KEEP LEARNING
A little knowledge.
A deeper connection.
Explore scientific and local guidance on plant identification, non-native and invasive species, careful removal, and native dune restoration. Understanding what to remove and what to protect is central to our work.
USDA–NRCS Dune Restoration Guide ↗
Native Plants for Coastal Dune Restoration: What, When, and How for Florida
M.J. Williams · USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service · 2007 · PDF
Florida guidance on selecting native plants for coastal stabilization and wildlife habitat. The manual recommends monitoring for invasive plants, removing them as needed, and protecting dune vegetation from foot and vehicle traffic.
Florida field report · Volunteer dune stewardshipVolunteer removal in Florida dunes ↗
Help Gopher Tortoises Thrive in Nassau County: Remove Mother of Millions
David Hébert · UF/IFAS Extension Nassau County · June 13, 2025
This Extension field account describes volunteers hand-removing mother of millions (Kalanchoe × houghtonii) from Florida dunes, bagging the plants while taking care to retain dune soil. After about three years of volunteer work, the report describes fewer mother-of-millions plants and recolonization by native vegetation.
Native plantsFlorida Native Plant Society ↗
Connect with the Pinellas chapter for native-plant knowledge and learning opportunities. Our leadership includes Florida Native Plant Society members.
Plant identificationUF/IFAS Pinellas County Extension ↗
We use UF/IFAS Pinellas County Extension resources for plant identification, local horticultural guidance, and questions that arise during dune stewardship.
Invasive speciesFlorida Invasive Species Council ↗
Consult invasive-plant information and published species lists.
Native nurseriesFlorida Association of Native Nurseries ↗
Find information about Florida native plants and nursery sources.
Beach & dune plantsFlorida Department of Environmental Protection ↗
Read the recommended Florida native beach and dune plants guidance.
Our local coastPinellas County Coastal Management ↗
Learn about the county’s coastal management program.
Identify first. Act with care.
Use these resources to learn, then check with your group leader before undertaking dune work. Plant identification, site conditions, property-owner permission, and applicable requirements all matter.
Guidance for responsible dune work.
DEP dune vegetation maintenance guidelines explain native vegetation protection, disturbance, and permit considerations. FWC coastal vegetation management guidance addresses coordination for coastal wildlife. Using a reference does not mean an agency has approved a particular project.
Read the volunteer field guide →