The beach supports many types of ecosystems including coral reefs, mangroves, sea grass, rocky beaches, and sandy beaches which feed into the bigger coastal ecosystem. While it may not look like it, these different ecosystems along the shore provide and support many organisms including humans. These ecosystems provide food for migratory birds and help provide protection against erosion along coastal communities. Mangroves and coral reefs provide support from erosion along the coastline which ensures the stability of foundations that coastal housing is placed on. Spaces like tidal pools and coral reefs tend to have a wide diversity of organisms that support the overall health of the ecosystem. These areas provide food and housing for many different organisms like sea birds, hermit crabs, clams, and starfish and are often the nursery grounds for larger ocean species.
National Beach Day works to recognize the significance of beaches and their ecosystems through events and educational activities dedicated to sharing the importance of beach preservation and the beach ecosystems. These ecosystems are unique and diverse and are vital and important to local areas both economically and ecologically. By working to educate about these ecosystems, we are able to support and preserve these important areas that we enjoy visiting.
Below are ways you can help protect the beach on your next visit:
- Pack it in, pack it out
- Anything that you bring to the beach should be taken out with you
- Leave animals and items alone
- Any animals and items you find should be left as is because it could have a lasting effect on the ecosystem
- Stay on designated parts of the beach
- Wandering to other areas off the beaten path could cause damage to the area or you could end up getting lost
To participate in the celebration, be sure to check out your local city or park website to find these local events in your area to learn more about beach ecosystems and what they provide.