This innovative coastal restoration system was developed on the winter beaches of Cape Cod. This simple system mimics the matrix profile of native vegetation to collect and stabilize sand. Like native vegetation, this system demonstrates performance inversely proportional to it’s profile. This system is still in development. Safe Harbor has made our biomimicry strategy and techniques Public Domain. Further development details are described on our “Barrier Dune Restoration” Page.
Download our new 14 page Biomimicry publication below. This illustrated booklet describes the strategy and techniques for using Biomimicry Sand Collection Systems
Download our video segment from The coastal erosion program done by CHRONICLE Boston TV CH 5. CHRONICLE came down to the Cape to investigate how biomimicry could work so well! We have posted it on YOUTUBE and here is the easy link. about 4-5 minutes
Download our 3 minute info video, describing Biomimicry sand collection systems, by clicking on the link below:
Another version of the Buomimicry video is posted on YouTube below:
Making Land From Air: Bio-Mimicry Sand Collection System
http://capecodbroadcasting.
Making Land From Air: Biomimicry Strategy and Techniques
By Gordon Peabody, Edited by Nadia Bricault, Safe Harbor, January 2013
gordonpeabody@gmail.com 508 237-3724 www.safeharborenv.com
This booklet introduces an innovative coastal dune restoration system, powered by ocean storm energy. This system was developed by Safe Harbor during winter storms on the Ocean Beach of Cape Cod as part of a Barrier Dune restoration project (See images pages 4 -9).
The term “Biomimicry” refers to random patterns of thin cedar shims that mimic native beach vegetation by collecting and stabilizing wind blown sand (See images pgs 9-14). The shims are inserted several inches into the sand, spaced from 10-14 inches apart, in a random matrix from 4-6 feet wide, along the upper beach. During wind events, the matrix performs by collecting sand. When sand levels rise, the slats are pulled up higher, to continue performing. In this manner, additional shims can also be used to widen the desired sand collection profile. We purchase shims at $2 per pack of 42. One pack of shims covers approximately 10’x10’. Five packages of shims and one hour of time can create a 100-foot long dune. Biomimicry creates dunes by minimally interacting with available energy in the coastal resource system. Minimal profile Biomimicry is not a fence and is not considered a structure. Beach grass can be planted along with Biomimicry, eventually creating a sustainable coastal landform. Safe Harbor is relinquishing proprietary interest in this system as of January 14, 2013, making their “Biomimicry Coastal Restoration System” Public Domain.
