Dauphin Island, a beautiful barrier island off the coast of Alabama, is not just a popular destination for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts; it’s also a crucial habitat for a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, shorebirds, neotropical migratory birds, and sea turtles. However, like many coastal areas, Dauphin Island has faced challenges such as erosion and habitat degradation. That is why the Town of Dauphin Island launched the East End Beach and Dune Restoration Project.
What is the goal?
The primary goal of the East End Beach and Dune Restoration Project is to improve and restore the East End beach and dune habitat, including Gulf-front foraging and nesting habitats for various wildlife species. Additionally, the project aims to :
- reduce the risk of saltwater intrusion into the freshwater lake in the bird sanctuary
- introduce beach sands into the littoral drift of the Gulf barrier island
- extend and increase the longevity of previous beach nourishment and dune enhancement efforts from 2016 and 2017
The Town of Dauphin Island has partnered with qualified contractor Weeks Marine, Inc. to bring more than one million cubic yards of sand to the East End of the island, restoring the beach and dune habitats. This project is being carried out under the USACE/ADEM Standard Individual Permit (SAM-2022-00150) and ADCNR Beach Act Permit.
The Dauphin Island East End Beach and Dune Restoration Project is funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund and National Coastal Resilience Fund. These funds are crucial in supporting the restoration efforts and ensuring the long-term health and resilience of Dauphin Island’s coastal ecosystems.
Learn more about the East End Beach and Dune Restoration Project and see the latest updates from the Town of Dauphin Island website.
What does this mean for you?
Vacationers visiting Dauphin Island’s East End can look forward to an enhanced beach experience thanks to the ongoing restoration project. With an expanded beach width of approximately 300 feet, there’s more space for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely strolls.
Additionally, the restoration efforts support a healthier habitat for wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings. The reintroduction of native vegetation and the formation of new dunes also contribute to the island’s scenic beauty, providing stunning vistas for visitors to enjoy.
Sand fencing has already been installed along most of the project length, and small new dunes are already forming near the fences. In the coming months, native sea oats and other dune vegetation will be added to stabilize the new dune features.
Visitors will also see a signs along the dunes instructing everyone to keep off the dunes. Violators can face up to $500.00 fine in accordance with Town Ordinance No. 66.
What areas are affected by the East End Beach and Dune Restoration Project?
The project will extend from the East End Public Beach to halfway through the DeSoto Landing neighborhood, where the beach restoration will begin to taper back to match the existing beach.
Audubon Place
The Audubon Place neighborhood will have dune walkovers installed that can be used by residents and guests to access the beach. Beachgoers can all walk to the east end of the neighborhood to pass through a designated opening in the sand fences.
Explore Dauphin Island Beach Rentals selection of vacation homes in the sought-after gated community of Audubon Place.
DeSoto Landing
Desoto Landing is a Gated Community with very little traffic. The community includes a communal pool, tennis court and a beach boardwalk that will take you over beautiful protected sand dunes out onto the beach. The pool and tennis court are also located alongside the boardwalk. Beachgoers can use the boardwalk to access the newly restored beaches.