Parabolic Dunes
Much of the Great Sand Dunes sand sheet is covered with
vegetation. If strong winds erode a section of the vegetated sand (commonly
referred to as a blowout), a parabolic dune may form. Leeward motion occurs
if sand from the blowout is deposited on the opposite slope of the parabolic
dune. Vegetation holds the "arms" of the dune in place as the
leeward "nose" of the dune migrates forward toward the main
dune field. Parabolic dunes are common in
the sand sheet southwest of the main dunefield.
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