The sand dunes on a barrier island form a long ridge.  This protects the forests in the center of the island from the harsh ocean winds.  This map shows elevations on Bald Head Island.  Elevation is how high a place is above sea level.  The shoreline has an elevation of 0, since it is right at sea level.  Places that are under water have negative elevations.  Places that are above water have positive elevations.

Can you locate a ridge of sand dunes in the map?

 

Elevation Map of Bald Head Island (2004)