Pensacola Beach: Sea Oats

The tall beach grass, named for its grain-like seeds, forms and maintains dunes by trapping sand. In a healthy coastal ecosystem, sand circulates between the dunes, the beach and shallow-water areas. Dunes provide a natural barrier against storm surges and high winds during severe weather. Without dunes, waterfront property is at greater risk. Wildlife, such as shore birds and sea turtles, can lose critical habitat. The seed plumes used to be a popular item for home decorating, but today, sea oats are protected by law in Florida.