Northwestern lower Michigan beach dunes: a unique ecosystem in constant flux.

Abstract

The dunes of northwestern lower Michigan are a very unique and special place. Information gained from studying the dunes ecosystem, however, is applicable to a broad range of locations and problems. The dunes present an unusual opportunity to directly test theories about limiting factors that are important to all systems. The ecosystem is a peculiar mix of harshness and fragility. It needs to be protected via effective management plans so that the opportunties it presents for biodiversity, research, wildlife habitat and sheer beauty are not plowed under by the wheels of dune buggies or human population growth. We must not make these dune areas into virtual small islands, far from their sources of flora and fauna.