Kicking Off with Coastal Resilience: Cape Fear Chapter’s Annual Dune Restoration

Each winter, as holiday decorations come down, the Cape Fear Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation turns discarded Christmas trees into a powerful tool for coastal protection. This year, the chapter continued its 11-year tradition by leading a dune restoration event at Carolina Beach, where over 90 volunteers placed 150-170 trees along 0.6 miles of shoreline.

Partnering with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) and the City of Carolina Beach, the chapter ensures the trees are strategically positioned to capture sand and rebuild dunes in critically eroded areas. These efforts not only help restore natural coastal defenses but also raise awareness about the growing threats of sea level rise and intensifying storms. Unlike costly beach renourishment projects that require frequent maintenance, this nature-based solution works with the environment to strengthen dune systems over time.

Dunes play a vital role in protecting coastal communities by acting as a natural barrier against storm surge and erosion. However, rising seas and increasingly severe storms are putting these natural defenses at risk. By placing recycled Christmas trees along the shoreline, Surfrider and its partners help trap windblown sand, encouraging the formation of new dunes and promoting the regrowth of native vegetation. Over time, these dunes provide long-term stability, benefiting both wildlife and nearby communities.

This event is a testament to the power of community-driven action. Coastal resilience is not just about policies or large-scale infrastructure—it’s about people coming together to protect the places they love. The volunteers who showed up to haul trees, stake them in place, and get their hands sandy are true stewards of their local environment. Their dedication proves that small actions, when multiplied, can lead to lasting change.

The Cape Fear Chapter is incredibly grateful for the passion and commitment of everyone who participated. Their willingness to show up, learn, and take action makes a real difference for North Carolina’s coastline. 

You can learn more about Surfrider's efforts to encourage nature-based solutions by checking out the new Climate Action Program!