Image courtesy of Eli Freidus Photography
PROTECTING OUR COASTAL DUNES: FLAGLER & VOLUSIA COUNTIES
The sand dunes along the coastlines of Flagler and Volusia Counties are more than just beautiful—they are crucial protectors of our homes and ecosystems. These natural barriers guard against storms, prevent erosion, and provide a habitat for unique wildlife. Safeguarding these dunes takes a unified community effort and understanding of each county's specific needs.
COMMON GOALS AND CHALLENGES
Both Flagler and Volusia Counties share a commitment to preserving their dunes through:
CONSERVATION INITIATIVES: Both counties work tirelessly to maintain healthy dunes, which act as natural buffers against storms and rising tides.
COMMUNITY EDUCATION: Residents and visitors are encouraged to respect dune areas, avoid walking on them, and use designated beach access points.
RESTORATION PROJECTS: Ongoing projects in both counties focus on repairing storm damage and reinforcing dune stability to prepare for future weather events.
UNIQUE ASPECTS OF EACH COUNTY
FLAGLER COUNTY
SEVERE DAMAGE IN THE NORTH: The northern coastline, especially around MalaCompra Beach Park, experienced heavy erosion after Hurricane Milton in 2024. This area is now the focus for major dune rebuilding, with plans to make the dunes taller and wider for better storm protection.
MULTIPLE FUNDING SOURCES: Flagler’s projects are funded by a combination of local, state, and federal resources—recently including significant FEMA and congressional support. This allows the county to quickly expand existing restoration work as soon as funding is released.
PROPERTY OWNER PARTNERSHIPS: Restoration on private beachfronts depends on property owners granting permission for construction and maintenance. If some owners do not participate, sections of the dune line may remain unprotected, which can weaken the overall defense.
NATIVE PLANTING AND SAND FENCING: The restoration uses native dune plants, like sea oats, to stabilize the sand. Sand fencing is installed to help catch wind-blown sand and encourage natural dune growth. These steps support both storm resilience and wildlife habitat.
ONGOING MAINTENANCE: The county has a plan to maintain and repair dunes after future storms, including arrangements for emergency sand supplies and ongoing agreements with environmental agencies.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN FLAGLER COUNTY
Visit the official Flagler County Coastal Projects page for project updates and ways to participate.
Check out “Dodge the Dunes”an educational campaign aimed at raising awareness among both locals and tourists about the importance of our coastal resources.
Attend public meetings or workshops about beach management.
If you own coastal property, respond quickly to county requests for easements or access.
Participate in dune planting or beach clean-ups organized by local groups.
FLAGLER COUNTY CONTACTS
FLAGLER COUNTY COASTAL MANAGEMENT
FLAGLER COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS – COASTAL MANAGEMENT
1769 E. MOODY BLVD.
BUNNELL, FL 32110
HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY
08:00AM - 05:00PM
FLAGLER COUNTY COASTAL PROJECTS
FLAGLER COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS – COASTAL MANAGEMENT
1769 E. MOODY BLVD.
BUNNELL, FL 32110
MONDAY - FRIDAY
08:00AM - 05:00PM
DODGE THE DUNES
"Dodge the Dunes" is an educational campaign aimed at raising awareness among both locals and tourists about the importance of our coastal resources. It focuses on teaching everyone how to responsibly enjoy the beach while safeguarding our delicate sand dunes. The phrase "Dodge the Dunes" serves as a reminder to steer clear of activities like parking, walking, sliding, or jumping on the dunes to protect them."
FLAGLER COUNTY, FL
1769 EAST MOODY BLVD
BUNNELL, FL 32110
386.313.4000
VIEW ON MAP
FLAGLER BEACH CITY PROJECTS
CITY OF FLAGLER BEACH
105 SOUTH 2ND STREET | P.O. BOX 70
FLAGLER BEACH, FL 32136
PHONE: 386.517.2000
FAX: 386.517.2008
VOLUSIA COUNTY
DREDGING AND DIRECT SAND PLACEMENT: Volusia is using sand dredged from the Intracoastal Waterway, pumping it onto the shore to rebuild dunes and reinforce seawalls. This method addresses areas hit hard by recent hurricanes, though it may not widen the beach dramatically at first.
URGENT, ONGOING PROJECTS: The county prioritizes rapid action to stabilize areas at risk of further loss, recognizing that multiple phases may be needed for full restoration.
COMMUNITY COMMUNICATION: Regular project updates are provided, and public feedback is encouraged as work progresses. The county tries to minimize disruptions, but some beach access points may be closed temporarily during construction.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN VOLUSIA COUNTY
Visit the Volusia County website and look for “Coastal Division” or “Beach Projects” for the latest news and volunteer options.
Sign up for email updates or attend local meetings about coastal projects.
Get involved in volunteer days for dune planting or debris removal.
VOLUSIA COUNTY CONTACTS
VOLUSIA COUNTY BEACH PROJECTS AND COASTAL MANAGEMENT
VOLUSIA COUNTY COASTAL DIVISION
COASTAL DIVISION DIRECTOR
JESSICA FENTRESS
JFENTRESS@VOLUSIA.ORG
QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
RECPROCOASTAL@VOLUSIA.ORG
DAYTONA BEACH
386.248.8072
DELAND
386.736.2700, EXT. 18072
NEW SMYRNA BEACH
386.423.3300, EXT. 18072
Volusia's beach restoration updates and volunteer opportunities are often posted here. If you want event-specific info, check their news section or contact the division directly.
QUICK ACTION STEPS FOR RESIDENTS & VOLUNTEERS
Volunteer for dune planting or beach clean-up events.
Respect fencing and signage on new dunes—avoid walking on them to help plants take root.
Share information with neighbors about why dunes matter for storm protection and wildlife.
If you’re a property owner, complete any paperwork needed for restoration access as soon as possible.
HOW YOU CAN HELP PROTECT OUR DUNES
USE DESIGNATED PATHS: Always use marked walkways to access the beach, avoiding any disturbance to dune vegetation.
RESPECT SIGNS AND BARRIERS: Roped-off areas are crucial for protecting sensitive habitats and ongoing restoration projects.
KEEP BEACHES CLEAN: Carry out all trash and belongings to prevent debris from harming the dunes and wildlife.
PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL EVENTS: Join beach clean-ups, restoration projects, or volunteer with local conservation groups to make a difference.
GET INVOLVED IN DUNE CONSERVATION
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