Sand dune conservation

The sand dunes are a central part of Tramore's history and biodiversity, so it's vital to take steps to protect them and ensure their survival, not only as a heritage site, but also as an important home for many plant and animal species.

We are currently engaged in several ongoing projects in this area:

Marram grass planting

As well as being a recognised feature of the sand dunes, marram grass plays a vital role in dune habitats as it helps to reinforce the structural integrity of the dune. The fibrous roots of marram grass bind sand together allowing for more sand to build up and create the dune systems we see at beaches. The binding of the sand ultimately increases the biodiversity of the habitat as it encourages the establishment of other plants in the dune habitat which attracts various insects and animals.

During our marram planting sessions, we take small amounts of marram grass from one area of the dunes to 'transplant' to areas where the grass is sparse. Using marram grass from elsewhere in the dunes ensures that the grass genetics throughout the area remain the same.

Signage

One of the main barriers to dune conservation is lack of knowledge among the general public about the importance of these habitats. To try and change this, we have erected a series of signs in the beach and dune area highlighting the ongoing restoration project and explaining the importance of looking after one of Tramore's most valued features.

In conjunction with Waterford City & County Council and the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS), we have devised a strategic plan for 2026 to facilitate the management and protection of the dunes. If you would like to get involved with dune conservation in Tramore, visit our Contact page to get in touch.

For more information about sand dune habitats, visit the links below.

Sports Clubs and Community Invited to Help Protect Tramore Sand Dunes

Tramore Eco Group is inviting local sports clubs and the wider community to support efforts to protect and restore the sand dune system at Tramore, a vital part of the town’s natural and sporting environment.

The dunes are a dynamic coastal landform over 5,000 years old and include some of the highest sand dunes in Ireland, reaching up to 30 metres. They provide a natural defence against coastal flooding but are increasingly threatened by erosion linked to climate change, rising sea levels and human footfall. Repeated trampling prevents marram grass from binding the sand, leading to dune instability.

The Tramore dunes are designated a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under EU law and support rare and declining plant and animal species. Highlighting the fragility of dune systems, Olivia Jones, Clean Coasts Officer for the Northwest Region, has previously noted that recreational activities such as walking and running can cause “considerable damage,” urging people to enjoy the coastline while staying off the dunes.

With the support of the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Waterford City & County Council, Tramore Eco Group has been installing chestnut fencing and organising community marram grass planting since November 2024. The group is now inviting sports clubs and their members to take part in dune awareness and planting workshops, encouraging simple actions such as using designated walkways and training around (rather than through) the dunes.