Full Breakdown
York County's Dune Restoration Efforts Amid Climate Challenges
2/28/2026, 2:07:28 AM
Overview of the Dune Restoration Project
York County, Maine, is undertaking a significant dune restoration project in response to the severe damage inflicted by winter storms in 2024, which caused approximately $40 million in public damage and destroyed over 200 homes. The restoration efforts, primarily funded by federal disaster relief, aim to rebuild coastal defenses along Wells Beach, Saco, and Old Orchard Beach. The project involves the use of a dredge to deposit roughly 7,600 cubic yards of sand to restore dunes that were washed away, with the initial phase costing $5.1 million.
Background and Context
The impetus for this restoration project stems from the 2024 storms that recorded the highest water levels in Maine's history, leading to the loss of 28 percent of dunes along four segments of the southern coastline. The University of New England's research highlights the increasing vulnerability of these coastal areas due to climate change and rising sea levels, which exacerbate the risks posed by powerful storms. York County officials, including emergency management director Arthur Cleaves, have emphasized the critical need for protective measures to mitigate future storm damage.
Key Figures Involved
- Chris McCall: York County emergency preparedness coordinator, overseeing the dune restoration efforts.
- Arthur Cleaves: York County emergency management director, advocating for enhanced coastal defenses.
- Justin Chenette: York County commissioner, highlighting the economic importance of the beaches and the need for further funding.
- David Plavin: Vice president of the environmental nonprofit Save Our Shores Saco Bay, representing local residents' concerns and hopes for the restoration.
Current Progress and Future Plans
As of February 2026, the dredging operations have commenced, with plans to plant over 100,000 dune grass seedlings along Wells Beach and deposit additional sand at Camp Ellis Beach in Saco. Following the dredging in Wells, the dredge will move to Camp Ellis to spread 1,200 cubic yards of sand. Saco is also purchasing an additional 6,000 cubic yards of sand to further bolster its beach defenses.
Funding Challenges and Broader Implications
While the current restoration efforts are underway, York County faces significant challenges in securing the estimated $50 million needed for a comprehensive project to restore dunes capable of withstanding a 100-year flood. The cancellation of federal resilience grants has necessitated a shift in strategy, requiring a combination of congressional allocations and smaller grants to fund the project. Additionally, a proposed $75 million state bond measure for coastal resilience awaits legislative approval. Officials stress that successful dune restoration is vital not only for protecting homes and businesses but also for sustaining Maine's tourism industry.
Official Statements & Responses
York County officials have expressed optimism about the dune restoration efforts, with McCall stating, “Finally getting to this point is a big achievement, even though we know it’s still the first step of many.” Cleaves has voiced concerns about the ongoing vulnerability of the coastline, emphasizing the urgency of securing additional funding: “I worry because protection is not there for all these areas. What day is the storm coming?”
Verbatim Quotes
- “Finally getting to this point is a big achievement, even though we know it’s still the first step of many,” — Chris McCall, York County emergency preparedness coordinator
- “How much damage would have happened had they not been there before the storm?” — Arthur Cleaves, York County emergency management director
- “This is a new venture for the county to really take a leadership role,” — Justin Chenette, York County commissioner
- “Additional funding will help protect homes, businesses and our vital tourism industry,” — Donna Bailey, State Senator
What's Next
The immediate focus remains on completing the current phase of dune restoration, while county officials continue to seek funding for the larger project aimed at enhancing coastal resilience against future storms. The success of these efforts may serve as a catalyst for further state and federal support for coastal protection initiatives in Maine.
