Protecting Coastal Dunes: A New Conservation Initiative by the Maritime Office in Gdynia

This project is part of the broader initiative “Protection of Species and Natural Habitats in Areas Managed by the Director of the Maritime Office in Gdynia”, under the framework of FENX.01.05 – Nature Conservation and Green Infrastructure Development. The undertaking is co-financed by the European Union from the European Fund for Infrastructure, Climate and Environment 2021–2027.

The project aims to protect sensitive coastal habitats, specifically white dunes (embryonic and mature stages) and grey dunes, by restricting public access and reducing trampling damage to native dune vegetation. All works are being carried out in alignment with existing conservation plans and protective measures outlined for the respective Natura 2000 areas.

The contract covers two primary types of fencing:

• Wire Mesh Fencing (Vistula Spit)
  Approx. 33 km of galvanized steel mesh fencing mounted on wooden posts will be installed along the Vistula Spit, from the border with the Russian Federation to access point No. 60. This type of fencing serves to create physical barriers preventing unauthorized entry into ecologically sensitive dune zones.
• Timber Fencing (Białogóra, Mierzeja Sarbska, Vistula Spit)
  Roughly 3 km of environmentally-safe timber fencing will be installed along beach access paths in the areas of Krynica Morska, Lubiatowo, Ulinia, and Łeba. Constructed from impregnated pine poles and rails, these fences are intended to channel foot traffic along designated paths to minimize habitat disturbance.

Implementation Timeline

• Wire Mesh Fencing:
• • By June 27, 2025: Krynica Morska, Kąty Rybackie, Sztutowo, Piaski
  • By August 31, 2025: Remaining locations
• Timber Fencing: By October 31, 2025

The total contract is valued at PLN 899,171.25 gross (approx. €205,000), with unit-based billing (per 100 linear meters) based on actual work completed.

The Ecological Importance of Coastal Dunes

Coastal dunes are dynamic and fragile ecosystems that serve as natural defenses against coastal erosion, storm surges, and wind activity. They are also vital habitats for rare and protected species of plants and animals. Increasing tourism pressure—particularly off-trail foot traffic—has led to escalating degradation of these ecosystems.

Through this project, the Maritime Office in Gdynia aims to:

• Halt the degradation of dune vegetation
• Preserve the structural integrity of Natura 2000 habitats
• Improve living conditions for protected species

Environmental Awareness & Contractor Training

Given the ecological sensitivity of the designated work areas, the contractor was required to undergo detailed environmental training conducted by the Maritime Office’s conservation team. The training covered:

• Identifying nesting areas of the Kentish plover (Charadrius alexandrinus)
• Avoiding disturbance of embryonic dune habitats
• Environmentally responsible material transport and site access
• Legal obligations concerning habitat protection during execution

This proactive training program ensures that all work is carried out with maximum care for biodiversity and with minimal environmental impact, under the direct supervision of the Maritime Office in Gdynia.

A Model for Nature-Aligned Infrastructure

This initiative exemplifies how infrastructure can be developed in harmony with nature. By integrating regulatory conservation frameworks with practical, on-the-ground action, the project contributes to long-term ecological resilience, sustainable tourism, and habitat preservation along Poland’s Baltic coast.

Protecting nature while working with it—not against it—is no longer optional. It is essential.