Marram Grass Transplantation at Indiana Dunes State Park

Marram grass from a parking lot found a new home on Saturday at Indiana Dunes State Park. Volunteers learned how to plant marram grass and its significance in the ecosystem of the Indiana Dunes.

Ben Kalinowski from Highland was part of the effort to plant marram grass during the National Public Lands Day event in Chesterton, Indiana, on September 26, 2026. Approximately 100 grasses were planted by volunteers and staff during this event.

Natural Resource Technician Jessica Deerwester explained to participants, “Its scientific name, Ammophila breviligulata, means ‘sand friend.’ The roots secure the sand by growing down, up, and out.” She highlighted that marram grass is a pioneer species, initiating plant succession by establishing in sandy areas. She said, “It can spread six to ten feet yearly with its roots,” and emphasized its drought resistance, pointing out how it curls its leaves to capture moisture when dry.

With recent rains, however, the leaves were relaxed. Deerwester had marked spots for planting with 78 flags at the campground entrance. The goal is for marram grass to cover the island within a few years.

Deerwester showed volunteers how to plant stems just beneath their leaves and demonstrated folding down the leaves for better wind resistance.

Buckets and tools were prepared for the volunteers, who planted nearly 100 grasses. After bucket-emptying, Deerwester arranged for water to nourish the newly planted grass. Planting ideally occurs in early spring or fall, avoiding peak growing seasons.

Deerwester noted that planting marram grass reduces mowing tasks for maintenance crews while also enhancing the campground’s entrance. The area is also favored by the racerunner lizard, which can speed up to 18 mph.

Vida Bartasius, a volunteer from Burns Harbor, expressed her dedication to the park, having visited it for 65 years. Ben and Amanda Kalinowski, another couple, shared their enjoyment in contributing to the dunes. Dustin Moffitt from Plainfield, along with his family, joined as part of their quest to visit all Indiana state parks. His daughter enjoyed the experience, and the family participated in hiking adventures like the 3 Dunes Challenge.

Doug Ross reported this story as a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.