Vehicle impacts on the biota of sandy beaches and coastal dunes: A review from a New Zealand perspective (Science for Conservation 121)

Stephenson, G

Department for Conservation, Coastal Marine Ecology Consultants

1999

Department of Conservation

enquiries@doc.govt.nz

DoC Publications: recreation@doc.govt.nz 

Previous research into vehicle impacts on the biota of sandy beaches and coastal dunes in other countries is summarised, and is examined for its relevance to the management of these resources in New Zealand. Vehicle impacts on the biota of the backshore of sandy beaches and on the biota of coastal dunes have been demonstrated to be severe and these areas are considered to have a nil-carrying capacity. with respect to vehicle use. A similar situation can be expected for the backshore of sandy beaches and for coastal dunes in New Zealand. Vehicle impacts on the biota of the foreshore (intertidal) of sandy beaches have appeared to be minimal, at least when the vehicle use occurred during the day, but very few elements of the foreshore biota have been examined. The situation regarding vehicle impacts on the biota of the foreshore of sandy beaches in New Zealand remains uncertain. Although previous research provides a guide for management strategies with respect to vehicle use of sandy beaches and coastal dunes in New Zealand at a general level, some local research is considered desirable. Future research into vehicle impacts on the biota of sandy beaches and coastal dunes in New Zealand should include fundamental research to further underpin decision-making processes, and applied research to address problems and monitor the results of management at specific sites.

Keywords:

Beach, Coast, Impact, Vehicle, Ecology, Environment, Dunes, Recreation, Access, Recreation impact,

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Evaluation

National

Facilities, Outdoor Recreation

Outdoors

Coast and beach, Travel and Transport

Impacts - environmental

921

June 22, 2012