From our blog

New Dune Report

Jul 14, 2025

New Dune Report

The long awaited report on the Bushmans Dune issue, prepared by EcoCoast SDP Ecological Services, is now available. Please see below the short summary or click here for the full report. EcoCoast has fully supported the Estuary Care Dune Group’s long held position that the dune should not be dozed towards the river nor should it be vegetated. Please take time to read the full report findings and recommendations.

The Estuary Care Dune Group has formally requested a meeting with the Ndlambe Municipal Manager and responsible Director and Deputy Director and the EcoCoast and CES team and Warren Lange (CVs are in the full report). The aim of this meeting is to present the full report and recommendations. This will be followed by a further on-site meeting of experts and stakeholders to hopefully finalise the way forward.

Regards,
Chester Wilmot, on behalf of Estuary Care Dune Group

Dry Bones Valley Report – Summary: July 2025

The full report is an erosion management plan compiled by EcoCoast SDP Ecological Services that reviews the sediment transport system at Dry Bones Valley in Kenton on Sea, providing recommendations for addressing sediment accumulation and its impacts. The study was compiled on behalf of Estuary Care Dune Group comprising Boesmans Kariega Estuary Care Forum (Estuary Care), Kenton on Sea Ratepayers Association (KOSRA); Bushmans River Mouth Ratepayers Organisation (BRRAG); and Kenton Bushmans Chamber of Business and Tourism.

Review of Dry Bones Valley Sediment Transport System

The report evaluates the sediment transport system at Dry Bones Valley (DBV) and its impact on the adjacent Bushmans River estuary, addressing concerns from various stakeholders regarding sediment accumulation and ecological balance. Recommendations for managing sediment transport and addressing community concerns are provided.

Key Contributors and Their Expertise

Simon Colin Bundy and Michael I Thompson compiled the report, with Bundy having extensive experience in environmental projects and coastal ecological systems since 1991. Thompson, a candidate natural scientist, has relevant experience in environmental science and coastal investigations.

  • Simon Bundy: Professional Ecologist with over 30 years of experience in environmental and development projects
  • Michael I Thompson: Candidate Natural Scientist with a focus on environmental science and coastal investigations.
  • Bundy’s experience includes projects in multiple countries and significant involvement in South African coastal management.

Findings on Sediment Transport Dynamics

The investigation revealed that the sediment transport system at DBV has been deactivated due to anthropogenic interventions, leading to sediment accumulation and dune formation. The findings indicate a need for intervention to restore natural sediment dynamics.

  • DBV sediment transport system has been deactivated for decades due to structures and vegetation.
  • Significant sediment deposition occurred from 2012 to 2015, raising concerns among stakeholders.
  • The emergent dune is part of a slow reactivation of the sediment bypass system, with vegetation expected to decline in the next decade.

Historical Context and Previous Studies

The report references previous studies and management plans that have addressed sediment dynamics and dune encroachment in the area, providing context for the current investigation. These documents highlight the ongoing challenges and proposed interventions for managing DBV.

Previous studies indicate anthropogenic interventions have altered sediment dynamics since the late 1940s.

Key reports suggest establishing historical boundaries and moving sand to restore natural processes.

Proposed Management Interventions for DBV

Two primary management interventions are proposed to address sediment accumulation in the DBV, focusing on sediment removal strategies. Each option presents different implications for the environment and local communities.

  • The first option is a laissez-faire approach, allowing natural processes to restore the system over approximately a decade.
  • The second option involves the removal of sediments to lower the dune crest, with various methods proposed for transport to Middle Beach.
  • Proposed methods include trucking sands along earthen roadways or using a hopper and pipe system to minimize vegetation disturbance.
  • Approximately 34,000 to 35,000 m3 of sediment could be relocated, with a target to lower the dune by about 6 or 7 meters.

The full report is available here

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