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The Kathy Osterman Beach Dunes Natural Area, located in the Edgewater community, contains native dune habitat along Lake Michigan. Here, visitors can observe the beauty of dune grasses and other flowering plants as part of their beach experience. 

For many years, sections of Kathy Osterman Beach were overgrown with weeds and eroding due to the non-native, short-rooted turf grasses that had been planted in the area. In 2003, in response to community requests, the �첥��Ƶ partnered with the 48th Ward Alderman’s Office and local volunteers to plant a native dune habitat-appropriate garden at the beach. After the removal of heavy debris followed by grading, plant species adapted to the harsh, dry, sunny conditions of a beach environment, including native marram grass, were introduced to the site. Additional marram grass was then planted along the eastern and northern sides of the “garden” to help keep sand in place. Marram grass is well adapted to growing in the shifting sands of dune and beach environments and its fibrous deep root system traps sand and thus plays a critical role in dune formation and erosion prevention. The native species planted at the natural area provide year round aesthetic interest, sand stabilization, and beneficial habitat for migrating and resident birds.

In addition to maintenance conducted by the park district, Osterman Beach Dunes benefits from the dedication and hard work of volunteers who collect and scatter native seed, plant native species, pick up trash, monitor vegetation and birds, and remove invasive species. Learn more about volunteer opportunities by visiting our Community Stewardship Program page.

Help keep wildlife wild, safe, and healthy by following posted signage and Natural Areas Rules and Regulations. For questions regarding �첥��Ƶ Natural Areas, email nature@chicagoparkdistrict.com.