Yorke Peninsula Council is reminding visitors and locals to stick to designated paths to help protect coastal sand dunes.

Yorke Peninsula’s dunes contain sites of significance to Narungga people, including significant Aboriginal heritage sites which are protected under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988.

“Sand dunes are fragile and walking, riding or driving through them can lead to vegetation loss,” Council Environment Officer Letitia Dahl-helm said.

“Vegetation is important as it keeps the sand in place and without the protective cover of vegetation, the result is erosion, dune blowouts and accelerated sand movement.

“Enjoy the beach, but stay out of the dunes, as this will help conserve our important dune systems, which have a vital role in naturally protecting our beaches, coastline and inland areas from the destructive forces of coastal storms, winds and waves.”

Northern and Yorke Landscape Board project manager Janet Moore said the coast is under threat from the combined impacts of climate change, increasing vehicle-based recreation, weeds and feral pests.

“It is really important to reduce these threats and improve the health of the coast,” she said.

“Everyone has a role to play in protecting our coast, from visitors using existing tracks and formal campgrounds, to shack owners and coastal residents planting local native species in their gardens and removing pest plants that ‘escape’ into the dunes.

“Plus anyone can support one of the many community groups on Yorke Peninsula that regularly undertake coastal protection projects.

“By all pitching in we can continue to enjoy the great coastal lifestyle that Yorke Peninsula offers, protect its unique ecosystems and preserve its cultural significance.”

Things to remember to protect the environment

• Stick to designated paths and don’t venture onto the sand dunes
• Put your rubbish in the bin or take it home with you if bins are full
• Leave it be – changing or disrupting the natural environment can destroy important habitats