Southern Coastal Plains (Environmental Region 1.2)
This region consists of seven environmental associations. It is inland of, and parallel to, the southern portion of region 1.1 and is characterized by more stable conditions. The dunes which trend by north-westerly are mainly consolidated, consisting of cemented calcareous sands (calcarenite) and form low but distinct ridges separated by narrow swales. The former lagoons form swamps or plains which are liable to varying degrees of seasonal flooding. Active dunes are locally present overlying the older dune system. Very little native vegetation is left since much of the region is under improved pasture and swamps have been drained. Grazing has led to wind erosion on some dunes. There is a distinct winter rainfall maximum and dry summers, with an annual rainfall ranging from 500 mm in the north to 850 mm in the south. Temperatures are equable and vary from warm in summer to moderate in winter.
