The actions of living organisms change the barren sand dunes in a process called succession. Seeds are blown in by the wind, washed up by water, or carried by animals. Sand is not a good growing environment for prairie sandweed (Calamovilfa longifolia) and marram grass (Ammophila breviligulata) thrive in dry conditions, and are usually the first to sprout and grow.
Grass roots and rhizomes stabilize the sand. Their leaves provide shade
and trap finer wind-blown soil particles, allowing the sand to hold moisture.
Dead grass adds nutrients to the sand. Gradually, conditions become suitable
for the growth of other plants. As new species arrive, they improve the
conditions for other species. Eventually, forests can develop on the
beach-ridge.