Appropriate dune care needed

In response to vandalism of the sensitive coastal beach dunes of the Woy Woy Peninsula (Peninsula News, February 13), I think Mayor Holstein's actions demonstrate not only passion and direction, but reflect state environmental legislation and local government strategic planning issues.

On the other hand, Cr Debra Wales' input into the issue seems to lack ecological and economic insight.

Cr Wales, in attempting to endorse the removal of native vegetation from the dune reserves, disregards a major decline in the dune ecosystem and disrespects State environmental planning legislation in place to manage and protect the area.

Cr Wales' comments, that tea trees or banksia were unnecessary to dune stability and that low shrub and grasses were adequate, are probably unfounded.

Native shrubs and trees on foredunes provide an aerodynamic cover that deflects salt-laden winds over dunes.

This minimises dune blowouts and reduces sand drift which is costly to control (R.Carolin et al.).

When considering the appropriate long-term environmental management of the dune system - protection of biodiversity, animal habitat and food sources, possible population decline, isolated and locally-threatened species and many complex interactions, ecological knowledge must be taken into account when studying or assessing the area.

Inappropriate management of the dunes can be a threat to the dune eco-system (H. Webb, NSW NCC).

Woy Woy Peninsula Dunecare Group will be permanently working the Peninsula's dunes under Gosford City Council's Bushcare program.

The community group consists of appropriately trained community group members and supported by Coastcare.

Community environmental awareness and input is a major key to sustainable long-term environmental management.

Tony Whitehead, Woy Woy