Values State 2, semi-mobile sand dunes

None of the values identified above for State 1 Erosional dunes will be lost completely in this Open or Semi-mobile dune (State 2). However, each will be reduced as the dune becomes more stable (State 3). Opportunities for the geomorphological study of major erosional forms may be impeded. Thus an open or semi-mobile sand dune will include examples of most of the values associated with State 1, but in addition will have some or all of the following:

Nature conservation

• Open sandy substrates are ideal habitat for a variety of specialist amphibians (e.g. natterjack toad) and reptiles;
• Open sandy substrates are ideal habitat for a variety of specialist invertebrates;
• Mobile sand is important for the development of new dune slacks, including rare species of flora and fauna;
• A more complete expression of the sequence of successional vegetation types;
• Increase in the overall biodiversity, as species of both stable and unstable habitats co-exist.

Caption: Mobile dune in Skagen on the north coast of Jutland, Denmark. This is a major attraction for visitors to the area.

2. Landscape and cultural

• Migrating dunes within a dune system have a landscape value related to their size and speed of movement;
• Migrating dunes within the dune system with high dune ridges may have recreational value (as for example in Denmark, see picture opposite and on the Leba Bar in Poland);
• Golf.

3. Coastal defence and economic

• Cultivation - the soft sand lends itself to growing some specialist crops such as asparagus and tobacco (historically on the Sefton Coast). In many areas sandy pastures have been converted to more intensive agricultural use including arable cultivation (see also the Machair);
• Grazing.