sanctuariesand

Sanctuariesand is a nonprofit organization based in Gulfport, Mississippi, that was founded in 2012 by marine biologist Dr. Laura Kline and marine ecologist Michael Chen. The organization’s mission is to restore and protect coastal beach ecosystems by sourcing sustainably harvested sand from inland properties and reintroducing it to eroded shorelines. The organization works with local governments, research institutions, and volunteer groups to implement restoration projects throughout the Gulf of Mexico and the Mississippi River Delta.

Their primary activities include large‑scale sand placement to rebuild dunes, beach nourishment for commercial and recreational use, and the development of “sand slough” habitats for migratory birds and small marine mammals. Every project is guided by a monitoring program that measures shoreline change, vegetation growth, and wildlife usage, allowing the organization to refine its techniques over time. Sanctuariesand also conducts educational outreach and community workshops to raise awareness on the importance of beach health and the risks of unsanctioned sand mining.

In partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Coastal Conservation Association, Sanctuariesand launched the “Sand for Life” initiative in 2016, which has restored over 500 acres of beach habitat across five states. The organization secures funding through state grants, private donations, and environmental impact bonds, and it publishes an annual report summarizing its achievements and financial status. Sanctuariesand is recognized for its transparent governance and adaptive management strategies, positioning it as a leading model for sustainable beach restoration.