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Nature-based dune project proposed to restore eroded shoreline at KLH Dunes Preserve
Summary
A consultant presented a feasibility plan to build new dunes on parts of the KLH Dunes Preserve to restore sand lost to erosion. The plan would place about 13,000 cubic yards of sand, cost an estimated $200,000, and rely on permits and possible grant funding.
A presenter working with county and city partners outlined a nature-based dune-building plan to address severe shoreline erosion at the Kitchell Lindquist Harker (KLH) Dunes Preserve.
The presenter told the board the project would construct sculpted dunes above the ordinary high-water mark and allow natural wave action to redistribute sand back onto the beach. "The shoreline has eroded some 40 to 60 feet in some locations," the presenter said, calling the approach a way to "introduce sand back to the system" without hard armoring.
Board members were briefed that the study being prepared is a feasibility/60% design rather than a construction-ready plan. The presenter said the concept uses natural materials and vegetation: "It is designed with stable slopes and all of that would be planted with native dune grass and native vegetation," he said, adding the dunes would be sculpted to blend with the landscape.
On costs and scale, the presenter estimated roughly 13,000 cubic yards of sand would be required. "At a $15 yard that comes out to around $200,000," he said, while noting the number is a planning-stage estimate.
Regulatory constraints were central to the discussion. The presenter explained that because parts of the site are in a regulated floodplain and floodway, work below the ordinary high-water mark is tightly controlled by Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The presenter described placing material above the ordinary high-water mark so natural wave action could move sand downward; he said EGLE has been receptive to this approach when the material is placed above the high-water line.
Board members raised ecological concerns and alternatives. One member noted that piling sand could cover existing vegetation; the presenter responded that much of the targeted area contains invasive species and that native beach grass is expected to regrow on the new dunes. Members asked about woody-structure alternatives and offshore rock sills; the presenter cautioned that rock and offshore structures are restricted under Michigan public-trust practices and might impede wildlife movement.
Members also explored sand sourcing and logistics. The presenter said sand would likely come from inland quarries, and the work would be done with trucks and earth-moving equipment, not barges. He recalled prior offers from the Corps of Engineers to place dredged material and said Corps-provided sand would need contaminant testing before reuse.
The presenter outlined next steps: finalize the 60% design, provide a concise two-page summary with cubic yards, pricing and a timeline for the board, and then pursue funding. "This project is very highly likely [to be] grant-fundable," he said, noting state and foundation funding programs are being targeted.
The board agreed to request a short follow-up document and to discuss the proposal with a full board at a future meeting before making any formal commitment to construction.
What happens next: the presenter will provide a short packet with volume, cost and timeline estimates for the April meeting so the full board can consider funding and permitting steps.
