9th Annual Bargain Sea Oats Sale Has Begun

VIERA, Fla. – Beachside residents once again have the opportunity to order sea oats for dune planting through the annual sea oats sale offered by Brevard County’s Natural Resources Management Office and Keep Brevard Beautiful, Inc.

Liner-size sea oats are for sale in trays of 96 for $48 while supplies last. Quantities may be limited this year, so ordering early is recommended. The sea oats will be available for pickup on Saturday, February 11 in Cocoa Beach and Melbourne Beach.

Sea oats are native to Brevard’s coastal communities and stabilize sand quickly by developing an extensive root and rhizome system that holds onto sand and slows erosion. Sea oats also have the ability to build dunes, as the grassy foliage and tall seed plumes trap windblown sand, which builds up at the plant base and stimulates the plants to grow taller. The dunes that are formed are an important feature of coastal ecosystem, as they provide habitat for wildlife and protect upland property during wind and storm events.

For more information, call Paula Berntson at (321) 633-2016 ext. 52431, e-mail paula.berntson@brevardcounty.us or visit http://natres.brevardcounty.us/documents/2012seaoatsinfoandorderform.pdf