Coastal dunes aren’t just for non-native beachgrass and iceplant! Much of the coastal landscape has been invaded by non-native species or developed into beachfront real estate, but there are still places where native communities are being preserved and restored. The native dune mat community near Abbott’s Lagoon is uniquely beautiful and amazing with its many small species thriving in the face of exposure to the harsh, coastal elements.
Special adaptations allow these species to survive. Despite their tenacity, many native dune plants are rare because of limited habitat availability. In their habitat at Point Reyes, however, most of the rare species are locally abundant, and peak bloom for rare wallflower, lupine, or monardella species can be quite impressive!
This walk will explore the dune mat plant community, including the federally endangered Tidestrom’s lupine and other rare species that grow with it. We’ll discuss some dune ecology and review the nearby restoration activities.
Sarah Minnick is the Ring Mountain Stewardship Coordinator.
Total distance will be five or six miles, mostly level with some walking in loose sand. Meet at the Abbotts Lagoon trailhead. Dress in layers. Bring lunch, water, and a hat.
Leader: Sarah Minnick sarahsnail@hotmail.com