Sliders Seaside Grill undertakes dune restoration

Submitted by Susan Hardee Steger

Despite angry claims and rumors generated through social media sites, George Stewart, owner of Sliders Seaside Grill knows the beauty and value of sand dunes.  Stewart is beginning a dune restoration effort along a 20-30 foot wide stretch of his property.  The restoration effort is taking place east of the oceanfront tiki bar, and playground area.

Invasive plants line the dunes

With permits in hand, Stewart is working with the Department of Environmental Protection, to bring the dune back to its natural state, and to rid the area of invasive plants.

Numerous sea oats will be planted to support stabilization of the dunes.  Similar to restoration efforts at the Amelia Island Plantation and the Ritz Carlton, the restored area will include an irrigation system to support faster growth, and sand fencing to promote dune buildup.

18 months after restoration project in Palm Beach County, sea oats are thriving.

Part of the process to restore dunes involves filling and regrading the slopes.  It was this process that caused a stir. "People were standing in front of the construction equipment to stop the project unaware we are restoring the dunes," says Stewart.

Photos available on the Palm Beach County website, show the results of a 10 mile dune restoration project.  Within 18 months after restoration a healthy dune system is created and sea oats are thriving.

June 8, 2013 12:09 p.m.