Coastal Headland Ecosystem

  State Rank: S3

Moderate- to high-relief coastlines of bedrock or consolidated marine sediments. This ecosystem is bounded landward by upland forests or cultural ecosystems and seaward by the high tide line. It includes communities which are directly affected by the proximity of the ocean through salt spray and storm tides; these are characterized by low vegetation that can withstand wind, sun, and salt. Constituent communities and species vary geographically.

Natural Communities Associated with Coastal Headland Ecosystem