MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) -- For around 30 years, Earth Balance has been collecting the husks of sea oats from the coast, but in the last few years, the need for the seeds inside them has become more prevalent.

Myrtle Beach dunes are lined with these sea oats, which officials said play an important role in protecting dunes from potential storms or tropical activity. The plants help trap sand and build up dunes as a natural defense against hurricanes and coastal erosion.

Throughout the week, crews from the Florida-based company Earth Balance have collected about a third of the husks from these plants.

"They're going to take them down to a greenhouse in Florida and plant them," Myrtle Beach beach coordinator Anthony Kramer said. "And hopefully, they have a much better success rate in the

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