Information availability assists community-based approaches in many ways. At the outset, technical information and access to ‘proven techniques’ can help with project design, confidence and buy-in of participants. Having this available in suitable formats is essential. Capturing information on the progress being made is also important to gauge the success of steps taken and enable adaptive approaches to planning and decision making along the way. Restoring biodiversity in coastal parks to address the problem of historical dune degradation provides an example of where native biodiversity can improve wider socio-ecological functions. However the technical information is by itself not sufficient. Awareness raising and other engagement activities are required to help motivate people to take action away from the status quo. Thus the solution must also involve changing the expectations people have for these areas. Documenting some of the tangible outcomes (eg ‘ecosystem services’) can help by demonstrating the value of the ‘solution’ in practice. This information can reinforce the desirability of the actions being taken to help maintain interest in the project or attract new sources of support.