Did you know picking or destroying sea oats along our coast is illegal? Walking on the sand dunes and picking sea oats is prohibited by a law enacted in 1973 by the Alabama legislature. This is because vegetation is essential to our coast’s ecosystem. Rooted throughout our sugar-white dunes, they do draw the eye. But as the adage goes: Look but don’t touch.
Sea oats are not just some weed. They look like tall grass or stalks of wheat, and are durable, making them an ideal natural storm protector. This is extremely important since the coast is greatly affected by tropical storms, hurricanes and other types of severe weather.
These frothy stalks are typically found along sand dunes because they help the growth of the dunes. Sand dunes are fragile, yet the deep roots of these hardy plants prevent the dunes from crumbling. The barrier created by sand dunes and sea oats protects the beach from storm surges and high winds.
Certain wildlife – including birds, marsh rabbits, beach mice and insects – depend on sea oats for food and habitat. Healthy coastal vegetation allows that wildlife to thrive.
Please protect the sand dunes by sticking to the paths and walkways meant for visitors, and leave the beautiful natural setting intact.