However, the invasion of European beach grass has greatly reduced the amount of open sand. This fast-spreading grass was introduced to stabilize moving sand around coastal developments. It has since spread into most areas of Oregon s beaches. This stabilizing effect often creates habitat that will provide cover for predators such as skunks and feral cats. The stabilized dunes allow the encroachment of trees and shrubs that provide perching sites for crows, ravens and other avian predators.
Snowy plovers are very susceptible to human disturbance.
Off-road vehicles and casual walking, jogging, or roaming pets can flush birds off of incubating eggs, or even crush eggs or young. This increased recreational use in an increasing small area of beach sand has eliminated many potential nesting areas. The most common actions that require consultation include authorizing off-road vehicle use, and other forms of recreation on the beach and adjoining lands. BLM Biologists Jim Heaney, Holly Whitt and Ellen Myers construct temporary fence on the beach near Floras Lake. At both Floras Lake and on the North Spit of Coos Bay, the BLM has worked in partnership with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to implement seasonal closures on portions of the beach that have historically been important to plover nesting success.