Biosolids are becoming an increasingly popular method of land preservation, including the preservation of sand dunes. Biosolids are treated waste materials, such as raw sewage. The application of biosolids to sand dunes not only aids in preventing further erosion, but it can also serve to replenish the sand or dirt already lost.
Another technique used to stabilize sand dunes is to increase the presence of vegetation or other natural elements. Planting tree lines at the base of eroding sand dunes for example can help stabilize the dune from the effects of rain and water run off. Adding sections of prairie vegetation to a sand dune can also slow the process of erosion caused by wind, thus making the surface of the dune more stable.
In some areas, the use of biosolids or natural vegetation for preservation is unfeasible because the need for prevention is more urgent. So preservationist turn to other, perhaps simpler techniques to stabilize the sand dunes. For example, the application of wood chips to the surface of a sand dune serves the same purpose as planting a prairie, except that its application is faster. Or in situations where stabilization is needed only temporarily, tarps may be spread over the dunes to help deter erosion.
In some instances building a retaining wall to stabilize a dune or stop erosion may be the best method. This is especially true in areas where dunes are near developed areas or are frequently visited by people or animals. The use of a retaining wall to stabilize a sand dune may not have the same effectiveness as others over the long term, but they can still get the job done when needed. Retaining walls are most often constructed of brick or sand bags, depending on how long their presence is required.
