilise the dunes by binding the sand together.
Government of JerseyThe areas where planting has taken place are currently fenced off.
Mr Liddiard added: “Our message should be that our dunes are treated with respect and if anybody is carrying out an activity on the sand dunes, please consider the damage that it might cause."
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