Yes, Sawdust, the sand fence slows the wind velocity which causes the sand to drop on the leeward side of the fence. This builds up the dune through the winter. However, we often get a nasty "noreaster" that pushes the tide up and then the wave action takes the fence away. ... Resulting in the need to replace the fence almost yearly. We use hammer driven staples to fasten the fence to the posts. The tie wires that you mentioned, 3238dpw, sound like a good idea, I'll look into that for next winter, thanks. We just had the beach replenished this summer, so, it's unlikely that the tide will destroy the fence this winter. The replenishment comes every four years or so. We pay a higher property tax every year in order to pay for most of the replenishment, so please don't feel that your tax dollars are picking up the whole tab. I had to sign a city easement which allows the public access to the beach at my place in order to get the replenishment. The sand fence also serves to separate the "public" area of the beach from the private area, ... although we technically own and pay tax on the whole beach, we can't simply "claim" it for our own use. Beaches are like roadways and public utility systems, they need attention and maintenance. Please come and enjoy Virginia Beach.
Happy Thanksgiving (a day late).