Building semi-permeable fences along the seaward or the prevailing wind side of dunes encourages windblown sand to accumulate, reduces trampling, and protects both existing and newly planted vegetation. Various fencing materials can effectively enhance natural dune recovery. This type of fencing is often combined with other management practices to promote dune stabilization and minimize environmental impact.

The use of dune fencing for wind erosion control and dune stabilization has a long history. Its success relies on factors such as the fence’s void-to-solid ratio, the availability of wind-driven sand, the frequency of wave activity at the fence line, and the amount of vegetation present to help stabilize accumulated sand. Combining dune fencing with other strategies, such as dune grass planting or dune thatching, can help establish new foredunes and further enhance stability.