The Dunes Collaborative is a partnership of federal, state, private, and non-profit organizations. Working with scientists, the general public and businesses, it is committed to restoration of coastal dune habitats, recovery of threatened and endangered species, and providing quality visitor experiences to this unique and fragile ecosystem.

The following is a list of the current Dunes Collaborative Projects. Check back for current information about requests for proposals for 2010.

For additional information on any of these projects please contact us at collaborative@dunescenter.org.

The Dunes Collaborative meets on the second Thursday of each month from 9am-12pm.

Invasive Species Removal and Monitoring:
The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County is working with the Dunes Collaborative to do invasive species removal and monitoring in many different parts of the Dunes Complex, including the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge, Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, and other parts of the dunes.

Restoration Task Force Coordination:
The Land Conservancy is working with the Dunes Collaborative to coordinate the Restoration Task Force. This project coordinates a committee of science professionals to strategize and provide guidance over the restoration efforts being made in the dunes through Dunes Collaborative funding.

Re-Assessment: Using Remote Sensing to Map Invasive Species in the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes:
Over the last eight years, invasive species removal has been the priority restoration activity in the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes (the Dunes). Priority treatment areas were originally determined in 2003.  The purpose of this project is to conduct a comprehensive re-assessment of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Complex, including areas previously un-surveyed, to resolve the overall effect of treatment efforts to date, as well as provide critical reassessment and prioritization for future invasive species treatment allocation.

Dunes Collaborative Administration:
The Dunes Center works with the Dunes Collaborative to provide a formal administrator of the Dunes Collaborative Endowment projects. The Dunes Center provides over site, coordination, and resources.

Mission Expansion and Capacity Building:
This project was designed to increase and expand the Dunes Center's capacity to engage the Central Coast community in programs and activities that enhance the public understanding and the appreciation of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Complex, thereby increasing the likelihood of additional conservation and restoration efforts within the Dunes Complex. In addition, the project was designed to strengthen and expand the volunteer base for resource restoration and dune-related public access and educational services.