Foredune

 

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The first ridge behind the beach where Pioneer species like marram grass and sand reed grass help stabilize the sand with their extensive root systems.  A stabilized foredune can also support wildflowers and shrubs like common milkweed, beach pea, bearberry, poison ivy, and wild grape.  Cottonwood trees can also be found in this landscape.

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Conditions:

• Low dune, parallel to the shoreline

• Sparse vegetation with primarily pioneer species

  • hardy species which are the first to colonize an area and begin ecological succession​

• Periods of drought​

• Storm waves

• Alternating periods of sand burial and erosion

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Sources: Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State University Extension, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Lake Michigan Coatal Program