Sea Beach Amaranth Found on Belmar’s Natural Beach
October 6, 2009 by elippincott
Filed under Adopt-a-Spot, Archived Notices, Beach News, Belmar Updates, Environment News, Green News
Seabeach Amaranth and symbolic fencing on Belmar Beach
Sea-beach Amaranth was discovered late this summer on the Belmar Natural Beach located between the Belmar Fishing Club and the Shark River Inlet.
Sea-beach Amaranth is an annual plant that exhibits low sprawling growth and small spinach-like leaves, and is restricted to open sandy portions of ocean beaches between the high tide line and the toe of the primary dune.
Its range had extended from Massachusetts to South Carolina. Although originally described as abundant, the number of populations declined precipitously throughout the Twentieth Century and, following a collection from Ocean County in 1913, vanished from the flora of New Jersey. Habitat destruction and alteration, incompatible beach grooming practices and recreational activities have all contributed to the decline of this species. By 1989, the species was restricted to a few populations in North and South Carolina.
In 2000 Sea-beach Amaranth was discovered during piping plover survey activities in Monmouth County. Theories for the reappearance of Sea-beach Amaranth in the region include transport of seeds through storm events and/or resurfacing of seed from beach fill operations.
To help ensure plant reemergence in previously recorded locations, an area free of disturbance (raking, scraping, vehicle access, etc.) should be established during the growing season (May to December) in all areas of suitable habitat. Symbolic string and post fencing should be installed surrounding all emergent plants, and all public access and beach maintenance activities prohibited within fenced areas.
This plant is visible at the easternmost edge of the First Avenue beach but remember to tread lightly and please leave your dog at home.
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