Why Preserve Florida’s Beaches? By William Hebding

1. Why Preserve Florida’s
Beaches?
By William Hebding

2. About the author: William Hebding is a resident of
Ocean Ridge, Florida, and a supporter of the
Florida Coalition for Preservation

3. Florida’s 825-mile coastline of high-quality sandy
beaches, as with the coastal areas of any other
state or country, is a natural resource vital to its
environment and economy. Beaches and sand
dunes provide critical protection for coastal
properties and tourism during hurricanes and
other extreme weather events. This natural buffer
helps deter catastrophic losses.

4. Local residents experience great enjoyment from
their recreational use of Florida’s beaches. Shore
tourism also attracts visitors from around the
country and the world. It plays a major role in the
state’s economy, generating over $15 billion in
revenue per year.

5. The coastal beach system and its waters provide
a home for hundreds of plant and animal species,
such as migratory birds and marine turtles.
Without their shoreline habitats, these animals
would be unable to feed and nest. Florida’s
beaches are home to 30 types of animals that are
designated rare within the state.

6. When the state legislature adopted the Florida
Beach and Shore Preservation Act, it put various
programs in place to protect and manage
Florida’s beaches. Local organizations and
involved citizens can also play an important role in
preserving one of Florida’s number one
resources.

7. When the state legislature adopted the Florida
Beach and Shore Preservation Act, it put various
programs in place to protect and manage
Florida’s beaches. Local organizations and
involved citizens can also play an important role in
preserving one of Florida’s number one
resources.