GEPS submission to Kiama Council on Dune protection
In response to recent suggestions about the removal of dune vegetation at Jones Beach and Werri Beach, GEPS has made a submission to Kiama Council.
The Gerroa Environmental Protection Society urges Council not to modify the vegetation or structure of the sand dunes at Jones and Werri Beaches that is being promoted by the Beach Care group. These dunes play an important role in protecting residents from damaging ocean surges that are predicted to increase in intensity and frequency. They also provide a habitat of native plants and wildlife.
In the past Jones and Werri Beaches have been damaged by destructive east coast low storm events. Council used considerable resources to construct and vegetate these dunes in the early 90s to protect residents and reconstruct dune habitats.
It’s important to acknowledge how well this vegetation helped protect the community during the recent storm surges of 2016.
The full submission can be read here.