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The
accumulation of windblown sand marks the beginning of one
of nature's most interesting and beautiful phenomena. Sand
dunes occur throughout the world, from coastal and
lakeshore plains to arid desert regions. In addition to
the remarkable structure and patterns of sand dunes, they
also provide habitats for a variety of life which is
marvelously adapted to this unique environment.
Picturesque dunes against a sky of blue or a full moon,
with perfectly contoured shadows of ripples and undulating
crests, have always been a favorite subject of
photographers. Dunes have also been the subject of many
desert movies, and have historically been a formidable
barrier to vehicular and rail travel. Depending upon one's
particular situation, they can be one of the most
incredibly beautiful, thrilling, eerie, treacherous or
just plain inhospitable places on earth. |