Join Chesapeake Conservancy and the National Aquarium's Conservation Team along the sand dunes of Virginia Beach in planting grasses to prevent the erosion of the dunes by waves and storm events.  Friday and Saturday September 12 and 13 from 9am to 2pm. For more information on how to be involved call the National Aquarium in Baltimore (410) 576-1014 or visit the website.   

Coastal sand dunes are formed by the action of sea and wind. Material carried by the rivers is deposited with the help of the sea along the coastline, forming sand dunes. They protect the land by acting as a natural barrier to salt water intrusion and sea wind erosion. The sand dune system absorbs the energy of the waves; without this protection, soft coastline would disappear rapidly.

Even small disruptions in the dune system can cause saltwater infiltration into the ground water, threatening local farmlands. Although sand dunes may appear to be lifeless, in reality they are home to a multitude of species. Their importance has been acknowledged over the last few years, and they are now priority habitats for conservation.

Pre-registration is required for all conservation events. Due to naval base restrictions, participants must be U.S. citizens and at least 10 years old, and volunteers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Personal information will need to be collected as a part of registration for this event.  Please contact conserve@aqua.org if you have questions or would like additional details.