The San Francisco Recreation and Park Department is making strides along Ocean Beach, teaming up with volunteers and various environmental groups to tackle the growing concern of dune erosion. The department has launched a dune replanting initiative to bolster the beach's natural defenses against the ravages of climate change.

With over 100 volunteers rolling up their sleeves, the project centered around replanting native grass, specifically, the beach wildrye near Judah Street and Great Highway, has started. Wrapped in temporary fencing, the young grasses stand their ground to stabilize the dunes and combat further erosion. "We couldn't be more grateful for the incredible volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to this important project," Phil Ginsburg, SF Rec and Park General Manager, told the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department.

This green endeavor reflects a collaboration with organizations, including the National Park Service and the Surfrider Foundation. Each partner brings expertise to ensure the dunes stand tall against the elements and remain a sanctuary for native species. Cal Academy Executive Director Scott Sampson highlighted the significance of the joint venture, expressing, as per the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, "San Francisco’s natural beauty is a huge draw for tourists, and regenerating our city’s natural spaces will not only increase equitable access to nature for residents but also help increase visitation to our gorgeous city by the bay."

The project has received a financial boost from the California State Coastal Conservancy Board, which funneled $1 million into Rec and Park's coffers last November for precisely this sort of coastal knight in shining armor, addressing sea level rise and dune habitat improvement. Always one to lead the charge, the SF Rec and Park plough forward with these funds, their eyes set on creating not just a fortified beach but revealing a view to a park, a new 2-mile park born from the transformation of Great Highway. Kelly Iknayan, SFEI Senior Scientist, praised the volunteers' enthusiasm, saying, per the SF Recreation and Park Department, "Today’s event marks a significant step in making a healthier Ocean Beach—and it’s just the beginning."