Sunset Beach committee praises Green Wave turnout, plans shoreline planting demo for September

Kathy Trent, chair of the Town of Sunset Beach Environmental Resource Committee, opened the May meeting by reviewing subcommittee reports and highlighting the success of the town’s May 3 Green Wave event. "We had really good showing of the public," Trent said, thanking staff and volunteers.

Committee members said the event drew strong interest in native shoreline plants—Jennifer Dole’s written update, read into the record by Trent, said at least 29 residents expressed interest in a demonstration class on shoreline plantings and rain gardens. Dole’s note said she had spoken with the N.C. State Extension about holding a class in September after Labor Day and that the town has already ordered native plants to distribute at the workshop.

Members proposed follow-up steps to capitalize on the event’s momentum: sending thank-you notes to participants and vendors, circulating a short survey to gather attendee feedback, and using summer markets and social media to broaden outreach next year. One member also suggested experimenting with different vendor offerings after some attendees said they would prefer more substantial food options.

The committee agreed to place a shoreline-planting demonstration on a future agenda and to prepare logistics for the September workshop and native-plant distribution. The discussion closed with members commending Amy and town staff for organizing the event and the volunteers and students who helped with setup.

The committee’s next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 18 at 10:00 a.m., when members expect to revisit planning details and subcommittee assignments.