Whitecap ForeDunes

Whitecap ForeDunes is a preservation area and because of coastal developments everywhere, foredune habitats have fragmented and shrunk so that very few remain. What’s left are essentially islands of biodiversity surrounded by a sea of development. Because of this, these islands have become permanent homes to some endangered species such as the legless lizard as well as many other plant and wildlife species of special concern. Our Whitecap ForeDunes is one such island, right here within our community.

How do these islands protect biodiversity?

Islands not only provide a permanent refuge for species that have survived fragmentation and development, but they also act as safe havens where seasonal wildlife such as the Phoebe can rest and replenish while migrating over vast urban developments.

Why protect this one?

Whitecap ForeDunes is the only island remaining in the Oxnard Shores neighborhood. In addition to being a natural refuge it also allows for observation and education to the public. What we learn from these islands helps us better understand the patterns of nature in small ways to better mitigate the damaging effects of overdevelopment and encroachment in bigger ways.

How to protect it?

Since the California Coastal Commission designated this spot ESHA — Environmentally Sensitive Habitat, protection means that we help it exist just as it is. We support and encourage all dune species by keeping our human impacts elsewhere.

 

• Please take all recreation to the beach, walk on the sidewalks, and park on Whitecap St.

 

• Plant clippings, seeds, and landscaping extras are invaders. They crowd out the natural dune species.

 

• Feeding the birds disrupts the natural balance and leads to overpopulation.

 

These simple actions will keep Whitecap Foredunes an undeveloped, ESHA designated space.

 
Let’s keep it that way.