Beach sand is at the earliest rung of soil taxonomic evolution, heavy in quartz, and no distinct horizonation. In other words, you’re not going to grow a wheat crop there. Regardless of soil nutrient deprivation, this ground supports a hearty debate on public access.
Beach access is not always as apparent as the sand, and it’s certainly not dirt cheap. With homeowners purchasing beachfront property at premium prices, and public demand to access rising, a tide of controversy is hitting the high water mark.
The public part of the
beach is generally defined as the “foreshore region,” which is the area between
the mean high and low water lines. Of
course rising sea level and beach erosion issues further complicate this definition. A good rule of thumb is to plant your beach
umbrella on the damp part of the sand, that way you know you’re in the right
place for sure!
