True Coastal Dune Lakes occur in only a few places around the world, but 15 are found along the white beaches of SoWal! Lakes create an opening (outfall) to the Gulf of Mexico during periods of high water levels, causing fresh and salt water to mix. Temporary estuaries and nursery grounds are formed when the fresh and saltwater mix. Each lake is different due to variable salt content, dependent upon frequency of outfall openings. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the health and longevity of these special ecosystems.
